Rescue and Rehoming

The Newfoundland Club of Florida (NEWFFLA) is a not-for profit organization recognized by the Newfoundland Club of America to protect and advance the interests of the Newfoundland breed. Part of that commitment includes a rescue and placement network, providing a safe and healthy environment for Newfoundlands in need in the State of Florida.

Newfoundlands become available for adoption from many sources including current owners, breeders, humane shelters, animal control agencies, veterinarians, etc. Some dogs are victims of abuse or neglect and some have special needs. All rescues are fostered by volunteers across the State of Florida. Due to limited resources, we can only accept purebred Newfoundland dogs into our rescue program. We cannot accept dogs that have shown signs of aggression or have bitten anyone.

Rescued Newfoundlands will be placed in an approved foster home where a rescue volunteer, familiar with Newfoundland dogs, will make careful assessments of temperament and behavior. Additionally, all rescued Newfoundlands will be brought up to date on core vaccinations, tested for heartworm, and spayed or neutered prior to being placed in their new home. Further, NEWFFLA is committed to providing care for any treatable illness or injury prior to rehoming the dog.

In order to make the best possible match between the Newfoundlands in rescue and you, we have a multi-step adoption process. Once we receive your completed Adoption Application, we will check the provided references and make arrangements for a volunteer to visit your home and family. Home visits are NOT white glove inspections; they are the best way for us to get to know you and your family better and help us determine what type of dog would best meet your needs. They also give us the opportunity to discuss Newfoundland care and safety issues, as well as personally answer any questions about the breed or the adoption process. NEWFFLA will only place rescued Newfoundlands with families that reside in the State of Florida. All placements are subject to a Placement Agreement and adoption fee.

We rescue, on average, 12 Newfoundlands a year. The average rescued Newfoundland is approximately 2 years old. It is on a rare occasion that we receive a Newfoundland puppy in rescue. We endeavor to place each Newfoundland in a permanent home that best suits the dog's needs. Puppies will be placed with experienced Newfoundland dog owners. Depending on the circumstances, you might be able to acquire a Newfoundland very quickly, or it might take a long time, or you may never get a rescued Newfoundland from us. It will depend on how many Newfoundlands come through rescue, and whether your situation and preferences are suitable to the best interests of the dog being placed.

If you are looking to rehome your Newfoundland, we applaud your decision to inquire about our rescue program. We understand that making this decision is a difficult one. We are here to help. Your Newfoundland deserves every opportunity to find a wonderful, caring home and we will always act in the best interests of your dog.

We also appreciate those willing to open their hearts and home to a rescued Newfoundland. It is because of you that we are able to carry out our mission to provide a safe and healthy environment for Newfoundlands in need.

Ours is a small, all volunteer organization that relies on the generous donations of our members and supporters to be able to afford the expenses associated with our rescue efforts. Please consider making a donation.