Welcome to Westie Rescue of Missouri

Westie Rescue of Missouri, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 1999 to address the rescue needs of shelter dogs and puppy mill dogs. It is the mission of Westie Rescue of Missouri to prevent cruelty, abuse or neglect of West Highland White Terriers. All Westie Rescue staff are volunteers who want to see that all Westies have a warm, safe and healthy environment where they can develop to their full potential while we search for their new "forever" home.

What is a Westie

Westies are cute little fluffy dogs, but their looks can be misleading. Westies are tough little hunting dogs. They were bred to hunt varmints and, originally, only those dogs that were brave enough to fight badgers were used as breeding stock.

Today's Westies are still brave and tough and they still like to hunt. They love to chase "prey" animals and they will dig to China to find a varmint.

Many people look at Westies as lap dogs or as good pets for small children but neither one of the assumptions are necessarily true. Westies are free-thinkers and may or may not want to be lap dogs. In fact, most Westies are not interested in being lap dogs until they are between 2 and 3 years old. They are high-energy in a small package and they like to be on the move exploring their world. They may also revert to their "prey instinct" when around small children and more than a few Westies have been released to rescue because they have terrorized a small child. Due to this paticular trait in a Westie, we will NOT adopt to a home with children younger than eight years old.

For people who appreciate a smart and independent dog, Westies can be a perfect pet. But, please don't pick a Westie if you are wanting a dog for a small child or if your lifestyle will not accommodate a high energy dog.

Due to lack of interest after the 2022 calendar, Westie Rescue of Missouri did not produce a 2023 calendar. 

Westie Rescue of Missouri Calendar (SOLD OUT)