As Good as Gold - Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois (2025)

26/10/2025

LOOKING FOR SPECIAL FOSTER HOMES

Some dogs don’t come to us ready-made. They arrive with uncertain pasts, timid hearts, and behaviors shaped by fear, neglect, or simply never having been shown the way. But with time, love, positive reinforcement, and patience—they transform.

We are looking for passionate, dedicated dog lovers who are ready to open their homes and hearts to dogs who need just a little more. More understanding. More guidance. More grace. These dogs aren’t broken—they’re just waiting for someone to believe in them.

Many of these dogs thrive best in a solo environment—a home where they are the only canine companion, free to decompress and grow without competition or stress.

We have a special need for foster volunteers who:

* Have no other dogs in the home
* Have a fully fenced yard for safe exercise
* Spend more time at home than away
* Have training experience or the time & passion to learn alongside their foster dog

When you foster a dog who needs a little extra, you’re not just helping them—you’re investing in yourself. You'll gain invaluable skills in positive training and canine communication that will enrich your relationship with dogs for the rest of your life.

You’ll witness a transformation that only love, consistency, and care can create. And you’ll never forget the moment that scared, unsure dog looks at you with trust for the very first time.

If you would like to have more information on our fostering program, contact us at [email protected]

26/10/2025

FRANKIE - is available for adoption!

Fast Facts
* 1 year old male
* High energy
* Social butterfly
* Cuddle bug
* Smart and willing learner
* Golden-doodle/labra-doodle mix
* Happy, goofy boy
* House-trained

Bio:
Need someone to liven up your life? Step right up because I’m your guy. Foster mom describes me as a goofy, gangly golden teenager who settles and naps like a champ once I get my wiggles out. I love to wrestle and run zoomies in the yard with the younger of my foster brothers, who patiently tolerates my occasional breaches of canine etiquette (like stealing balls out of his mouth). I’m also respectful of my older foster brother who is not so playful.

Once I’ve burned off energy, I’m ready to settle in near my foster mom, and when it’s time to relax I like nothing better than crawling into her lap for neck scratches – my fave!

We’ve been doing some training to help me learn self-control and guess what? I love learning! I know sit, down, paw and wait. I will pull on leash a bit, and I get excited when we see other people and dogs – but in a “Hi, let’s party” kind of way. I do love walks.

Even though I’m energetic, foster mom says I have a chill vibe: I don’t guard anything and haven’t shown any aggressive behaviors. I do bark when the doorbell rings and at dogs and people walking past the house. Sometimes I get a little jumpy when people visit because I’m so happy to see them. But we’re working on these things, which my forever home will need to do with me.

So, if you’re looking for a joyful adventure buddy who will make you laugh every single day, then flop at your feet for a nap, I’m your guy. Come meet me and let the goofy grins begin.

Weight: 60 pounds

Good with kids? Yes, but can initially be mouthy, so he should be supervised; good with kids once he settles down

Good with cats? Pestered cats in his foster home initially but now leaves them alone

Adoption fee: $550

Medical concerns: None

Requirement: A fenced yard and positive-reinforcement training classes; a patient, playful canine companion will help him burn energy but isn’t necessary if his family gives him a lot of exercise.

ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS, NO EXCEPTIONS:
* Be at least 23 years of age
* No children under 6 years of age living in your home
* We primarily adopt goldens to families living within Illinois, Northwest Indiana, and the southernmost counties of Wisconsin
* If you do not own your residence or live in a condo, you will need a letter from your landlord or property management company
* Provide excellent vet care for your dog(s)
* Do not use an invisible fence
* Are not over your town/county's pet limit
* Have the knowledge and agreement of all adults living in the household
* Be prepared to make a lifetime commitment

If interested, please fill out our online adoption application form; please make sure you fill in every required field/question or your submission will not go through:
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/online-adoption-application/

Please note that we take time to learn as much as we can about each dog in our care and our bios are our current observations; we are unable to make any guarantees on the future health or temperament of your adopted dog. Most dogs in our care come with unknown pre-rescue history and as such breed and age estimates are an educated guess

26/10/2025

CURLS - is available for adoption!

