Summary of Services
- Accepting surrendered golden retrievers
- Adoption Program: Approved applicants within the service area may adopt available golden retrievers
- Foster Program: Individuals can apply to foster golden retrievers for a period of two to eight weeks
Providing Compassionate Care, Medical Treatment, and a Second Chance at Life
Founded in 2000, the Golden Retriever Emergency Assistance Team Rescue of Northeast Florida (G.R.E.A.T.) rescues and rehomes golden retrievers in need. Serving the counties of Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Duval, Flagler, Marion, Nassau, Putnam, Suwannee, Union, Volusia, and St. Johns, G.R.E.A.T. provides compassionate care, medical treatment, and a second chance at life for golden retrievers ranging from 12 weeks to 15 years old.
These dogs often come from owners who can no longer care for them or from shelters. Those interested in surrendering a dog can fill out the surrender application online.
Supporting Golden Retriever Adoption and Foster Programs
Adoption through G.R.E.A.T. is available to residents within its service area. To begin the process, applicants must complete an adoption application and participate in an interview to ensure a good match between the family and the dog. One key requirement is that no children under the age of five live in the home. If approved, applicants have 24 hours to make their final decision, sign the necessary paperwork, and pay an adoption fee, which varies depending on the dog’s age, breed, and travel requirements.
If not selected for a specific adoption, applicants are placed on a waitlist for up to six months. Those who are ready to adopt can begin the process by submitting their adoption application online.
For those who prefer to foster rather than adopt, G.R.E.A.T. offers a foster program that allows individuals to care for a golden retriever for a period of two to eight weeks. The dog selected is based on specific needs, and G.R.E.A.T. covers all veterinary costs. Foster families are responsible for food and transportation, and they will receive priority consideration should they wish to adopt the dog they’re fostering.
To be eligible to foster, applicants must live in a single-family home with a fenced backyard. Homes with children under five do not qualify, and no more than two additional pets are allowed to reside in the house. Foster dogs must wear identification tags and collars at all times, receive daily walks, and never be left unattended. Foster parents must also agree to scheduled medical appointments and allow G.R.E.A.T. representatives access to the dog throughout the foster period. Those interested in fostering can fill out the foster application online.