Local Dog Rescue is a true no-kill rescue dedicated to providing shelter and care to unwanted dogs in and around the city of Thunder Bay.

LDR is dedicated to responsible rescue. This includes placing dogs in the most appropriate homes possible and ensuring all dogs are spayed or neutered prior to adoption or when age appropriate. We also advocate for responsible pet ownership.

Local Dog Rescue is Thunder Bay's longest running no-kill dog rescue. Officially launched in 1998, LDR has been providing sanctuary for senior and unadoptable dogs, and shelter and care to unwanted dogs in and around the district of Thunder Bay since the late 80's. We are committed to all dogs regardless of temperament or behavior.

What is a "no-kill" rescue?

A no-kill rescue is one that is 100% committed to the well-being and welfare of the animals, in this case dogs, that are brought in to the rescue. "No-kill" does not mean that animals are ever left to suffer. A reputable no-kill rescue works closely with their veterinarian and will humanely euthanize to ease the suffering of a dog due to old age, terminal illness or serious injury. "No kill" means they do not euthanize healthy dogs due to behavior issues. It is rare that a dog exhibits such dangerous behavior that it needs to be put to sleep. The sad reality is that too many dogs in rescues and shelters lose their lives due to 1) an unwillingness to commit to the dog, or 2) an inability to understand the dogs behavior, or 3) the dog being an inconvenience (no foster home, no space to keep the dog (rescue) or taking up space (shelter).

Don't "trouble" dogs live a miserable life?

Rarely. In fact, those who are dedicated to caring for "troubled" dogs usually spend so much time working with these dogs that they receive far more attention than the average family dog. With the right person it is very rare that a "troubled" dog does not show significant improvements in behavior in a short period of time. Sure, they may never get to run off-leash in a park or loose at camp but most troubled dogs, when properly vetted and managed responsibly, can live a long, healthy happy life just like any other family dog!