Fast Facts
* 4-year-old female
* Low to medium energy
* Mini golden doodle
* Sweet, gentle girl
* House-trained
* Crate-trained
* Good with other dogs
* Still coming out of her shell

Bio:
Well, it’s no surprise how I got my name! I’m a mini golden doodle, so a curly coat is in my DNA. I am a retired breeding dog who is still trying to figure out what it means to be a pampered pet, so I am still quite cautious around people. But thanks to my loving and patient foster mom, I am making progress! She lets me do things at my own pace, no matter how slow it may be.

I startle easily and I will duck or run if you approach me too quickly, especially if you approach me head-on. And it’s best to go slowly when petting me. Foster mom has figured out that I like to be petted on my neck before she pats my head or body.

I do enjoy being with my canine foster siblings; they give me comfort and sometimes I’ll even play with them. And I enjoy being outside – with and without the other dogs. It’s clear to my foster mom that I want to be part of the family: I join them in the family room and follow bedtime routines. I especially like being near my foster mom. I sleep in my crate with the door open and I eat late at night when no one is watching.

Foster mom is very proud of the progress I’ve made and knows that in the right home, I’ll continue to gain confidence and learn to trust. Will that be you?

Weight: 35 pounds
Good with kids? Unknown, but foster mom thinks she would be
Good with cats? Ignores the cat in the foster home
Adoption fee: $550
Medical concerns: None

Requirements: Permanent resident dog to help her continue to build confidence, fully fenced-in yard due to being fearful and afraid of being on a leash.

ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS, NO EXCEPTIONS:
* Be at least 23 years of age
* No children under 6 years of age living in your home
* We primarily adopt goldens to families living within Illinois, Northwest Indiana, and the southernmost counties of Wisconsin
* If you do not own your residence or live in a condo, you will need a letter from your landlord or property management company
* Provide excellent vet care for your dog(s)
* Do not use an invisible fence
* Are not over your town/county's pet limit
* Have the knowledge and agreement of all adults living in the household
* Be prepared to make a lifetime commitment

If interested, please fill out our online adoption application form; please make sure you fill in every required field/question or your submission will not go through:
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/online-adoption-application/

Please note that we take time to learn as much as we can about each dog in our care and our bios are our current observations; we are unable to make any guarantees on the future health or temperament of your adopted dog. Most dogs in our care come with unknown pre-rescue history and as such breed and age estimates are an educated guess

25/10/2025

Help Us Make Mardi Gras Unforgettable!

Mardi Gras Carnival
May 9, 2026

Eaglewood Resort, Itasca, IL

We’re gearing up for our Mardi Gras Carnival fundraiser, and we need amazing volunteers to help make it a success.

Are you interested in heading a committee, setting up decorations, soliciting donations, joining a tech team, organizing a game or a raffle? If so, there’s a spot for you on our event team.

We need high energy people willing to initiate and follow through with projects to be committee heads, and also volunteers to work set-up on the event day.

Committee members must be willing to be actively involved in planning, carry through with assigned projects, be available for zoom meetings, and commit to purchasing tickets for the event. We will begin sharing ideas in the next couple of months. We already have many things planned, but we will need volunteers to implement them.

Those that are interested in just volunteering, will have a more limited role, working on assigned projects, organizing a game or raffle on the event night, or other projects and tasks as needed. You will not be required to be at any planning meetings until several weeks before the event and can commit later, as we know schedules change.

We’ve started early and have many exciting ideas in the works, now we need the people to bring it to fruition. Consider being part of the Mardi Gras Magic and help us raise money for the dogs we love while having fun!

Contact us and we will be happy to discuss the possibilities.

