Message From: Susan June 3, 2011
Please consider Kessler! I have had 4 Cocker Spaniels and they are fabulous little people. Two of mine eventually went blind but it was not a handicap. They didn't let it stop them from doing anything, and loving life. Both learned to follow me using their ears and would respond to anything as if they could still see. Don't let blindness get in the way of an opportunity to enjoy a wonderful little person in your family. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Message From: halie alken May 10, 2011
hi, i am signing this becuase i am sharing the fun me and my family had fostering sadie (adopted) and magnum (adopted) they were both pretty nervous at first but it was allot of fun!!!! i am currently volenteering at the rescue i am sooo happy to be helping the animals that has had been thru hard times and have been neglected..

Message From: The Noels April 22, 2011
After our 16 year old mutt Abby died, we waited a long time to get a friend for our puppy Dottie. At first we fostered 2 puppies but sadly the family was split on which dog to adpot. Both dogs were adopted so that nobody in the famiy felt like they "lost". A few weeks later they asked us to take 2 more puppies just for labor day weekend. They had been together for most of their short lives so they hoped to keep them together at least till Freddy the emaciated JRT with a bad leg got better. As soon as we got home we knew we were going to have a hard weekend. Freddy seemed like he was going to break if you looked at him too hard! His friend Buttons was very friendly but afraid of people. Our dog dottie was very good at being the alpha! She and Buttons clicked right away. They could not stop playing, so we like to think it was Dottie who adopted her and we just paid. It was incredible how quickly things changed from then on. Freddy gained 22 lbs and got so much taller! In December he got adopted to a fabulous family. I know for a fact that our lives are a lot better because of MARS.

Message From: Melissa April 14, 2011
We have 2 dogs and both were adopted from shelters when they were pups. I notice a lot of pit bulls at shelters and I just wanted to say that they are amazing dogs. Izzie- our 3 year old black lab pit pull mix is great. She is so obedient and loyal. The only problem is she does not like other dogs very much. But if you are looking for a great companion, please dont overlook pitbulls.

Message From: Connie and Phil Martin March 24, 2011
We adopted Cela the end of September, 2010. She has been a fabulous dog! It so hard to think of such a wonderful animal living her first two years in a puppy mill. We couldn't have asked for a better dog to welcome into our home. We are so glad we decided to adopt. Thanks, MARS, for helping us find our companion.

Message From: The Pope Family February 24, 2011
After we lost our Rott, Blitz last year, we were not sure if we wanted to get another dog for awhile. But we noticed that our Newfie/Husky, Dodger….was lonely. We started looking online at rescue pets. It was a little overwhelming, and sad to see all of the lost animals looking for homes. We wanted to take them all in! My Son saw the picture of Rexx, and said, “Mommy…He is soo cute…can he come to live with us?” So we applied right there to adopt him. We are absolutley in love with big boy Rexx!! He is fitting in perfectly with our family and his new big brother Dodger. Rexx loves running through all the snow and enjoys the belly rubs from the kids. What a lover he is! Hi nickname is Lick-a-saurus Rexx…from all of his kisses. Thank you MARS!

Message From: Amy Sergeant Fjelstad February 20, 2011
We love our new baby Emmi. She is a complete doll. How could anyone have given her up? Our family is now complete. Thank you MARS!

Message From: Miley February 13, 2011
Just wanted to let you know I am loving my forever home with my Newfie sister and 8 acres to play. I just graduated from kindergarden and am moving on to intermediate doggie class. I am a very proud student and although I am the class clown, I am learning alot. My new family loves me more than anything and I am so loved and lucky. Thank you for bringing me to Minnesota so I can live the rest of my life with my farm friends and new family. Love Miley, the Super Duper Saint Bernard

Message From: Nicole February 12, 2011
If you look under success stories way, way in the G's you will find a terrier mix, Gladys, she has been a great part of our family since 2008! Her name was changed to Sissy. She is my other sweet dog's younger but larger sister, hence, Sissy.I just want to Thank MARS and everyone involved with her. It had to be quite a lot of folks because she came from a pound in Iowa. I can not imagine our family without her!

Message From: Susan February 5, 2011
Emma has been my baby for a week and she is so lovely. Thank you MARS for valueing each life, even when they are older and arthritic.

Message From: Y Wood January 16, 2011
I help transport some of these wonderful dogs to MARS. Yesterday I transported Lovely Lady the staffordshire. I fell completely in love with her. She is the sweetest dog ever. When I walked up to her she sat up tall and proud and didn't jump. She was happy to ride co-pilot with me and rides beautifully in the car. She loves to cuddle and snuggle. What an amazing dog. Thank you so much for savings these dogs from the unthinkable fates at the pounds. These dogs make the greatest pets and are so appreciative of their second chances. The family that adopts. Lady is true to her name and will be an excellent addition to the right family. Good luck Lady, thank you for touching my life. I will remember you always.

