Cat-Friendly Dogs for Adoption in Sarasota, FL: 10 Dogs Good with Cats
Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Sarasota have 10 cat-friendly dogs up for adoption. Here are all 10, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Every dog on this page has been marked by their rescue as good with cats, so they're a good fit if you already share your home with one.
Not in Sarasota? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Bonded Pair
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
MEET VIOLET & FIONA — A BONDED PAIR WITH DOUBLE THE LOVE!
Read more about Bonded Pair
Some things are simply better together… and Violet & Fiona are definitely a package deal. These adorable Shih Tzu girls are best friends, playmates, cuddle buddies, and each other’s little security blankets.
Violet is the social butterfly of the duo — cheerful, playful, and always ready for some fun. She loves squeaky toys, wrestling with Fiona, and getting attention from her people. She can be a little opinionated when meeting unfamiliar dogs on leash (apparently she has standards ), but with patience and proper introductions, she settles in nicely.
Fiona is the smaller, softer soul. She’s a little more cautious at first and looks to Violet for confidence and reassurance. Give her a little time to feel safe, though, and out comes an incredibly sweet, affectionate little cuddlebug. She loves her people, loves her routines, and REALLY loves her Violet.
These two spend their days playing, wrestling, snuggling, and simply enjoying life together. They’re well-mannered girls who thrive with consistency and routine.
♀️ One funny little quirk: these ladies prefer to handle their potty business while out on walks rather than simply heading into the yard. They clearly believe a bathroom break should include a proper outing. Fiona may also have occasional urinary accidents, so she’ll need a family willing to give her frequent potty opportunities and a little patience while she adjusts.
What they’re looking for most is a home where they can stay together and be loved for exactly who they are.
With Violet bringing the confidence and fun and Fiona bringing the gentle sweetness, these two complement each other beautifully. ❤️
Two little dogs. Two very different personalities. One very special bond.
Violet & Fiona are ready to find their forever family — together.
Violet & Fiona's adoption fee is $800 - fully enclosed fenced yard required
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Cont
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Moxie
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THE FIRST STEP IS TO FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE AT:
https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
IF A PET IS LISTED THEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE - WE KEEP OUR LISTINGS UP TO DATE AND REMOVE AS SOON AS ADOPTED.
NAME: Moxie
BREED: Mixed breed
SEX: female
COLOR: tan
AGE: 7 months as of Sept 2026
WEIGHT: 12 lbs as of Sept 22, 2026
SOME COOL INFORMATION ABOUT ME:
Meet Moxie!
Moxie is a 7-month-old, 12-pound girl who is still figuring out just how big and wonderful the world can be.
Read more about Moxie
Right now, Moxie is a very timid puppy. New people, new situations, and unfamiliar things can make her unsure, so we’re spending time helping her build confidence and learn that she doesn’t have to be afraid.
She’s good with other dogs, and having canine friends around gives her opportunities to play, learn, and watch how the more confident dogs navigate the world.
Because Moxie is still young and we’re still getting to know her, there’s plenty we haven’t discovered yet. Her personality is still unfolding, and we suspect there’s a lot more puppy hiding underneath that cautious exterior.
What Moxie needs most is someone who understands that confidence isn’t something you can rush. A patient family willing to encourage her, celebrate the little victories, and give her the time she needs could make an enormous difference in her life.
We are only considering homes in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL. If you have adopted from us before and are slightly out of that area, please contact us directly and we can discuss it. Moxie still needs to be spayed. All appointments for spay/neuter surgery will be done at our vet's office in Arcadia so you must be willing to bring him to his appointment in order to be considered for adoption.
If you are interested in adopting please complete our Adoption Application by copying and pasting the following link into your web browser: http://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
For a full list of dogs we currently have for adoption use this link: https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoptable-dogs
MEDICAL INFO:
The following has been or will be done for this puppy at the appropriate age...
