Florida

Dogs for Adoption in Lake Helen, FL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home

Heddy, up for adoption near Lake Helen, FL

87 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 4 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Lake Helen. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Of the dogs up for adoption within 25 miles of Lake Helen, 7 puppies, 14 young dogs, 56 adults and 9 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Terrier, Labrador Retriever and Chihuahua, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.

1. Heddy

Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Heddy!Heddy along with her 3 brothers came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.

Read more about Heddy

This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Heddy fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Oct 9

2. Freddy

Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Freddy!Freddy and his 3 siblings came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.

Read more about Freddy

This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Freddy fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Oct 9

3. Bowie FH

Adult (7 years 10 months) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Bowie!Bowie came to us when his owner's health was declining, and she was no longer able to care for him. He is used to grooming appts and is a sweet little dog who would love to have a home with a nice warm lap that he can spend endless hours on.
Bowie is house trained, but will also use pee pads if he is alone for extended periods. He does good on a leash but stays close and sometimes behind the person walking.
Foster update: Bowie has been a wonderful addition to our home and is ready to find his forever family!
Bowie is a sweet, loving dog with a medium energy level. He quickly bonded with his foster family and enjoys being close to his people, often following them throughout the house. He gets along well with other dogs, kids, cats and enjoys meeting new people.
Bowie walks nicely on a leash and, once he became comfortable in his foster home, started showing off his playful side with zoomies around the yard.
A few things to know about Bowie:

Read more about Bowie FH

He prefers soft food
He is house-trained and goes outside regularly but may also use puppy pads between potty breaks.
He can become anxious when left alone and may pace or cry initially but settles down.
He will need regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and prevent matting.
He has a good bit of energy and loves to play.

Bowie will thrive in a patient and loving home that can give him a little time to adjust. Once he settles in, his affectionate personality shines through, making him a wonderful companion.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Bowie FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Sep 30

4. Silas FH

Puppy (5 months 2 days) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Basenji / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Silas!
Silas came to PRBJ after living on the streets in Puerto Rico. A rescue in PR found this little pup and took him in and began caring for him. Due to overcrowding at that rescue, they reached out to see if we had space to take him. So, Silas got his flight wings and was flown to Florida in search of his forever home.Silas is a timid guy who would be best with another dog in the house to buddy with and model after. A fenced backyard is ideal for a safe place to romp and play in.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Silas FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Sep 11

5. Buster

Adult (3 years) · Male · Hound / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Buster!Buster was found by a long time volunteer/supporter of PRBJ. They posted for him all over for weeks with no one coming forward to claim this sweet boy. At first, he is strong on the leash, but as he starts walking, he settles in. He likes playing in the yard with balls, so we think his ideal home should have a fenced yard where he can run and romp around. Buster is not a fan of being crated..what Hound is.... but has slowly gotten used to the idea. He would prefer not to be confined and would enjoy free roaming in his new home.Buster's ideal home would have a fenced backyard to explore and play in and an active family...maybe some kids to play ball with...and folks who are around for him to hang with and love on.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Buster fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Sep 9

6. Jax

Adult (6 years 5 months) · Male · Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Jax!Jax is a sweet bulldog mix that came to PRBJ from an overcrowded County shelter. He likes people and dogs; however, he does not like cats. Jax Rides well in cars and knows some basic commands. Because he was originally found as a stray, we do not know a lot about his history, and as we learn more about his personality, we will update his page, including if he is kid friendly. We believe so, because he does not seem to have an issue with any people that he has come across.

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Jax fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Sep 8

7. Blue Boy FH

Adult (5 years 2 months) · Male · Pomeranian (long coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Blue Boy!Blue Boy is a sweet 5yr old Pomeranian that is looking for his forever home. He came into PRBJ with 4 companion dogs. They are all sweet but a little timid and will need a patient owner that can give them each time to trust and gain confidence. He is a quick little guy that loves to run around the house.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Blue Boy FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Aug 18

8. Olivia

2 Years 10 Months · Female · Dutch Shepherd / Mixed · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Olivia!Olivia came to PRBJ from an overcrowded out of state rescue. She was brought in by the Pilots for Paws which bring dogs from rural places to larger cities to help them find a home. Unfortunately, Olivia had been waiting at this rescue since 2024 when she came in with her litter of pups. He pups were adopted, while Olivia sat and waited. She loves people and we are working with her on reactivity to other dogs. It seems when she is out and about that she does well, but when in the kennels, she is not fond of any dog. At this time we are requesting a home with no other dogs.

