Rescuing Golden Retrievers & High Golden Retriever Mixes Since 2003 | | |
Want an easy way to help AGA? Follow us on Social Media!
Follow us on social media and engage with our posts. Every like, comment, and share helps more Goldens find loving homes and brings greater awareness to our mission. 💛
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At AGA our greatest need remains funding critical medical care for the dogs who need us most.
Help Fund Life-Saving Medical Care Today »
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At a Glance: October Highlights
🐕 Golden Giggles: A little Golden silliness to make you smile
💛 A Message from Patti & Henry: Important AGA updates and a look ahead
⭐ Meet Shadow: A sweet boy looking for his forever home
🏡 September Happy Tails: Celebrating our newest forever families
💛 The Power of Rescue: Stories of healing, hope, and second chances
🚨 LOST GOLDEN: Share the Word! WE NEED YOU!! 🚨
🏆 Volunteer Local Events Manager: Needed
📸 Paw-Liday Photos With Santa: Register Now
🎄 Sandy Spring Sparkle Parade: Stay Tuned
🛍️ Cozy Up with AGA Gear: Seasonal Favorites are Waiting
🍂 National Pet Wellness Month: Fall Seasonal Toxins to Know
🐾 Become a Foster Hero: Open your Home and Help an Orphan in Need
💛 The Real Cost of Rescue: See How Your Support Helps Fund Critical Medical Care
🙌 Simple Acts, Big Impact: Easy ways to support AGA all year long
🐶 Trusted AGA Partners: Training, boarding, GPS safety, and specialty veterinary resources
| | A Message from Our President | | |
Dear AGA Family and Friends,
Finally - Fall is here! Football, Halloween, treats (we did say Halloween), walking through crunchy leaves … Henry’s ready for it all… especially the treats!
We are so very blessed to have such a large and supportive community behind our mission. The work we do could not be done without your support - both in time and in donations. It’s because of this that my focus right now is on our Foster Program.
It is our goal to place every dog that comes into our program into a foster home, whenever possible, and with the upcoming Holiday season, this becomes an ongoing challenge.
Let’s explore why a Foster Home is so very vital to the recovery of the dogs who enter the AGA program: The best landing place for a newly rescued Golden is a loving home - they’re able to experience human kindness and love, 24/7, to finally allow themselves permission to relax and let go of their fear. They’re safe from the elements, have a warm, soft bed to sleep in (they can finally sleep in peace, knowing they are safe), and have nourishing meals on a regular basis to fill their hungry bellies. This is what a Foster Home provides to a scared and hungry rescued dog. Safety and security. In this environment, they can finally rest and regain themselves - nothing is more rewarding than watching a Golden finally relaxing and showing their true personality!
This is why Foster Homes are so very vital to our rescue mission.
Would you please consider becoming a Foster Mom and/or Dad for our rescue dogs? We really need more kind folks like you to step up and help us, especially as it appears that there are more dogs out there every day. We do not want to leave any dogs behind, and we need your help to continue to push forward with our mission.
As you read this month’s Golden Gazette, you’ll find a section highlighting our Foster Home program. Henry and I would greatly appreciate it if you would seriously consider joining our team as one of our very vital Foster parents.
Thank you, and go easy on the Halloween candy!
With gratitude,
Patti Dickey & Henry
President & Chief Pup of Staff, Adopt a Golden Atlanta
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MEET SHADOW
Did you know October is National Black Dog Month?
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Hi, my name is Shadow, and I’m a 3-year-old, 60-pound Flat-Coated Retriever mix with a BIG heart and lots of love to give.
I recently found myself in the shelter after my family could no longer be reached. Thankfully, AGA stepped in and gave me the second chance I needed.
I’m a very affectionate boy who loves my people! I do great with a structured environment and lifestyle. I can be calm during the day, but when something excites me, I can’t hold it in! I can take some time to settle afterwards.
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I’m good with cats with supervision, and while I haven’t formally met another dog yet, I’ve shown interest in playing with them. I’ll need some continued leash training, too.
I’m quite athletic, so if you have a fenced yard, I will need a tall & secure one and should always be supervised outside.
Unfortunately, I tested heartworm positive, which means I have some medical treatment ahead of me. AGA is committed to getting me healthy. I owe a huge thank you to my sponsors listed at the end of my bio for helping me raise the $1,000 for my treatment! I’m so ready for my next chapter — with a family who will love me, spoil me, and never give up on me. With kisses, Shadow.
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👉 Interested in giving Shadow his forever home?
Learn more and apply by visiting his BIO.
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A Few of Our Forever Families
Found in September
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Every photo below is a little celebration of second chances, healing, trust, and the kind of joy that makes all the hard work worth it. To every foster, volunteer, adopter, donor, and supporter who helped along the way,
thank you!
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The Power of Rescue -
A Journey of Hope, Courage, and Love
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Our Power of Rescue storytelling campaign continues this month as we shine a light on another incredible dog and the journey that brought them to safety, healing, and love.
Each story reflects the heart of rescue, the resilience of the dogs we save and the compassion of the people who make their second chances possible.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. 💛 Your support is the reason these stories can have a next chapter. Read All of Our Power of Rescue Stories Here.
