Thank you for considering utilizing the RescueGroups.org adoptable pet data feed.
Below is a list of specific ways the RescueGroups.org APIs (REST and HTTP/JSON) are different from other data feeds. We are proud that we are different than other data sources -- primarily because we keep the volunteers and homeless animals first, as you can see in the table below.
If you still aren't sure, or you have any questions about our API services or any of our other services, please feel free to contact us.
| RescueGroups.org | |
Requirements and Terms of Service |
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| Data is free of “powered by” advertisement requirement |  |
| Data is free of added advertisements and logos in descriptions (e.g., Pet Health insurance, microchips) | |
| Does not require link from each animal/organization to data provider's website | |
| Does not provide a competing adoption listing website | |
Data Quality |
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| Accurate account listings (i.e., does not require duplication of organizations for accurate search results) | |
| Accurate animal listings (i.e., does not require duplication of animals for accurate search results) | |
| Accurate breed information (i.e., does not support sudo-breeds like tuxedo and colored breeds like “orange”) | |
Policies and Rescue/Shelter Requirements |
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| Open partnerships with “competitive” organizations (i.e., other management services) | |
| Average time from sign-up to account creation | |
| Extensive rescue/shelter expectations See: https://www.rescuegroups.org/requirements |
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| Rapid resolution of complaints | |
| Immediate closure of violating accounts | |
| Account grooming of inactive/non-existent organizations | |
Growth and Community Support |
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| Non-profit 501(c)(3) | |
| Financially supported by the community | |
| Continual expansion of API | |
Functionality |
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| Updateable API (HTTP/JSON) | |
| FTP-based full and complete data download | |
| Full download includes full animal descriptions (no string length restrictions) | |
| Includes an unlimited number of pictures and video URLs | |
| Each animal has its own specific location | |
| Each animal has its own specific contact information | |
| Specific field/data support: Coat length Specific animal location (zip/postal code) Colors YouTube video URL Over 45 personality traits Kill/euthanasia information (date, reason, etc) Found information (date, location, etc) Ear type, eye color, tail type |
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Support and Customization |
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| Direct developer access for support | |
| API customization | |