Finding Fido on Cape Cod

Long at the heart of seafarers, scientists and summer-lovers, Cape Cod is also a haven for pet rescue. Inspired by the ongoing need, local pet shelter Sandy Paws Rescue works tirelessly to make matches between dogs and their future owners.

Sandy Paws Rescue was founded in 2018 when Martha’s Vineyard native, Ashley Medeiros was only 27 years old. Ashley began volunteering for her local shelter in Florida and frequently reached out to friends and family in Massachusetts for foster placement. Witnessing the heartbreaking shelter crowding, Ashley was inspired to start her own animal rescue first in Oak Bluffs, on Martha’s Vineyard.

Sandy Paws Rescue now works with shelters across the southern states to transport animals to adopters on the Cape and Islands, where more owners are excited to adopt a furry friend. Let’s meet some of Sandy Paws’ current puppies!

Meet Harmony- Harmony is a sweet, snuggly and calm Young Hound about just under 2 years old. — Meet Harmony- Harmony is a sweet, snuggly, and calm Young Hound about just under 2 years old.

“There is a special place in my heart for animals and their needs. I only wish more people understood just how much fostering an animal helps those in need. When a person is willing to open their home to just one foster dog or cat, it not only saves the life of that animal, but it allows the shelter to have the space to help a second animal in need. Fostering truly does save lives.” – Founder Ashley

Meet Springstein- Springstein is a low energy Young Great Pyrenees boy whose favorite hobby is lounging

In 2021, Sandy Paws Rescue saved 544 pets from homelessness or euthanization due to overcrowded shelters. They are hoping to save even more in 2022. Each time a pet gets adopted, two lives are saved: the adopted animal, plus a second one that can now be rescued because there is a new open space.

Meet Presley- Presley is a 3 month old Puppy German Shepherd Dog with just the cutest eyes — Meet Presley- Presley is a 3-month-old Puppy German Shepherd Dog with just the cutest eyes

Sandy Paws Rescue is always looking for more foster homes. Learn more about the foster program here. Sandy Paws Rescue has dozens of available animals in foster care on the Vineyard, Cape Cod, and across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. They also have a small private kennel in Vineyard Haven where potential adopters can come meet their future pet friend by appointment.

You can view all available animals here.

Meet Sonic- Sonic is a 4 month old Labrador Retriever / Border Collie who loves toys; chasing toys, tug of war, chewing toys. — Meet Sonic- Sonic is a 4-month-old Labrador Retriever / Border Collie who loves toys; chasing toys, tug of war, chewing toys.

The Woods Hole Inn is stepping it up for Fido by committing 25% of our pet proceeds to support pet rescue at Sandy Paws. Stay in our pet-friendly Tisbury room and you can also help save a dog. Hop on the Steamship Authority ferry located steps away from the Woods Hole Inn and your pup rides for free!