Dogs and Puppies

Dogs and puppies available for adoption near Nashville, Tennessee. Browse dogs and puppies below. Click on a profile to learn more. Ready to adopt? Complete the Dog Adoption Interest Form. For further information on the adoption process, read the Adoption Process.

All RARE adoptable canines are: spayed/neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped prior to adoption, heartworm tested if six months or older (and kept on heartworm preventative and treated for heartworms if positive when entering our program).

Please Note - Some dogs and puppies are available for foster and/or adoption.

Rescued Dogs and Puppies

Many of the animals on this page were rescued. Due to situations of abuse or neglect, as well as natural disasters.

Dog and Puppy Adoption Fees

Adoption fees help to provide the rescue, vetting and care. They also help to cover heartworm treatments and other treatable ailments that many animals need in order to be available for adoption. Because adoption fees vary by animal, please check each animal profile for their specific fee.

Rural Animal Rescue Effort is a non-profit with no government funding. Because of this, RARE relies on adoption fees and donations.

The Cost of Dog and Puppy Ownership

Understand that adopting an animal is a lifetime commitment to that animal and there will be veterinary expenses throughout their life. For instance, annual checkups, preventative care, and emergencies can often cost several hundreds, if not thousands of dollars (especially without pet insurance). Additionally, there will be expenses such as pet food, leash, collar, toys, and other items.

Refunds of Adoption Fees with Dogs and Puppies

Refunds of adoption fees are granted as long as the animal is returned within the 30 day trial period. In the event that an adoptable animal is returned, there are two options. Firstly, you have the option of meeting and starting a trial with a different animal. Secondly, your adoption fee may be refunded, less a nominal fee for incidentals.