Tails from Alabama

Welcome to Tails from Alabama, where every rescued pet finds a promising future and a forever home. Join us in our mission to transform lives, one tail at a time.

saving a sweet puppy

A Rescue Story: From Despair to Hope

In rural Alabama, a Good Samaritan noticed an injured dog limping along a roadside—he had been hit by a car but was still trying to make it home. When she followed him, she discovered a heartbreaking scene: a filthy pen filled with older puppies, all neglected and in poor condition.

She pleaded with the owner to get the injured dog veterinary care. He refused, dismissing the dog's suffering as “natural selection.”

That’s when Tails from Alabama stepped in.

We rushed the dog—affectionately called “Daddy Dog”—to the vet. Sadly, his injuries were too severe, and he was humanely euthanized to spare him further suffering.

We immediately rescued the puppies—except for three the owner insisted on keeping as “an alarm system.” To ensure all the dogs were safe, we negotiated and paid to secure the release of the final three.

Six weeks later, those seven older puppies were fully vetted, spayed/neutered, and transported to loving homes in Maine.

Unfortunately, this situation isn’t unique. Alabama faces a heartbreaking pattern of neglect, overbreeding, and lack of responsibility. But stories like this one remind us why our work matters—and why your support is so vital.

Because of you, these seven puppies now have the future they deserve. ❤️🐕

About Tails from Alabama

Based in Birmingham, Alabama

brown labradoodle on sand during daytime

Comprehensive Rescue Program

Tails from Alabama is a high-volume, high-quality dog rescue saving lives across the state. At any given time, we’re caring for around 100 dogs and puppies—each one on their way to a brighter future.

brown labradoodle on sand during daytime
woman playing with dog
woman playing with dog

Founders


Founded officially in 2020 by longtime rescuer Wendy Montealegre and her rescue partner Tara Ivey Kennedy, Tails from Alabama was born out of a decade of grassroots work responding to Alabama’s dog overpopulation crisis. Since then, we’ve rescued more than 3,000 dogs and puppies from shelters and communities throughout the state.

medium-coated brown dog during daytime

Full Veterinary Care

We don’t discriminate—age, breed, color, or medical need doesn’t matter. We rescue strays, abandoned pets, and shelter dogs, then provide medical care, spay/neuter, professional training when needed, and loving foster homes.

medium-coated brown dog during daytime
shallow focus photography of red and brown bird
shallow focus photography of red and brown bird

Charlie's Friends

Our dogs’ journey doesn’t end in Alabama. We personally transport our rescues to our sister organization, Rescue Charlie’s Friends, in Maine—a state that, unlike Alabama, does not struggle with a pet overpopulation crisis. There, our dogs are welcomed, cherished, and given the second chance they deserve.

brown deer on brown land near trees

How You Can Help

Discover compassionate care through our rescue, foster, medical, and educational programs. Join us in making a difference for abandoned and needy animals in Alabama.

Testimonials

Jasmine Richards

Adopted my pup from Tails from Alabama! Super helpful staff and loved that all vet care was handled before adoption. So easy and reassuring!

Monica Chandler

Explored various rescues, Tails from Alabama stood out. Comprehensive veterinary care and the fostering program truly helped us find our perfect, healthy pet companion. Highly recommend.

Thomas Krazinski

Participated in Tails from Alabama's outreach programs. Good initiative on pet care education. Worth checking out if you want to learn about responsible pet ownership.

FAQs

Your Questions Answered: Helping You Help Our Furry Friends

How can I adopt a pet from Tails from Alabama?

Visit our website, fill out the adoption application, and follow the steps outlined for the interview and home visit process.

What are the fees involved in adopting a pet?

Our adoption fees vary depending on the type and age of the animal, covering essential veterinary care.

How can I become a foster for Tails from Alabama

To become a foster, please fill out the application on our website and complete the required home check and agreement form. We provide all necessary supplies and support.

Are there any volunteer opportunities available

Yes, we welcome volunteers in various capacities such as animal care, administrative support, event organizing, and educational outreach. Please visit our website's volunteer section to find more information and to apply.

What should I do if I find a stray animal?

If you find a stray animal, contact local animal control or a nearby vet to check for a microchip.

Does Tails from Alabama accept donations?

Yes, we rely on donations to fund our rescue operations and care for the animals. Donations can be made through our website and we also appreciate donations of food, toys, beds, and other pet supplies.