We adopted our dog, Frisco, in July 2011. It was our first dog as a family and we were nervous about the adoption process and whether we would be approved as dog owners. Since we had never owned a dog Joyful Rescue asked us to meet one of the volunteers out at Pet Smart in Orchard Park. This allowed us to talk with someone about what we were looking for. We are so grateful to Joyful Rescue for listening to what we needed and making recommendations about the kind of dog that would be a good fit for us. It has worked out perfectly and we had the smoothest transition possible. He is the perfect energy level for our family and just the sweetest dog there is. We would go back to Joyful Rescue in a minute if we decided to get another dog. Frisco deserved to be placed in the right home. We have known other people who adopt dogs and then give them back a few weeks later because it isn't what they expected.

Pros: Very thorough, intent on making a good match

Cons: None

I am heart brokenI thought we were a good match for Tom Pry. Just because we live in the city we were ruled out of a dog we really wanted. Who decides these adoptions anyway? We would have been a great family for Tom. We have a 5 year old Newfoundland and had to put our 13 year old Lab down recently, Our newfie is just heart broken with out a buddy. Tom's size would match our newfie and would have been great buddy's. I understood he needed time to adjust to indoor life. 10 minutes is all he would have been alone all day. I want to know why we were ruled out just because we live in the city and if someone right there at the recsue got him?I think it stinks and something is not right there.

Pros: NONE

Cons: Prejudise

These people don't do thorough reference checks. They don't call all references. Quick to jump to conclusions and don't even tell you why you've been denied adoption. They charge twice a much as other shelters and are rude and condscending to your references. Please support someone else. Maybe they are good to animals but they lack social skills with people.

Pros: Nice Website, lots of info

Cons: Condescending staff, rude, judgemental

I adopted my little pom, Griffin, from Joyful in January. I found him on petfinder while searching for a lost pom. Taken in by the beautifully written story and his gorgeous little face, I wrote to Joye. My husband Karl and I drove to the Rochester area and met the most wonderful couple who were fostering Griffin. If I am lucky I have made lifelong friends with Susan and Lee Buckman. Joyful rescues had our little boy twice before but he is mine forever now. My experience was great and we are totally in love with our new addition. Joyful's description of Griffin's personality and health was complete and accurate.

Pros: wonderful, caring people

Cons: none

WONDERFUL!! I have adopted from Joyful Rescues (more than once) & appreciate their dedication to the pets in their care. I love that the application is so detailed to make sure potential adopters are responsible pet owners & the pets will get ONLY the best! I have met many of the volunteers & they are also WONDERFUL! I see the other reviews here as emotional revenge to being rejected. I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!!!!!!

Pros: Loving People, Very Detailed Application, Great Facility, Can't say enough

Cons: A bit of a drive but worth it!!