Question 1

What is Speak! for the Unspoken?

Accepted Answer

Speak! for the Unspoken is a foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue based in Grove City, OH. Our mission is saving dogs with special needs and giving them their best lives.

We believe every animal deserves love, no matter their challenges—and we work hard to give each one a second chance at life, health, and happiness. We’ve grown to have a 2nd foster hub in Kalamazoo, MI and have fosters located across 4 additional midwest states.

Question 2

Do you only rescue special needs animals?

Accepted Answer

Not exclusively. While our focus is on helping dogs with special needs, especially those overlooked by other shelters and rescues, we also help at-risk pets we simply can’t turn away.

In fact, our 2024 Impact Report shows that nearly 40% of our dogs don't have special needs, but did come from special circumstances such as an owner’s passing, unsafe living conditions, or accidental litters.

Question 3

What is a double merle dog?

Accepted Answer

Great question! In 2013, Speak! was actually founded to save double merle Aussie pups in Columbus shelters and puppy mills.

A double merle dog is the result of two merle-patterned dogs being bred together. While merle is a beautiful coat pattern, breeding two merles together gives the puppies a 25% chance of being born blind, deaf, or both. Sadly, many of these dogs are discarded by breeders—but at Speak!, we see their worth!

Question 4

What are some of the typical disabilities these dogs have?

Accepted Answer

The dogs we rescue may be:

Deaf, blind or some level of impairment 
Orthopedic issues
Dental issues
Heartworm positive
Megaesophagus 
Parvovirus or other treatable illness
Living with neurological issues or orthopedic challenges & more

Every dog is unique, and many go on to live full, happy lives with the right care and support. Want to see the full impact? Check out our 2024 Impact Report to learn more about the dogs with disabilities we’ve saved.

Question 5

I want to make a donation. Can I do it online or by mail?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely—thank you! You can donate:

Online through our secure donation form here 
By mail: 
		PO Box 534 Grove City, OH 43123.
		Please make checks payable to Speak! for the Unspoken.​​
​
We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are tax-deductible. Your support helps us say “yes” to more dogs in need.

Question 6

I have a dog I’d like to surrender. Can Speak! help?

Accepted Answer

We know life happens, and surrendering a dog is never an easy decision. While we do our best to help, we have limited foster space and focus on dogs that fit our rescue program. If you’d like to request assistance, please click here for more information.

Please note, submitting a surrender form does not guarantee placement.

We see possibilities, not disabilities

OUR FAQ