At Negril Pup Rescue, we see firsthand the struggles that stray and abandoned dogs face every day in Jamaica. Many of these animals have endured hunger, illness, and neglect—but with love, care, and second chances, they can thrive in loving homes.

When you adopt from a rescue, you are giving a deserving dog a new lease on life. These dogs are not “damaged” or “unwanted” but rather victims of circumstance, often abandoned or born on the streets. Through rescue, they receive necessary medical attention, vaccinations, and rehabilitation to prepare them for a forever home.

Adopting a rescue dog also means breaking the cycle of overpopulation and homelessness. With limited resources and a growing number of strays, every adoption makes space for another dog in need. Instead of supporting backyard breeders or puppy mills that contribute to the problem, you become part of the solution—saving lives and promoting responsible pet ownership.

Beyond that, rescue dogs have an incredible way of showing gratitude and love. They know they’ve been given a second chance, and in return, they offer unmatched loyalty and companionship. Whether you’re looking for a playful puppy or a gentle senior dog, adopting from a rescue means finding a lifelong friend while making a real difference.

Join us in changing lives—one adoption at a time.

SANCTUARY DOGS

At Negril Pup Rescue, our mission is to provide care, rehabilitation, and loving homes for as many stray and abandoned dogs as possible. However, not every dog in our care is adoptable, and we believe it’s important to share why.

Some of our rescues have endured extreme neglect, abuse, or long-term suffering on the streets. While many recover and become wonderful companions, others carry deep emotional or physical scars that make adoption challenging. Dogs with severe anxiety, aggression from past trauma, or extreme fear of humans may never fully adjust to a home environment. For these dogs, forcing adoption would not be in their best interest or that of potential adopters.

Others may have chronic medical conditions that require extensive, ongoing care. While some adopters are willing to take on the responsibility, others may not be equipped to manage lifelong medical needs. Rather than risk them being abandoned again, we ensure they remain in a safe, familiar environment where they receive the care they need.

Lastly, senior dogs who have spent their entire lives on the streets may struggle to adapt to life indoors. While we do our best to socialize and rehabilitate each dog, some are simply more comfortable in a sanctuary setting where they can live out their days with dignity and love.

Even if a dog isn’t adoptable, that doesn’t mean they are forgotten. We provide them with a safe haven, daily care, and the best quality of life possible. Supporters and volunteers play a vital role in helping us continue this work—whether by sponsoring a sanctuary dog, donating toward medical care, or simply spreading awareness.

ADOPTING IN JAMAICA

There is nothing we love more than when locals come forward to provide a loving home to one of our rescue dogs! The dogs get the benefit of their island home, the cost is significantly less and the logistics are simple.

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IDEAL HOME REQUIREMENTS:

Our dogs are not used to being chained up. Homes with fenced yards will be prioritized, however we can assist if this is barrier to adoption. We understand that in certain conditions, a chain is needed and we can help with longer chains, trolleys, and ensuring there is a dog house or other covering for the pup.

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ADOPTION FEE: $5000 JMD

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PROCESS:

1. Check our list of Adoptable Dogs for a dog that appeals to you and who has characteristics that are suitable for your household.

2. Reach out to us at rescue@negrilpuprescue.com.

3. We will request a reference and possibly a home visit.

4. Once the adoption is approved, we will make arrangements for you to pick up your pup!

ADOPTING OVERSEAS

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Adopting a dog in Negril, Jamaica, has a profound impact because many stray dogs here face extreme hardships, including starvation, disease, and lack of medical care. Unlike in the U.S., where there are rescues, animal control facilities and any number of animal welfare agencies, Jamaica has limited support for homeless animals. In fact, right now there are only TWO non-kill dog rescues on the entire island. By adopting from Negril, you’re not only saving a life that might not have another chance, but you’re also helping reduce the stray population and supporting local rescue efforts. Plus, these dogs are often incredibly resilient, loving, and grateful companions, making them wonderful pets!

That being said, adopting a dog from Jamaica to bring to the United States and Canada is significantly more challenging that a standard adoption. The process and requirements varies depending on the age and size of the dog as well as where you reside. Here, we outline some of the circumstances, but caution that each individual dog may have different needs.

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IDEAL HOME REQUIREMENTS:

Our dogs are not used to being chained up. In many cases, the pup will require some training and may have reactivity that will need to be considered with other dogs and children.

