Adopt

“Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever.”

Ready to find your new best friend? Please see our Adoption Information page and complete an adoption application.

The Dog-a-Log showcases adoptable Labs with their bios from DLRR and foster families. It is emailed only to approved adopters. To inquire or meet a Lab, contact the listed foster.

At this time, we are only able to place dogs within the State of Arizona. Because we are an Arizona-based, all-volunteer organization, our process requires in-state home visits, meet-and-greets, and ongoing local support.

Bear

Meet Bear — a handsome black neutered male, estimated to be between
3–5 years old and weighing about 50 pounds. He may be on the smaller
side, but he has a huge heart and so much love to give!

Bear loves his walks and does wonderfully on a leash. In fact, he gets so
excited when it’s time to go outside that he sits, walks backward, and
eagerly waits for his leash to be clipped on. He enjoys several short walks
throughout the day and is happiest spending time with his people.

Bear can be a little shy when meeting new people, but once he warms up,
his sweet and affectionate personality shines through. He has been around
10-year-old children and has done well. He knows “sit” and
“paw,” is close to mastering “stay,” and loves
playing with his toys — especially his favorite octopus toy, which he
proudly tosses around when he gets playful and excited.

This smart boy is potty trained, sleeps soundly through the night in his
own bed, and can comfortably stay home for several hours without needing a
crate or pen. He is very treat motivated (Swiss cheese is his favorite for
taking his pills!) and enjoys pets, brushing sessions, and relaxing with his
family.

On walks, Bear calmly watches people, dogs, and cats pass by without much
reaction. He’s generally a quiet dog and only barks occasionally when
he wants attention or playtime. He’s also a great passenger in the
car!

Bear is currently being treated for Valley Fever and will need to continue
medication for some time, with re-testing in 3–4 months. He also came
to rescue with previous injuries to his legs. Despite this, Bear walks,
plays, and enjoys life with mild to moderate activity. To help him live an
even more active and comfortable life, his future family may choose to pursue
surgery on one or both knees. DLRR will work closely with Bear’s
adopters and Southwest Veterinary Surgical orthopedic vet specialists
throughout this process, and the cost of the surgeries will be covered by
DLRR.

Bear is a loving, active, and resilient dog who deserves a family to call
his own. If you think Bear could be the perfect addition to your home, please
contact his foster to schedule a showing.

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Bowie

Hi, I’m Bowie! I’m a 9-month-old purebred with a big heart, a
happy personality, and lots of cuddles to share.
I love spending time with people, playing fetch, and splashing around in the
pool whenever I get the chance. I get along great with children and other
dogs, and I enjoy making new friends wherever I go. I haven’t met any
cats yet, so I’m not sure what I think about them.
I’m a smart boy who is currently working with a trainer to learn my
basic manners. I walk nicely on a leash and am eager to learn new things.
Because I’m still young, I’ll need a family that is committed to
continuing my training and helping me grow into the amazing dog I know I can
be.
My foster family says I’m loving, intelligent, and full of potential. I
say I’m just looking for a family to love, adventures to share, and a
place to call home.
If you’re searching for a loyal companion who will keep you smiling and
always be ready for the next game of fetch, I might be the perfect match for
you. I'm ready to trade rescue life for family life–Could that be
you?

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Coco

Miss Coco, Coco Puffs, Coco-nut, Coco Beach, CocoLoco–whatever you want
to call her is fine, just don't call her late for dinner!  Coco is
an awesome companion and an easy dog to take care of.  She's a
senior Lab, but don't tell her that–I don't think she knows. 
She acts like a 3 year old!  She loves to play fetch and will play it as
long as you want to, dropping the ball right at your feet and waiting
for the next throw.  Coco has been tested with kids ages 4 and 14 months
and she passed with flying colors and a couple of facial slurps.  She is
trustworthy when left alone at home, gets along with other dogs, sleeps
through the night, is housebroken, loves her walks and is pretty good on the
leash.  Jumping into a car is no problem for this spry gal.  She
alert barks when someone comes to the door or she sees something outside that
shouldn't be there but she'll stop as soon as you tell her to-good
girl!  She enjoys following us around the house and often positions
herself between the rooms where the 2 adults are so she can keep track of
both of us.  Have you heard that petting dogs can lower your blood
pressure?  Well, Dr. Coco is ready and willing to help you with
that!  She will soak up as many pets as you wish to give. 
It's great therapy!   At 58 pounds, Coco is the perfect
size.  In fact, there isn't a single negative about Coco.(except
maybe her tendency to occasionally snore when she's
sleeping!)  We think Coco is the complete package and once you meet
her you'll wonder how you ever lived without her.  

