Since 2005, Golden Rescue South Florida (“GRSF”), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Carol Johnson and Jan Lepore, has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming displaced Golden Retrievers and “Golden at Heart” dogs. GRSF is an all-volunteer, foster-based rescue serving Southeast Florida, from Key West to Cocoa Beach. 

With no paid staff, facility, or large administrative expenses, every donation goes directly toward helping the dogs in our care.  Because we are often contacted in urgent situations, time is essential. In many cases, we know very little about a dog’s background, medical history, or previous experiences. If a dog appears healthy and ready for placement, we may move quickly to find an appropriate home. As volunteers with limited foster space, moving dogs efficiently through our program allows us to help more dogs in need.  

Our volunteers work hard to learn as much as possible about each dog’s personality, behavior, and needs, recognizing that every rescue story is unique. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, we evaluate each situation individually and make the decisions we believe are in the best interest of both the dog and the adoptive family.   Not every dog that comes into our rescue requires veterinary care, and not every dog is spayed or neutered while in foster care. We have found that surgery during an already stressful transition is not always in the dog’s best interest, and foster homes able to manage recovery can be difficult to secure. When appropriate, spaying or neutering may be completed by the adoptive family after the dog has settled into its new home.    

This mission represents the heart of our rescue work. In addition, GRSF is proud to support the two special programs described below.  Thank you for considering helping us by adopting, fostering, donating, volunteering, or simply sharing our work. Together, we can continue giving these wonderful dogs the second chances they deserve.