In 2010, three local women shared a vision for a new foster-based golden retriever rescue in East Tennessee that would focus on saving dogs, building relationships, and educating the public on responsible dog ownership. They recruited donors and a small group of volunteers, created a website, set up a data system, and Adopt a Golden Knoxville (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 1100 Golden Retrievers, golden mixes, and Labrador Retrievers; rescued 25 orphan golden retrievers from Turkey over a period of four years; and assisted in removing and rehabilitating nine golden retrievers from puppy mills in Mississippi, Tennessee and North Carolina.

Also during that time, AGK built relationships with shelters, other rescue groups, owners, volunteers, adopters, and veterinary partners; cared for goldens with serious medical conditions including heart worms, orthopedic issues, cancer, blood disorders, and skin and ear infections; and addressed training and behavioral needs of its dogs. AGK also recruited volunteers (including wonderful foster homes), raised much needed funds, and strengthened donor and grant support. Additionally, AGK welcomed opportunities to educate the public on responsible pet ownership through our Facebook posts, local media appearances, relationships with owners, adopters and volunteers, and participation in community events.