Glen
Breed Description

The Glen is also commonly known by its full name, Glen of Imaal Terrier, which references its geographic origin in the remote Glen of Imaal valley in County Wicklow, Ireland. In Ireland, the breed is sometimes called simply the "Wicklow Terrier" or "Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier." Historically, the breed was referred to as the "Turnspit Dog" due to its unique working role in kitchens, where these sturdy dogs would operate treadmill-like devices to turn cooking spits over fires. In some older texts and regional dialects, you may encounter the name "Imaal Terrier" or simply "Glen Dog." The breed's Gaelic name is "Brocaire Uí Mháil," which translates roughly to "the badger dog of Imaal." Among enthusiasts and breeders, the dogs are affectionately called "Glens," and this shortened version has become widely accepted in the dog fancy community worldwide.

The Glen represents one of Ireland's most distinctive and historically significant terrier breeds, embodying centuries of careful breeding for specific working purposes in the rugged terrain of County Wicklow. This medium-sized terrier displays a unique combination of strength, agility, and determination that sets it apart from its Irish cousins. Standing between 12.5 and 14 inches at the shoulder and weighing 32 to 40 pounds, the Glen possesses a substantial, low-slung build that reflects its original purpose as both a hunting dog and a working companion capable of handling demanding physical tasks.

The Glen's physical appearance immediately communicates its working heritage. The breed exhibits a longer-than-tall rectangular silhouette, with a strong, muscular body supported by shorter legs that were specifically developed for underground work and navigating challenging terrain. The head is broad and powerful, featuring a well-defined stop and strong jaws capable of dispatching quarry efficiently. The ears are small, rose-shaped or half-pricked, and set high on the skull, giving the dog an alert, intelligent expression. The eyes are medium-sized, round, and typically dark brown, conveying the breed's confident and spirited nature.

One of the most distinctive features of the Glen is its unique front assembly, which displays a slight bow to the forelegs that was historically functional for the breed's role as a turnspit dog. This characteristic, combined with powerful hindquarters, created the perfect mechanical advantage for operating the large wheels that turned cooking spits. The chest is broad and deep, providing ample lung capacity for sustained work, while the strong, level topline demonstrates the breed's structural soundness and working ability.

The Glen's coat represents one of its most practical and distinctive features, consisting of a harsh, wiry outer layer that provides excellent protection against the elements, underlaid with a soft, insulating undercoat. The texture should feel crisp to the touch, never soft or silky, and provides natural water resistance that served the breed well in Ireland's wet climate. Coat colors include wheaten, blue, and brindle, with wheaten ranging from light cream to rich golden tones. Blue coats can vary from silvery-blue to deep slate, while brindle patterns combine dark and light colors in distinctive striping patterns.

The breed's temperament reflects centuries of selective breeding for courage, intelligence, and loyalty. Glen dogs display remarkable emotional intelligence, forming deep bonds with their families while maintaining the independent spirit characteristic of working terriers. They possess an innate ability to read situations and respond appropriately, showing gentle patience with children while maintaining vigilant awareness of their surroundings. This balanced temperament makes them excellent family companions capable of adapting to various household dynamics and lifestyle demands.

