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NH Sled Dog Rescue, History & Education Center

Jefferson, NH

Our Mission

The NH Sled Dog Rescue, History and Education Center (NHSDRHEC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit entity that was formed in 2013 by the staff at Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel (a recreational dog sledding touring business) and regional fellow dog sledding enthusiasts. Our mission is to support working sled dogs in need and provide education about working sled dogs to the public. The NHSDRHEC is funded by adoption fees, sponsorships, donations, seasonal fundraisers and the recreational dog sledding experiences conducted by Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel.

Working sled dogs do not typically hold up well when in a shelter environment. They tend to develop behavioral problems (such as kennel crazy) and are consequently deemed “unadoptable”. Our facility is a traditional working kennel environment (ie: completely outdoors) which working sled dogs are familiar with and continue to thrive in.

When a sled dog in need comes to us, they have a home and job for life. Should they lose interest in running or for health/age reasons need to retire, we seek out a wonderful forever home for them to enjoy. Dogs that come to us and are unadoptable due to behavioral or medical needs, have a home with us for life and often end up on the couch of a musher or staff member. We have successfully rehomed several working sled dogs (over 100 for sure) over the years, and strive to continue growing this part of our operation.

Adoption Policy

Our Adoption Process:

Step 1 - Complete and submit an adoption application. A completed application helps our staff get to know you better and introduce you to dogs that would do well in your home (or ensure that the dog you are interested in would be a good fit). Once we receive this information, we can then schedule an appointment for you to come meet our adoptable sled dogs.

Step 2 - If you decide to move forward with adopting one of our sled dogs we begin processing your application (ie: checking references that you provide, reaching out to your vet etc). We also request a few nonintrusive home photos to get an idea of where the dog will play, sleep, eat etc.

Step 3 - If your application is approved we then schedule a health certificate appointment (and spay/neuter surgery is necessary).

Step 4 - You get to welcome your new four-legged friend!

Please note that in general, our adoption process takes 2-4 weeks depending on how quickly we receive feedback from your references and how soon we can get the lucky four-legger in for any necessary vet appointments. We DO NOT do same day adoptions and all potential adopters are required to to do a meet and greet prior to adoption day.

Our adoption fee (as of January 2022) is $250 and includes: a health certificate, microchip, updated Bordetella, DHLPP, and rabies vaccines. Dogs will also be spayed/neutered if not already altered.

Recommended Pets

Recommended Pets