- Basic Exam by Veterinarian
- Spayed or Neutered
- Placed on heartworm preventive
- Basic Bloodwork
- Microchipped
- Intestinal Parasite Exam and medication
- Vaccinations
- Placed on flea preventive
ADOPTION DONATION: $400
This adoption donation helps to cover the vet expenses for this puppy including heartworm preventive which is dispensed at the initial vet visit and then goes with the dog at adoption. All vet records will be provided to adopter.
Visit us at www.caninecastaways.org
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
3. Sebastian
We are only considering applications in our local area for Sebastian at this time - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL - see below for more info.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THE FIRST STEP IS TO FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE AT:
https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
IF A PET IS LISTED THEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE - WE KEEP OUR LISTINGS UP TO DATE AND REMOVE AS SOON AS ADOPTED.
NAME: Sebastian
BREED: Yorkie/Chihuahua mix
SEX: male
COLOR: tan/brown
AGE: 10 months as of Oct 2026
WEIGHT: 5.5 lbs as of Sept 22, 2026
SOME COOL INFORMATION ABOUT ME:
Meet Sebastian!
Read more about Sebastian
Sebastian is a 10-month-old Yorkie/Chihuahua mix weighing just 5.5 pounds, and this tiny guy is everything you’d expect a happy puppy to be.
He’s playful, curious, sweet, and ready to discover what this whole big world is about. At his age, just about everything has the potential to become an adventure, and Sebastian is happy to participate!
Because Sebastian is a brand-new arrival at Canine Castaways, we’re still getting to know him. We haven’t discovered all his favorite things, funny quirks, or exactly what his grown-up personality will be just yet.
What we do know is that he’s a happy little puppy who’s ready to learn, play, love, and grow up with a family of his own.
Like any puppy, Sebastian will need a family prepared for all the work that comes along with raising a youngster, including continued house training, leash skills, basic manners, and plenty of opportunities to learn and socialize.
We are only considering homes in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL. If you have adopted from us before and are slightly out of that area, please contact us directly and we can discuss it. Sebastian still needs to be neutered. All appointments for neuter surgery will be done at our vet's office in Arcadia so you must be willing to bring him to his appointment in order to be considered for adoption.
If you are interested in adopting please complete our Adoption Application by copying and pasting the following link into your web browser: http://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
For a full list of dogs we currently have for adoption use this link: https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoptable-dogs
MEDICAL INFO:
The following has been or will be done for this puppy at the appropriate age...
- Basic Exam by Veterinarian
- Spayed or Neutered
- Placed on heartworm preventive
- Basic Bloodwork
- Microchipped
- Intestinal Parasite Exam and medication
- Vaccinations
- Placed on flea preventive
ADOPTION DONATION: $400
This adoption donation helps to cover the vet expenses for this puppy including heartworm preventive which is dispensed at the initial vet visit and then goes with the dog at adoption. All vet records will be provided to adopter.
Visit us at www.caninecastaways.org
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
4. Mabel Joy
Mabel was found in March, dumped, and roaming in a large hunting preserve. She was severely underweight and covered in ticks and fleas. Despite all of that, she was immediately friendly and just wanted love—even while we were pulling ticks off of her. For the first two weeks, she was so afraid of being indoors that she slept in our Florida room and would not come fully inside the house. With time and patience, she has warmed up and is now a total ham.
She is fully vetted:
Up to date on vaccinations
Microchipped
On Simparica Trio for fleas, ticks, and parasites
Read more about Mabel Joy
Personality & Household CompatibilityMabel is affectionate, playful, goofy, and has a classic beagle personality. She has discovered the joy of:
Having her own bed
Sharing human beds with people and other dogsShe loves snuggles, belly rubs, and light play/wrestling. She’s on the clumsy side when she’s excited on the bed, which just adds to her charm.
She currently lives peacefully with:
Multiple dogs
Cats
A ferret
A 9‑year‑old child
She has done well with all of them. She genuinely enjoys other dogs and likes to cuddle and play with canine friends. She’s estimated to be around 6 years old, but still has a good amount of play in her.