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🚨 LOST ADOPTED GOLDEN 🚨
On August 4, 2026, we received a call that a newly adopted dog had dug out under the fence at her new home (we do not share her name intentionally, so people will not call out to her).
She had only been there two days before she ran off. From August 4 to August 9, she had already run over 10 miles. She traveled from Roswell, Peachtree Corners, Norcross, and Duluth. Several calls we received showed a pattern of her being near the Chattahoochee River or near creeks.
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Since the last confirmed sighting was in August, she could easily be miles away; she could be nocturnal or in the same area. We had twelve confirmed sightings and fourteen unconfirmed sightings. AGA volunteers placed almost 300 signs in a 20-mile radius and then added more in areas where we received calls about sightings. We also have 13 feeding stations with marrow bones, liquid smoke, and cameras set up.
As we approach almost 60 days of her being gone, we are not giving up on her. We need sightings so we can get this sweet girl back. We need your help. Please share her flyer with friends, family, HOAs, and lost pet pages in all areas, and check security cameras daily.
She is skittish and runs when seen, approached, or called to. If you see a loose Golden Retriever in your area, please let her think she is invisible. Do not interact with her, or she will run away. Call 470-666-2110 right away to report the sighting and location. Bonus if you can get a photo or video without being noticed.
Thank you to all our AGA family who have supported us so far by sharing, posting, donating, and purchasing items off our wish list. We are so grateful.
Another big thank you to our lost pet expert friends and the volunteers who have spent countless hours doing anything that is needed for our Golden Girl.
🐾 Visit our Rescue & Recovery Amazon Wishlist today. Every purchase makes a difference.
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We are looking for a dedicated Volunteer Local Events Manager!
Do you love Goldens, connecting with people, and have a knack for planning and executing events? AGA is looking for a passionate local volunteer to help coordinate and manage events that bring our community together and help our orphans.
This role will require flexibility to be on-site for events, along with the ability to develop ideas, coordinate details, and help bring events from planning to execution.
If you're organized, dependable, creative, and ready to make a difference for our orphans, we'd love for you to fill out a Volunteer Application here!
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Our Paw-Liday Portraits with Santa is BACK on Nov. 22!
Celebrate the season with a holiday photo session featuring your goldens or beloved pets and family! Your reservation includes professional photographers and digital photos to treasure forever.
Every wag, smile, and snapshot helps support AGA’s mission to give more goldens (and golden wannabes) a second chance at a happily-ever-after.
Secure Your Slot Here.
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AGA's is Walking in the Sparkle Parade on 12/6!
AGA is hitting the streets! ✨ Join us on December 6 as Adopt a Golden Atlanta takes part in the Sandy Springs Sparkle Parade!
We want to make a BIG representation for AGA — with lots of Goldens and lots of people showing our community what rescue is all about. 🐾💛
Goldens AND volunteers are needed! Stay tuned for the volunteer sign-up coming soon, and get ready to sparkle with us!
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Shop the Official
AGA Merchandise Store
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Cozy Up with AGA Gear!
Cooler weather is on the way, and the AGA merch shop is ready! In addition to your favorite AGA gear, you can now show your Golden pride all season long with long-sleeve shirts, quarter-zips, sweatshirts, jackets, and hoodies.
Stock up on fall and winter AGA gear and wear your support for our Goldens proudly! 💛
Visit the AGA Store »
Shop Here!
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October is National Pet Wellness Month! Be Aware of Fall Toxins for Pets.
Fall brings cooler weather, colorful leaves, and more time enjoying the outdoors with your pet. But the season can also bring hazards, such as toxins.
Knowing where these hazards may be hiding can help you prevent an emergency. Here’s what pet parents should know about common fall toxins, signs of possible poisoning, and when to call a veterinarian.
Read More Here.
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Be Golden HERO - Foster with AGA!
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Fosters Make it ALL Possible.
At AGA, our foster families are the heart of everything we do. They play a vital role in helping Goldens on their journey to a forever home. As a foster, you’ll welcome a dog into your home, offering love, patience, and basic training. You’ll help us learn more about the dog so we can find them their perfect home.
Whether you’re interested in being a short-term foster or opening your home permanently to one of our long-term residents, we’d love to have you as part of our foster family.
Ready to make a difference? Visit our dedicated Foster Page and read through some common FAQs and apply today!
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The Real Cost of Rescue:
Help Support Critical Medical Care 💛
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Every dog who comes through AGA needs care, and it adds up quickly. From basic exams to life-saving treatments, these are the real costs behind every second chance.
But here’s the powerful part: you can make an immediate impact.
🐾 $28 covers a Distemper vaccine
🐾 $50 covers heartworm prevention or a rabies vaccine
🐾 $65 funds a wellness exam or ear treatment
🐾 $100 helps cover grooming or a dental extraction
🐾 $205 supports critical bloodwork for senior dogs
🐾 $1,000+ can help save a life through surgery or heartworm treatment
🔁 Make Your Impact Monthly
By becoming a monthly donor, you ensure we can say “yes” to the next dog in need, without hesitation.
