In 2010, three women with a shared vision for a new foster-based golden retriever rescue in East Tennessee established Adopt a Golden Knoxville (AGK).  The purpose of this rescue group was to help goldens who needed homes, to build relationships, and to educate the public on responsible dog ownership. They recruited donors and a small group of volunteers, created a logo and website, reached out to shelters and owners, and AGK was born. Hank, the first golden retriever saved by AGK, came into the rescue in late 2010.

From those modest beginnings, AGK has . . .

• Saved over 1200 Golden Retrievers, Golden mixes, Labs and other retriever breeds.
• Rescued 25 orphan golden retrievers from Turkey.
• Rehomed nine golden retrievers from puppy mills in Mississippi, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
• Built relationships with shelters, other rescue groups, owners, volunteers, adopters, and veterinary partners.
• Cared for goldens with minor and serious medical conditions.
• Raised funds while strengthening donor and grant support.
• Embraced opportunities to educate the public on responsible pet ownership through the LEARN page on our website, our Facebook posts, local media appearances, relationships with owners, adopters and volunteers, resources provided to adopters, and participation in community events.