RAGOM is a 501(c)(3) volunteer-based, nonprofit organization operating primarily in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and western Wisconsin. Since 1985, RAGOM has rescued and rehomed more than 10,000 Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes.
Our Story
A Humble Beginning Grows
RAGOM began as Retrieve a Golden of Minnesota in 1985, with one homeless Golden Retriever in a shelter whose time was up. Hank and Jane Nygaard took her in, had her spayed and vaccinated, and found her a loving forever family. Shortly after, they attended a dog show and learned that some breeders didn’t keep their dogs when they could no longer show them.
These combined experiences inspired Hank and Jane to begin their rescue mission. Countless volunteers and generous donors have stepped up through the years with the energy, selflessness, love, and funds to rescue and rehome more than 9,000 Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes.
Mission and Vision
We provide Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes a second chance through education, advocacy, rescue, and community outreach.
Specialization
Other specialization
- Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes.
Adoption Policy
Adoption Process Overview
• Your application is valid for one year. If you want to apply for more than one dog, please email us at application@ragom.org. You do not need to submit additional applications.
• As a Foster-based rescue, we do not have a central location where dogs can be viewed. Our dogs are located in Foster homes across a five-state area, so it is unlikely you will be able to meet a dog before applying.
• Fosters review applications and reach out to applicants they feel will be a good match for the dog. If, after speaking with you, you both agree it might be a good fit, a virtual or in-person “meet and greet” may be scheduled.
• Some dogs will attend various events, giving you the chance to meet them in person. When dogs attend events, it will be noted on the dogs’ profile page.
Spay and Neuter
As a rescue organization, RAGOM must balance managing the pet population with the dog’s health and well-being. Based on clinical recommendations, dogs wait until 12 months before being altered.
Dogs 12 months and older are altered before they are adopted. Dogs under 12 months of age are adopted with the expectation that they are altered between 12-15 months of age or returned to RAGOM. Details regarding unaltered dog adoptions are located here.
Adoption Fees (effective January 1, 2024)
The cost to care for each dog far exceeds the adoption fee. The average cost for a healthy adult dog ranges from $600-$1400 including microchipping, spay/neuter surgery, wellness check, and vaccinations. We appreciate your understanding and support in our mission to make a difference in the lives of these wonderful dogs:
• Puppy/0 to 1: $550
• Adult/1+ to 7: $500
• Senior/8+: $200
• International Puppy & Adult/0 to 7: $1100
• International Senior/8+: $750
• Special Needs: Case-by-Case
Adoption Fees can be paid via Credit Card or PayPal. RAGOM does not accept checks. Directions to pay online are located here.
Adoption Agreement
The final step in the Adoption Process is for Adopters to sign an Adoption Agreement committing to the following:
https://ragom.org/adoptable-dogs/
Testimonials
No testimonials submitted

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Minneapolis
See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Minneapolis

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
Read more