  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Olivia fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 23

9. Wyatt

Adult (2 years 10 months) · Male · Beagle / Treeing Walker Coonhound (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Wyatt!Wyatt and his companion, Waylon were found in the Ocala National Forest by a kind man and his son. The two boys rode into Sanford in the buggy in hopes of finding a place to care for them. The duo was full of fleas. Unfortunately not just fleas the two tested positive for heartworms. They also had other internal parasites. With the guidance of our vet both dogs have begun the slow kill method for the heartworms.

  • Special needs
Adopt Wyatt fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 21

10. Stretch

Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · Rat Terrier / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Stretch!
Stretch, Spot, and Little Man came to PRBJ from an overcrowded shelter after being rescued from a hoarding situation where the home had over 50 dogs. These dogs are all nervous and have no manners, not talking about sit, stay, paw I am talking about they are used to climbing on tables or counters if they can find a way up. But they are SWEET and just need to each find a patient owner who can help them and maybe another dog in the house to show them what a dog is supposed to be like :)
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities.

Read more about Stretch

To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes. This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Stretch fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 15

11. Fifa

Adult (2 years 3 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet FIFA!!She came to us during the World Cup and we could not resist the opportunity to name her and her 7 puppies after the game.FIFA is a sweet dog that came in after a family rescued all 8 from living on the street. FIFA loves humans....and that includes kids. She is however, selective on her canine friends and would be best as the only dog in the home. FIFA did come to us positive for heartworms and has begun the slow kill method. She needs to be the only dog in the home.

  • Good with kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Fifa fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 10

12. Rocco FH

Adult (5 years 6 months) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

NEW FOSTER UPDATE:Rocco loves stuffed toys. When we let him out of his crate, he dashes out only to rush back to retrieve his wubby as we call them. Sometimes he sits in his crate with his wubby in his mouth waiting for us. I caught a picture of him even going potty with it in his mouth. Which was hysterical. He doesn’t tear anything. He is so gentle. He is crated when we are away but his favorite place all other times is the couch. He is still leash reactive to other dogs on a walk but I think he is getting a little better. A front clip harness has greatly decreased the pulling. We met our children and 2 year old grandson. Our grandson wanted to walk Rocco. So I gave him the end of the leash and I held the middle. Rocco did really well with him. He listens very well. He waits to eat until permitted. He sits while his harness is hooked. So he is very trainable.
Meet Rocco!
Rocco is a handsome, affectionate and cuddly 5-year-old Lab Retriever/Terrier mix looking for a loving forever home after his owner was arrested. We rescued him from Orange County shelter.
A few things to know about Rocco:

Read more about Rocco FH

Appears well socialized and gets along with all. He even allows his teeth to be brushed.
With a slow/proper introduction, Rocco does well with the foster’s yorkie and hound dogs as well as their cat.
He wants to be next to you and loves cuddling on a couch or a cushy chair.
Goes outside to potty, but not energetic in the yard. Loves car rides and travels nicely.
Likes walks but pulls in his eagerness at beginning of a walk. His front hook harness lessens pull. He needs consistent training and a strong owner.
He is intelligent and food motivated, which makes training so much easier.
He is learning to play less roughly; it is best there are no small children in the home that he could knock down when playing..
Be prepared for a happy doggie welcome whenever you return home from errands.

Special care:

Since Rocco has atopic dermatitis, he will just need a medication called NUMELVI and regular calming baths to keep him comfortable.
But not to worry…this amazing boy sits nicely for his bath, ear cleaning , etc. He is such a well-behaved dog.

Rocco’s ideal home will be one where he is slowly introduced to any pets in the home, no small children, where he spends time next to his humans, naps on cushy furniture, an owner who will attend to his dermatitis as well as be willing to refine his play and walking skills. In return, you will have the most incredibly loving and sweet companion.

