Handling Found or Stray Dogs
If you find a stray or wandering dog, don’t panic — but don’t assume it’s been dumped, either.
What to do:
- Check for a collar or tag
- Take a photo and post on local lost/found pet groups
- Contact us and we can offer advice, and try to seek a nearby volunteer to help with scanning or containment
- Contain the dog safely if you can, using a slip lead or enclosed space
- Contact the local dog warden — this is a legal requirement, if possible insist on doing the 7-day hold yourself. UK council pounds charge a large fee for owners to get their dog back and will not release the dog until that has been paid in full which is not possible for a lot of owners, the fee increases with each day they cannot pay. Poundies are given 7 days, and then may face euthanasia to make space for the next dogs the warden picks up. Council Pounds are Kill Pounds. Only the luckiest dogs are reclaimed by their owners, and a tiny percentage may get a second chance through a rescue if they complete a stressful temperament test in a strange environment during a traumatic time.
- Notify local rescues or vet practices (many can scan for a microchip)
Don’t:
- Immediately assume abuse or abandonment
- Move the dog far from where it was found (many are lost close to home)
- Rehome, sell, or give away the dog privately — it may belong to someone
- Hand the dog over to the warden if you or someone you know and trust could safely carry out the 7 day hold. If you are able to do this, contact us to help source a rescue space once the 7 days are up.
La’al Marras Rescue Group will always help guide you through the legal and welfare steps to get the dog to safety.
We do not operate a 24/7 service, but we can signpost, support, or escalate where needed.
Medical Treatment and Disclosure Policy
At La’al Marras Rescue Group, we believe in transparency and honesty when it comes to every dog’s medical history.
All dogs in our care receive veterinary checks, vaccinations, flea and worm treatment, and any urgent care they may need. In some cases, we may provide additional treatment such as spaying or neutering, dental care, or support for chronic conditions.
We always share everything we know about each dog’s medical background. However, many of our dogs arrive without prior records, and some have come from neglectful or untraceable situations. Where medical history is unknown, we’ll tell you that openly, and explain what we’ve observed or treated during their time with us.
While we do our best to assess and address health needs, we cannot guarantee that a dog is free from future illness or injury. We ask adopters and foster carers to understand that rescue dogs, like all animals, may develop health issues later in life.
If we are aware of a medical condition at the time of adoption or fostering, you will be fully informed and supported to understand it before making a decision.
Behavioural Observations and Training Ethos
At La’al Marras Rescue Group, we know that behaviour is communication — especially in dogs who’ve known fear, neglect, or instability.
We assess each dog’s behaviour through observation, not punishment. Our foster carers and volunteers use positive reinforcement methods, gentle handling, and relationship-based trust building. We never use aversive tools or outdated dominance-based training approaches.
Dogs in our care may arrive shut down, overstimulated, or reactive — these are often normal responses to abnormal lives. We work at each dog’s pace and log behavioural patterns carefully, so we can match them to homes that understand their current needs and future potential.
While we share behavioural observations openly, behaviour can and does change in new environments. We ask fosters and adopters to allow for a decompression period and commit to ongoing support and compassion. We strongly support the use of 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months decompression guidelines and slow, sensible introductions.
Every dog deserves a chance to feel safe, understood, and seen for who they are — not just what they’ve survived.
Euthanasia and End-of-Life Care Statement
Euthanasia is never a decision we take lightly at La’al Marras Rescue Group.
We work tirelessly to rehabilitate dogs with complex medical or behavioural needs.
We only consider euthanasia when:
- A veterinary professional recommends it due to untreatable pain or suffering, or
- A dog poses a serious, unmanageable risk to people or animals and all other options have failed
In these rare cases, decisions are made collectively, with veterinary input, behavioural assessments, and emotional support from our team. We never act on impulse or convenience.
If an adopted or fostered dog reaches the end of their life, we offer guidance and, where possible, practical help.
Every dog deserves to pass with dignity, being held and loved.
Foster Carer Vetting and Expectations
Our foster carers are the backbone of La’al Marras Rescue Group. Without them, dogs removed from dangerous or unstable situations would have nowhere safe to land.
Before joining our fostering team, all carers:
- Complete a foster application form
- Have a home and environment assessment (virtually or in person)
- Receive full briefing on dog needs, safety, and rescue policy
- Agree to ongoing communication and support
We don’t expect perfection — just honesty, safety, and consistency.
