Myrtle Animal Rescue and Sanctuary
Our Mission
Myrtle Animal Rescue & Sanctuary (MARS), a soon-to-be-registered charity dedicated to rescuing animals in need. While our primary focus is on dogs, MARS is committed to stepping in for other species when our volunteers have the resources and ability to provide the necessary care.
MARS was founded with a deep passion for rescue work, a mission that began in 1998 when one of our founders helped establish Canadian Chihuahua Rescue and Transport. It feels especially meaningful that our first rescue, Odie—a young male chihuahua—came to us from our local shelter, symbolizing both a new beginning and a connection to our roots.
Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need, providing them with love, care, and a second chance at life, while promoting responsible pet ownership and advocating for animal welfare
Adoption Policy
Application Process:
All prospective adopters must complete an adoption application, providing detailed information about their household, lifestyle, and experience with pets.
Applications will be reviewed to ensure the adopter and the animal are a good match.
Home Visit:
A home visit may be required to verify the environment is safe and suitable for the animal.
Meet-and-Greet:
Approved applicants will be invited to meet the animal in person. If applicable, other household members and pets should also participate in this introduction.
Adoption Fees:
Adoption fees are required to help cover medical and care expenses. These fees are non-refundable and vary depending on the animal's age and medical history.
Spay/Neuter Policy:
All animals will be spayed or neutered before adoption. Exceptions will only be made for medical reasons, with a binding agreement to spay or neuter later.
Health and Vaccination:
All animals will be up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped, and cleared by a veterinarian before adoption.
Contract:
Adopters must sign an adoption agreement, committing to the responsible care of the animal. This includes providing proper shelter, nutrition, medical care, and companionship.
Return Policy:
If the adopter can no longer care for the animal, the animal must be returned to the rescue. Rehoming the animal independently is not allowed without the organization’s consent.
Follow-Up:
The rescue may conduct follow-up visits or check-ins to ensure the animal is settling into its new home successfully.
Right to Deny:
The rescue reserves the right to deny any adoption application if it is determined the home is not a suitable fit for the animal's needs.