Western Border Collie Rescue (WBCR) is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing Border Collies in the Rocky Mountain region. Founded in 2003, WBCR has saved over 1000 dogs and resumed operations in spring 2018 after a brief hiatus. We strive to place Border Collies in suitable forever homes, prioritizing the best match between the dog and adopter, and educating the public on the breed’s characteristics and needs.

Our dogs are fostered in private homes, and meetings are by appointment only after the application and approval process. WBCR relies on donations and adoption fees to cover rescue and care expenses. Since our volunteers often work full-time jobs, the adoption process may take some time. Your patience is appreciated as we work to find the best homes for our dogs.

The Border Collie, developed centuries ago in the border country between Scotland and England, was originally bred as a herding dog to manage large flocks of sheep. Known for their outstanding gathering instinct and intense “eye” – a focused stare combined with a crouching movement – they effectively move stock without coming too close. Unlike many breeds bred for physical standards, Border Collies exhibit great variability in appearance, ranging from under 30 to over 60 pounds, with various coat types and colors. Their athleticism, agility, and remarkable observational skills have earned them the reputation of being the “smartest” of all dog breeds.

Border Collies’ unique temperament and abilities, while making them exceptional working dogs, can pose challenges in a non-working environment. Their high energy, sensitivity to body language and sounds, and desire to control movement require substantial physical and mental stimulation. As a result, they may not be ideal for families with small children or those unable to provide the necessary engagement. However, in an active, involved home, Border Collies can thrive and excel in canine-human partnership sports, Search and Rescue, or Therapy work. Despite common misconceptions, they do not just need space to run but require dedicated human interaction. If you have the resources and commitment, a Border Collie can be a wonderful companion. For more information on adopting or supporting these dogs, visit our website or contact us.

Thank you for your interest in rescuing a Border Collie! Please review the application process before submitting your application, as WBCR is an all-volunteer organization, and the initial adoption steps (reference checks and home visit) can take 2-3 weeks or longer. If this wait is too long, we recommend considering adopting a shelter dog. Note that WBCR only adopts to families in Wyoming, Colorado, and surrounding states.

The adoption process involves several steps: First, do your homework on whether a Border Collie is the right dog for you by reading our “About BC’s” page. Next, complete and submit a detailed application, as this helps us determine the best match for our dogs. After an initial review, a volunteer will conduct reference checks and schedule a home visit to understand your lifestyle and home environment. If approved, an adoption coordinator will discuss potential matches with you. Finally, meets are arranged to ensure compatibility, and if all goes well, the adoption can be completed. We also provide follow-up support to ensure a successful transition for the dog into your home.

Fostering is the lifeblood of rescue, and WBCR relies entirely on foster families to save Border Collies in need. Without a facility, our ability to rescue dogs depends on the number of available foster homes. Each foster home not only saves the life of a dog from a shelter but also opens up space for another dog in need. Fostering is a heartfelt endeavor that involves helping a dog feel safe, learn about love, and find their forever home. Though it can be challenging, fostering is the most direct and meaningful way to aid Border Collies.

The most common concern about fostering is letting the dogs go, but experienced fosters will tell you that it’s possible to care for a dog and then let them move on to a loving home. WBCR fosters are deeply involved in the adoption process, ensuring each dog goes to a well-matched home. Many fosters maintain contact with adopters and find joy in seeing their former fosters thrive. The motivation for fostering often comes from the desire to help as many dogs as possible. Fostering allows you to save numerous dogs, far more than you could as an adopter. If you’re interested in fostering, WBCR offers support and guidance, making the experience rewarding and impactful. For more information or to apply, please visit our website.

Western Border Collie Rescue is entirely run and operated by volunteers, sustained through the generosity of your donations. We rely on contributions and adoption fees to cover the costs associated with rescuing, providing veterinary care, and offering behavioral support for the dogs in our program. Many of our volunteers have full-time jobs and foster Border Collies purely out of love and dedication.

WBCR does not have a facility and cannot provide immediate assistance. We are a network of volunteer foster families, so for urgent help, please contact your local shelter. We receive numerous requests weekly and strive to help as many Border Collies as possible.

To relinquish a dog, email us with the following information: photos (side profile and face), origin, age, temperament, health (spayed/neutered, current vaccinations), medical issues, behavior around strangers, kids, other dogs, cats, livestock, skills (house trained, crate trained, basic cues), behavioral issues, reason for surrender, and your name and location. Incomplete requests cannot be considered. Email wbcr@wbcrescue.org with OWNER SURRENDER REQUEST and the dog’s name in the subject line.