Foster carers are supported with:
- Veterinary costs covered by us or the primary rescue
- Behavioural support and regular check-ins
- Access to advice and help
We do ask that carers:
- Follow safety guidance around introductions, feeding, and walks
- Meet day to day living costs for their foster dog, which is discussed and agreed before a dog is placed in the home
- Never rehome or transfer dogs independently
- Inform us quickly of concerns, incidents, or potential risks
We treat our fosters with deep respect.
They open their homes to dogs others walked away from.
They help those with no voice heal, and start again.
Home Checks: What We Look For
Before adopting or fostering, we carry out a friendly home check to ensure safety and suitability.
What we check:
- Secure fencing or containment (for garden-access dogs)
- Hazards like broken gates, open pools, loose wires, etc.
- Safe indoor space with quiet retreat areas
- Understanding of dog needs — not perfection, just thoughtfulness
- Compatibility with existing pets, children, and routines
What we’re not checking:
- Your furniture or décor
- Whether your home is spotless
- If your children are loud or your dog barks — that’s normal!
We may offer advice or suggest changes, but never to shame — always to empower you and protect the dog.
Transport and Handover Policy
Many of the dogs we help come from chaotic or unsafe environments. As such, carefully managed transport and handovers are essential to keeping dogs — and people — safe.
Dogs are only transported by trusted individuals experienced with handling dogs in unfamiliar or stressful situations. We use secure vehicles, appropriate restraints, and calm handling techniques. We assess the needs of each dog to decide whether they travel alone or with a companion, and we aim to keep journeys as short and stress-free as possible.
Handover to adopters or fosters is arranged by appointment, with time set aside to answer questions, check identification, and ensure everything is understood. If we are delivering a dog directly to you, you must be home and ready to receive them.
We may decline a handover if the environment is unsafe, if the receiving person is suspected to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if we suspect the agreement is based on misrepresented circumstances.
Dogs remain legally under La’al Marras Rescue Groups care until a formal adoption or foster agreement is signed.
Emergency Removal and Welfare Seizure Policy
In some cases, La’al Marras Rescue Group is asked to step in during crisis situations — including when a dog is at risk of harm or is being neglected in real time.
These emergency removals are only carried out:
- With the support of another rescue group or vet
- With consent from police, a local authority, or another authorised officer
- Or via owner surrender, documented in writing or with witness testimony
We do not force entry, trespass, or act outside the law. However, we do act swiftly to remove dogs from danger when legal authority or surrender has been obtained.
In these cases, we photograph and document conditions to assist with legal or welfare follow-up. If needed, we notify RSPCA, the Dog Warden, or appropriate council teams.
Dogs removed in crisis are placed into vetted emergency foster or holding care, where they are assessed, stabilised, and protected from further harm. Their welfare remains our immediate and overriding concern.
We are proud to work in collaboration with multi-agency professionals who share our goal: protecting dogs when no one else can.
Multi-Rescue Collaboration and Dog Ownership Clarity
La’al Marras Rescue Group often works hand-in-hand with other ethical rescue groups, particularly in complex or large-scale cases where dogs are removed from harm. Many of the dogs we care for are jointly supported, medically funded, or placed through collaborative networks.
In all cases, the dog’s legal owner is clearly documented — this may be La’al Marras Rescue Group, the originating rescue, or a split agreement where roles are defined by a Memorandum of Understanding.
We are always transparent about:
- Which rescue holds primary legal responsibility
- Who will handle microchip updates and adoption paperwork
- Which rescue the adopter will be signing with
Our goal is not ownership for the sake of ownership, but stable, supported outcomes for each dog. Even when we are not the primary rescue, we uphold the same standards of care, advocacy, and after-adoption support.
We believe rescue works best when it’s done together — with humility, clarity, and compassion.
A life is a life, a dog saved is a dog saved, a dog placed is a dog placed.
Rehoming Criteria and Suitability Assessment
Each dog is an individual — so is each home.
La’al Marras Rescue Group takes a needs-based approach to rehoming. That means we don’t work on a “first come, first served” basis, but instead match dogs to environments where they’re most likely to thrive long term.
