What is Before the Bridge?

A compassionate digital sanctuary dedicated to the rescue, care, and adoption of senior dogs in Winnipeg, featuring heartwarming stories and easy ways to provide a forever home.

How do I apply to adopt a dog?

Browse our Adoptable Dogs page, find a dog you connect with, and complete the online Adoption Application. Our volunteer team reviews each application and will contact you to discuss fit and next steps.

What is the adoption process?

After we receive your application, one of our volunteers will contact you for a phone interview and arrange a home inspection. The home inspection helps us ensure your home is a safe and suitable environment for the dog. This may include checking that fences and gates are secure, looking for any gaps or potential escape routes, and making sure potentially harmful items such as chocolate, medications, chemicals, or other hazards are safely out of reach. We will also contact your references and, if everything looks like a good fit, arrange a meet-and-greet with the dog. If it feels like the right match for everyone, you will complete the adoption agreement, pay the adoption fee, and welcome your new companion home for a two-week trial adoption period.

What are the adoption fees?

Adoption fees vary based on each dog's age and medical needs. These fees help offset the cost of vaccinations, spay or neuter procedures, dental care, and other veterinary treatment provided while the dog is in our care. The applicable adoption fee and any relevant details will be confirmed with you during the adoption process.

Can I adopt if I live outside Winnipeg?

We primarily adopt within Manitoba. Out-of-province adoptions are considered case by case, especially for senior dogs with specific needs, and require a home check and references.

What happens if I decide the adoption is not a good fit after the trial period?

We understand that sometimes, even with careful matching, an adoption may not be the right fit. If you decide during or after the trial period that the placement is not working out, please contact Before the Bridge Senior K9 Rescue. The dog must be returned to the rescue so we can ensure they continue to receive proper care and find a more suitable home.

What does fostering involve?

Fosters provide a safe, loving temporary home for a dog until adoption. You offer daily care, observe behaviour, and help the dog decompress. We cover all approved veterinary costs and can supply food and supplies when needed.

Do I need experience to foster?

No special experience is required, but patience and a calm environment help, especially for senior dogs. We match dogs to foster homes based on your comfort level, lifestyle, and any resident pets.

How long do foster placements last?

Placements vary - some dogs are adopted in a few weeks, while senior or medical-needs dogs may stay longer. Permanent foster placements are also available for dogs unlikely to be adopted.

Can I foster if I have other pets?

Yes. We ask about your resident pets during the application process so we can match a dog whose temperament and social needs fit your household.

Why adopt a senior dog?

Senior dogs are typically calmer, already trained, and deeply appreciative of a second chance. Their personalities are settled, so what you see is what you get - and they bond quickly with patient, loving families.

Do senior dogs have more health problems?

They can, which is why we provide full veterinary assessments before adoption. Many seniors are healthy and active for years. We share all known medical history so you can make an informed decision.

How long do senior dogs typically live after adoption?

It varies by breed, size, and health. Many adopted seniors enjoy several happy years with their families. The time you share - however long - is meaningful to a dog who might otherwise have no home at all.

How can I volunteer with Before the Bridge?

Volunteers help with transportation, home checks, event support, fundraising, social media, and administration. Tell us your skills and availability and we'll find a fit.

Do volunteers need to be in Winnipeg?

Most hands-on roles are in the Winnipeg area, but remote tasks like graphic design, writing, and social media can be done from anywhere in Manitoba.

Is there a time commitment?

It's flexible. Some volunteers help weekly, others at events a few times a year. We appreciate whatever time you can give.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Before the Bridge Senior K9 Rescue is a registered Canadian charity. You'll receive a tax receipt for donations of $20 or more.

What do donations cover?

Donations fund veterinary care, dental work, medications, food, and supplies for dogs in our care. As a volunteer-run organization, nearly every dollar goes directly to the dogs.

Can I donate supplies instead of money?

Absolutely. Our Wishlist page lists the items we need most, from food and beds to grooming supplies. Donations can be dropped off or arranged by contacting us.

Can I surrender my senior dog to Before the Bridge?

We take in senior dogs when we have foster space and capacity. Start by completing a Relinquish form with your dog's details, and a volunteer will discuss whether we can help and what timing might be possible.

What information do you need?

Please share your dog's age, breed, medical history, vaccinations, temperament, and why you're relinquishing. Honest details help us find the right foster and adoptive match.

Is there a fee to relinquish a dog?

Before the Bridge Senior K9 Rescue charges a $150 Relinquish Fee for relinquished pets coming into rescue. Fee is paid when the dog comes into rescue and can be made by e-transfer or cash.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about adoption, fostering, volunteering, donations, and more - for Winnipeg and Manitoba dog lovers.

Featured Senior

Ziggy

11 years

Ziggy is still in boarding, costing the rescue $1,000+. Help us find this sweet pupper a forever home!

Meet Ziggy

Adoption

Everything you need to know about bringing a Before the Bridge dog into your home.

Fostering

Fosters are the heart of our rescue - here's what to expect when you open your home.

Senior Dogs

Why older dogs make wonderful companions, and how to care for them.

Volunteering

We're 100% volunteer-run - there are many ways to help beyond fostering.

Donations

How your generosity keeps the rescue going.

Relinquishing a Dog

If you can no longer care for a senior dog, here's how we may be able to help.

Still Have Questions?

Our volunteer team is happy to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.