About ATRA

Abandoned Terrier Rescue (ATRA Rescue) is independent but operates according to the policies and guidelines of the American Fox Terrier Rescue; ATRA Rescue proudly partners with American Fox Terrier Rescue as their west coast representative.

ATRARescue, based in and serving Southern California, is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit comprised entirely of volunteers, devoted to the mission of rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of Wire Fox Terriers.*

Rescue

ATRA specializes in identifying and helping purebred Wire Fox Terriers (WFT) of any age or condition.

In addition to Wire Fox Terriers that are given up to shelters or that, unfortunately, land in shelters as unclaimed strays, ATRA takes in dogs surrendered by private parties.

Why are dogs surrendered?

Changes in life circumstances in the home: illness, death, new baby, moving and unable to take the dog, loss of job or other financial issues are examples of some reasons. There also may be a mismatch of the dog’s energy, age and personality which can manifest in undesirable, high maintenance behavior that require a need for exercise, training and vigilance that the owners do not have time to devote.There may be other reasons, but it’s important to keep in mind that dogs surrendered to rescue are usually there through no fault of their own.

*ATRA occasionally needs to rescue other purebred Terriers – such as Welsh Terriers, Lakeland Terriers, and Airedale Terriers – and in emergent cases, mixes who are in need of homes. However, we will refer these related breeds to the appropriate rescues and work with them on behalf of the dog. We do not handle Toy Fox Terriers, Rat Terriers or Jack Russell Terriers.
Find the ATRA Personality Profile Here

Rehabilitation

ATRA always goes the distance to provide everything that is necessary to assure that the dogs in our care are on the road to health and happiness. Rehabilitation can take many forms depending on a dog’s background and condition when rescued or surrendered.

Veterinary care
ATRA provides our dogs with all necessary veterinary care regardless of their age or condition. Dogs are immediately seen by a vet and receive all procedures they may recommend. For some dogs, this may consist solely of vaccinations. All dogs, however, also receive dental care All dogs are spayed and neutered as needed. Many dogs, because of their circumstances, may require additional, sometimes, extensive procedures such as specialty surgery, physical rehabilitation, and ophthalmology consults.

Behavioral care
Many dogs come to us lacking socialization and basic obedience training. ATRA works to fill such gaps while a dog is in foster care. Fosters, with their experience, can provide the foundation needed in these areas to promote successful adoptions. If more additional help is needed, ATRA will provide the funds for professional consultation and training.

Other
Wires have particular grooming needs that are often neglected. When they come to us and are healthy enough, they receive expert attention to their skin, nails and coat from our experienced Terrier groomer. Some of our volunteers also have some grooming experience and can help with nail trimming and basic washes and cuts.

Re-homing

ATRARescue dogs seek people with lots of Terrier savvy -– those who understand the needs of the Fox Terrier breed and the behavior that may have caused the need for their rescue. It is, therefore, our preference to place our rescues with an adopter who has previously and successfully lived with a Terrier breed. For “first timers” we recommend an older Wire who is usually a bit calmer.

If you are looking for a devoted, energetic, and comical companion and can offer a loving and caring lifetime commitment, along with the understanding (and enjoyment) of Terrier challenges, ATRA will happily assist you in adopting a dog that will be the best match for you!
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Areas Served for Adoptions

Please note that we only adopt within the state of California so that we can conduct home visits, follow up in person to check on the dogs we place, refer local resources when needed and remain immediately available if help is needed — especially for a surrender.
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We have made some rare exceptions for our previous adopters or highly qualified applicants and where we have contacts in the area.

We will NOT ship dogs under any circumstances.