We consider:
- Temperament and history of the dog
- Needs around children, dogs, cats, and stimulation
- The dog’s previous trauma, medical care, or behavioural patterns
- The adopter’s lifestyle, experience, space, and flexibility
All adopters complete a suitability conversation, and we offer home checks, vetting, and post-adoption contact. If a dog has complex needs, we’ll explain this openly — no hidden issues, no sugar-coating.
Rehoming is about partnership, not transaction. If we don’t think it’s a match, we’ll say so respectfully — and we encourage potential adopters to ask honest questions too.
Trial Placements and Return Policy
For some dogs, we offer trial adoptions on a foster to adopt basis — particularly for those with ongoing behavioural or medical needs, or if we’re unsure how they’ll adapt to a new setting.
These placements are short-term, usually 2–4 weeks, and are designed to see if the home and dog are truly compatible.
During this time:
- The dog remains legally owned by the rescue
- We check in regularly and offer support
- No microchip transfers or permanent contracts are completed
If the match works, we proceed to full adoption. If not, no shame, no blame — the dog returns to rescue, and we’ll continue to support both parties.
In full adoptions, if a change in life circumstances means the dog can no longer stay with their adopter, we require the dog be returned to us. Our adoption contract forbids the dog being passed on, resold, or given away.
We will never criticise someone for making the right decision for their dog — only thank them for being honest enough to try.
Foster Carer Vetting and Expectations
Our foster carers are the backbone of La’al Marras Rescue Group. Without them, dogs removed from dangerous or unstable situations would have nowhere safe to land.
Before joining our fostering team, all carers:
- Complete a foster application form
- Have a home and environment assessment (virtually or in person)
- Receive full briefing on dog needs, safety, and rescue policy
- Agree to ongoing communication and support
We don’t expect perfection — just honesty, safety, and consistency.
Foster carers are supported with:
- Veterinary costs covered by us or the primary rescue
- Behavioural support and regular check-ins
- Access to advice and help
We do ask that carers:
- Follow safety guidance around introductions, feeding, and walks
- Meet day to day living costs for their foster dog, which is discussed and agreed before a dog is placed in the home
- Never rehome or transfer dogs independently
- Inform us quickly of concerns, incidents, or potential risks
We treat our fosters with deep respect.
They open their homes to dogs others walked away from.
They help those with no voice heal, and start again.
Volunteer Conduct and Safeguarding
Our volunteers come from many walks of life — what unites them is their commitment to the dogs.
All volunteers agree to:
- Uphold La’al Marras Rescue Group values of compassion, integrity, and non-judgement
- Follow safeguarding procedures when working with families or vulnerable individuals
- Maintain confidentiality when involved in sensitive cases
- Speak and act in a way that represents the rescue fairly and respectfully
We do not tolerate:
- Bullying, discrimination, or harassment of any kind
- Gossiping or the spread of confidential case information
- Aggressive confrontation in person or online
- Taking dogs or supplies without agreement or consent
Many of the people we work with are in crisis, fleeing harm, or dealing with traumatic loss. It is vital we protect their dignity.
Volunteers must also be mindful that some of our cases involve legal action or criminal behaviour — discretion and professionalism are non-negotiable.
We are happy to provide volunteer references and keep DBS details securely when needed.
Neutering and Breeding Policy
La’al Marras Rescue Group is a rescue-first, welfare-first organisation. We are strictly opposed to all casual or profit-driven breeding.
We aim to spay and neuter as many adult dogs as possible before adoption unless there is a medical reason that prevents it. If a dog is too young or too unwell to be neutered before rehoming, adopters must commit to having them neutered at the appropriate time, as part of their adoption agreement.
We strongly believe that neutering prevents suffering. It reduces the number of unwanted dogs in the UK, helps curb certain behavioural issues, and lowers the risk of various health problems.
Breeding any dog adopted from La’al Marras Rescue Group is a violation of our terms and values. We will always support adopters with education, discounted vet access (where possible), and advice on neutering when the time is right.
Crisis Response and Out-of-Hours Care
La’al Marras Rescue Group regularly responds to emergency welfare cases, often with no notice and limited resources.
Crisis calls may involve:
- Dogs seized or surrendered following arrest, eviction, or domestic abuse
- Animals abandoned, injured, or trapped
- Urgent welfare concerns from the public or professionals
We operate with a core team of experienced first-responders, supported by local foster homes and volunteer networks.