Physical conditioning and mental stimulation remain essential components of Glen ownership, as these dogs retain strong working drives that require appropriate outlets. Their intelligence manifests in problem-solving abilities and creative thinking that can lead to mischief if not properly channeled. Regular exercise, training sessions, and interactive activities help maintain their physical fitness and mental well-being while strengthening the human-dog bond that is central to their happiness and security.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard describes the Glen as a medium-sized, longer than tall terrier with maximum substance for his size. The ideal male measures 14 inches at the withers and weighs 35 pounds; the ideal female measures 13 inches and weighs 32 pounds. The overall appearance should be that of a strong, workmanlike dog, active and agile with great substance for his size. The head is of good width and fair length, the skull broad and slightly domed with a pronounced stop. The muzzle is strong and well-filled below the eyes, tapering slightly toward the nose. The nose is black and large. Eyes are brown, medium-sized, round and set well apart. Ears are small, rose or half-pricked when alert, and set well on top of the head. The neck is strong and muscular, of moderate length. The body is compact with good depth. The chest is wide and strong with well-sprung ribs. The back is strong and straight. The hindquarters are strong and well-muscled with good angulation. The forequarters show a slight bow which is acceptable and not to be penalized. The coat is of medium length with a harsh texture and soft undercoat. Colors are wheaten, blue, or brindle. The temperament is gentle and docile, less excitable than most terriers, but still game and spirited when needed.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Under FCI Standard No. 302, the Glen is classified in Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (Large and medium-sized Terriers), without working trial. The standard emphasizes that this is a medium-sized terrier, longer than it is high, with short legs and a topline level in movement and when standing. The breed should display maximum substance and bone for its size. Important proportions include a ratio of 5:3 for length to height. The head is proportionate to the body with good width and fair length. The skull is broad and slightly domed with a pronounced stop. The muzzle is strong, well-filled below the eyes, and tapers slightly. The nose is black and large. Eyes are brown, medium-sized, round, and set well apart. Ears are small, rose or half-pricked when alert. The body is compact with good depth and width. The chest is wide and strong. The forequarters may show a slight outward turn which is acceptable. The coat is of medium length, harsh with a soft undercoat. Accepted colors are wheaten from pale cream to golden reddish, blue from silver to deep slate, and brindle from light to dark. The temperament should be spirited yet gentle when handled, displaying gameness when required.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard recognizes the Glen as a medium-sized terrier that was originally developed in Ireland for vermin control and to turn cooking spits. The breed should be strong and compact, longer than tall, with substantial bone and muscle. The ideal weight ranges from 32-40 pounds. The head is in proportion to the body with a broad skull that is slightly domed. The stop is pronounced, and the muzzle is strong and well-filled. The nose is black and large. Eyes are brown, medium-sized, and round. Ears are small, rose-shaped or half-pricked when alert. The neck is strong and muscular with moderate length. The body is longer than tall with good substance. The chest is broad and deep with well-sprung ribs. The topline is level. The forequarters may show a slight bow. The hindquarters are strong and well-muscled. The coat is medium-length, harsh-textured with a soft undercoat. Colors include wheaten, blue, and brindle in various shades. The temperament should be game but not overly aggressive, showing loyalty to family while being reserved with strangers. The breed should move freely with good reach and drive.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club follows a standard very similar to the AKC version, with emphasis on the breed's working heritage and distinctive build. The Australian National Kennel Council recognizes the breed under similar parameters, noting the importance of the coat texture and color requirements. The Kennel Club (UK) provides detailed descriptions of movement and gait, emphasizing free action with good reach in front and drive behind. Various rare breed organizations worldwide maintain standards that preserve the breed's essential characteristics while allowing for minor regional variations in interpretation. All standards emphasize the breed's unique history as both a hunting dog and a working dog, with particular attention paid to the structural features that enabled its success in these roles. International breed clubs work together to maintain consistency in breeding programs while preserving the genetic diversity necessary for long-term breed health and sustainability.

The Glen traces its origins to the remote and rugged Glen of Imaal valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, where the breed developed over several centuries in relative isolation. This geographic isolation proved crucial to the breed's development, as it allowed local breeding programs to proceed without outside influence, creating a unique type perfectly adapted to the specific environmental challenges and working requirements of the region. The valley's harsh terrain, characterized by rocky outcroppings, dense undergrowth, and challenging weather conditions, shaped the breed's physical characteristics and mental fortitude in ways that continue to define the Glen today.

Historical accounts suggest that the breed's foundation may date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when English and Scottish settlers were granted land in the Glen of Imaal valley in exchange for military service under Queen Elizabeth I and later monarchs. These settlers likely brought their own working dogs, which were then crossed with existing Irish dogs to create a type better suited to local conditions and requirements. The resulting dogs combined the tenacity and courage of British terriers with the hardiness and adaptability that characterized native Irish breeds, producing a versatile working dog capable of handling multiple tasks essential to rural Irish life.

The breed's most famous historical role as a turnspit dog represents one of the most unique occupational specializations in canine history. These dogs were trained to run on large, wheel-like treadmills connected to mechanical systems that rotated cooking spits over kitchen fires. This work required tremendous endurance, strength, and intelligence, as the dogs needed to maintain consistent pace and respond to commands while performing physically demanding work for extended periods. The distinctive front assembly of the Glen, with its slight bow to the forelegs, evolved specifically to provide optimal mechanical advantage for this task, demonstrating how selective breeding can produce highly specialized working abilities.