  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Rocco FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 8

13. Millie

Young (2 years 4 months) · Female · Border Collie / Australian Shepherd / Mixed · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Graduated Oct 9, 2026Pet Rescue By Judy has teamed up with an incredible program called the Greyhound Advancement Center which will allow some of our dogs to attend a ten-week prison training program. The program originally started to help retired racing greyhounds learn how to “dog”.Greyhound racing is now illegal in our state, but the program worked so well that they decided to open up to other rescues and accept different breeds. Each dog is teamed up with an inmate who is in their dog training program. This program allows inmates to gain an important skill that they can bring with them when they are released.

Read more about Millie

The head trainers are the best of the best and we are sure that these dogs are going to come out of this program with all kinds of tricks up their little doggy sleeves. Our dogs are so blessed to be able to learn important obedience training to help with their confidence and make them awesome additions to a family.We cannot thank Greyhound Advancement Center enough for giving these dogs a leg up on getting into their forever home!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Millie fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 7

14. Garrett

Young (1 year 3 months) · Male · Black Mouth Cur / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Garrett!Garrett has a sad story of how he came to PRBJ. His owner came to see if we could take him in. We were very full and she was asked to call us in 30-60 mins to give us a chance to move dogs around and try to create a spot for him. Well she never called and a week later a kind guy named Garrett brought him in with a broken leg and some road rash. Apparently the owner just dumped the dog and he was either hit by a car or tossed from the car. He was immediately taken to Healthy Pets and got his scapes cleaned and his leg casted. He is now recovered and looking for an active family.
Information for New Pup Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities.

Read more about Garrett

To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participate in puppy training classes. This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures everyone uses the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent learning environment.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • House-trained
Adopt Garrett fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed May 30

15. Bo FH

Puppy (9 months) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Black Mouth Cur / Mixed · 13 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Bo!

Bo came to PRBJ when an overcrowed shelter reached out to see if we could take a pup with a leg injury. Immediately he was picked up and taken a specialists who decided to try to save his leg with a complicated surgery. Well Bo is thankful to both vet offices for no giving up on him and saving his leg. Bo has all 4 legs and you wouldn't even know that he ever had an injury. He is a curious and playful pup who has been fostering while he healed.

Foster Update:

Read more about Bo FH

Bo
is a sunshine‑loving, cuddle‑powered puppy with a personality far bigger than his potato-shaped nap style suggests. With his fosters, he’s affectionately known as Charlie P. Tayto—a nod to his favorite hobbies: lounging like a little spud and baking himself in the warm Florida sun.

Don’t let the potato pose fool you. Bo is equal parts professional snuggler and goofy whirlwind. When it’s time to relax, he’s incredibly affectionate—kissy, huggy, and happiest curled up right against his people. When it’s time to play, he’s all-in: silly zoomies, full‑body enthusiasm, and a love for catch that could qualify as a sport.

Bo is smart, confident, and a bit bossy in the most charming puppy way. He’s still learning his manners and will thrive with a family ready to continue his training and help him channel all that big personality into becoming the best boy he can be.

Bo is ready for a home that loves cuddles, laughter, and a puppy with opinions.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Bo FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed May 21

16. Sullie

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Male · Poodle (Standard) / Mixed (long coat) · 14 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Sullie!

There is so much to this giant Muppet Baby! At approximately 1 1/2yo and 52.6 lbs, this giant ball of fur-love doodle is eager to be the best boy there is, and always an adventure side kick.

Sullie loves everyone and everything! He is in love with his foster cats. He adjusts accordingly and truly wants their companionship. If your home is equipped with a dog-friendly cat - they will be the absolute best of friends. He is a sweet and gentle dude thirsty for all of your attention.

Read more about Sullie

His favorite treats so far are duck and freeze dried chicken hearts. Sullie adores sunbathing on the cooler days, and he loves the wind in his hair. He loves balls, and is conquering fetch and let go. He is content being under feet, being rubbed - alllllll dayyy long.

Sullie does have a vocal side where he becomes chatty with his foster family. He occasionally herds them, and gives little love nips. Sullie is dog friendly and is learning that his giant stature approach must go slow. Cats are his bees knees. As long as they accept him, we are confident on a solid respectful friendship.

Sullie is still learning to be crated, though not a big fan - he is adjusting and getting the hang of it. He loves having Peter Frampton serenade him while he hones his crating skills during the day. He rides in the car like a boss, is house trained and will sit at the door signaling the need to go out. He is amazing on leash, and listens to all cues on his walks.

