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Puppies and dogs in Gardner, Massachusetts

Looking for a puppy or dog in Gardner, Massachusetts? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

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Adopt a dog in Gardner, Massachusetts

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Gardner, Massachusetts. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
We'll also keep you updated on Jovie Patricia's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Jovie Patricia

Jovie Patricia

American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, Young
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Jovie Patricia! This gorgeously elegant 2-year old, with the most amazingly human olive eyes, came to us from local animal control after being found as a stray and is waiting patiently to find her happily-ever-after. And boy, does she deserve it! We pulled Jovie Patricia into our rescue last November (2023) and named her Jovie after the “Elf” character since Christmas was coming…and now we’re looking at yet another Christmas a year later. #everythingoldisnewagain She has hit roadblock after roadblock while in our care but has come out the other side and is ready to find her tribe and we can’t wait for her happy ending! Long story short, Jovie was passed over for months when she first entered our rescue. Maybe it was the approaching holidays, or the fact rescue was/is slower than usual, or because she is a black dog (yes, Black Dog Syndrome is a thing). We initially described her as a people-person who oozes sweetness and love from her entire being, craving attention and insisting on being near her people at all times. She was happiest when someone was petting her, loved to give kisses, and crawled right up for a full-frontal hug. But Jovie hurt her tail early this year and was under the care of our vet to save it. Due to the pain and suffering of her injury, she was a changed dog while she healed. Her personality changed and she didn’t allow the petting and affection she used to crave. Under an amazing new foster, we have watched her go from a guarded, detached, and somewhat unpredictable pup while healing, into a happy-going-lucky, playful, and affectionate girl. It’s amazing what a little love and patience will do! We are sad that Jovie had to get through a few road bumps but we are excited to focus on her future, because we know it is bright. Oh, and she gained a middle name in her time here, so there’s always a silver lining.   Jovie Patricia is truly an easy dog to care for and an even easier dog to love. She has goofy personality to spare with a moderate activity level and is playful, hops like a rabbit with excitement, and runs in the most charmingly gawky manner reminiscent of a (graceful) donkey. She enjoys running around and playing and has bursts of energy where she zooms around the yard like a nut for 2 minutes, but then settles down and can entertain herself with toys and bones. This midnight hued peppercorn would also love some low-key sniffari walks or a short training sesh (for treats, of course!) before snuggling up on the couch. Toss the ball 3 times for her, and she’s ready for something less active.  Jovie P. has a sophisticated velvety soft and stormy coat, and wags and wiggles when she greets her people…her entire body shakes and her butt wiggles nonstop with excitement. She is known to paw when you aren’t giving her enough attention. She is GREAT in the car and is likely registered as an amateur-professional co-pilot. She loves to take allllll of her toys out of the toybox like a human toddler! Given time, she will destuff them with gusto but it’s not immediate. JP isn’t a fan of water, which includes the hose and the rain (sugar melts!)! She loves, loves, loves treats and isn’t picky and has a “bounce” to her step on walks. Her hidden talent? The ability to do a full on sploot anytime, anywhere (highly recommend 12/10). She is amazingly curious and brave in new situations and is so special. Her resiliency is the most important thing about her. We are in awe of her and love her dearly for all that she has overcome. Jovie P is ready to connect to her forever humans and will Bluetooth pair with you on an emotional level.  Sweet Jovie Patricia has a village behind her…for real. A special thank you to all the veterinary and behavioral professionals and volunteers who have rallied around her and seen the good in her. Jovie is dog friendly (but is waaaaay too excited around cats and itty bitty pups). She is successfully living with 3 foster dog siblings and has had many dog friends. But she has an energetic playstyle with the pups and can be a little annoying, so an only dog home (with doggie playdates) might be easiest in terms of management. Pint-sized humans make her nervous, so a home without the little littles is a must for this black beauty.  Jovie Patricia’s top 3 priorities: 1.  A family who loves goofiness and is willing to put just a little time into continuing basic training for an adolescent pup since Jovie P will jump up to seek affection, can get excited on walks, and needs to learn that meeting new people is not scary. 2.  An empathetic and patient family who will go slow to ensure the success of this black beauty. We recommend taking things slow for all of our dogs, but Jovie Patricia would benefit so much from this. She needs to feel secure and know what is expected of her. 3.  A fenced in yard would be ideal for JP! She loves to Zoom (momentarily) and would thrive with the space to do so.October 29, 2024, 8:55 am
We'll also keep you updated on Peggy Sue's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Peggy Sue