Message From: Mike and Tracy January 15, 2011
We adopted Cesar this week and would love to thank the foster family and MARS for their great work. We love our addition to our family and thank you for making our family complete.

Message From: Tammy January 2, 2011
A couple of hours ago,I filled out the adoption form for "Snookers". I have to say,I feel like I am adopting a child,which in a way I am.I've looked through many rescues,but for some reason,I'm drawn to this certain puppy!Though I am a nervous expectant parent,I am glad you are so thorough in your process.As a pet groomer,sometimes I see people come in with a differen't dog,every couple months...That is disturbing,homes are supposed to be forever...Anyways,I appreciate the chance to adopt this girl(every-one,fingers crossed)and,the good work you do...

Message From: Sherryl January 1, 2011
I scroll through your website several times a week. I wish I could adopt ALL the animals :) :) :) I have three adopted dogs now and I also foster. I live between Vermillion and Yankton SD. God bless and keep up the great work.

Message From: Cheri B December 27, 2010
We adopted Scrappy on December 17. He is the perfect dog for us. I can't believe we have only had him such a short time. Thank you so much for such a wonderful little dog.

Message From: Jersey's Family December 25, 2010
It's been 4 years since we adopted Jersey and just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!! We can't imagine our lives without our perfect angel Jersey!

Message From: Amy Sergeant Fjelstad December 22, 2010
I just wanted to let you know Maisy the Puggle (formerly Maizey) is doing just great in her new home in Wisconsin. She and Bella the Puggle are getting along wonderfully. She loves walks in the snow, chewing on rawhides, going to Happy Dogz doggie day care during the day and sleeping in with mom on the weekends! She is excited for her first Christmas too! Having Maisy has changed us all and just imagining what she went through at the puppy mill before becoming part of our family is so hard and makes us love her even more. She is just a joy and finally knows what it feels like to be part of a family : ) Thank you for bringing sweet Maisy into our lives! Sincerely-Amy Sergeant Fjelstad

Message From: Sheri December 4, 2010
Love......And A Lesson I was working on my photo for my photo club today, and it kind of coincided with Brutus playing out in the snow. (Photo can be seen at alongcamebrutus.com ) When I was watching him jumping around and playing and just loving life, it made me realize just how far we have come in the last few months. A year ago, my husband and I decided we would welcome our first dog into our family. Our last child had left for college, we weren't ready to retire yet, and we had some love to spare. A year ago, a dog named Brutus was sitting in a high kill shelter in Missouri, scheduled for death in the gas chamber. A young man at the shelter could see that this dog had so much love in him, but as so often happens, someone bought him and either didn't have the time to train him, or didn't care enough to train him, and therefore they didn't like him and they threw him away. I will admit that when dogs aren't trained, they can be no fun to be around, but unfortunately, they don't exactly know how to do this themselves. It's one of the responsibilities that you have to think about before you decide that you want that cute little puppy that you see in the store window, or the humane society or your local paper. Dogs are a lot of work, and a lot of money, and they deserve the respect of not being adopted if you can't handle this. The Humane Society of the U.S. put out a statistic last year that it estimated that there were close to four million dogs euthanized. Thankfully for Brutus, this young man called the Midwest Animal Rescue, and a wonderful chain of love began. People selflessly give their time to transport these animals to safe no kill shelters and foster homes. Once they reach safety, they are typically given medical care, socialization skills, and training so they can be permanently placed in their forever home. Some of these poor animals are so emotionally and physically damaged that I can't even bare to think about it. It makes me literally sick. One of the first dogs that we went to see had been tied to a tree for a year and a half and beaten regularly. We are as patient and loving as you can get, but we knew we didn't have the knowledge to give this girl what she would need, and we had to be honest about that. If I came within five feet of her, she would tremble. How can any human be so incredibly cruel. I will never know. My motto has always been, "humans deserve twice of what they give to an animal, good or bad". Anyone who would hit an animal is a coward. Animals don't think things through like humans. They run on instinct, and hopefully some good positive training. Now Brutus on the other hand, I knew we could handle. He had absolutely no training, didn't even know his name, and was "probably" about two years old, but he didn't seem to have any deep emotional scars other than being scared of loud noises. The more we got to know him, the more we figured he was probably bought to be a hunting dog and failed. About all he hunts is mice! I'm not going to tell anyone that this was easy, because it wasn't, but neither is raising a puppy. Brutus had some bad habits, like "marking" my leather chair (thank God I own a carpet shampooer) and chewing up shoes, but I spent the first six months of his time with us involving him in every aspect of my life from loading the dishwasher to getting the mail, and those bad habits are but a memory. Today, Brutus is a boy that has life by the tail, and couldn't know a greater love if he dug his way to the center of the earth. I encourage anyone looking for a canine or feline friend to consider adopting an adolescent or adult animal. There are so many little souls out there sitting in metal cages that need love, and with some patience and time, they will give it back ten fold. Thank you to MARS and all of the wonderful people that help them to do what they do. :)