This big fluff ball is the most chill guy mixed with the occasional playful spurt or nightly zoomies. A fenced yard would be appreciated by him to give chase to the squirrels that tempt him. He hasn't been around a kid under 10, and since he doesn't quite understand his size, a close eye would be a must.

Sullie is truly an awesome pal to have around. As a doodle, he will need regular brushing and grooming to keep his coat free of mats. If you live in the Central Florida/Orlando area and believe that Sullie would be a great forever fit for your family, complete an app and tell us more about you.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Sullie fromLil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · listed Oct 27

17. Emmett

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 14 mi from Lake Helen

Meet Emmett — A Little Love Bug with Soulful Eyes! 17.5 pounds | Approximately 1.5 years old | Chihuahua mix

Don’t let Emmett’s serious little face fool you — underneath those soulful caramel eyes is the sweetest, most affectionate love bug you could ever hope to meet! This adorable 17½-pound Chihuahua mix is happiest when he’s curled up in a lap, snuggled in someone’s arms, or peacefully snoozing nearby. He has a mellow, easygoing personality and low-to-moderate energy, making him a wonderful companion for someone who appreciates a dog who is just as content relaxing at home as he is exploring the world at his own pace.

Read more about Emmett

Emmett has a gentle, sweet disposition that makes him a joy to have around. He gets along well with other dogs, including his slightly larger foster sibling, although he isn't particularly interested in roughhousing or playing. He has also done well around cats so far. He mostly ignores them and has shown no aggression, making him a promising candidate for a home with feline friends. He's a quiet little gentleman, too! Emmett isn't much of a barker, even when someone knocks at the door, and he rides beautifully in the car. He's so mellow and tolerant that he doesn't even mind having his nails trimmed.

At night, he sleeps comfortably in his own bed, and when left alone, he settles down quietly and behaves himself. He's also discovering the fun of toys and seems especially fond of soft, squeaky ones. Emmett is still learning a few things and will need a patient adopter willing to help him continue building good habits. He is doing great with his house training since he was neutered. He's also learning to walk on a leash, although his walks currently involve a fair amount of stopping and starting as he figures things out.

The good news? Emmett is a sweet, easygoing little guy who seems eager to enjoy the comforts of home. He has no known medical issues, and his loving nature makes him incredibly easy to adore. And when he's not snuggling in your lap, you might find him fast asleep on his back with all four legs sticking straight up in the air — an absolutely irresistible sight!

Emmett is looking for a loving home where he can be cherished for the affectionate, gentle little soul he is. If you're hoping for a loyal companion who will happily keep your lap warm, offer endless sweetness, and bring a little extra love into your everyday life, Emmett may be your perfect match. Those caramel eyes and that beautiful heart just might steal yours!

If you live in the Central Florida/Orlando area and believe you are the perfect match for Emmett, complete an app and tell us more about you.

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Emmett fromLil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · listed Oct 27

18. Milo

Adult (3 years) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 14 mi from Lake Helen

NOTE: Milo and Miss Mitt are bonded and must be adopted together

Milo is an approx. 3-year-old, 7 1/2lb. terrier mix with the sweetest soul and the most adorable puppy-dog eyes. This mellow little sweetheart has perfected the art of melting hearts just by looking at you. His favorite place to be is curled up on your lap, snuggled beside his human, or joining you for a nice, cozy nap. If your idea of a perfect day involves cuddles, affection, and a little furry shadow following you around, Milo may be your dream companion.

Read more about Milo

While Milo is a pretty laid-back guy, he also enjoys getting out and about with his people. He loves car rides, trips to the pet store, visits to the park, and, of course, a special pup cup along the way. He’s a smart little guy who learns quickly and is very receptive to training. He also walks beautifully on a leash, making him a wonderful little walking companion. Milo is mostly happy to take life at a relaxed pace, but he has a playful side, too.

One of the most special things about Milo is his bond with his best girl, Miss Mitt. These two absolutely adore each other. They love chasing each other around the house and outside, and Miss Mitt has a magical way of bringing out Milo’s playful side and getting those zoomies going. When they aren’t busy playing, you can usually find them cuddled up together. At night, they love snuggling in bed with their humans. Their bond is truly something special, and they must be adopted together.