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Frisbee

Looking for a best friend who is equal parts handsome, goofy, and
affectionate? Meet Frisbee!

This 60-pound, 1½-year-old chocolate Lab mix stole our hearts from
the very first hello. With his rich chocolate coat, sparkling golden eyes,
big paws, and award-worthy smile, Frisbee is impossible to resist. But his
looks are only part of the package. He’s a happy, loving pup who greets
the world with a wagging tail and a joyful attitude. Whether he’s
leaning in for pets, sitting by your side, or simply soaking up attention,
Frisbee is happiest when he’s with his people.

As a young dog, Frisbee has plenty of energy and enthusiasm for life. His
favorite game is fetch, although he still thinks the “bring it
back” part is optional! He approaches every day with excitement and
curiosity, and his playful personality is guaranteed to keep you smiling.
Frisbee already knows “sit” and is eager to continue learning
with a family willing to invest in his training and help him become the best
dog he can be.

Frisbee does well with other large dogs when given a proper introduction.
He loves making new friends but can be a little overenthusiastic at first, so
any canine companion should be confident and comfortable with an energetic
youngster. He has not been around children or cats while in our care.

If you’re searching for a loyal sidekick, adventure buddy, and
professional tail-wagger all rolled into one, Frisbee may be your perfect
match. To schedule a meet-and-greet, please text his foster advocate with
your full name.

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Gator

Hi. My name is Gator.

Yes, I know. I am a lot of dog. A beefy, handsome, 107 pound black lab to
be exact. And before you ask, yes, my coat really is this shiny
naturally.

I do not really like to dwell on my past. Mostly because I am a dog and
prefer to live in the moment. But I was found as a stray with another dog and
we even shared a kennel together at county. Thankfully, my life took a turn
for the better when Desert Lab Retriever Rescue came along and busted me out
of there. Since then, everyone has been helping me get ready for my next
chapter. Hopefully with you.

I am 7 years old, but let’s not get dramatic about that number. I
still have plenty of spunk left in me. I am happy, active, goofy, and fully
committed to enjoying life. Walks? Love them. A dip in the pool afterward to
cool off? Even better. Car rides? I am in. Pets and attention? Absolutely
yes. As much as possible please and thank you.

I walk pretty well on leash, though I am a strong guy, so I could use a
little polishing around the edges. The good news is the basics are there and
I am eager to please. I am also housebroken and dog door trained, which I
feel deserves extra credit.

As for other dogs, I can be a little selective about my friendships. Think
of me as having a strong personality and high standards. Because of that,
DLRR would want to do a proper introduction with your resident dog to see if
we decide we would like to become best buds, casual roommates, or maybe just
respectfully admire each other from across the room.

Now let’s address the elephant in the room. Or maybe the lab in the
room. Yes, I am overweight. But I prefer to think of it as an exciting
transformation journey for me and my future pawents. Imagine how rewarding it
will be watching me slim down, feel better, and become even zestier than I
already am. I am currently on a thyroid supplement that should help me get to
my ideal weight too.

At the end of the day, I am just a really sweet, happy dog looking for
people to love. If you want a bright light in your life, I have a feeling I
might be the guy you have been waiting for.

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Louie

Meet Louie – Your Freckled Adventure Buddy 

Louie is a 11 month-old yellow Lab mix with the cutest face and a
heart that is 100% pure sunshine. His tongue proves how big his heart
is. 

This sweet boy had a rough detour when he was dumped outside a homeless
shelter, but thankfully kind volunteers knew immediately—this was a
family dog who just needed a second chance.

When Louie first arrived, he was a little unsure of the world
(under-socialized , no house training or structure and leadership) but oh my
goodness… once he warms up, his zest for life absolutely shines. He is
full of joyful puppy enthusiasm, curiosity, and tail-wagging optimism. He is
a little hesitant at first with small children, though does warm up when he
can come to them and then opens right up. 

He has been in a home with a trainer and has mastered his basic training
and better life skills and house manners. He gets along very well with other
dogs with that are just as playful and well mannered and treadmill
trained. 

Louie LOVES:

Playing fetch with a ball

Hiking and outdoor adventures

Playing fetch with a ball

Snuggling up with his humans after a full day of fun

Playing fetch with his ball

Belly rubs 

Playing fetch with his ball…

Louie is looking for a home who will invest in his continued
training, nurture his confidence, and guide him as he grows into the
incredible adult dog he’s meant to be. In return, he’ll give you
loyalty, laughter, adventure, and the sweetest snuggles.

