A safe next step for you and your golden

We know this isn’t an easy decision. Whatever your situation, putting your dog’s well-being first is something to be proud of — not ashamed of. We’re here to support you and make sure your golden is safe, cared for, and given the future they deserve.

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Whatever brought you here, you’re not alone

There are many reasons someone may need to give up their dog — life changes, health concerns, financial strain, or simply not having the time or resources a golden needs.

No matter the reason, we understand how difficult this decision can be. Choosing to surrender your dog to a trusted rescue is an act of care — and it ensures they have a safe path forward.

 

What happens when your dog comes to GRIN

We treat every dog like they’re our own. When a dog comes into GRIN’s care, they don’t go to a shelter. They go into a foster home — where they receive individual attention, medical care, and a safe environment while we prepare them for adoption.

We carefully screen every adopter to ensure your dog is placed in a responsible, loving home. Our goal is simple: to make sure your dog is healthy, happy, and truly cared for.


Important Guidance

Before you take the next step

We strongly encourage you not to surrender your dog to a shelter, list them online, or give them away without proper screening.

Those paths can lead to uncertain — and sometimes unsafe — outcomes. By working with GRIN, you can feel confident your dog is being placed in a safe and carefully evaluated home.

A simple, supportive process

Our intake team will guide you through each step and answer any questions you may have along the way.

Step 1

Reach out

Contact us by phone or email so we can learn more about your situation and your dog.

Step 2

Share information

Provide details about your dog’s health, behavior, and background so we can prepare for intake.

Step 3

Intake coordination

Our team will work with you to safely bring your dog into GRIN’s care.

Step 4

Foster placement & care

Your dog will receive medical attention (if needed) and be placed in a foster home while we begin the adoption process.

We’re here when you’re ready

Let’s take the next step together. If you’re considering surrendering your golden, we’re here to talk. Our intake volunteers will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you take the next step with confidence.

Online Intake Form
Printable Intake Form

General inquiries

grin@grinrescue.org

Surrender inquiries

intake@grinrescue.org

Phone

(216) 229-0295 (voicemail box #0)
Calls are typically returned within 24 hours.

Mailing address

GRIN
PO Box 24365
Cleveland, OH 44124

To expedite the process

You can complete the intake form online or download the PDF and email it to us. This helps us better understand your dog and move more quickly.

What to expect during surrender

Your dog will receive any necessary medical care and be placed in a foster home. From there, we begin the process of finding a carefully matched adoptive family.
While we can’t always provide ongoing updates, you can feel confident that your dog is being cared for and placed thoughtfully. Our goal is always a safe and successful outcome.
Timing can vary depending on your dog’s needs and available foster homes. We’ll work with you to move as quickly and safely as possible.
We’ll ask about your dog’s health, behavior, and history. The more information you provide, the better we can support your dog’s transition.
No. GRIN places dogs in foster homes, not shelters. This allows for better care, evaluation, and preparation for adoption.
We accept dogs with a wide range of needs. Being honest about your dog’s condition helps us provide the right care and find the right home.
In some cases, a surrender donation may be requested to help offset care costs. We can discuss this with you during the intake process.
Please contact us as soon as possible. We’ll do our best to work with your timeline and find a safe solution.
Reach out by phone or email, or complete the intake form. From there, our team will guide you through the next steps.