Frequently Asked Questions

Last Hope, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) no-kill nonprofit rescue organization based in Farmington, MN. Since 1984, we have been dedicated to rescuing abandoned, unwanted, and helpless dogs and cats and finding them loving forever homes across the Twin Cities metro area.

No — Last Hope is a foster-based rescue, which means our animals live in the homes of our dedicated volunteer foster families rather than in a shelter facility. This allows our animals to experience home life and receive personalized care while they wait for their forever family.

Yes. Last Hope does not believe in the destruction of healthy pets. Our animals stay in loving foster homes for as long as it takes to find the right match. Humane euthanasia is only considered on the recommendation of a veterinarian for animals suffering from incurable illness or fatal injury.

Since our animals live in foster homes, you can meet them at adoption events held at our partner locations throughout the Twin Cities metro area. You can also arrange a meet-and-greet with a foster family for a specific animal you’re interested in.

Browse our available animals online, and when you find one you connect with, submit an adoption application. Our team carefully reviews each application to find the best match for both the animal and your family. We are not first-come, first-serve — we take the time to get it right.

All adopters must be 18 or older. Any existing pets in your home must be spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. All Last Hope animals are adopted as indoor-only pets. If you rent your home, you’ll need to confirm that pets are permitted before applying.

Yes. All Last Hope animals are spayed or neutered before adoption and receive a full veterinary exam along with any necessary medical care during their time in foster care. Vaccination records are shared with you at the time of adoption.

Absolutely — many of our animals are wonderful with children. We do take the ages of children in your home into account when matching you with the right animal, particularly for certain dog breeds or smaller animals. Our coordinators will help guide you to the best fit for your family.

Yes, renters are welcome to apply. We ask that you review your lease or confirm with your landlord that pets are permitted in your home before beginning the process.

We’d love to have you! Last Hope relies entirely on volunteers to rescue, care for, and rehome our animals. Visit our volunteer page to learn about the different ways you can get involved and fill out an interest form to get started.

Foster families open their homes to Last Hope animals while they wait for adoption. This includes providing food, shelter, love, and basic care — and sometimes nursing sick or injured animals back to health. Last Hope provides support and covers veterinary costs. Fostering is one of the most meaningful ways you can help.

No prior experience is required. We do our best to match foster families with animals that suit their lifestyle and comfort level. Our team is always available to offer guidance and support along the way.

Last Hope accepts owner surrenders on a case-by-case basis, depending on our current capacity. We understand that surrendering a pet is never an easy decision, and we handle every situation with compassion and care. Please reach out to us directly to start the conversation.

Surrendered animals are examined by one of our veterinary partners, receive any needed medical care, and are then placed with a loving foster family while we work to find them a forever home. As a no-kill rescue, we give every healthy animal in our care the time and attention they need.

Surrender fees may apply depending on the situation. Please get in touch with us directly, and we’ll walk you through the process and any associated costs.

Last Hope accepts monetary donations online, as well as food, supplies, and other needed items. Every contribution — big or small — goes directly toward the care of our animals. Visit our donation page to learn more.

Yes. Last Hope, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means your donations may be tax-deductible. Please consult your tax advisor for details.

Beyond donating and volunteering, you can support Last Hope by sharing our animals on social media, attending our adoption events, shopping at our partner stores, and spreading the word in your community. Every bit of support helps us save more lives.