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, primarily 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

Despite our generic name, ATRA specializes in helping purebred Wire Fox Terriers (WFT) of any age or condition. Most other Terrier breeds now have their own rescues which wasn’t the case in the late 80s when ATRA got its start.

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?

Most dogs of all breeds may be surrendered due to changes in life circumstances, for example: illness, death, new baby, moving with the inability to take the dog, loss of job or other financial issues. There also may be a mismatch of the dog’s energy, age and personality. Wires, especially young ones, can manifest high maintenance behavior that requires exercise, training and vigilance. An owner, simply, may not have the ability to handle the Wire’s requirements for training. 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.

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, receive dental care, and 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 and house 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 seeks 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!

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.

We have made some rare exceptions for our previous adopters, or highly qualified applicants, and where we have experienced volunteers in the area.

We will NOT ship dogs under any circumstances.

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