Our Story

Hugs for Harry Dog Rescue was founded by Melonie Jackson and named in honor of her beloved late pit bull, Harry.

A California native, Jackson lived for several years in Indiana, where she adopted Harry, an older pit bull who became her constant companion and biggest joy.

When Melonie saved Harry, he was a bait dog, used and abused in the dark world of dog fighting. When Melonie met him, his body bore the marks of unimaginable pain, but beneath the scars, a flicker of hope remained.

Melonie spent countless hours earning his trust, gently coaxing him from the shadows of his trauma. Slowly, Harry began to heal. He blossomed into a love-bug, a gentle soul who radiated sweetness. Though Harry has passed, Melonie carries on his legacy by advocating for and rescuing senior, disabled, and abandoned dogs.

“Harry wasn't just a dog, he was a whispered promise, a beacon of resilience, and the very heart of Hugs for Harry.”

Our Mission

To rescue and advocate for the senior, special-needs, and overlooked dogs of the Bay Area- those who are often labeled “too old,” “too fragile,” or “too much.” We believe every dog deserves comfort, dignity, and a loving home, regardless of age or circumstance. Through compassion, community, and dedicated care, we work to give these deserving dogs a second chance to live out their days surrounded by the love they’ve always deserved.

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 FAQs

  • Yes, your generous donations are tax-deductible. We’d be happy to provide donation slips when donations are dropped off to our rescue.

  • Hugs for Harry focuses on providing help for Senior, Special Needs, and Vulnerable Dogs. These dogs often face significant challenges in finding homes due to age, medical conditions, and/or other issues. They require specialized care, patience, and resources that not all rescues can provide.

    While the Bay Area has many rescues, the need for specialized care for senior and hard-to-place dogs remains high. The East Bay, in particular, benefits from a dedicated organizations like Hugs for Harry, which can focus on the unique needs of this community.

  • We are always in need of food, dog beds, blankets, toys, etc. Gently used items are appreciated. Please note, we will not take dirty or torn items.

    We have added some items we’d love to receive on our Amazon wish list: https://a.co/guEdnFN

    Additionally, monetary donations are greatly appreciated.

    You can drop them off at Hugs For Harry’s Facility. Or arrange a drop off/pick-up with one of our staff.

  • Our adoption fees are $500, which includes an application fee of $100.

    (*Adoption fees are non-refundable once you have taken your dog home.)

    The adoption fees go towards vaccinations, medical tests, spay/neutering, micro-chipping, and medical care if needed. Fees help with kenneling, food, collars, leashes, sometimes even toys, and possibly the use of a dog trainer to help with behavioral problems.

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    • Adoption Application: You will need to fill out an adoption form to begin the process.

    • Meet & Greet: It is important to include all family members (in the household where the dog will be living) in the meeting. We also encourage you to bring your own dog(s) to meet with a potential dog you’re interested in adopting.

    • Adoption Contract: If you have been approved to adopt, you will be asked to sign our adoption contract. Once the signed contract and adoption fee is received, we will sign and send you a completed copy of the contract and the dog’s medical records.

    • Microchip: Once everything is finalized, we will microchip the dog and prepare them to go home with you!

    Hugs For Harry reserves the right to refuse to adopt/foster to anyone.