Thank you,

Fundraising Events Coordinators
Wanda: [email protected]
Rose: [email protected]

24/10/2025

AGaG FALL MEETING
Deadline to Purchase Tickets is TODAY, October 24th

We’re thrilled to announce a new twist on our annual fall meeting!

Sunday, November 2nd
Noon - 3 pm

Church Street Brewing Company
1480 Industrial Dr Ste C, Itasca, IL
https://churchstreetbrew.com/

This year’s event is all about connection, celebration, and storytelling — a chance to meet fellow members, fosters, adopters, and volunteers, share ideas, and celebrate the incredible rescue journeys that make As Good as Gold so special.

Come enjoy great company, heartwarming rescue stories, heavy appetizers, and a relaxed afternoon before the holidays kick off. Let’s raise a glass (and a paw!) to celebrate all the reasons we love AGaG!

If you're interested in becoming a member of AGaG, please join us!

Secure your tickets for the Fall Gathering here: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E356588&id=44

23/10/2025

2026 AGaG Rescue Calendar … ALMOST SOLD OUT!

Less than 20 Calendars Left!

Don’t miss out, order your 2026 AGaG Rescue calendar today!

Do you think you’ve placed an order but can’t remember? No problem, email [email protected] to confirm. Place your order soon before we sell out of this unique gift for everyone on your list. Best of all … you will be supporting our deserving goldens and golden mixes!

Click here to preview the calendar and place your order: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/product/2026-rescue-calendar/

Thank you for your loyal support of AGaG!

23/10/2025

Shop As Good as Gold!

We've added two new items to our shop .... vintage canvas zip tote & vintage t-shirt! Check out these and other must have items from As Good as Gold's virtual shop!

Don't Delay! Order Today!
https://www.asgoodasgold.org/shop/

if you have an interest becoming a part of the transport team, please contact us: transport@asgoodasgold.org

23/10/2025

if you have an interest becoming a part of the transport team, please contact us: [email protected]

22/10/2025

AGaG FALL MEETING
Deadline to Purchase Tickets is this Friday, October 24th

We’re thrilled to announce a new twist on our annual fall meeting!

Sunday, November 2nd
Noon - 3 pm

Church Street Brewing Company
1480 Industrial Dr Ste C, Itasca, IL
https://churchstreetbrew.com/

This year’s event is all about connection, celebration, and storytelling — a chance to meet fellow members, fosters, adopters, and volunteers, share ideas, and celebrate the incredible rescue journeys that make As Good as Gold so special.

Come enjoy great company, heartwarming rescue stories, heavy appetizers, and a relaxed afternoon before the holidays kick off. Let’s raise a glass (and a paw!) to celebrate all the reasons we love AGaG!

If you're interested in becoming a member of AGaG, please join us!

Secure your tickets for the Fall Gathering here: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E356588&id=44

22/10/2025

RODIN - is available for adoption!

FAST FACTS:
6-year-old male
Medium energy
Sweet and happy
Loves attention
Mixed breed
Housetrained
Comfortable in restricted area
Fenced yard required

Bio:
I can’t say for sure if the sculptor Auguste Rodin is my namesake, but if he is, I’ll take that as a compliment. I’m a mishmash of golden retriever and supposedly a poodle, but as you can tell from my photo, I lack a poodle’s curly coat. I look like a short golden, not a golden doodle. Foster mom thinks I may have a herding breed in my ancestry. I love to follow her around throughout the day and enjoy her attention or the attention of visitors.

When I first arrived at my foster mom’s house, I was an excitable guy, especially when we had company. Around foster mom, I was mostly cool, calm and collected. But visitors got me going! My go-to for letting off steam was to bark – a lot! I’m happy to report that thanks to foster mom’s patience, an excellent trainer provided by As Good as Gold and anti-anxiety medication, I’ve made great strides. In fact, my trainer says I’m a good dog with lots of good qualities and that I’m smart!

