How we operate . . . . 

The objects of the Great Dane Adoption Society are to relieve the suffering and distress of dogs, in particular the breed known as Great Danes, who are in need of attention by reason of homelessness, by the provision of temporary shelter, veterinary treatment and by finding permanent homes for such dogs.

We have learned from sad experience that rescued Great Danes do not fare well in Rescue Compound Kennels. This is not due to ill-treatment or neglect on the part of the compounds, far from it, they do a splendid job, but it seems that Great Danes are just too 'people friendly' and they miss the individual attention they can get from a loving home.

We at the Great Dane Adoption Society try to keep all our dogs in a home environment. Whenever a Great Dane appears at a Rescue Centre, we collect the dog and when possible and sensible we place it in a 'foster home' until we can find it a suitable permanent home. Our Danes live in all kinds of places, from small flats (with energetic owners who like walking) to large country estates. Of course it is not always possible or sensible to place all the Danes we help into foster homes. For this reason we also run a carefully designed and managed sanctuary.

All of our potential adopters must at least meet our minimum criteria (see How it Works ) and their homes are checked for suitability.

Once a Dane is placed into a permanent home, we don't exit the picture. We are always willing to offer support whenever needed. To this end we have a wealth of practical experience in our Dog Adoption Officer and foster families, our own Canine Behaviourist and our Patron is a vet with vast knowledge of Great Danes.

The vast majority of our adoptions are success stories. However, if the new adopter is concerned that the relationship with their dog is not working out, we will offer whatever guidance we can to rectify the situation. If the relationship is still 'not working' to the adopters complete satisfaction, we will collect the dog and attempt to find a more compatible combination for both Dane and adopter.

The Society is a non-profit making charity which is operated entirely by Dane-loving volunteers and funded exclusively by voluntary donations. It is managed by an Executive Committee and operated by enthusiastic dog lovers, all of whom are no stranger to muddy paw prints in the kitchen.