Milo is incredibly sweet and gentle with children and doesn’t pay much attention to cats. He is also friendly with other dogs and has a very easygoing nature. He really is just a little lover who wants to make friends and soak up affection. Milo is crate trained and can stay in his crate when his humans leave the house. He will use pee pads during the night if he needs to go, and will go potty outside as long as he is taken out often.

Milo’s dream family is one that LOVES affection as much as he does. We’re talking lots of pets, cuddles, hugs, cozy naps, and plenty of quality time with his favorite people. He would thrive with a family who wants a loving little companion by their side and understands that the best part of having a dog is all the love you get to share. And, of course, his family must be ready to welcome his beloved Miss Mitt, too. Milo and Miss Mitt have so much love to give and are hoping to find a forever family who will cherish them both. They do have a little separation anxiety, so we want someone who is home more often than not, and apartment living would not be suitable for them because they can be a little barky for a short while when their people leave. They are not destructive though. We are not requiring a fenced yard, but they would love to have a secure area to run around and play in. If you live in the Central Florida/Orlando area and think these two sweethearts might be the perfect fit for your family, complete an adoption application and tell us more about you. Milo promises to bring the puppy eyes, the cuddles, and a whole lot of love into your life!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Milo fromLil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · listed Oct 24

19. Miss Mitt

Adult (3 years) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (long coat) · 14 mi from Lake Helen

NOTE: Miss Mitt and Milo are bonded and must be adopted together

Miss Mitt is an approx. 3-year-old, 7 1/2lb. terrier mix with a BIG personality packed into her little body! This spunky, happy-go-lucky girl has a way of making everyone smile. Whether she’s racing around the house with the cutest zoomies or showering her favorite people with kisses, Miss Mitt brings so much joy wherever she goes. If you’re looking for a little companion who will keep you laughing and fill your days with love, this girl might just be your perfect match.

Read more about Miss Mitt

Miss Mitt is full of energy and loves to play, especially with children! She is incredibly affectionate with kids, loves running around and playing catch with them, and is even happy to be held and give out plenty of kisses. When playtime is over, she’s just as happy to cuddle up with her human for some quality snuggle time. She truly has the best of both worlds: a playful little firecracker who also loves to be loved on.

Miss Mitt has a very special bond with her best friend, Milo, and these two are a package deal. She absolutely adores him and loves cuddling up to him, giving him kisses, and chasing him around the house and yard. She even has a way of bringing out Milo’s playful side and getting his zoomies going, which is just the cutest thing to watch. At the end of the day, they love snuggling up together with their humans. Their bond is incredibly sweet, and they must be adopted together.

Miss Mitt doesn’t pay much attention to cats, so feline friends are generally no big deal to her. She can be a little cautious and occasionally feisty around other dogs, though, so slow introductions and thoughtful management will be important.

She is currently working on her leash manners, as she gets so excited about her walks that she sometimes wants to pull ahead and pick up the pace. With a little guidance, she can be redirected, and she does well walking alongside Milo. Miss Mitt is crate trained and does well staying in her crate when her humans leave the house. She may be a little vocal at first, but she settles down. At night, she and Milo love to snuggle up and sleep in bed with their humans. She will use pee pads during the night if she needs to go, and will go potty outside as long as she is taken out often. She does great riding in a car.

Miss Mitt is looking for a loving family who will embrace her fun-loving personality, give her plenty of opportunities to play, and make room for lots of cuddles and kisses. Most importantly, she needs a family with room in their hearts for both her and Milo. These two have so much love to give and are ready to find a forever home where they can continue being best friends for life. They do have a little separation anxiety, so we want someone who is home more often than not, and apartment living would not be suitable for them because they can be a little barky for a short while when their people leave. They are not destructive though. We are not requiring a fenced yard, but they would love to have a secure area to run around and play in. If you live in the Central Florida/Orlando area and believe Miss Mitt and Milo might be the perfect additions to your family, complete an adoption application and tell us more about you. Miss Mitt promises to bring the sunshine, the silliness, and plenty of kisses!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Miss Mitt fromLil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · listed Oct 24

20. Luke

Senior (12 years) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 14 mi from Lake Helen

