About Misfit Angels of South Jersey

Rescuing pets, finding homes, and spreading love since 2016. 

Tattooed woman cuddling dog indoors

Every Life Saved Counts

"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can still do something… and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." - Edward Everett Hale. 

At Misfit Angels of South Jersey, we believe in doing the something we can do: rescuing dogs who might otherwise be left behind. Every dog we save is given a second chance at life, love, and a forever home.

Why Adopt From Us?

Every adoption is a thoughtful match, giving your new furry friend the best chance at a happy life-and making room to save another dog in need. Our rescue approach is designed to ensure every dog finds the perfect family fit:

  • Dogs go directly from the shelter into loving homes-never into boarding or left outside.

  • Each dog is assessed for compatibility with cats, children, other pets, and home stressors, so they settle seamlessly into your family.

  • We use one consistent veterinarian, creating a thorough, easy-to-follow medical history for each dog.

Man holding puppy at event
Man cuddling with a dog

The Numbers That Drive Us

Over 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year:

  • 1.6 million are adopted

  • 670,000 are euthanized

  • 620,000 are returned to their original owners

Turning Misfits Into Family

We believe we can change these numbers. Every "Misfit" we rescue has a chance to shed their wings and become a cherished member of a family-thanks to you.

Meet Patricia Trueland, Our Founder & Director

Patricia has dedicated her life to animals since childhood. Her journey began in 1965 caring for horses at Garden State Race Track, volunteering with the Ranger Rick Club, and later helping at the Animal Welfare Association under Alice Blackburn. She has fostered for multiple rescue organizations and played a vital role in post-Katrina animal rescues in 2005, witnessing firsthand what it takes to give animals a second chance.

From Overlooked to Adored

Inspired by the classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the “Land of Misfit Toys,” Patricia realized dogs, like these toys, are often discarded or overlooked—but they deserve love and a home. And so, Misfit Angels Rescue of South Jersey was born.

Certified Care for Your New Companion

Patricia Trueland has been a Certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator since 2015 and has tested over 100 dogs. This ensures that every dog you adopt has been professionally assessed, making your adoption a safe, happy, and seamless experience.

Saving Dogs Seconds From the End

We work closely with our liaison in Tri-State area, rescuing dogs literally seconds before euthanasia. Once vetted, they travel to New Jersey to begin their new lives. Every dog finds a home. No momma is ever left behind. We take dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, tirelessly working until every Misfit has a chance at life.

People interacting with fluffy dogs indoors
Smiling lady with her pet dog

Double the Impact, Double the Love

When you adopt from Misfit Angels, you save two lives:

  1. The life of the dog you adopt.
  2. The life of the dog that can now be rescued thanks to the space you’ve opened.

Every Penny Goes to Paws

We are a volunteer-staffed, 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which means every penny of the adoption fee goes directly to the care and health of the dogs we save.

Be a Part of the Misfit Magic!

Every dog we save is a testament to the dedication of our team, our volunteers, and supporters like you. Together, we can change lives-one wagging tail at a time. Curious how you can help? Reach out to us and be a part of the Misfit Angels family.