We aim to:
- Triage situations quickly and calmly
- Prioritise animal safety and legal compliance
- Coordinate with police, RSPCA, vets, other rescues and social workers where required
- Stabilise the dog first — emotionally and physically
Due to the nature of this work, some responses occur late at night or at short notice. We rely on a strong system of mutual support, ethical decision-making, and trauma-informed care.
We do not attend scenes where:
- It would place our responders at risk
- Police or RSPCA should legally lead but have not been notified
Instead, we will support remotely or escalate through the right channels.
Behavioural Assessments and Training Approach
We believe all behaviour is communication, not defiance.
La’al Marras Rescue Group uses force-free, positive reinforcement training approaches rooted in:
- Consent-based handling
- Emotional regulation and decompression
- Observation, not assumption
- Respect for species-specific needs and stress responses
Assessments are carried out by:
- Qualified behaviourists
- Experienced foster carers
- Multi-party observation over time
We never base decisions on single events or isolated incidents.
Dogs deserve time and safety to show who they really are.
We do not:
- Use prong, shock, or full-choke collars
- Endorse dominance theory or punitive "corrections"
- Label dogs as "bad" or "nasty" — we explore the context behind the behaviour
When a dog is reactive, traumatised, or overwhelmed, we provide space, structure, and gentle rebuilding.
When a dog is thriving, we celebrate it with joy.
Fostering: Expectations and Support
Our foster carers are the heart of La’al Marras Rescue Group.
They make healing possible.
We place dogs into foster homes when:
- They are recovering from trauma, injury, or neglect
- They need behavioural assessment before rehoming
- They require temporary holding during legal or housing proceedings
- They are young, old, or simply not coping in kennels
Fostering is not a soft option — it’s front-line work, and we support our fosters every step of the way.
We provide:
- Veterinary care arranged and funded by us
- Behaviour support and emergency advice
- Flexible matching based on each carer’s home, lifestyle, and experience
Fosters are:
- Responsible for meeting the costs of day to day living, such as food, bedding, treats, toiletries etc.
- Expected to follow guidance and safety protocols
- Not responsible for training perfection, just safe and kind care
- Invited to help with photos, updates, and assessments
- Never pressured to keep a dog (but foster-to-adopt is always considered!)
We value transparency and realistic boundaries. If it’s too much — tell us.
If it’s a breakthrough day — tell us that too.
You’re not alone. We walk this road together.
Breed-Specific Legislation and Rescue Protocols
As a UK-based rescue group, La’al Marras Rescue Group operates within the constraints of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (and amendments).
This law:
- Bans the ownership of specific types (Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro) without exemption
- Places restrictions on seized or suspected dogs
- Often results in fear-based misunderstanding of large or bull breeds
We work closely with legal experts and partner rescues to:
- Identify whether dogs are of type or fall outside the ban
- Seek exemption when safe and possible
- Provide educational support for owners and carers
We believe no dog should be judged by their appearance.
When working with restricted types or crosses, we:
- Avoid public exposure while assessments are pending
- Prioritise placements with knowledgeable, compliant homes
- Maintain strict legal compliance with transport, muzzling, and insurance
We advocate for reform of this legislation and call for evidence-based, breed-neutral policies.
Until then, we do everything possible to keep our dogs safe and lawful.
Home Checks: What We Look For
Before adopting or fostering, we carry out a friendly home check to ensure safety and suitability.
What we check:
- Secure fencing or containment (for garden-access dogs)
- Hazards like broken gates, open pools, loose wires, etc.
- Safe indoor space with quiet retreat areas
- Understanding of dog needs — not perfection, just thoughtfulness
- Compatibility with existing pets, children, and routines
What we’re not checking:
- Your furniture or décor
- Whether your home is spotless
- If your children are loud or your dog barks — that’s normal!
We may offer advice or suggest changes, but never to shame — always to empower you and protect the dog.
Donations, Fundraising, and Financial Transparency
La’al Marras Rescue Group operates entirely through donations, small grants, and grassroots support.
We do not receive government funding. Every bag of food, vet bill, or microchip is made possible by community generosity.
We commit to:
- Clear, accountable use of funds
- Transparency about major costs (e.g. surgeries, legal cases, end-of-life care)
- Open communication about appeals, campaigns, and where money is going
- You’ll never be asked for money without knowing why.