Message From: Erin and Rosie! November 16, 2010
Hi MARS family! Just wanted to thank you for helping us find each other! We just celebrated our 1 year anniversary together and we're so happy!

Message From: Sandy Langner November 15, 2010
I adopted Kylie, now Abbe Mae Tackett, 1 year ago this month. We got the perfect fit. She is a beautiful, smart, well behaved young lady. Her only "toy" is SawDust our orange tabby cat. They are the best of friends although they often sound like a horrible fight to the death is taking place. The old dog thinks they are both nuts. Thank you MARS for all you do.

Message From: Jennifer November 14, 2010
I adopted a brussels griffon named Scruffy from you in March of 09. A 5 yr old puppy mill survivor. So much anxiety he had that even the sound of the tearing of toilet paper off a roll would scare him. He is wonderful, I adore him. He has come a long way and doing very well. Looking at him makes me happy.

Message From: Olivia Arnold November 14, 2010
Adopted two dogs from MARS. Finn (formerly named Mitchell) and his sister Mabel are now a part of our family! We love them so much and love MARS for this great experience, they've got a great thing going and take the time to find loving homes for ALL of their animals instead of taking the easy way out. Thank you so much!

Message From: Charla October 20, 2010
I adopted "Gibbs" on October 14, 2010. A beautiful little American Bulldog/Black Lab Mix, he is now known as Hank, and has really been a light in my life. I cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to be this little man's mama. Hank is an intelligent, energetic, loving pup, who I am sure will grow into an equally charming dog. Thank you for all that you do, the caring you put into the adoption process, and most of all, for this loving little man, Hank.

Message From: Kay Tisdell October 12, 2010
We adpoted Homer two weeks ago and we love our little beagle Thank you sooo much you guys are great!

Message From: gene October 9, 2010
I'd already been approved to adopt a dog before "accidentally" tripping over this guestbook/comment page. And say, from personal exp. that MARS staff/facilitators are knowlegable regsarding each individual pet/breed, and both truly concerned about the animals as well as professionally functional.

Message From: Stacey Jasmin Fine Art September 29, 2010
Thank you for all you do for the animals :)

Message From: gene September 29, 2010
this progam is operatedby, and cultivatesHEROES!

Message From: (Private) September 26, 2010
When we saw "Pooh Bear" we knew he would fit in with our household, he is a wonderful dog and has a sprit like no other.

Message From: Cory September 11, 2010
Hard to believe it's been six months since we saw "Wolfie"s story on your webpage and decided to help. He renamed himself Push almost immediately, then took over our home and our hearts. He is such a loyal and loving dog! He is SO happy and playful, Wiggly-waggly and cuddly, with such a protective side too. Thank you for bringing him into our lives!

Message From: Terry Wold September 2, 2010
We adopted Charlemagne (Charlie) in June of 2010. She is everything we wanted and it appears we are all she wants. She is getting to be known around all the collector car shows in the twin cities area as a part of our family. She is so laid back and our small grandkids love playing with her. She also loves riding in the back seat of our Mustang convertible (fast & slow). We couldn't be happier with our newest member of our family. Terry & Donna Wold

Message From: Tiffany September 1, 2010
I just want to tell you that you guys are fabulous and I love your rescue!!! I adopted Dingo back in October and I can't tell you how amazing he is.. He is the love of my life and everyone who meets him just loves him!! He is just the charmer!!!!! Not to mention he is a bed hog and loves to sleep in!!! Thanks again for letting me adopt Dingo!!!! He is one of akind!!!

Message From: Sherry August 18, 2010
I only fostered PJ for a week but fell in love with him from the moment I saw him. Unfortunately I had to give him back to MARS because walking him reaggrevated a previous hip and back injury I had but I think about him every day. I would have loved to adopt him if it had worked out. He will be a wonderful addition to any single person or family. He is a little cuddle bundle and followed me everywhere I went, even into the shower. I would see his cute little head peek in. It would be great for him t find a home with another pet in the household though because he has a lot of separation anxiety issues and probably would not bark when left alone if he had a buddy to be with. God bless you sweet PJ_I miss you and hope you find a permanent home soon.