Known Challenges & Training NeedsGiven her history, I strongly suspect she was an outdoor dog and likely abused. She has physical scars, and behaviorally she tends to shut down with any negative reinforcement, so she absolutely needs a positive‑reinforcement, beagle‑savvy home.
Areas we are still working on:
Potty training:She’s made progress but isn’t 100% consistent yet. To be fair, we have two senior dogs who use potty pads, which makes things confusing for her. A more straightforward setup and consistent routine should help her continue to improve.
Resource guarding:
Mabel came to us extremely thin and food-insecure. She has gained over 10 pounds since arriving and looks much healthier, but she still guards food and will steal from other dogs if given the chance. She currently eats separately and does best with structured mealtimes. Her guarding has only involved growling and occasional barking—she has never bitten or made contact over resources in my home. She can also guard human attention and bed space a bit, so adopters should be comfortable with management and positive training around this.
Recall: Her nose is all beagle—once she’s on a scent, her recall can suffer. A securely fenced yard is strongly preferred, and off‑leash should be limited to safe, enclosed areas.
Chewing: She is still a chewer and is learning what’s appropriate vs. off‑limits. She does well when supervised with proper chew options and will need ongoing guidance here.
Ears: She has chronically yeasty ears and will need regular at‑home ear care (enzymatic washes and otic cleaner) to keep them comfortable.
Crate & vocalization: Mabel is not great in a crate at this point and is very vocal, as you’d expect from a beagle. She uses her voice outside and will bark at the door when she’s ready to come in. A home that understands beagle volume and doesn’t share walls with sensitive neighbors would be ideal.
Ideal HomeMabel would do best in:
A beagle‑experienced (or hound‑experienced) home
With at least one other dog of similar age and energy level for companionship and play
Ideally, with someone who works from home or is around a good portion of the day
A securely fenced yard, as we are still working on leash manners, and her nose can override her recall
She’s spayed, loving, and absolutely has the makings of an excellent family dog—especially for a family that likes a goofy, cuddly, vocal beagle and is willing to continue her training with patience and positive reinforcement.
Mabel has survived a lot and truly deserves a life that is much better than how it started. Won't you give her a forever home?
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
5. Charlie
Hi, I'm Charlie — I've come out of my shell since arriving at DARE. I've got a great appetite, and I wake up every morning happy and bouncy, ready to run with the pack, chase squirrels, water the field, and investigate every tortoise hole I can find. Not bad for a 13-year-old, if I do say so myself.
My Ideal Home
Good with kids, cats, small dogs, and everyone in the house — but I do best as an only dog or with small dog/cat companions only, since I'm not great with big dogs. I love sleeping in bed with my people (or in my crate, if that's the house rule), and I'm house-trained, crate-trained, and up for leashed walks with plenty of sniffing.
Read more about Charlie
A Few Important Things to Know
- Not a fan of big dogs: I do best as the only dog, or alongside small dogs and cats. Big dogs aren't my thing.
- Thunderstorm anxiety: Storms make me nervous — a calm, comforting space during bad weather goes a long way with me.
What I Bring to the Table
I've got morning energy, a zest for squirrel-chasing, and a curiosity about the world that most pups half my age would envy. I'm sweet, I listen well, and I'd be forever grateful to the person who gives me a soft (and adventurous) place to land for my golden years.
If you know I'm your forever pup, fill out an adoption application at daretorescue.org/adoption-application — and don't forget to put Charlie on your application!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
6. Bobby
We are only considering applications in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL - see below for more info. You must live in a single family home in order to be considered - puppies of this age cannot be in grassy or common areas where any other unknown dogs have been so places like condos, apartments, villa homes, etc. are not options.
