Are you looking to add a little fluff to your life with a Maltese? These charming pups are not just adorable; they’re smart, affectionate, and a tad bit sassy. Thus, making them great companions in a variety of households. But where do you start your search for a Maltese to adopt?
There are a few rescue groups across the United States that focus specifically on Maltese and similar small breeds. Each rescue group has its own process for adoption, often detailed on their websites, ensuring these pups go to homes well-suited for their needs.
In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the best places to find for a Maltese to adopt. We will also provide you with a short overview of the adoption process. Plus, what you can expect when you decide to adopt one of these lovable dogs.
So, let’s get started on this rewarding journey to bringing home a new furry friend!
Table of Content:
- What to Expect When Adopting A Maltese
- How to Increase your Chance of Being Selected for a Rescue Dog
- National Maltese Rescue Group
- Regional Maltese Rescue Organizations
What to Expect When Adopting A Maltese
Adopting a Maltese can be an incredibly fulfilling experience, as these dogs are known for their affectionate and lively nature. However, there are a few things you need to know when deciding to adopt one.
Pre-Adoption Process
Before you bring a Maltese home, you’ll go through an adoption process that often includes an application, reference checks, interviews, and home visits. Rescue organizations do this to ensure a good fit between the dog and its new family.
Be prepared to answer questions about your living situation, lifestyle, and how you plan to care for your new pet. This process helps ensure that you are ready for the commitment of pet ownership and that the Maltese will go to a forever home.
Adjustment Period
Once you bring your Maltese home, expect an adjustment period. These dogs may be small, but they have big personalities. Depending on their background, some may initially be shy or anxious, especially if they’ve come from less-than-ideal circumstances.
It’s important to give them time to acclimate to their new surroundings. Be patient and provide them with a safe, welcoming environment. Consistent routines and gentle training can help your new pet feel more secure.
Long-Term Commitment
Adopting a Maltese is a long-term commitment. These dogs can live well into their teen years with proper care, so it’s important to be prepared for the long haul.
They require regular grooming and dental care, plenty of affection, and social interaction. Maltese thrive on companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. It is important to consider your daily routine and how it will accommodate your new furry friend.
If you are open to adopting other small hypoallergenic pups, check out our post on Shih Tzu Rescues, Cavapoo Rescues, Cockapoo Rescues, Maltipoo Rescues, and poodle rescues.
How to Increase your Chance of Being Selected for a Rescue Dog
National Maltese Rescue Group
American Maltese Association Rescue
The American Maltese Association Rescue (AMAR) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing Maltese dogs. Dogs come from a variety of situations including shelters, and surrendered by owners.
The organization is affiliated with the American Maltese Association and operates through a network of foster homes across the country. These foster homes provide care and rehabilitation for Maltese dogs until they can be placed in permanent homes.
AMAR’s mission is to ensure that each Maltese they rescue is placed in a “forever home.” The adoption process is thorough, including detailed applications, interviews, reference checks, and home visits to ensure the right fit. This process helps address the specific needs of each rescued Maltese.
For more information about how to adopt from them you can visit American Maltese Association Rescue.
6 Regional Maltese Rescue Organizations
1. Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc.
Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Wisconsin, dedicated to Maltese dogs and other small dogs. Their mission is to ensure that each dog they rescue is placed in a loving, permanent home. The organization works through a network of foster homes providing care and rehabilitation for rescued Maltese until they are ready for adoption.
The rescue focuses on ensuring a smooth transition for the dogs, through a detailed adoption process, which includes a thorough application, reference checks, and a home visit. There is a non-refundable fee to submit an application. While they will adopt to out-of-state residences, they require adopters to physically pick up their new pets.
The rescue is known for not only taking in healthy dogs but also those with special needs or who are older, providing the care they need before being placed in a new home.
For those interested in adopting, more information can be found by visiting the Northcentral Maltese Rescue.
2. Maltese Rescue California
Maltese Rescue California is a volunteer-based, nonprofit organization committed to rescuing dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, or otherwise displaced. This organization places a strong emphasis on finding permanent, loving homes for Maltese dogs of all ages. The rescue operates in California.
The adoption process at Maltese Rescue California includes a detailed application, reference checks, a home visit to ensure a safe and suitable environment. They also require a meet-and-greet between the dog and potential adopters.
For more detailed information about their adoption process you can visit Maltese Rescue California and their Facebook page
3. Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue
Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and specializes in the Maltese and other toy breeds. This volunteer-led, non-profit organization is dedicated to providing a second chance for Maltese dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, or rescued from less than ideal conditions.
Their adoption process involves a detailed application to assess the suitability of potential adoptive homes, reference checks, an interview, and a home visit to ensure the environment is safe and appropriate for a small breed.
Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue serves primarily the southeastern United States. However, they are willing to work with adopters from other areas who can demonstrate a commitment to providing a loving home for a rescue dog.
For those interested in adoption you can visit them at Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue for detailed information, adoption restrictions and available dogs.
4. Metropolitan Maltese Rescue
Metropolitan Maltese Rescue (MetroMalts) is a New York-based non-profit organization focused on Maltese and Maltese mix dogs. The organization operates mainly within the New York metropolitan area, including parts of New Jersey and Connecticut.
The adoption process at MetroMalts includes an application and personal references to gauge suitability, a home visit to ensure a safe environment, and thorough discussions to find the right fit between the dog and potential adopter. The organization emphasizes the importance of matching a dog’s personality and health needs with the adopter’s lifestyle and capabilities.
For those interested in adopting additional information can be found by visiting the Metropolitan Maltese Rescue.
5. Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue
Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue is dedicated to rescuing Maltese and other small breed dogs. This volunteer-run organization focuses on providing foster care, medical treatment, and rehabilitation for small dogs that have been surrendered, abandoned, or rescued from adverse conditions.
The adoption process at Lil’ Paws involves an application to ensure a good match between the dog and potential adopter, reference checks, an interview, and a home visit. Once there is a match, there is a one week (7 days) trial adoption before the adoption is finalized.
Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue serves the Austin Metro area. For more detailed information or to get involved with their efforts, visit Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue
6. Little Dog Rescue of North Texas
Little Dog Rescue of North Texas is an organization dedicated to small breed dogs, including Maltese, across North Texas. This rescue focuses on dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, or have special medical needs, providing them with the necessary medical care, love, and attention they require to thrive.
The adoption process for Little Dog Rescue of North Texas includes an application to help match dogs with suitable homes, reference checks, and interviews to ensure potential owners understand the needs of small breed dogs. Plus they require a home visit to ensure the environment is safe and appropriate.
This rescue primarily serves the North Texas area but may also assist dogs and adopters in nearby regions. For more information you can find them at Little Dog Rescue of North Texas
With this list of Maltese Rescue groups across the USA, you’re well on your way to finding a loving companion. Whether you’re ready to adopt or just exploring your options, these rescue groups are valuable resources in your journey to adding a new member to your family.