Scruffer Lovers Dog Rescue

We don't just save lives and give second chances
We connect you with your new best friend.

s

SCRUFFER LOVERS IS AN ADELAIDE-BASED
100% VOLUNTEER-RUN DOG RESCUE ORGANISATION

Our dedicated, dog-loving team is here to ensure every dog is given the love and care they truly deserve.
We understand how difficult it is to surrender your loved pet and that’s why we want to help every dog, potential adopter and foster family feel absolutely welcome.

Through our adoption, foster and other programs, our goal is to improve opportunities and compassion for dogs everywhere.
We work hard to ensure that everyone who contacts us is treated with understanding, patience and zero judgement.
We feel an overwhelming love for every dog and believe each story of rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption is important.

Our goal is to ensure no dog is left behind and that every dog is given the dignity, care and love it truly deserves.
At the heart of Scruffer Lovers Inc. lies a deep commitment to the welfare of dogs. Our mission is to:

Foster Program

Our foster program gives dogs a safe, loving home while they wait for their forever family.
Fostering is a meaningful and rewarding way to make a direct impact on a dog’s wellbeing.
We cover food, supplies, and vet care during the foster period, so all you need to provide is love, time, and a warm place to stay.
Many foster carers say it's one of the most fulfilling things they've done - helping dogs on their journey to a new life while gaining a loyal temporary companion.

Adoption Program

Through our adoption program, we carefully match each dog with a loving, forever home.
Every adoption is thoughtfully managed to ensure the best fit for the dog and their new family.
We take time to understand each dog's personality and needs so we can support successful, long-term placements.
Our adoption team is here to guide families through the process and provide advice, resources, and post-adoption support to help everyone settle in smoothly.

Assisted Rehoming

If we are unable to bring your dog into our care, we may offer an Assisted Rehoming option.
To be eligible, your dog must be desexed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations.
We’ll share adoption enquiries with you, and you’ll manage the rehoming process directly.
Our team is here to support you with advice and promotion as needed.
This option helps keep dogs out of shelters while still giving them the chance to find a great new home.

Last Litter Program

Had an unexpected litter? We’re here to help.

Our Last Litter Program is completely free and helps prevent more unplanned litters.
We’ll desex the mother dog - and the father too, if he’s around - then take in the puppies, provide veterinary care, and find them loving homes.
You keep mum; we’ll take care of the rest.
This program supports responsible pet ownership by reducing future breeding and giving each pup the best start in life.

End Of Life Care

Thinking about your dog’s future when you’re gone is never easy.
We’re here to help. Our End of Life Care program ensures your dog will always have a loving, secure home - no matter what happens.
We’ll work with you to create a clear plan that reflects your wishes and gives your dog a smooth, caring transition.
Through our compassionate service, your dog’s future is safe, full of love and attention, even when you’re no longer able to be there.

Corporate Visits

Want to bring joy to your workplace?
Our corporate visits offer cuddles, smiles, and connection with help from our foster carers and their rescue pups!
These feel-good experiences raise awareness about our no-kill mission while giving your team a chance to support in a meaningful way.
Visits can be booked with a donation of funds or goods (like food, flea treatments or bedding).
It’s a pawsitive way to give back - and your team will love every second. Conditions apply.

Our history

At Scruffer Lovers we believe every dog deserves a loving, safe home.

Scruffer Lovers was founded in 2005 by Alex, who began working closely with local pounds to help transition dogs into rescue groups. As the mission evolved, so did the organisation — and by 2016, Scruffer Lovers had begun rehoming dogs directly.

In 2018, Alex passed the reins to Julie, a dedicated long-time volunteer and foster carer, who now oversees daily operations.

Today, Scruffer Lovers remains powered by a passionate team, united by one goal: giving every dog the second chance they deserve in a loving forever home.

“Rescue isn’t just what we do — it’s who we are.

One dog at a time, we’re changing lives, theirs and ours.”

– Alex, Founder of Scruffer Lovers