Beyond their kitchen duties, Glen dogs served as versatile farm helpers, excelling at vermin control and providing valuable assistance with livestock management. Their hunting abilities were particularly prized for controlling fox and badger populations that threatened farm animals and crops. The breed's working style emphasized stealth and determination rather than the vocal hunting approach of many other terrier breeds, making them particularly effective for covert operations where silence was essential. This hunting heritage required dogs with exceptional courage, as they regularly faced formidable opponents in challenging underground conditions.

The breed remained largely unknown outside of its native region for centuries, with breeding programs maintained by local farmers and landowners who valued working ability over aesthetic considerations. This isolation preserved essential breed characteristics while allowing for natural selection to reinforce traits that enhanced survival and working efficiency. The dogs that emerged from this process were remarkably consistent in type and temperament, demonstrating the effectiveness of purpose-driven breeding programs focused on practical functionality rather than cosmetic appearance.

Recognition of the Glen as a distinct breed began in the early 20th century, when Irish dog enthusiasts started documenting and preserving the country's native breeds. The Irish Kennel Club granted recognition in 1934, making the Glen the third of Ireland's four terrier breeds to achieve official status. This recognition marked the beginning of more formal breeding programs and the establishment of written breed standards that would guide future development while preserving essential characteristics that had been shaped by centuries of functional breeding.

The breed's introduction to the international dog community proceeded gradually, with small numbers of Glen dogs exported to other countries throughout the mid-20th century. Enthusiasts in various countries worked to establish breeding programs while maintaining the breed's essential characteristics and genetic diversity. The American Kennel Club granted full recognition in 2004, reflecting decades of careful breeding and promotion by dedicated enthusiasts who understood the importance of preserving the breed's unique heritage and working capabilities.

Today, the Glen remains one of the rarer terrier breeds worldwide, with global populations estimated in the low thousands. This rarity presents both challenges and opportunities for breed preservation, requiring careful genetic management to maintain diversity while preserving the characteristics that make the breed unique. Modern breeding programs emphasize health testing, genetic diversity, and preservation of working traits, ensuring that future generations will retain the courage, intelligence, and structural soundness that define this remarkable Irish terrier.

The Glen's original functions encompassed a remarkable range of specialized tasks that showcase the breed's versatility and intelligence. As a turnspit dog, these terriers performed one of the most unique occupational roles in canine history, operating large wheel-like treadmills that powered mechanical systems for rotating cooking spits over kitchen fires. This demanding work required not only physical strength and endurance but also remarkable mental discipline, as the dogs needed to maintain consistent pace for extended periods while responding to commands and adjusting their speed based on cooking requirements.

The turnspit role demanded specific physical attributes that influenced the breed's development over centuries. The characteristic front assembly, with its slight bow to the forelegs, provided optimal mechanical advantage for sustained treadmill work, while the powerful hindquarters delivered the driving force necessary for consistent operation. The breed's compact size allowed them to work in confined kitchen spaces, while their intelligence enabled them to understand complex commands related to speed control and duration of work sessions.

Hunting and vermin control represented equally important aspects of the Glen's functional heritage, requiring different but complementary skill sets. These dogs excelled at controlling fox and badger populations that threatened livestock and agricultural crops, working both above and below ground to eliminate problematic predators. Their hunting style emphasized stealth and silence rather than the vocal approach characteristic of many terrier breeds, making them particularly effective for situations where discretion was essential.

Underground work demanded exceptional courage and determination, as Glen dogs regularly faced formidable opponents in challenging tunnel systems and den complexes. The breed's compact build and strong construction enabled them to navigate tight spaces while maintaining the power necessary to engage large predators effectively. Their intelligence proved crucial for making split-second decisions in dangerous situations where retreat might not be possible and where strategic thinking could mean the difference between success and failure.

Farm work extended beyond hunting to include various livestock-related tasks where the Glen's intelligence and trainability proved invaluable. These dogs learned to move cattle and sheep with minimal supervision, understanding complex commands and adapting their approach based on animal behavior and environmental conditions. Their size allowed them to work effectively with large livestock without being intimidated, while their herding instincts helped maintain group cohesion during movements and gathering operations.

