Rat Terrier Rescue Canada

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Dutton, ON
Rat Terrier Rescue Canada

Rat Terrier Rescue Canada Inc. is a charitable non-profit, volunteer organization that rescues and fosters Rat Terriers in private homes.

We are dedicated to the welfare of Rat Terriers, it is our purpose to find new, permanent and loving homes for them. Rat Terrier Rescue Canada Adoption Fees
Puppies under 1 year - $775
Young adult 1 year - 5 years $650
Adults 6 years - 9 years $575
Seniors 10+ $325

The adoption fee includes spay/neuter - *EXCLUDING PUPPIES, WHICH MAY OR MAY NOT BE SPAYED OR NEUTERED DEPENDING ON AGE. The adoption fee also includes, at a minimum, vaccinations, de-worming, I.D. tag and microchip insertion. We gratefully accept any amount above the adoption fee as a donation used to support our mission to save as many dogs as possible. Registered Canadian Charity #80288 7620 RR0001

10/26/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Koibito | Japanese Chin | Male | 10 years | 18lbs. | Fostered in Sarnia |

I would like to introduce you to Koi (Koibito). He is a 10 year old Japanese Chin, currently weighing 18lbs. and is one of the 'chillest' fosters I have had. You want to go a walk, he says yes. Want to sit and chill, he says yes. Ready for bed, he says FINALLY. He loves to sit on the arm of my chair while I watch TV, sit on my lap or beside my chair when I am on the dock, or curl up on the foot of the bed at night.

He was originally found wandering the streets of Windsor and brought into rescue. His original foster mum became a foster-keeper and adopted him (did I mention how cool and cute he is). Unfortunately she passed so he came back into rescue. He has been with me for just over a month and the way he has come into his own is amazing. Everyone that meets him (12+) falls in love with him.

I think he would suit apartment life well. He loves his outside time but I would not say a fenced yard is a requirement. Besides being chill, he does not have a very high prey drive. Outside he lies in the sun or just saunters around investigating. Inside he spends most of his time with me, curled up close by.

He is just happy to be with his humans, sleep in the sun, watch the river traffic go by or attack his stuffies with a vengeance. My own dog is usually aloof with fosters but he has taken to Koi and actually plays with him (did I mention that Koi is pretty chill?).

Koi reliably goes to the door when he needs to go out, sleeps through the night either on the bed or in his crate (guess which he prefers). His one issue that he needs help with (okay other then needing to loose a few pounds, he says not to judge him) is that he will tend to mark inside. We use a belly band on him and that seems to control the issue.

He would do very well with someone with the time to watch him closely, a quick "NO, OUTSIDE" and his leg goes down and he heads to the door. When we go out, he is able to be left alone, either in his crate or loose, with a belly band on, and he is fine. He is really a sweet boy, he just needs someone to work with him and help him lose weight.

Please consider this sweet boy.

Adoption Fee: $325.00

10/15/2026

Jill | Rat Terrier Mix | Female | 11 years | 25lbs. | Fostered in Guelph | Available (UPDATED!)

There is something profoundly special about senior dogs: the way they love, the way they settle into your life, and the way they seem to understand the value of quiet companionship. Jill is one of those dogs.

At 11 years old, Jill has lived a full life. She knows what it means to belong to someone, and she knows what it means to lose them. Originally from Louisiana, she came to Ontario after her owner passed away, arriving with her canine relatives and a heart full of hope.

In her foster home, Jill has shown exactly why senior dogs deserve a second chance. She is gentle, devoted, and deeply connected to the people who care for her. She also lives peacefully with the three resident dogs.

Jill doesn't ask for much, just a calm home, a secure fenced yard, a comfortable place to rest, and a person who appreciates a slower pace of life. She follows her chosen human from room to room, curls up beside them for naps, and sleeps peacefully through the night.

She is fully housetrained, quick with her outdoor business, and happiest when sunbathing on the deck or watching birds and squirrels from the safety of a fenced yard.

Like many seniors, Jill has preferences shaped by experience. She enjoys neighbourhood walks but can be selective about unfamiliar dogs and people she encounters. At times, she may vocalize or pull on the leash. With calm guidance and redirection using treats, she quickly refocuses. Her adopter should be comfortable continuing this positive approach while out walking.

Jill has no bite history. She is simply a dog with a cautious heart who feels strongly about protecting her human and her space.

A detached home is required, as Jill can be vocal when left alone. Because she forms strong bonds with her people, she may bark or cry when they leave. Fortunately, she settles with time and is not destructive. She follows the routine of the other dogs in her foster home and typically relaxes with a nap.

Jill would not be suitable for a home with cats, rabbits, or other small animals due to her prey drive.

A fenced yard is preferred, as Jill loves spending time outdoors patrolling for birds, squirrels, and neighbourhood activity. She never seems to tire of investigating around the garden shed or sniffing beneath the deck.