Message From: Sarah July 27, 2010
I adopted DJ in December last year, and he is just the sweetest, best dog EVER! I am so grateful to everyone at MARS for rescuing him and introducing me to my best buddy. We love our long walks, he is such a cuddler, and is sitting right next to me as I type this. I am so happy to have this wonderful dog, I don't know what I'd do without him. Thank you to all the volunteers and fosters who made his adoption possible.

Message From: Kirstin July 11, 2010
I absolutely love your website. If I hadn't found it I would be lost trying to find a puppy. Your website is an awesome place to search for the perfest pet match for everyone and there family. I am recomeding this website to all of my friends. And I mean all. THANK YOU SO MUCH MARS!!!

Message From: (Private) July 5, 2010
All of your animals are adorable and you are great for rescuing them i cant even think about why anyone would like to give up a nice and loving soul animals are great!!

Message From: Isobell June 23, 2010
On behalf fo myself and my late Saint "Beau" You guys are angels and desirve all the praise you get and then some.

Message From: Chelsea McClary June 14, 2010
I can't wait to possibly adopt a furry friend, they all need second chances, it's not their fault they are there! I wish more people would consider adoption!

Message From: (Private) June 10, 2010
this website is awsomely amazng! THE BEST DOG WEBSITE EVER! THANK YOU GUYS FOR HELPING THE ANIMALS

Message From: (Private) May 24, 2010
This rescue is wonderful. The volunteers/fosters really care about these animals. Please consider adoption from MARS. There are so many animals that need homes.

Message From: (Private) May 15, 2010
Please help these puppies! This adorable little dogs are the cutest puppies that I've ever seen!

Message From: Ruthann May 12, 2010
Thank God for all of you trying to make a throw away pet someone elses joy and forever friend. I am amazed at the pages of these precious animals looking for there forever home and since I am in process of purchasing my first country home, I will be applying to foster or adopt one of these beautiful and healthy animals. Good luck to you and I am willing to volunteer if you need me and will be sending in a donation as well......God Bless!!

Message From: Nicole April 27, 2010
Just wanted to thank everyone for the great job you are doing to help our furry friends find good homes. We are so looking forward to joining the MARS family and being foster parents to Porter this week! Keep up the great work!

Message From: Gail April 12, 2010
I have been Fostering Princess..who is now Izzy, for a little over four months and she has changed my life. I had lost my very loved 15 year old Shar-Pei mix Dylan, two months prior and wasn't sure if I was ready for another dog but knew there was an emptiness. I knew there were far too many dogs in need of care so checked out rescue sites. My journey led me here and to Izzy. She was very nervous and skiddish at first but has turned into the most loving, personality-filled LAP dog...who thinks shes a cat! Her favorite places to sit and sleep are on the backs and arms of the couch and chair! We are both very happy and MARS was right....Izzy DOES NOT like cats!!!! thx!! =]

Message From: Louise April 8, 2010
I am so glad that Grandpa, the German Shepherd was adopted. I have 2 thru rescue and I love them to pieces. Grandpa isn't that old and I hope he has a wonderful retirement!! Good for you to the adoptive parents!

Message From: Kelly Dombroske March 15, 2010
We LOVE Thor.....I'm so glad I started to foster dogs. He's the perfect dog....Thanks for all you do for these dogs...

Message From: Kelly Dombroske March 10, 2010
We've fostered 4-5 dogs now and absolutely fell in love with Thor. We couldn't imagine our lives without him. He's a love bug. I love the Am. Bulldog/Am Staff dogs. I truly believe these rescue dogs make the perfect pets.....He is family, now and forever.

Message From: mIKE March 1, 2010
Love The Website and all you's stand For,Nice Job !

Message From: Lisa February 24, 2010
You are doing wonderful work!!! Strays are wonderful pets!!!

Message From: SPARRC Rescue February 9, 2010
I have helped you drive. Iowa City to Waterloo. I have a coonhound I am saving from Glade Spring, Virginia. Please go to my facebook page and see details. Can you help me with arranging transport out of Glade Spring, VA to at least me? Could you post Sam and his chip-in? Any way you can get a foster for me or a forever home? Please email me. My facebook page is searchable under Beej Matson or Peaceful Pets At-Home Pet Care! Thanks for all you do! BJ Matson, 319-321-0241

Message From: (Private) February 7, 2010
We have had Mario for almost a year now. He has become such a wonderful, loving, and (finally) trusting little boy. What a rewarding investment!