About Us
How It All Began
Our Story - From One Visit to a Lifesaving Mission
Dogs in Distress began over 20 years ago when our founder, Marie Hannon, visited a Dublin pound and saw countless healthy, loving dogs with no chance of survival. With just a digital camera and determination, she began photographing the dogs, naming them, and sharing their stories online — giving them visibility and hope.
What started as a small effort soon grew into a nationwide rescue network. Offers of help began pouring in, and Dogs in Distress was born — built on compassion, community, and the belief that every dog deserves love and safety.
When our dogs are ready to be rehomed, we open applications to caring owners who can offer them a safe, loving home.
Become a foster carer and help our dogs adjust, recover, and prepare for their forever homes in a safe and loving environment.
As a volunteer-run charity, every euro you donate helps provide food, shelter, and medical care for our dogs in need.
Our Purpose
Driven by Compassion, Guided by Our Mission
Our Vision
To create a future where every dog is safe, valued, and has the opportunity to live in a loving forever home.
Our Mission
To rescue, rehabilitate, and responsibly rehome dogs in need while giving every dog the care, love, and second chance they deserve.
Our Promise to Every Dog & Every Adopter
We maintain a strict rehoming policy to ensure every dog’s happiness and safety. Should anything go wrong, each dog must return to Dogs in Distress — no exceptions.
We remain available for advice and support long after adoption, helping families and dogs settle happily together.
Our high standards and transparent practices have earned us a trusted reputation across Ireland and internationally.
How We Care for Every Dog
Every Dog Gets the Care They Deserve
Core Veterinary Care
Each dog is safely microchipped and registered so they can always be identified and reunited with their family.
Fully vaccinated to protect against common canine diseases before adoption.
All dogs are neutered or spayed to prevent unwanted litters and promote better long-term health.
Regular parasite prevention ensures every dog is healthy and comfortable.