Peggy Sue

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Peggy Sue! This 4-year old pumpernickel princess came to us from local animal control after being found as a stray. Peggy Sue is ridiculously friendly and affectionate and loves to show it at all times. We immediately decided she needed a name as sweet and innocent as she is! Animal Control was able to track down her origins and we know her world has been small all her life…kept in a crate much of the time and never brought to the vet. But she doesn’t let that hold her back from loving all that life has to offer.    Pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty Peggy Sue is dog- and cat-friendly and has adventuresome spirit to spare. She would make a great addition to so many different types of households, as long as love is always readily available. She is a great co-pilot on rides and a professional spoon-er in bed. And she loves to walk and be part of the action!   Peggy Sue is GORGEOUS! Fact: darker colored dogs are harder to photograph. And while her pics are adorable, she might be 1,000 times more stunning in person (and that’s not an exaggeration). Peggy Sue’s dark chocolate eyes match her mahogany coat precisely in a monochromatic display of pittie perfection. And with the depth and chocolatey richness of her espresso coat, her teeth are further illuminated in that amazing pittie smile. Our favorite feature? Her 4 (count em’ - 4) white toes add a fun “pop” and are ah-mazing! With her floppy brownie-inspired pendant ears and round eyes that show the special spark within her, it is obvious this gal is looking to connect. And we know she’s got her eye on the future! Due to her age and lack of history, older kids would be best for this coffee-colored beauty.    Peggy Sue’s top 3 priorities: 1. A family who is open to giving and receiving love from the sweetest girl around. 2. A family who loves to include their 4-legged friend on adventures. 3. A family who loves to snuggle up to watch a movie or cuddle to stay warm on a cool night  October 29, 2024, 8:55 am
We'll also keep you updated on Grover's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Grover

Grover

Mountain Cur

Male, 5 yrs
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Grover! This 5-year old brindle Muppet came to us after his owner could no longer care for him and we can’t wait for him to find his true forever. Grover is funny, huggable, eager, and the most adorable brindle mix, who, at 40 lean pounds, is the perfect size. Grover is dog friendly, delightfully playful, and loves squeaky toys the best. And with his soft pendant ears flopping around and his deep and soulful brown eyes, Grover is one handsome man! This tiny gentleman adores treats and takes them with the softest lips. When snacking, he has the occasional snaggletooth and will do almost anything for a morsel. Let’s be honest – middle age is magical and Grover is no exception! He is house-trained, crate trained, and knows basic commands. He is efficient on bathroom breaks, tap dances for his dinner, and will tap you on the shoulder if you’re working from home to remind you he is there. Once he learns to trust, he is the biggest lovebug and thrives with routine (and treats). Grover is less of an adventure brewery type dog and more of an inside cat, if you know what we mean. What do we love most about G-man? His innocence and resilient spirit. We’ll say it…humans have failed Grover repeatedly. We can assume past trauma due to his fearfulness of new situations. And in our throw-away society, recent owners who gave him away like last year’s sweater that no longer fits. Grover deserves more. He deserves to be a valued and cherished family member where he can get showered with the love and safety we all seek. Grover represents the tenacity within us all – the drive we all have to never give up and never surrender, no matter how difficult, trying, or exhausting something might be. In fact, we could all learn from Grover…it is important to keep going, no matter the odds, even if you’ve taken a few wrong turns along the way. Grover is a wonderful, waggy, loveable, cute, and furry pup with a huge heart. We think his ideal home is with someone looking to love hard and be loved harder in return. Someone who is patient and will give Grover the time that he needs to acclimate to a new place, enveloping him in a cocoon of tenderness to make him feel safe and loved for all of his days. Due to his lack of history, older kids would be best for this friendly and fun-loving fuzzyface. Grover’s top 3 priorities: 1. A patient family who will go at Grover’s pace to introduce him to new situations and commit to keeping his world small at first. 2. A committed family who will give this deserving little guy all the love he craves for the rest of his days. 3. A loving family who are looking for an amazing little pup who has a LOT of love to give.  October 29, 2024, 8:55 am
We'll also keep you updated on Bart Simpson's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bart Simpson

Bart Simpson

American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier

Male, 6 mos
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Don't have a cow, man! Meet Bart Simpson! This 6-month old prankster was born into a local family who saved his mama from the South, not knowing she was pregnant. His owner reached out to our rescue to help place 3 of the pups in this litter (we also have Lisa Simpson and Maggie Simpson!) and Bart is ready to be spoiled in a family all his own.    This love bug of a pup is full of charming and age-appropriate mischief! Bart loves to play and is excited about all that life has to offer. He offers up his toys to his humans like a Sesame Street sketch about the importance of sharing. And like a toddler, will resist naptime and fall asleep sitting up. He has a puppy silliness to his personality, loves playing fetch, and is filled to the brim with sweetness. Bart also has a healthy appetite, and at 58 lbs and growing, will end up being a big boy! He likes to make himself look even taller by stepping his front two legs on any elevated surface (a bench, the back of the couch, the headboard to the bed). He is mesmerized by the TV and prefers shows with animal characters (uh, obviously).    All 3 puppies loved farm life for their first 6 months, and now that they’re out and about, tend to be shy and timid to try new things. They are perfectly housetrained, and crate trained, and though cautious with new people and new situations, are incredibly loving and affectionate with their people. In fact, once Bart gets to know you, he is allllll wags and kisses. Prepare yourself for a random kiss attack or a wet willy when you least expect it! He is also known to fall asleep laying on top of his humans and will impress you with a little sleep-time symphony as he saws logs. Due to his size and lack of history, older kids would be best for this handsome joker.    ** Puppy training at an approved facility will be required, with proof of registration prior to adoption.   Bart Simpson’s top 3 priorities: 1. A family who loves to snuggle…hard…and people who can tolerate being touched at (almost) all times.  2. A family with a yard for Bart to run around in and someone willing to invest in multitudes of stuffed animals. 3. A family who is ok with an XL lap dog with an endearing neediness.November 14, 2024, 11:46 am
We'll also keep you updated on Maggie Simpson's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Maggie Simpson