Property protection and guard work represented another dimension of the Glen's functional capabilities, as these dogs served as early warning systems for approaching strangers and potential threats. Their alert nature and distinctive bark made them excellent watchdogs, while their courage ensured they would stand their ground when necessary. The breed's ability to distinguish between normal activity and genuine threats made them valuable security assets for rural properties where isolation made external protection services impractical.

Modern Glen dogs retain strong working drives and capabilities that can be channeled into contemporary activities and sports. Many excel in earthdog trials, where their natural hunting instincts and underground work abilities shine in competitive settings. Others participate in agility competitions, demonstrating the athleticism and trainability that made their ancestors such effective working partners. Tracking and scent work provide outlets for their natural detection abilities, while obedience and rally competitions showcase their intelligence and eagerness to work with human partners.

The breed's gentle temperament and strong bonding abilities have made them increasingly popular as therapy dogs, where their calm demeanor and intuitive understanding of human emotions prove invaluable. Their size makes them suitable for various therapeutic settings, while their stable temperament ensures consistent, predictable interactions with individuals who may require special consideration. This therapeutic role represents a natural evolution of the breed's traditional close working relationship with humans, demonstrating how historical traits can find new expression in contemporary society.

Contemporary Glen owners often discover that providing appropriate outlets for working drives enhances their dogs' overall well-being and strengthens the human-dog bond. Activities that engage problem-solving abilities, physical capabilities, and natural instincts help maintain the mental and physical fitness that has characterized the breed throughout its history. Whether through formal competition, practical farm work, or creative enrichment activities, modern Glen dogs continue to demonstrate the versatility and intelligence that made their ancestors indispensable partners in Irish rural life.

The Glen exhibits a distinctive behavioral profile that reflects centuries of selective breeding for specific working traits and close partnership with humans. Unlike many terrier breeds that display high-strung or excitable temperaments, the Glen demonstrates remarkable emotional stability and self-control, making them particularly suitable for family environments where consistency and predictability are valued. This calm demeanor should not be mistaken for lack of spirit or courage, as these dogs retain the determination and tenacity essential to their working heritage while expressing these traits in measured, appropriate ways.

Intelligence manifests in multiple dimensions of Glen behavior, from rapid learning ability to sophisticated problem-solving skills that often surprise their owners. These dogs possess excellent memory for complex routines and can master multi-step tasks with minimal repetition, reflecting the cognitive abilities required for their historical roles as both hunting dogs and mechanical work partners. Their learning style tends to be thoughtful and deliberate rather than impulsive, as they prefer to understand the logic behind requests before committing to new behaviors.

Social behavior within the family unit demonstrates the breed's deep capacity for emotional bonding and their intuitive understanding of household dynamics. Glen dogs typically form strongest attachments to one or two family members while maintaining positive relationships with all household inhabitants. They show remarkable sensitivity to human emotions and mood changes, often adjusting their behavior to provide comfort during stressful periods or maintaining respectful distance when solitude is preferred.

The breed's approach to strangers reflects typical terrier wariness combined with the confidence that comes from strong breeding and proper socialization. Initial reserve gives way to polite acceptance once strangers are properly introduced and deemed acceptable by the family. This measured response makes them excellent watchdogs without the problematic aggression or excessive suspicion that can complicate social situations and neighborhood relationships.

Play behavior in Glen dogs combines enthusiasm with self-control, making them excellent playmates for children and other family members. They enjoy interactive games that challenge both physical and mental abilities, showing particular interest in activities that involve problem-solving or mock hunting scenarios. Their play style tends to be less frantic than many terrier breeds, with clear signals for beginning and ending play sessions that help prevent overstimulation or inappropriate escalation.

Exercise requirements reflect the breed's working heritage, requiring daily physical activity combined with mental stimulation to maintain optimal behavior and well-being. These dogs thrive on routine exercise sessions that provide opportunities for exploration, scent investigation, and moderate physical exertion. Without adequate exercise, Glen dogs may develop behavioral problems including destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or attention-seeking activities that can disrupt household harmony.