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ADOPTION FEE: WAIVED

TRANSPORTATION/IMPORT FEES: $1,000-$3,000 USD

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PROCESS:

1. Check our list of Adoptable Dogs for a dog that appeals to you and who has characteristics that are suitable for your household.

2. Reach out to us at rescue@negrilpuprescue.com.

Further processes for transportation and export/import depend upon several factors and may be different from dog to dog. The following are general guidelines for adopting dogs to the United States or Canada. In all cases, the services of an experienced exporter are required to facilitate the process for the dogs. These steps are not absolute and cannot be completed by a tourist. These processes are only meant to illustrate the challenge of adopting a dog overseas for the sake of disclosure.

UNITED STATES

Puppies (under 6 months old)

To the United States – Not allowed

Dogs over 6 months (under 25lbs)

Airlines – American Airlines (in cabin only),

Jetblue (in cabin only)

Frontier (in cabin only)

& Caribbean Airlines (in the hold only)

Dogs over 6 months (over 25lbs)

These dogs must fly as cargo in the hold –

Caribbean Airlines only.

Requirements:

The dog must have an ISO-compatible microchip.

At least 1 DHLPP vaccine

Certificate of Health from a private vet

Export permit from the Government vet

CDC Dog Import Form

A soft sided carrier capable of fitting under the seat or

A plastic hard-sided carrier for in the hold

CANADA

Puppies (under 6 months old) &

Dogs over 6 months but under 25lbs

Airlines –

Air Transit (in the hold or in the cabin if under 20lbs),

Air Canada (in the cabin only under 20lbs),

or Caribbean Airlines (in the hold only)

Dogs over 6 months (over 25lbs)

These dogs must fly as cargo in the hold –

Air Transit or Caribbean Airlines

Requirements

Rabies vaccination (for dogs 12 weeks or older)

At least one DHLPP vaccine

Certificate of Health from a private vet

A soft sided carrier capable of fitting under the seat

or a hard sided plastic carrier for the cargo hold

Export permit from the government

A Word of Advice…

Kaya

“I would say Jamaican dogs are smart and loyal, so be prepared! Kaya is the most intelligent dog I’ve ever had, and by far the most social. She loves to be by your side or around others, definitely thinks she’s a human, and cuddles like her life depends on it.”

Rebar

“We got this little guy almost a year ago from NPR. He was about 8 weeks old in this pic (when we got him)! His name is Rebar. His hobbies include eating, sleeping, playing with his big sister (Maggi) & digging up deceased chickens. Advice? Just do it! Adopt from NPR.”

Treasure

“My advice is Do It! Make sure to go through Negril Pup Rescue or another reputable source to make it happen. Open your heart and your home and your pup will love you like no other. Treasure is truly a treasure and everyday with her is an adventure. Of course, it’s not always easy. Training is essential but it is so worth it.”

Leo

“Do it they are the best pups.

Smart, loyal, loving and great security.”

Miss Penny

“Do it. You won’t regret it. If you are looking for a loyal, loveable, quirky, sassy, crazy pup then a Jampup is for you. I fell in love at first sight and as soon as I saw her I named her and said she was coming home with me. Best decision I made. She fits right in with our American pups!”

RUBY AKA WONKS

“Adopting a jam pup like Ruby can be one of the most fulfilling experiences, but be prepared for potential training challenges due to their street survival instincts. These dogs are resilient and intelligent, often bringing unique quirks. With love, patience, and dedication, you’ll not only overcome these challenges but also build a strong, lasting bond. Focus on consistent training, socialization, and positive reinforcement, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Your journey together will be rewarding and transformative.”

Cliff and Tosh

“Be prepared for all the love that they give to you. They are the best.”

Roo and Zoey

“Be prepared for a fun loving, loyal, smart and sassy companion. These dogs are special and tough as nails. You’ll never regret adopting a Jampup! Save a life (or two!) and always have a piece of Jamaica with you.”

Minnie and Bear

“As far as temperament and companionship, best dogs ever. Fierce protectors. Snuggle bugs and comedians!

So my best advice is DO IT! ADOPT!”

Tucker

“The first time I visited NPR was 2019. Dominique was so wonderful showing us the pups they had and all the heartbreaking stories. As I kept up with the website when I got home I fell in love with Tucker

He was a very young pup and near death when found. The more I watched his miraculous life improve the more I wanted him. It was such an easy process mostly because of all the hard work NPR does to make it work. He is the most obedient and loving pup I could dream of!! I would do it all again over and over