Maggie Simpson

American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, 6 mos
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
FOSTER NEEDED! Meet Maggie Simpson! This 6-month old baby baby was born into a local family who saved her mama from the South, not knowing she was pregnant. Her owner reached out to our rescue to help place 3 of the pups in this litter (we also have Bart Simpson and Lisa Simpson!) and Maggie is ready to be spoiled in a family all her own. In fact, we are actively seeking a foster or foster-to-adopt candidate for this sweet baby!    Maggie is stunning! D’oh! And so very affectionate…adorning her people with hugs and kisses. She will gladly supervise you while you are eating and thinks she has an aptitude for quality control, offering her services for free. She loves any and all treats, chew toys, and playing with the other pups in the house. Her mom is a Large Marge, and we suspect Maggie will also be a big and sturdy girl. Maggie LOVES snuggling up in blankets and finds comfort in them…kind of like a pacifier to soothe her.    All 3 puppies loved farm life for their first 6 months, and now that they’re out and about, tend to be shy and timid to try new things. They are perfectly housetrained, and crate trained, and though cautious with new people and new situations, are incredibly loving and affectionate with their people. Maggie is nervous around loud noises (but not thunder…go figure), so a quiet home would be best for her. Maggie is currently in need of a foster or adopter who is patient and understanding when trying new things. Due to her size and lack of history, older kids would be best for this prime-time cartoonish youngster.    ** Puppy training at an approved facility will be required, with proof of registration prior to adoption.   Maggie Simpson’s top 3 priorities: 1. A family in a low-key and quiet house, willing to let Maggie go at her own pace. 2. A family with a LOT of love to give (and receive!). A confident and affectionate resident pup would be a bonus! 3. A family with a yard to let Maggie zoom around in and one who wants an amazing puppy. November 14, 2024, 11:46 am
We'll also keep you updated on Lisa Simpson's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lisa Simpson

Lisa Simpson

American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, 6 mos
Westminster, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Lisa Simpson! This 6-month old precocious pup was born into a local family who saved her mama from the South, not knowing she was pregnant. Her owner reached out to our rescue to help place 3 of the pups in this litter (we also have Bart Simpson and Maggie Simpson!) and Lisa is ready to be spoiled in a family all her own.    Lisa is a true middle child – easygoing and a people pleaser! She’s got the deepest, inkiest, soulful eyes and a goofy smile. Her right ear has a mind of its own and will constantly be flopped over as if she were standing in a windstorm. She loves watching television or video games, listening to smooth jazz, and practicing her saxophone (j/k…she’s a dog). Her mom is “big boned” if you catch our drift, and we suspect Lisa will be a cutie patootie with a big booty. She sneaks behind her foster family to adorn their ears and cheeks with sooooo many kisses. She loves, loves, loves playing with toys in the yard and will gladly fetch for hours.    All 3 puppies loved farm life for their first 6 months, and now that they’re out and about, tend to be shy and timid to try new things. They are perfectly housetrained, and crate trained, and though cautious with new people and new situations, are incredibly loving and affectionate with their people. In fact, Lisa is ironically being fostered in Springfield (the actual city and not the fictional one) and city living is definitely new to her! Loud sounds like fire trucks or dogs barking at her can be scary and overwhelming, so a more suburban or rural setting might be great for her confidence. But despite her fears, she has been a brave girl who is slowly learning to conquer urban walks with her four little white-socked feet. Due to her size and lack of history, older kids would be best for this precocious pup.    ** Puppy training at an approved facility will be required, with proof of registration prior to adoption.   Lisa Simpson’s top 3 priorities: 1. A family who will be patient to let Lisa adjust to a new home and come out of her shell in her own time.  2. A family who fosters a low-key atmosphere in a quiet home. 3. A family who adores puppy kisses! November 14, 2024, 11:46 am

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Dog shelters and rescues in Gardner, Massachusetts

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Gardner, Massachusetts. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Gardner Animal Control Facility

Plant Road, Gardner, MA 01440

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Red Barn Farm

Westminster, MA 01473

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Crops and Flops Rescue

Westminster, MA 01473

Pet Types: dogs

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Ashburnham Animal Control

32 Main Street, Ashburnham, MA 01430

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

North Star German Shepherd Dog Rescue Inc.

PO Box 291, Winchendon, MA 01475

Pet Types: dogs

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New Life Boxer Rescue - MA

Fitchburg, MA 01420

Pet Types: dogs

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Fitchburg Animal Shelter

939 High Rock Road, Fitchburg, MA 01420

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

Athol Animal Control

584 Main St., Athol, MA 01331

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

American Maltese Assoc. Rescue--Massachusetts

818 Carpenter Rd, Athol, MA 01331

Pet Types: dogs

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