💛 $25/month = Vaccines for dogs entering rescue
💛 $50/month = Preventative care for multiple Goldens
💛 $100/month = Ongoing medical support for dogs in recovery
Every dollar goes directly toward healing, hope, and second chances.
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Simple Acts, Big Impact:
How You Can Help
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🐾 Visit Our Amazon Wish List – Send much-needed supplies directly to our dogs!
🐾 Visit Our Chewy Wish List – Help us stock up on food, toys, and essentials our Goldens need most!
🐾 Donate to help in our rescue mission – Help us care for our rescued Dogs and others facing medical challenges.
🐾 Volunteer Your Time – Join our amazing team and make a difference in Golden’s journey.
🐾 Honor a Beloved Pet – Add their name and keep their spirit shining on our Memory Wall.
🐾 Use iGive When You Shop Online – Choose AGA as your charity and turn everyday purchases into donations.
🐾 Walk with Wooftrax – Whether with your pup or a virtual one, every step earns funds for our Goldens!
🐾 Shop with Kroger – Connect your Kroger account to AGA and support us with every grocery run.
🐾 Spread the Word – Follow us on social media and share our posts to help more Goldens find loving homes.
🐾 Check for Company Match Programs – Double your impact by seeing if your employer offers donation matching.
🐾 Make a Tribute Donation – Honor a special person or pet, and we’ll send a thoughtful card or certificate.
Every action you take helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Goldens in need. Visit www.adoptagoldenatlanta.com to learn more and get involved!
| | You are the driving force behind AGA saving goldens. Honor a golden, memorialize a loved one, and help with Heartworm treatment; every dollar counts, and no donation is too small! | | | | |
Other Ways to Donate:
Check: Adopt a Golden Atlanta | P.O. Box 420256, Atlanta, GA 30342-9998
| | Stay Connected with Atlanta, Thanks to Our Friends at Modern Luxury & The Atlantan | | |
Modern Luxury & The Atlantan showcase the best of Atlanta, from culture and dining to events and philanthropy. We’re proud to be featured and supported by a publication that highlights organizations making an impact in our city.
Stay up to date on everything happening around Atlanta, and consider subscribing today to support the stories and communities that make our city special.
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Looking for a reliable organization to help care for your Golden? Look no further!
Visit AGA's preferred vets, trainers, and boarding facilities
through the links below.
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Training, Play & Confidence at Zoom Room Sandy Springs
We're proud to partner with Zoom Room Sandy Springs, offering positive reinforcement training, agility classes, enrichment activities, and socialization opportunities that help dogs build confidence while strengthening the bond with their humans.
Learn more about Zoom Room Sandy Springs here.
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Keep Your Best Friend Safe with Fi
We're proud to partner with Fi, the maker of one of the world's smartest dog collars. Designed with your dog's safety and wellness in mind, Fi combines live GPS tracking, health and activity monitoring, escape alerts, and long battery life, giving pet parents added confidence whether they're at home or on the go.
🐾 Learn more about Fi and discover how their innovative products help keep dogs safe, healthy, and happy.
Learn more about Fi Today
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Trusted Training Support for Your Pup:
We’re proud to recommend Peach on a Leash, an Atlanta-based dog training company dedicated to helping dogs and their humans build stronger, happier relationships through positive reinforcement training.
Whether you’re working on basic obedience, behavior challenges, or helping a newly adopted pup adjust to their forever home, their experienced trainers provide compassionate guidance and proven techniques.
Visit Peach on a Leash Today
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Dog Boarding: Your dog's home away from home.
That’s why Pet Lodge Pet Resort in Alpharetta is Metro Atlanta’s top choice for dog boarding. Choose from many accommodation types and fun-filled activities for your pets.
Dog Daycare: Exciting indoor & outdoor play! Over 20,000 sq. feet of outdoor turf, obstacles, toys, and pools for your dog to play. You have to see Pet Lodge Pet Resort with your own eyes.
Visit Pet Lodge Today
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Training Starts with Trust!
We're proud to partner with Dogma Dog Care, where positive, reward-based training helps dogs build confidence, strengthen their bond with their families, and develop lifelong skills.
Whether you have a new puppy, a recent rescue, or simply want to reinforce good manners, Dogma offers expert training to help every dog thrive.
Learn more about Dogma Today
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Advanced Specialty & Emergency Care When It Matters Most
We're proud to partner with Veterinary Specialists of Greater Atlanta (VSGA), an independent, veterinarian-owned specialty and 24/7 emergency hospital providing advanced care when pets need it most.
From emergency and critical care to surgery, internal medicine, oncology, and more, their expert team is dedicated to helping pets heal and thrive.
Learn more about VSGAToday
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Your Security Matters
Adopt A Golden Atlanta takes your privacy and security seriously. We never solicit donations via cryptocurrency or collect sensitive data like Social Security numbers. All donations should be made through secure, trusted platforms like PayPal or Venmo.
If something doesn’t seem right or a link looks suspicious, please contact us directly before giving. We’re committed to keeping your support, and our community, safe.
Suspicious solicitations can be reported to INFO@ADOPTAGOLDEN.COM.
Read more here
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