Foster, Foster-to-Adopt, or Adopter Needed

Read more about Luke

Luke, aka Lukey Boy, is a very lovable approx. 12-year-old, 57lb Pit Bull Terrier mix. Don’t let his age fool you, this boy is healthy and has so much more life and love to give! Luke has a sad story - he was a Lil Rascal back in 2019. He was found tied to a railroad track, taken to the shelter, and put on the euthanasia list. Lil Rascals saved him just in time, and since 2019, he has been living a wonderful life until recently when his momma passed away. His life was turned upside down with no family, no home and nowhere to go. His momma's family couldn't keep him so he came back to Lil Rascals, and now is in boarding, living his life in a kennel, wondering what he did wrong.

Even though he is a senior, he has so much more love to give and wants nothing more than to give love back. His favorite thing to do is to be with his human(s). Whether that be lounging on the couch or going for a walk, having his human(s) with him is the best thing in life. People in general are Luke's favorite thing. Even when he first meets you, he acts like he’s known you his whole life and is so excited to see you! Whether you’re an adult, elder, or a child he absolutely loves everyone and everyone who has ever met this sweet boy loves him. With those big brown eyes and sweet disposition what’s not to love?

Luke is house trained and used to apartment life and also knows how to use a dog door. He can be left alone inside without issues. Unsure if he is crate trained. He loves to sleep on the couch, his dog bed, and at night cuddling next to his human(s). Luke does not get along with other dogs or cats. Not getting along with other dogs and cats is really his only down fall. He has been around chickens and cows through a fence and showed no interest. With dogs, he does fine when he is walking by on a leash. He has a tendency to pull while walking on a leash but otherwise does great on a leash.

One great thing about Luke? He doesn’t bark! Aside from the occasional whine or grunt because he’s hungry, wants attention or needs to go potty, this handsome boy doesn’t make a sound. He does extremely well in car rides. He has made the journey from Florida to Texas to eventually California and then back to Florida from California!

Luke is definitely a toy and treat guy. His favorite toys are anything with squeakers and tennis balls, he loves to play fetch! At 12, this boy can still jump! He also loves to get his “poop treat” after he goes potty. He also loves getting his pup cup at the coffee shop or treat from the sweet teller at the bank.

If you’re looking for a dog that has low to moderate energy to lounge around with, go for a walk, travel with, play fetch or tug of war, Luke is your guy. He will greet you like he hasn’t seen you in years and love and comfort you like there is nothing else better in this world to do. If you believe you have the perfect home for Luke to live out the remainder of his years, complete an app and tell us more about you.

  • Good with kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Luke fromLil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · listed Oct 23

Rescues and shelters near Lake Helen

The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Lake Helen.

  • Seminole County Animal ServicesSanford, FL · 40 dogs · 16 mi from Lake Helen
  • Lil Rascals Dog RescueOsteen, FL · 25 dogs · 14 mi from Lake Helen
    How to adopt from Lil Rascals Dog Rescue

    Adoption application filled out, References & Home check required Puppies to 6 mo $375. Dogs 6mo - 3yrs under 20lbs $350. Dogs 6mo - 3yrs over 20lbs. $300. Dogs 4yrs to 9yrs $250. Seniors 10+ $100.

  • Pet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · 17 dogs · 13 mi from Lake Helen
    How to adopt from Pet Rescue By Judy

    First step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once that has been received, an adoption screener is assigned to the application to ensure the pet is a a good fit.

  • Animal Advocates FLSanford, FL · 5 dogs · 16 mi from Lake Helen
    How to adopt from Animal Advocates FL

    Application is submitted, we do background checks, we then set up a meet. Fees for adoption can vary

Adopting a dog in Lake Helen

Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.

Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.

Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.

Questions about adopting a dog in Lake Helen

How many dogs are up for adoption in Lake Helen?

As of November 4, 2026, 87 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Lake Helen, Florida, by 4 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a dog in Lake Helen?

The rescues with the most dogs near Lake Helen right now are Seminole County Animal Services (Sanford, FL), Lil Rascals Dog Rescue (Osteen, FL) and Pet Rescue By Judy (Sanford, FL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there puppies for adoption in Lake Helen?

Yes. 7 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Lake Helen.

How do I adopt a dog in Lake Helen?

Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.