Her mobility is good, she manages stairs with ease, and she uses a foam step to help her access the bed or couch.

Jill thoroughly enjoys mealtime. She currently eats kibble supplemented with vegetables and meat and enjoys fruit treats, dog-friendly muffins, and her favourite morning ritual of freeze-dried liver, beef, or duck treats.

Thunderstorms make her uneasy, and she will seek comfort from the person she trusts. Sudden loud noises, such as fireworks, can also be frightening, and she prefers to retreat to a quiet spot until they pass.

Senior dogs like Jill bring a kind of companionship that is difficult to describe: steady, comforting, and deeply loyal. They don't demand perfection. They simply want to be included, cherished, and understood.

A meet-and-greet will be arranged in Guelph. If you have a resident dog who may become Jill's canine companion, they will need to attend as well.

Jill is not just looking for a home; she's looking for a heart to belong to. If you're searching for a gentle soul to share your days, your routines, and life's quieter moments, Jill may be the perfect companion for you.

Adoption Fee: $325.00

To apply to adopt this dog go to: http://forms.gle/Ev16pQeQ2zAZWLig6

10/14/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Cornpatch | Miniature Dachshund Mix | Male | 10 years | 16lbs. | Fostered in Peterborough |

Meet Cornpatch, a sweet, gentle 10 year old, 16lb. male Miniature Dachshund looking for a calm home to call his own. Though he had a rough start as a stray, he has settled into foster care. He’s a little nervous at first, but once he feels safe, his sweet and affectionate nature shines through. Plus, he’s very food-motivated—making bonding and training a delicious breeze!

Daily Routine & Manners:
House Manners: Completely house-trained! He sleeps soundly all through the night in his pen and doesn't bark or panic when you leave the house.

Leash & Yard: He is a dream on leash walks and does not require a fenced yard, making him great for condo or home living.

Friends: He gets along great with cats and enjoys a quiet co-existence. He is a bit nervous around other dogs on his walks and tends to grumble as they pass by.

Ideal Home:
Cornpatch would thrive in a peaceful, loving environment, ideally with someone who is home most of the time to keep him company and help him feel secure. So he is not likely suitable for a home with kids. He is ready for adventure and likes car rides.

Adoption Fee: $325.00

10/11/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Chi Chi | Toy Fox Terrier/Chihuahua Mix | Female | 4 years | 5.5lbs. | Fostered in Toronto |

Meet Chi Chi. This newcomer is a very sweet and affectionate toy fox terrier/ chihuahua mix. She was abandoned in a crate at a dog training facility for unknown reasons and we are still learning about her. She is estimated to be around 4 yrs of age, just 5.5 lbs. is fully vaccinated, spayed and healthy.

She is a lively and curious little dog that bonds deeply with her people.

She is unique as she walks excellent on leash, is non reactive to other dogs and pays close attention for instruction from her person.

She gets along with the resident dog but would be quite happy to be the only dog and have all your attention.

House training is going well as she learns where she is expected to potty. Being a southern gal, she is not a fan of cold or wet weather and a p*e pad is an option on those days. Patience will be needed as she transitions to her forever home.

Being very treat motivated and keen to please her person, Chi Chi would excel at agility training. She could be your new “super dog”

Chi Chi has a cute muffled “bark” but she uses it sparingly and would be okay in an apartment as long as she was taken out regularly.

Only older, gentle children in the home because of her small size.

I must mention she is the perfect lap dog and is quite happy to be there while on a Zoom meeting or lounging on the sofa.

Chi Chi would do best with someone who is home for the better part of the day or works from home and is dedicated to walking her regularly for exercise as well as stimulation. She wants to be cherished and loved and in return this delightful little dog will be your devoted companion for life.

Adoption Fee: $650.00

10/08/2026

ADOPTED!

Donnie | Beagle Mix | Male | 10 years | 45lbs. | Fostered in Brampton |

Donnie is a male Beagle mix, who is 10 years old and about 45 lbs.

Donnie may just be the most happy-go-lucky guy you will ever meet! Nothing gets this boy down, he is always ready for adventure, love, and cuddles. He greets the world with so much enthusiasm, it is contagious. Donnie absolutely loves everyone he meets, from humans to canines of all sizes. It is hard to believe that Donnie’s previous owner brought him to the shelter with the request for them to euthanize him as the owner’s new wife did not like Donnie. Now with rescue, we cannot find anything not to love about Donnie. He truly is the sweetest, happiest guy.

Don’t let Donnie’s age fool you, he really is 10 years young, with so much playful spirit and adventure inside his medium 45lb body. True to his breed, Donnie loves going for hikes, exploring the outdoors, following his nose, and sunbathing on the deck.

Donnie loves going for car rides and visiting family. Meeting new people? Sign him up! No one is a stranger for Donnie, he is more than happy to meet new friends. Donnie is also very gentle and submissive when meeting new dogs.