IF YOU DO NOT MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THE FIRST STEP IS TO FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE AT:
https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
Read more about Bobby
IF A PET IS LISTED THEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE - WE KEEP OUR LISTINGS UP TO DATE AND REMOVE AS SOON AS ADOPTED.
NAME: Bobby
BREED: Rat Terrier mix
SEX: male
COLOR: black/tan
AGE: born April 2026
WEIGHT: 8.5 lbs as of Sept 17, 2026
LOCATED IN: Arcadia
SOME COOL INFORMATION ABOUT ME:
Meet Bobby!
Bobby is sweetheart (born in April 2026) who lives for love and affection. His favorite place is in your arms, happily being held like a baby while soaking up all the cuddles he can get.
Gentle, loving, and eager for attention, Bobby is the perfect little companion for anyone looking for a puppy who wants nothing more than to be close to his people. He's sure to melt your heart the moment you meet him.
We are only considering homes in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL. If you have adopted from us before and are slightly out of that area, please contact us directly and we can discuss it. The puppies are too young to be spayed/neutered yet and still need a few more rounds of vaccines as well as to be spayed or neutered.. All vaccines and spay/neuter surgery will be done at our vet's office in Arcadia so you must be willing to bring them to their appointments in order to be considered for adoption.
If you are interested in adopting please complete our Adoption Application by copying and pasting the following link into your web browser: http://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
For a full list of dogs we currently have for adoption use this link: https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoptable-dogs
MEDICAL INFO:
The following has been or will be done for this puppy at the appropriate age...
- Basic Exam by Veterinarian
- Spayed or Neutered
- Placed on heartworm preventive
- Basic Bloodwork
- Microchipped
- Intestinal Parasite Exam and medication
- Vaccinations
- Placed on flea preventive
ADOPTION DONATION: $400
This adoption donation helps to cover the vet expenses for this puppy including heartworm preventive which is dispensed at the initial vet visit and then goes with the dog at adoption. All vet records will be provided to adopter.
Visit us at www.caninecastaways.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
7. Whitney
We are only considering applications in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL - see below for more info. You must live in a single family home in order to be considered - puppies of this age cannot be in grassy or common areas where any other unknown dogs have been so places like condos, apartments, villa homes, etc. are not options.
IF YOU DO NOT MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE PROCESSED.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THE FIRST STEP IS TO FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE AT:
https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
Read more about Whitney
IF A PET IS LISTED THEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE - WE KEEP OUR LISTINGS UP TO DATE AND REMOVE AS SOON AS ADOPTED.
NAME: Whitney
BREED: Rat Terrier mix
SEX: female
COLOR: black/tan
AGE: born April 2026
WEIGHT: 8 lbs as of Sept 7, 2026
LOCATED IN: Arcadia
SOME COOL INFORMATION ABOUT ME:
Meet Whitney!
Whitney is an adorable puppy (born in April 30, 2026) with a big personality! She's outgoing, curious, and always ready to explore the world around her. Whether she's investigating something new or romping around with her siblings, Whitney brings joy wherever she goes.
When playtime is over, her favorite thing is rolling over for belly rubs. She's affectionate, confident, and ready to find a family to call her own.
We are only considering homes in our local area - 1 hour or less from Arcadia FL. If you have adopted from us before and are slightly out of that area, please contact us directly and we can discuss it. The puppies are too young to be spayed/neutered yet and still need a few more rounds of vaccines as well as to be spayed or neutered.. All vaccines and spay/neuter surgery will be done at our vet's office in Arcadia so you must be willing to bring them to their appointments in order to be considered for adoption.
If you are interested in adopting please complete our Adoption Application by copying and pasting the following link into your web browser: http://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
For a full list of dogs we currently have for adoption use this link: https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoptable-dogs
MEDICAL INFO:
The following has been or will be done for this puppy at the appropriate age...