I can be reactive when I see other dogs – I bark at them – so that’s something else we’re working on with my trainer, and we’re making progress there, too. Even so, I’ll do best as the only dog in the house because I’m one of those Velcro kind of dogs.

Here’s what my foster mom has to say about me:

“Rody is a sweet, happy boy – well-behaved and house-trained – who wants to be near his person and soak up all the attention. He doesn’t have a lot of bad habits. He’s curious about everything, always wants to know what I’m doing.”

Weight: 62 pounds
Good with kids? Unknown
Good with cats? Unknown
Adoption fee: $550

Medical concerns: Needs to lose some weight; taking 40 mg of Fluoxetine daily for anxiety

Requirements: Needs to be only dog, fenced yard and positive reinforcement training

If you have an interest in adoption, please contact us: [email protected]

21/10/2025

CURLS - is available for adoption!

FAST FACTS
· 4 years old
· Female
· Mini golden doodle
· Low-medium energy
· 35 pounds
· Good with kids? Unknown
· Good with cats? Ignores the cat in the foster home
· Good with dogs? Yes, must have a resident dog in her permanent home
· Adoption fee: $550

Requirements: Permanent resident dog to help her continue to build confidence; fully fenced-in yard due to being fearful and afraid of being on a leash.

BIO
Curls came from the same breeder as Fiona and share many of the typical traits seen in retired breeding dogs. She is very timid and is just beginning to learn what it means to live in a home.

She startles easily and will either duck or run if you approach her too quickly. While she seems interested in eating near the resident dogs in the foster home, she often changes her mind. Her foster mom puts her bowl in her crate, which she sees as her safe space, but she won’t eat if anyone is nearby—she eats late at night when it's quiet and no one is around.

Curls goes outside with the resident dogs and clearly wants to be part of the family. She joins them in the family room and even follows their routine at bedtime. She sleeps in her crate with the door open, finding comfort in that space.

Her foster mom is incredibly proud of her. Despite her fears, Curls has never had an accident in the house. She’s a sweet, gentle soul who is still figuring things out and learning how to trust. She's a very good dog, just unsure of how to be one yet.

If you meet her requirements and have an interest in adoption, please contact us: [email protected]

ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS, NO EXCEPTIONS:
* Be at least 23 years of age
* No children under 6 years of age living in your home
* We primarily adopt goldens to families living within Illinois, * Northwest Indiana, and the southernmost counties of Wisconsin
* If you do not own your residence or live in a condo, you will need a letter from your landlord or property management company
* Provide excellent vet care for your dog(s)
* Do not use an invisible fence
* Are not over your town/county's pet limit
* Have the knowledge and agreement of all adults living in the household
* Be prepared to make a lifetime commitment

21/10/2025

JACK - is available for adoption!

Fast Facts
* 1-2-years old
* Male
* 40 pounds
* Good with kids? Cautious around all people
* Good with cats? Unknown
* Low to medium energy
* Cautious & Timid
* Fully fenced in yard required
* Resident Dog Required
* Good with other dogs
* Unknown with cats
* Housebroken

Medical concerns: Up to date on shots and is neutered

Requirements: A fenced yard is required because Jack is very timid and could be a flight risk, a resident dog is required to help him build confidence.

To read Jack's bio, go here: https://www.asgoodasgold.org/portfolio/jack/?portfolioCats=2

ADOPTION REQUIREMENTS, NO EXCEPTIONS:
* Be at least 23 years of age
* No children under 6 years of age living in your home
* We primarily adopt goldens to families living within Illinois, * Northwest Indiana, and the southernmost counties of Wisconsin
* If you do not own your residence or live in a condo, you will need a letter from your landlord or property management company
* Provide excellent vet care for your dog(s)
* Do not use an invisible fence
* Are not over your town/county's pet limit
* Have the knowledge and agreement of all adults living in the household
* Be prepared to make a lifetime commitment

For additional information, email us: [email protected]

As Good as Gold - Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois

26/10/2025

26/10/2025

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21/10/2025

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