If you’re ready for a wonderful sidekick with endless love and
a joyful spirit, Louie is waiting. 

 

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Mozi

Meet Mozi! 
A 4.5-year-old chocolate Lab with a heart full of love and a serious talent
for snuggling!

If you’re looking for a loyal sidekick, I’m your girl. My
favorite things? Cuddling (a LOT), neighborhood strolls, playing with my
toys—especially the stuffed ones—going on sock treasure hunts,
napping, and hanging out with my foster sister. But most of all, I just want
to be wherever you are. Being with my people is my absolute favorite thing in
the world!

I’m a well-mannered lady—house trained, crate trained, and
happy to hop in the car for an adventure. I’d do best in a home where
someone is around most of the time, because I truly thrive on companionship
and connection. Cats aren’t really my thing, and the vet isn’t my
favorite place, but I promise to make up for it with endless love and
sweetness.

Everyone who meets me says I’m the total package—easygoing,
affectionate, and such a joy to have around. I’m the kind of dog that
makes a house feel like home.

And here’s one of the things that makes me extra special… I
come with my very own dining chair! It’s called a Bailey chair (I like
to think it was named just for me), and I use it for my megaesophagus. I
happily sit in it for meals and some post-dinner hangout
time—it’s just part of my routine! My foster mom will gladly show
you how simple it is and how much I enjoy it.

All I’m missing is a forever family to share all this love with.
Could that be you?

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Ruger

Ruger is the definition of a loyal companion…a warm soul, a
handsome face, and a little silliness too. After being separated from his
family where he had  limited socialization, Ruger is now
discovering the joy of trust, adventure, and belonging in his foster
home—and he’s ready to find a place to call his own.

At first, Ruger may come across as a little shy or unsure, but please do
not take this personally. Once you become his people, he will be a faithful
sidekick.  He is gentle and mellow and depends on his people to help him
feel confident.. New people and unfamiliar situations can make him hesitant,
but behind that cautious exterior is a deeply affectionate dog who blossoms
with patience and kindness. Once Ruger feels safe, he greets you with silly
grins and butt wiggles.

Ruger has quickly learned that life can be exciting and fun. Walks, once
unfamiliar, are now the highlight of his day. He enjoys strolling 1–2
miles, taking in all the new smells and sights around him. He also loves car
rides, no matter where the destination is.  Outings to patios,
stores, the office, and even social gatherings have helped him build
confidence, and he continues to grow braver with each new experience.

In the home, Ruger is a calm and devoted companion. He adores being close
to his people—whether curled up beside them on the couch, resting his
head in a lap, or sleeping at their feet at night. He forms strong
attachments quickly and thrives on companionship. Because of this, he
does experience some separation anxiety, but with gentle guidance and
routine, he will learn how to feel more secure when left alone.  His
foster family is working with him on crate training and being home alone free
in the house, and he is making progress.  

Ruger lives peacefully with two cats, choosing to quietly coexist rather
than engage. He has also met other dogs successfully when introductions are
slow and respectful, and he may benefit from a confident canine friend to
help show him the ropes. He is starting to want to play with toys a
little, espccially when hes excited.  He does love to play fetch with
tennis balls.

He is house-trained and communicates clearly when he needs to go outside
with a soft whine. He knows how to use a doggy door. Despite having access to
a pool, he has shone no interest in joining the humans for a swim.

Ruger is looking for a calm, patient home where he can continue building
confidence at his own pace. He needs someone who will provide consistency,
gentle leadership, and plenty of love. In return, Ruger offers unwavering
loyalty, quiet companionship, and a heart full of affection.

With time, trust, and kindness, Ruger won’t just be a good
dog—he will be an extraordinary one.

 

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William

William is ready and waiting for his forever home and fits in very well
with his foster dog pack in the meantime.  This gentle giant weighing in
at 107 lbs., finds joy taking short walks and stealing hugs and belly
rubs any chance he can get. He sleeps at night on his bed and is fully house
trained. Aside from taking thyroid medication, William is not a high
maintenance dog. He takes his pills easily and like most labradors, loves
food. He is quiet and not prone to barking. He can be left alone without
being destructive and although he has not been around cats in his current
home, he seems likely to be a good candidate for a home with a cat or cats.
William is not a swimmer so not attracted to water as far as we can tell. If
you are looking for a calm temperament and for a dog who will adore you,
William is the ideal fit.

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