- Basic Exam by Veterinarian
- Spayed or Neutered
- Placed on heartworm preventive
- Basic Bloodwork
- Microchipped
- Intestinal Parasite Exam and medication
- Vaccinations
- Placed on flea preventive
ADOPTION DONATION: $400
This adoption donation helps to cover the vet expenses for this puppy including heartworm preventive which is dispensed at the initial vet visit and then goes with the dog at adoption. All vet records will be provided to adopter.
Visit us at www.caninecastaways.org
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
8. Bonded Pair
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
Read more about Bonded Pair
Meet Cooper & Artie: The Ultimate Dream Team
This dynamic duo recently lost their beloved owner and found themselves starting over. Through no fault of their own, they are looking for a fresh start. They are a bonded pair and must be adopted together.
Home Life & Compatibility
Dogs: Friendly and welcoming to all canine buddies.
Cats: Peaceful and respectful roommates for feline friends.
Bond: Inseparable best friends who comfort and balance each other.
Meet the Boys
Cooper (The Gentle Soul)
Breed: Lab mix with adorable short legs.
Age: Turning 13 this November (a distinguished senior).
Personality: Calm, wise, and full of gentle affection.
Vibe: Content with short walks and long naps by your feet.
Artie (The Joyful Sidekick)
Breed: Poodle mix.
Age: 4 years old (young adult).
Personality: Playful, affectionate, and full of life.
Vibe: Keeps Cooper feeling young and brings a spark of energy to the home.
❤️ Why Adopt This Pair?
You get the absolute best of both worlds with this duo. Cooper brings the low-maintenance, soothing presence of a senior dog. Artie brings the fun, active companionship of a young adult. They already have perfect house manners and a ready-made friendship. They are ready to fill your home with double the love and gratitude.
Cooper & Artie's adoption fee is $600 - obedience training is required after adoption and fully enclosed front or backyard is also required.
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Contract
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
9. Jack
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING THE FIRST STEP IS TO FILL OUT AN ADOPTION APPLICATION ON OUR WEBSITE AT:
https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
IF A PET IS LISTED THEN THEY ARE AVAILABLE - WE KEEP OUR LISTINGS UP TO DATE AND REMOVE AS SOON AS ADOPTED.
NAME: Jack
BREED: Toy Fox Terrier mix
SEX: male
COLOR: Tri-color
AGE: 10 months as of Oct 2026
WEIGHT: 12 lbs as of Aug 2026
LOCATED IN: Arcadia
SOME COOL INFORMATION ABOUT ME:
Meet Jack!
Jack is a 10-month-old, neutered male weighing 12 pounds (as of 10/26) and this little guy comes with two distinct settings: stranger danger and best friend.
Read more about Jack
When Jack first meets someone new, he can be shy and unsure. He needs a little time to figure out that you mean him no harm. Once you hold him, give him some gentle pets, and earn his approval, that worried little puppy starts to relax and the real Jack begins to appear.
And the real Jack LOVES to play!
Jack is an active youngster who plays very well with other dogs, including dogs much bigger than he is. He can be a bit of a rough-and-tumble player, so hed love a canine buddy who enjoys his enthusiastic style. An active family or a playful dog companion would be an ideal match for him.
Toys are always welcome, and a good bone to chew can keep Jack happily occupied. He's also comfortable in his crate, is mostly house-trained, and is doing well learning the routines of home life. Leash walking is still on his puppy résumé under skills currently in development, so his new family will need to continue working with him.
After all that playing, Jack has another side.
He loves his pre-bedtime snuggles.
Once the days adventures are over, this busy little boy is happy to settle in close and soak up some affection before calling it a night.
Jack is still young and has plenty left to learn, but he's already showing us what a wonderful companion he can become. He needs a family that will give him confidence when he's unsure, guidance while he's learning, plenty of opportunities to burn off that puppy energy, and lots of love along the way.
Jack may greet you with Who are you? but give him a little time and hell be asking, What are we doing next?
