About Us
15+
Years Rescuing
Sanctuary Rescue was founded in 2010 with the mission of saving shelter dogs, one puppy at a time. Over the past decade, we have built a rescue community that we are immensely proud of and saved thousands of animals' lives.
Initially, our focus was on rescuing pregnant dogs from municipal animal shelters, but we have since expanded our expertise to include orphaned and special needs neonates, senior dogs, and healthy adult dogs - we've also snuck in a few cats, a couple of birds, and even a pair of piglets that needed rescuing.
We are committed to providing high-quality care, saving sick, injured, and orphaned dogs, and helping our shelter partners alleviate overcrowding. Our fosters and volunteers are an amazing team of passionate and compassionate heroes that always try to have fun and laugh, surrounded by adorable puppies!
We are a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Midlothian, Virginia.
Meet Our Featured Pups
These adorable dogs are currently in foster homes waiting to meet you. Adopting saves two lives!
Bindi
Australian Shepherd • 1 Year Old Female
Bindi LOVES children and long walks.
Friendly
Good with kids
Cub Cadet
Lab Mix • 8 Months Old Male
"Cubby" is a fun fella!
Playful
High Energy
Yuno
Bulldog Mix • 2 Year Old Female
Yuno is a pleasure that enjoys lounging in the sunlight with her foster brothers.
Cuddler
Calm
How You Can Make a Difference
Every action, big or small, helps save lives and bring joy to dogs in need
5000+
Lives Saved
Dogs pulled from shelters and given care, training, and love at Sanctuary Rescue.
300+
Volunteers
Community members giving their time to care for, train, and socialize our rescue dogs.
Happy Tails & Testimonials
These heartwarming stories showcase the incredible transformations and lasting bonds created through rescue and adoption
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Sharon & Robert
"After 14 years of volunteering/fostering for several organizations, we found a home with Sanctuary 8 years ago. SR has the most innovative, dedicated and loving staff and volunteers. Because of the efforts they put into finding the perfect home for each animal adopted, even we foster failed for the first time."
Sharon and Robert Hooper
Richmond, VA
Laurie
"There is nothing quite like the transformation you see in a foster dog. Watching them acclimate to a warm home, find comfort in a routine, and finally blossom under unconditional love is a privilege. We love playing our part in preparing these resilient pups for their forever homes, knowing we have the full weight of Sanctuary Rescue behind us. No dog is too 'difficult' or 'small' for this community to rally around."
Laurie Efremidis
Midlothian, VA
Laura
"I started as a foster for Sanctuary Rescue after a volunteer on NextDoor suggested it as a place to start my foster journey. That is likely how it starts for everyone but Sanctuary Rescue is more than a dog rescue; it's a community and once you are in you find yourself engaging more and more. I've connected and made friends with people and dogs. It's hard to imagine my life before engaging this this organzation!"
Laura Ransone
Henrico, Virginia