All donations:
- Go directly to animal care or outreach
- Are documented for audit and compliance
- Can be earmarked for specific dogs or causes on request
We raise funds via:
- Events and online raffles
- Sale of merch and handmade goods
- Sponsorships and birthday/gift fundraisers
- PayPal, bank transfer, and in-person donations
We aim to:
- Register for Gift Aid once eligible
- Publish annual accounts and milestones
- Share the impact of your kindness through stories and images
You’re not funding a brand — you’re changing lives. We never forget that.
Long-Term Sanctuary and Palliative Placements
Not every dog is looking for a fresh start — some just need a soft place to land.
La’al Marras Rescue Group provides lifelong sanctuary or palliative placements for dogs who:
- Are at the end of life or diagnosed with terminal conditions
- Have complex behavioural histories making rehoming unsafe or unethical
- Thrive best with familiar caregivers and minimal transitions
These dogs are not “unwanted.” They are deeply wanted — by us.
Sanctuary placements may be:
- With one of our core team or trusted long-term fosters
- Supported financially and practically by La’al Marras Rescue Group for life
- Included in social media, celebration posts, and updates just like adoptables
- We believe dignity doesn’t end when hope for a “forever home” does.
Palliative dogs receive:
- Veterinary oversight prioritising comfort and choice
- Tailored nutrition and environmental supports
- Permission to rest, play, and be exactly as they are
They may never be listed for adoption — but they are still family.
Dog Matching and Rehoming Criteria
We do not rehome by first-come, first-served — we rehome by best fit.
Each dog in our care is assessed as an individual. We consider:
- History (where known)
- Behavioural needs
- Breed traits
- Emotional triggers and bonds
- Level of structure vs. freedom they can tolerate
- Compatibility with other pets, children, noise, or activity
Our adoption process includes:
- A written application
- Proof of ID, address and permission to have pets
- Follow-up conversation (messenger, phone or video)
- Home check — physical or virtual
- Lifetime Support and Full Rescue Back-Up
- We say no if it’s not the right fit — and help applicants find a better match when possible.
Some dogs need:
- A child-free home
- A resident calm dog
- Secure fencing or access to rural walking
- Time to build trust slowly with one handler
- We’re transparent about these needs. The dog’s well-being comes first.
Once a match is made, we:
- Provide full background and training advice
- Offer behaviour support long after adoption
- Stay in contact for updates, celebrations, and — if needed — a safety net
Rehoming isn’t the end of our involvement. It’s the beginning of a shared story.
Working with Law Enforcement and Other Agencies
La’al Marras Rescue Group often supports or works alongside:
- Police
- Social workers
- Vets
- Housing officers
- Domestic abuse services
- Dog wardens and local authorities
Our role is to:
- Provide emergency welfare cover during crisis or seizure
- Offer calm, informed animal handling
- Support victims of abuse or displacement by safeguarding their pets
- We are trauma-informed and non-judgemental.
When appropriate, we:
- Signpost to legal aid, behaviourists, or social support
- Document welfare concerns with clarity and neutrality
- Act as an interim safety net while longer-term options are arranged
We are happy to provide statements or evidence where needed but are not enforcers. We defer to statutory authority on legal action or removal unless animal welfare is immediately at risk.
We also proactively build relationships with police and professionals to improve how animals are considered in crisis planning.
Volunteer Involvement
Whether you walk dogs, sort supplies, run events, or post updates — volunteers make us possible.
Volunteering with La’al Marras Rescue Group is flexible, purposeful, and always appreciated.
Opportunities include:
- Transporting dogs or donations
- Helping at vet visits or assessments
- Attending events or fundraising stalls
- Graphic design, admin, or social media
- Community outreach and education
- We work hard to match volunteers with tasks that:
- Suit their skills and limitations
- Respect time availability and boundaries
- Offer purpose without overwhelm
- You don’t need to be an expert — just willing, kind, and reliable.
We offer:
- Clear expectations
- A friendly point of contact
- Reimbursement for agreed costs
- Mentoring and team support
- Some roles may require:
- Reference checks or DBS (for safeguarding)
- Driver’s licence or vehicle access
- A basic knowledge of dog behaviour
We welcome neurodivergent, disabled, and marginalised volunteers and adjust roles to suit.
Everyone has something to offer. We’re stronger for your presence.