Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Rhode Island, we would like to introduce a very distinguished gentleman looking for an immediate foster or forever home. He has some very reasonable expectations for the next chapter of his life. A comfortable lap. A soft bed. Leisurely walks. And absolutely no obligations that interfere with his afternoon nap. He's not lazy. He's retired. There's a difference.
But Wilson's story is one that makes our hearts hurt. For more than a year, this sweet little boy survived on the streets, relying on kind neighbors to feed him. He was terribly matted, had survived a dog attack, and was living with painful injuries from his past.
And here's the part we can't stop thinking about.: WILSON WAS ALREADY NEUTERED AND MICROCHIPPED. Someone, somewhere, had cared enough to have those things done. Unfortunately, the microchip company had closed, and no owner information could be recovered.
We don't know how Wilson ended up alone. We don't know how long he waited for someone who never came. We just know that a little dog who should have been curled up on someone's couch spent more than a year trying to survive.
Thankfully, our wonderful partners at Saving Grace Rescue LBK stepped in and made sure he received the veterinary attention he desperately needed. Wilson has undergone bloodwork, an ultrasound, dental care, and a thorough medical evaluation. He's heartworm negative, and no masses were found.
He does have some ongoing medical needs. Mild heart changes will require annual monitoring, although he doesn't currently need cardiac medication. He's finishing treatment for anaplasmosis and has arthritis in his knees, painful old rib injuries, and vision changes from a previous eye injury.
He'll need continued arthritis care, gentle handling, and a family willing to help him stay comfortable. And despite everything this little guy has endured? HE IS AN ABSOLUTE SWEETHEART.
Wilson loves being close to his favorite people and is just happy to be invited to the party. He's done well with other dogs, although he can be protective of food and toys, so thoughtful management will be important.
He's not interested in running a Newport restaurant, opening a boutique on Thames Street, or participating in whatever criminal enterprise our puppies have organized this week. Wilson would simply like a recliner, a sensible bedtime, and someone to explain why the younger generation has so much energy. Frankly, we understand.
We want him to have a favorite blanket. A little spot in the sunshine. Someone who knows exactly how he likes to be scratched behind his ears. We want him to hear the words “Let's go home” and know that, this time, there's a home waiting for him. We want the rest of his life to be so wonderfully ordinary that his biggest concern is whether someone has stolen his favorite spot on the couch. Because Wilson has already survived more than any little dog should have to. HE SPENT MORE THAN A YEAR JUST TRYING TO STAY ALIVE. Let's give him a future where all he has to do is enjoy being loved.
Starting the Application Process
To begin the adoption process, please fill out an application online and then visit us during adoption hours.
Click here to fill out our dog adoption application: https://tinyurl.com/8usxu6bh
Click here to fill out our cat adoption application: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/HORI/Cat
Adoption hours take place at:
EGAPL Heart of RI, 44 Worthington Road, Cranston, RI.
Tuesday: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Wednesday: 3:00 PM 7:00 PM, and Saturday: 10:00 AM 2:00 PM
Submitting an application does not guarantee approval or place an animal on hold. Our team reviews applications carefully to help make the best possible match for both the adopter and the animal.
What to Bring With You
For an application to be considered complete, we must have all required documents. Please bring or email the following:
- Proof of homeownership
This may include a tax form, deed, mortgage statement, or similar documentation.ORLandlord approval
If you rent, we need a copy of your lease clearly stating that you are allowed to have the type of pet you are applying for, or written and signed consent from your landlord.
- Up to date veterinary records, if you currently have pets.
Vet records should show proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery for animals already living in your home.
You may bring hard copies with you during adoption hours or email them to HeartofRIAdoption@gmail.com
Requirements to Adopt from EGAPL Heart of RI
To adopt from us:
- You must be a Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont or Maine resident. We are unable to adopt to residents living in Massachusetts due to policies in that state.
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- Everyone living in the home must be aware of and involved in the adoption.All household members must meet our team before an application can be approved. They do not all need to come in at the same time.
