OUR MISSION:
GRIN's mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes in need. We are committed to helping dogs that come to our organization whether it is via shelters, puppy mills, breeder relinquishments, strays, or owner surrenders. Our rescue efforts focus on helping local dogs, but also international dogs when possible. We are a fully volunteer run organization that is dedicated to saving as many dogs as we can; where every dollar raised goes to ensuring our rescues have the medical care and training necessary to ultimately result in a successful adoption. We are a passionate group of dog lovers that strive to educate the community on responsible dog ownership & dog advocacy.
GET TO KNOW GRIN:
Golden Retrievers in Need Rescue Service, Inc., also known as GRIN, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, incorporated in 1992 by a group of Golden Retriever enthusiasts who recognized the need to find good homes for the countless Golden Retrievers euthanized each year for lack of a loving home. Thirty-three years later we are proud to continue the work they began.
Many Golden Retrievers and mixes need help, from shelters, strays, owner surrenders, and puppy mills. Dogs of all ages, from seniors to puppies, are affected. About 33% come from profit-focused puppy mills, causing health issues and overpopulation. Ohio has over 600 licensed mills. GRIN rescues these dogs and raises awareness about puppy mills and backyard breeders.
For over three decades, GRIN has been supported by dog lovers dedicated to rescuing deserving dogs. Our success relies on foster homes, as GRIN does not have a kennel or facility. Foster homes are crucial for saving dogs, and we deeply appreciate all who answer the call to help.
GRIN serves counties in Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio, and Western Pennsylvania. Our service area depends on vet partners and volunteers. As these resources grow, the service area may expand too. See the map below for details. Follow GRIN on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok for updates on our work.
Every year, the demand for rescuing Golden Retrievers grows. The GRIN family remains dedicated to providing love and care for each dog. We often take in dogs needing extensive medical treatments beyond standard procedures, as well as dogs with behavior issues that require professional training for successful adoption.
On average, GRIN spends over $1,600 per dog and has placed more than 4,300 Goldens in their permanent homes to date. GRIN takes pride in our annual efforts to provide excellent care for our dogs and to maintain a high-standard rescue organization. We remain appreciative of our dedicated members, volunteers, and supporters who make our work possible.
2025/2026 GRIN Board of Directors
Lisa Kime, President
Cheryl Thomson, Executive Director
Lisa Jackson-Clements, Vice President, Medical
Nancy Peterson, Treasurer
Lindsey Murray, Director of Development
Daria Iacovone, Secretary
Karen Kilbane, Director
Renie Wirkus, Trustee
Denisa Iacob, Trustee
GRIN PERFORMANCE
Grin's fiscal year runs from 7/1-6/30. To learn more about our 2023/2024 fiscal year results click HERE.