The breed's response to training demonstrates their intelligence and eagerness to please, though they may show occasional independence typical of terrier breeds. Positive reinforcement methods work particularly well, as these dogs respond enthusiastically to praise and reward-based systems. They possess excellent attention spans for training sessions and can handle complex commands and sequences, making them suitable candidates for advanced training in various disciplines.

Behavioral consistency represents one of the Glen's most valuable characteristics for family life, as these dogs rarely show dramatic mood swings or unpredictable reactions to routine situations. Their stable temperament makes them reliable around children, elderly family members, and other pets when properly introduced and supervised. This predictability extends to their daily routines, as they readily adapt to household schedules while maintaining flexibility for occasional changes.

Environmental adaptability allows Glen dogs to thrive in various living situations, from urban apartments to rural properties, provided their exercise and socialization needs are met. They show remarkable ability to adjust their activity levels to match available space and opportunities, remaining calm and well-behaved in confined spaces while taking full advantage of larger areas when available. This adaptability makes them suitable for many different lifestyle situations and family compositions.

Communication behaviors in the Glen tend to be purposeful and measured rather than excessive or attention-seeking. They use barking selectively to alert to genuinely important stimuli while generally maintaining quiet behavior during normal daily activities. Their body language is typically clear and easy to read, helping family members understand their needs and emotional states. This clear communication style contributes to the strong bonds these dogs form with their human families and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings that can lead to behavioral problems.

The Glen's integration into family life represents one of the breed's greatest strengths, as these dogs possess an innate understanding of household hierarchies and social dynamics that makes them exceptional family companions. Their ability to adapt their behavior to different family members while maintaining consistent temperament and loyalty creates harmonious relationships that often last the dog's entire lifetime. This social intelligence reflects centuries of close working relationships with humans, where understanding and responding to human needs was essential for success.

Interactions with children showcase the Glen's patient and protective nature, as these dogs typically form special bonds with younger family members while demonstrating remarkable tolerance for the unpredictable behaviors that characterize childhood. Their sturdy build makes them suitable playmates for active children, while their gentle temperament ensures safe interactions even during excited play sessions. Glen dogs often assume a protective role toward children, showing increased vigilance when youngsters are present and intervening appropriately if play becomes too rough or if strangers approach children without proper introduction.

The breed's relationship with adult family members tends to be characterized by mutual respect and deep emotional bonding, with individual dogs often showing preferences for specific family members while maintaining positive relationships with all household inhabitants. These preferences typically develop based on who provides primary care, training, and daily interaction, though Glen dogs remain responsive to all family members and adapt readily to changes in household routines or primary caregivers when necessary.

Multi-pet households can be highly successful with Glen dogs, provided proper introductions and ongoing management ensure positive relationships between all animals. Their terrier heritage means they may show prey drive toward small animals like hamsters or rabbits, requiring careful supervision and management to prevent problematic behaviors. However, when raised with cats or other dogs from puppyhood, Glen dogs typically develop lasting friendships and may even assume protective roles toward other family pets.

The breed's response to household routines demonstrates their adaptability and desire to be integral parts of family life rather than peripheral observers. Glen dogs quickly learn daily schedules and often anticipate activities like meal times, walks, or departures, positioning themselves appropriately and showing excitement for activities they enjoy. This integration into family rhythms helps strengthen bonds while reducing anxiety and behavioral problems that can develop when dogs feel excluded from household activities.

Space requirements for Glen dogs in family settings are quite flexible, as these adaptable terriers can thrive in apartments, suburban homes, or rural properties provided their exercise and social needs are met. Their moderate size makes them suitable for smaller living spaces, while their calm indoor behavior ensures they won't overwhelm family members or create chaos in confined areas. However, access to secure outdoor spaces for exercise and exploration remains important for maintaining their physical and mental well-being.

The breed's protective instincts manifest as watchful awareness rather than aggressive guarding, making them excellent family guardians without the liability concerns associated with overly aggressive breeds. Glen dogs will alert to unusual sounds or approaching strangers while remaining responsive to family commands and able to distinguish between genuine threats and normal daily activities. This balanced approach to protection provides security benefits while maintaining the peaceful household atmosphere most families prefer.