- Any current dogs in the home must complete an onsite meet and greet with the dog you are hoping to adopt.
- Current pets in the home must be up to date on veterinary care and spayed or neutered.
Once veterinary records have been reviewed, our team will schedule an onsite meet and greet with the dog you are hoping to adopt and any current dog or dogs in your home. We want to help make sure the match is safe, appropriate, and successful.
Please do not bring your dog with you when you first apply. Our team will contact you to schedule a meet and greet if your application is moving forward.
Helpful Reminders
There is no set timeline for how long it takes to process an application. Our team does their best to review applications as quickly as possible.
We kindly ask that you do not send duplicate emails asking for updates, as this can slow down the process.We do not do same day adoptions.
Submitting an application does not mean you are approved to adopt a specific animal. We are looking for the best match for each animal based on their needs, personality, age, energy level, medical history, and the home environment.
Adoption Fees
Adoption fees help us continue to provide lifesaving care to animals in need. EGAPL Heart of RI is a nonprofit animal rescue and does not receive state or federal funding. The cost of veterinary care, food, supplies, staffing, transport, medications, and daily shelter operations has increased significantly.While adoption fees do not cover the full cost of caring for each animal, they help offset a portion of the medical care, housing, and support each pet receives before going home. Every adoption also helps make room for the next animal who needs safety, care, and a fresh start.
DOGS
Puppies under 1 year: $675
Adult dogs 1 year and older: $575
Dog adoptions include, as age appropriate:
Spay or neuter surgery
Rabies vaccine
Distemper/parvo vaccines given while in our care, based on the dogs age and vaccine schedule
Leptospirosis vaccine started while in our care, when age-appropriate
Bordetella vaccineInitial deworming
Heartworm testing, when age appropriate
Microchip
Flea and tick prevention or treatment while in our care
Basic medical evaluation and care while at EGAPL
Adoption counseling and take home guidance
Please bring a leash and collar with you at the time of adoption, or ask our team what size is best for your new dog.
CATS
Kittens under 1 year: $425
Adult cats 1 year and older: $325
Cat and kitten adoptions include, as age appropriate:
Spay or neuter surgery
Rabies vaccine
FVRCP/distemper vaccines given while in our care, based on the cat or kittens age and vaccine scheduleInitial deworming
FeLV/FIV testing, when age appropriate
Microchip
Flea treatment or prevention while in our care
Basic medical evaluation and care while at EGAPL
Adoption counseling and take home guidance
Please bring a secure cat carrier with you at the time of adoption.
A Note About Puppy and Kitten Vaccines
Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccines as they grow. We provide as many age appropriate distemper vaccines as possible while they are in our care, but young animals may still need additional boosters after adoption.Your adoption counselor will review your pets vaccine record with you so you know exactly what has been done and what may still be needed with your veterinarian.
A Note About Leptospirosis Vaccines for Dogs
We start dogs and puppies on the leptospirosis vaccine when age appropriate. Because some dogs are adopted before the booster is due, the full lepto series may not be completed before adoption.
Your adoption counselor will review your dog's vaccine record with you and let you know whether a booster is still needed with your veterinarian.
After Adoption Veterinary Care
We recommend setting up an appointment with your veterinarian shortly after adoption. This helps your new pet establish care, allows your veterinarian to review their medical and vaccine history, and ensures they stay on track for any boosters or follow up care they may need.
Flea and tick prevention, as well as heart worm prevention for dogs, are typically prescription products. Your veterinarian can help choose the safest and most appropriate preventatives for your pet based on their age, weight, medical history, and lifestyle.
Why Adoption Fees Matter
Every animal who comes through our doors receives individualized care. Some arrive healthy and simply need vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, and a safe place to land. Others need emergency care, diagnostics, treatment for parasites or infections, dental care, behavior support, special food, foster care, or weeks to months of daily shelter care before they are ready for adoption.Your adoption fee helps support that full circle of care. It helps the pet you are bringing home, and it helps the next animal who needs us.
Thank you for choosing adoption and for supporting the lifesaving work of EGAPL Heart of RI.