Donnie is housetrained, has great indoor manners, is non-destructive, and easy to bathe. When his foster parents go out, Donnie is left to free roam in the house with his canine foster siblings without any issues.

Donnie would love to be part of a family that will love him unconditionally for the rest of his life. Donnie’s ideal home would be with a family/person that is home most of the time or if left alone for a short time, would have the company of a canine sibling. Donnie is very gentle and would do well in a home with respectful children.

Donnie loves to play and hang out with other dogs so a canine pal in the home would be a bonus. Donnie is not a fan of crates but can be left out to free roam the home without any issues- the joy of adopting an adult dog! Donnie would love an active owner that will take him on daily walks/hikes and adventures so that he can use his beagle nose. Donnie would love a fenced backyard where he can run around and sniff. Donnie is also happy to chill and nap inside. If you want to relax on the couch, Donnie is more than happy to snuggle in next to you. At night, Donnie sleeps on a dog bed or on the couch.

Donnie would love the stability and security of his own loving home. He is the most affectionate, happy, and loving boy, with a heart of gold, and not a single bad bone in his body. Donnie really is a young soul with so much life left in him to live. Donnie can’t help but make people smile, literally everyone that meets him falls in love, and we are positive he will make his new family very lucky.

Adoption Fee: $325.00

10/08/2026

ADOPTION PENDING!

Thumper | Terrier Mix | 1 year | 22 lbs. | Male | Fostered in Mount Hope, ON |

Thumper is a sweet, energetic terrier mix who is just over a year old and weighs approximately 22 lbs. He is a happy, affectionate boy who wags his tail using his whole body. He loves walks, exploring and outdoor adventures. After a busy day, he is just as happy to curl up beside you for belly rubs. Thumper is mostly house trained, crate trained at night and walks well on a leash.

An Active Little Explorer - Thumper is a smart, curious young dog who needs plenty of physical and mental stimulation. He loves long walks, outdoor time, games, trick training, shaping activities and scent-based games. He enjoys fetch indoors and is beginning to play with a ball outside, although the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors can still be very distracting. Thumper must only be off leash in a securely fenced yard and will need supervision, especially during his first few months.

Other Dogs & Cats - Thumper gets along well with other dogs and loves to play. He would enjoy a dog who can match some of his energy, but he also respects dogs who are not interested in playing. He also lives with dog-savvy cats. He will need supervision around cats, particularly unfamiliar ones.

Training & Children - Thumper needs plenty of exercise, play and mental stimulation daily. He would benefit greatly from positive-reinforcement training or dog school. He is smart and eager to learn, and training will help with his manners, recall and mental stimulation.

Thumper has not been formally tested with children, although he has met people of many ages. Because of his energy and enthusiasm, he would likely do best with older children who understand how to interact respectfully and safely with dogs.

Adoption Fee: $650.00

10/06/2026

ADOPTED!

Moana | Jack Russell Terrier Mix | Female | 1 year | 22lbs. | Fostered in Caledonia |

Meet Moana, a bright, affectionate female Jack Russell terrier mix with a big heart and so much love to give. At just one year old and 22 pounds, she’s the perfect size for cuddling close while still being ready to join you on walks, adventures, and all the fun moments in between.

Moana loves being near her people and wants to be part of the action. She is playful, energetic, and especially fond of her toys. Her joyful personality makes her a wonderful companion for an active family who will include her in daily life and give her the attention, exercise, and affection she deserves.

She gets along well with other dogs and enjoys canine companionship. She would also be happy to be the only dog and soak up all the love. Moana has not been formally tested with children, but she has shown no aggression and may do well with respectful, dog-savvy children who understand how to interact appropriately with an energetic young dog. Her compatibility with cats is unknown, as she has not yet been tested.

Moana is highly motivated by treats, making her eager to learn and a great candidate for continued training. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, she will continue building confidence and becoming the very best companion she can be.

She is housebroken, sleeps peacefully in her crate all night, walks well on leash, and travels nicely in the car. Like any dog adjusting to a new home, she may need a little time and understanding as she settles into a new routine, but she is already showing what a wonderful family dog she can be.

Moana’s ideal family will provide plenty of playtime, exercise, structure, affection, and continued guidance. In return, they’ll gain a loving, playful, loyal companion who is ready to give her whole heart to the people she can call her own. Moana would prefer a fenced yard but she would also do well with lots of walks and play times. Moana is not overly talkative but she does bark on occasion (usually when someone comes over) so she would not be suited for apartment living.

Moana may be small in size, but her personality and capacity for love are enormous. She’s waiting for someone to see her potential, open their heart, and give her the forever home she’s been hoping for.

Adoption Fee: $650.00

Address

Dutton, ON

Website

https://sites.google.com/ratterrierrescue.ca/rtrc/home?authuser=3

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