We cannot accept owner surrenders. Our mission is specific to abandoned working livestock guardian dogs.

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We cannot accept owner surrenders. Our mission is specific to abandoned working livestock guardian dogs. *

We are dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned livestock guardian dogs.

About Unega Mountain Dog Rescue (UMDR)

At *Unega Mountain Dog Rescue (UMDR)**, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the* protection, rescue, and rehabilitation of livestock guardian dogs in Idaho and surrounding areas.

Livestock guardian dogs come in many breeds, including Great Pyrenees, Akbash, Anatolian Shepherds, Maremmas, Kangals, Kuvasz, and many more. These noble, intelligent dogs have been bred for centuries to protect flocks and herds — but sadly, in Idaho, they are legally classified as livestock, not companion animals. This means they are excluded from the protections that cover other dogs under animal cruelty laws. As a result, far too many suffer abuse, neglect, abandonment, and euthanasia.

We’ve been working to change that reality since 2016, and became an official nonprofit in 2021. Since then, we’ve rescued dogs from some of the most gruesome and heartbreaking situations imaginable. Some now live permanently at our sanctuary, safe and loved. Others are rehabilitated, socialized, and adopted into homes where they can live the lives they deserve.

At UMDR, we are driven by compassion, justice, and an unshakable belief that every dog deserves dignity, protection, and a life free from suffering—no matter how the law defines them. These dogs are not just tools or property; they are loyal, intelligent, and deeply emotional beings who form strong bonds with people and animals alike. We believe they deserve to be seen, valued, and protected—not discarded when they are no longer useful. Our mission is to speak up for them, care for them, and fight for a world where their lives matter.

We Are Their Voice

Our Business Sponsors:

“Act as if what you do makes a difference, it does”
-William James

UMDR makes sure every dog they rescue is given a second chance. Adopting an abandoned, neglected, or abused dog is the greatest kindness anyone can offer. You are giving them a second chance at life and love.

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