If you are interested in adopting please complete our Adoption Application by copying and pasting the following link into your web browser: http://www.caninecastaways.org/adoption-application
For a full list of dogs we currently have for adoption use this link: https://www.caninecastaways.org/adoptable-dogs
MEDICAL INFO:
The following has been or will be done for this puppy at the appropriate age...
- Basic Exam by Veterinarian
- Spayed or Neutered
- Placed on heartworm preventive
- Basic Bloodwork
- Microchipped
- Intestinal Parasite Exam and medication
- Vaccinations
- Placed on flea preventive
ADOPTION DONATION: $400
This adoption donation helps to cover the vet expenses for this puppy including heartworm preventive which is dispensed at the initial vet visit and then goes with the dog at adoption. All vet records will be provided to adopter.
Visit us at www.caninecastaways.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
10. Dixie
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
Meet Dixie
Read more about Dixie
Dixie is the gentlest soul who didn't fight back during a senseless attack. Now, she needs our community to step up so she doesn't lose her leg.
The Medical Reality
The trauma Dixie endured is severe:
The Damage: Her wrist is "crushed to pieces" with extensive ligament damage. She is missing bone in her foot, and at least two toes will likely need to be removed.
The Bandaging Costs: To fight infection and promote healing, Dixie requires daily professional bandage changes ranging from $470 to $600 per visit.
The Surgical Goal: We are pushing for a specialized surgery next week. Options include a wrist fusion or synthetic bone grafting to reconstruct her foot and avoid amputation.
We Are Her Only Hope
Amputation is a last resort. Heidi’s Legacy Dog Rescue has stepped in to save Dixie from being euthanized, but they cannot handle the massive financial burden alone. "She simply endured the pain. Now, we must help her find the healing.
Dixie has been a trooper with her daily bandage changes. She has become a bit irritated so now she has yo have light sedation with every change. We did find a "regular " vet to do the weekend changes but it still cost over $400 a day.
When she is not at vet she enjoys her own private room, stuff toys and a ball. She does wander around the fosters home but prefers her own bedroom just like your normal "teenager".
We hope to get another update soon from orthopedic surgeon but right now the plan is still to save the leg with either fusion or an internal fixator.
#GSD #germanshepherd #rescuedog #AdoptDontShop
Dixie's adoption fee is $500 - obedience training is required after adoption and fully enclosed front or backyard is also required.
#germanshepherd #InjuredDog #rescuedog
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Contract
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Bringing a dog home to your cat
Tell the rescue about your cat: their age and how they react to dogs. A dog who has lived calmly with one cat may still want to chase a cat that runs.
Introduce them slowly. Keep them apart for the first few days and swap bedding so they get used to each other's scent, then let them meet with the dog on a leash, rewarding calm behavior.
Make sure the cat can always get somewhere the dog can't reach, like a high shelf or a room behind a baby gate, and keep the litter box and cat food out of the dog's way.
Rescues with cat-friendly dogs near Sarasota
- Canine Castaways, Inc.Arcadia, FL · 5 cat-friendly dogs above
- Heidi's Legacy Dog RescueTampa, FL · 3 cat-friendly dogs above
- Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue, Inc.Tampa, FL · 1 cat-friendly dog above
- Dachshund Adoption Rescue & Education (DARE)Tampa, FL · 1 cat-friendly dog above
Questions about adopting cat-friendly dogs in Sarasota
How many cat-friendly dogs are up for adoption in Sarasota?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Sarasota, Florida, have 10 cat-friendly dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a cat-friendly dog in Sarasota?
The rescues with the most cat-friendly dogs near Sarasota right now are Canine Castaways, Inc. (Arcadia, FL), Heidi's Legacy Dog Rescue (Tampa, FL) and Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue, Inc. (Tampa, FL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
How do I introduce a dog to my cat?
Slowly. Keep them apart for a few days so they get used to each other's scent, then let them meet with the dog on a leash, rewarding calm behavior. Always give the cat an escape route the dog can't follow.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.