Elderly family members often find Glen dogs to be ideal companions, as their calm temperament and moderate exercise requirements align well with less active lifestyles. These dogs provide companionship and emotional support while remaining physically manageable and predictable in their behavior. Their intelligence allows them to learn special considerations required for elderly family members, such as moving more carefully around individuals with mobility limitations or providing comfort during periods of illness or stress.

Holiday and vacation periods often present challenges for dog ownership, but Glen dogs typically handle changes in routine with remarkable flexibility. Their strong bonds with family members make them eager travelers when possible, while their stable temperament helps them cope with boarding or pet-sitting arrangements when family travel excludes them. Many Glen owners find that these dogs integrate so well into family life that including them in vacation plans becomes natural and beneficial for all involved.

Long-term family relationships with Glen dogs often span the dog's entire lifetime, creating deep emotional bonds that influence family decisions and activities for years. Many families find that their Glen dog becomes so integral to household dynamics that life without them seems incomplete, leading to careful consideration of future dog ownership and breed selection. The breed's longevity and generally robust health mean these relationships can extend for 12-15 years or more, providing stability and companionship through various life changes and family transitions.

The Glen generally exhibits robust health and longevity that reflects careful breeding practices and the hardy constitution developed through centuries of working dog selection. Most individuals enjoy active, healthy lives well into their teens when provided with appropriate nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care. However, like all purebred dogs, the breed has predispositions to certain health conditions that potential owners should understand and responsible breeders should screen for in their breeding programs.

Genetic diversity within the breed population remains relatively good despite the Glen's status as a rare breed, though ongoing attention to breeding practices and health screening helps maintain this diversity while reducing the incidence of inherited conditions. The breed's small global population makes every breeding decision significant for long-term genetic health, emphasizing the importance of health testing and careful selection of breeding partners based on genetic compatibility rather than purely aesthetic considerations.

Cardiovascular health in Glen dogs typically remains excellent throughout their lives, with heart problems being relatively uncommon in the breed. Regular veterinary examinations can detect any developing issues early, allowing for appropriate management and treatment. The breed's moderate exercise requirements and generally calm temperament may contribute to cardiovascular longevity, though individual dogs should have their exercise programs tailored to their specific needs and health status.

Digestive health generally remains stable in well-managed Glen dogs, though some individuals may show sensitivities to specific foods or ingredients. High-quality nutrition appropriate for the dog's age, activity level, and any specific health considerations supports optimal digestive function and overall health. Weight management becomes particularly important as these dogs age, as excess weight can exacerbate joint problems and create additional health complications.

Skin and coat health typically reflects the breed's overall well-being, with the harsh, weather-resistant coat providing good protection against environmental challenges. Proper grooming practices help maintain coat health while allowing early detection of any skin problems that may develop. The breed's coat texture generally resists matting and debris accumulation, making maintenance relatively straightforward for most owners.

Reproductive health in breeding Glen dogs requires careful attention to ensure successful pregnancies and healthy litters. The breed's moderate size generally allows for natural breeding and whelping, though veterinary monitoring during pregnancy and delivery helps ensure optimal outcomes. Litter sizes typically range from 3-5 puppies, with proper prenatal care supporting healthy development and strong immune systems in newborns.

Senior health care becomes increasingly important as Glen dogs enter their later years, typically around 8-10 years of age. Regular veterinary examinations help detect age-related changes early, allowing for appropriate management strategies that can extend quality of life and maintain comfort. Common age-related conditions include arthritis, dental disease, and gradual sensory changes that can be managed with appropriate care and environmental modifications.

Preventive health care throughout the Glen's life includes standard vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care that supports long-term health and well-being. Regular dental maintenance becomes particularly important as these dogs age, as dental disease can contribute to systemic health problems if left untreated. Professional dental cleanings combined with home dental care help maintain oral health throughout the dog's life.

Emergency preparedness for Glen owners should include understanding of breed-specific health considerations and maintaining relationships with veterinary professionals familiar with terrier breeds. While serious health emergencies are relatively uncommon in well-bred Glen dogs, being prepared for potential issues and knowing when to seek professional help can make significant differences in outcomes when problems do arise.

If you're looking to adopt a Glen, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Glen dogs waiting for their forever homes.

Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting.