Welcome to WAMAL

Washington Alaskan Malamute Adoption League (WAMAL) was formed in 1998 by Cindy Neely to help with Malamute Rescue in Washington State and since then has expanded into Oregon.  WAMAL rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes Malamutes (or Mal-enough-a-mutes!) who, through no fault of their own, find themselves without a home or in need of a new home.

Serving the greater Northwest we are also part of a national rescue network, AMAL, that covers other areas of the US. WAMAL provides hope to families that must rehome their malamutes when life has taken a sharp detour; training support to those families desperately working to keep their 4-legged family members; works with shelters and takes into rescue strays and those pups needing an extra level of thoroughness in the adoption process; and, actively recruits adopters and foster homes.

We are a 100% volunteer run, 501c.3 non-profit organization that is celebrating over 20 years!  Our volunteers come from all walks of life and locations and WAMAL is only able to do what we do because of this generous and dedicated team of volunteers.  They truly make it possible to save the lives of this gentle, stubborn, and loving working breed. WAMAL has rescued many hundreds of malamutes to date and each holds a place in our hearts.

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Highlighted Dogs
See all the Dogs!
  SADIE
SADIE is a lovely adult malamute that wants to be your one and only!  She has been well cared for and loved; however, has to find a new home due to an incident with another dog.  Other than needing to be an only pet and careful around other dogs, she really has no other issues.  She walks well on leash and knows a number of commands - and even follows them quite well on leash and about half the time when not on leash.  (The other half of the time off leash she wants to convince us she just didn't hear the commands...oh malamutes!)  On walks, she does well with the 'wait' command, though will pull to get to another dog, so needs someone strong enough to keep her from doing that.  She enjoys pulling carts, which is good, as she needs exercise to lose a little extra 'fluff'.  This friendly girl loves people and has spent time with older children that she did very well with.  Sadie enjoys attention and getting pets and b...read more about SADIE
  KAIN
KAIN Wanted: Super cushy bed!  It would be great if the bed came with the accessories of a loving family and a calm environment too!  Kain is a senior mal that has unfortunately experienced some major changes in his home that makes it best for him to find a new place for his retirement years.  Kain is a very good boy; however, he does need someone who is patient and understands he doesn't like being startled (I mean who does?)  The best home for him will be with adults and may do well with another dog of similar energy levels with proper introductions.  He walks well on leash, which will be good to help him lose a little extra (ahem) fluff.  He is very smart and knows a number of commands.  He can be a little excitable, so may need to be reminded of those commands on occasion.  True to his breed, he has a strong prey drive so no small critters.  Kain is ready to join his new family with some walks, hangin...read more about KAIN
  KANGA
KANGA  is ~4 year old, 85 pound malamute. He thrives on adventure and would love an active adopter who will take him on adventures and give him plenty of play time!   Kanga is a loyal guy and will be a great companion for someone. He also LOVES the snow! His number one favorite activity (even more than walks and treats!) is going for car rides! He loves feeling the wind in his face through an open window (car surfing). Kanga is incredibly observant and curious.   Kanga’s comfort with people has grown significantly while in rescue. He does need a little time to build trust, but eventually he will follow you around and give you kisses! He is also quite affectionate and loyal to those he bonds with.   Kanga has excellent house manners and is happy to chill on his bed or lay beside you as you work. He has basic training and knows: sit, down, come, get it, stay, and release and is ready for the next level of training. He is very t...read more about KANGA
  SPIKE
SPIKE will do anything with and for you as long as he trusts you! Spike knows basic commands, walks nicely, and will let you brush anywhere. Timid at first, he will lean in for pets and will woo, leap, and twirl when he’s excited. He is very smart and extremely food motivated, so you can teach him pretty much anything. We have been working on ‘sit’ and ‘wait’ to teach him not to push through the door since he doesn’t like to be left behind. Spike will play fetch with you, bringing the toy right to your hands sometimes. His favorite past time is sleeping and gnawing on bones. There have been a couple of times that he has guarded a bone (it was a rawhide that had broken off) and a rat that he had caught, but I never worried that he would bite me. He will warn you if he is not comfortable with you getting too close or guarding something (only twice in the time he has been with us), so you have to be able to read h...read more about SPIKE
  KOA
KOA Who's a good boy?  Koa's a good boy...suuuuuuuch a good boy!!  This pup will do best in a home of his own where he can get a lot of activity and attention.  He loves people and especially getting belly and ear rubs.  He walks great on leash and does very well in the car, so will be a joy to hike with!  He knows 'sit', 'down', and is very receptive to voice, even coming when called.  This polite boy will also give you his paw for a shake!  With all that intelligence there has to be a little malamute mischief and here it is...he can open doors!  So typical of his breed, he will need a secure space and activity so he doesn't get bored and decide to take himself for a walk.  That challenge is easily overcome by ensuring he is exercised and engaged - which will be super easy with his personality - I mean who wouldn't want to pay him all the attention?  As one of our volunteers aptly put it, Koa is 're...read more about KOA
  ROWDY (DAMIAN)
  ROWDY boy is healed from his surgery and ready to find his furever home! Rowdy came into rescue diagnosed with ME (megaesophagus).  We were able to get him the surgery he needed (thank you all who donated!!) and his foster mom nursed him for his recovery.  It is reported that he LOVES playing with other dogs (he has play dates with all kinds and all sizes!) and is super friendly with every human too.  He does live up to his name tho and will benefit from some boundaries and training!!   Rowdy is estimated to be between 1-2 years old and weighs about 65 pounds. His foster mom can tell you everything you need to know to keep this boy healthy!!Here’s a few words from the boy himself: “Hi!  Rowdy the Rascal here. I'm doing great these days and am ready to find my new fur-ever human home!I’m so lucky to have been able to be helped by the people at OSU veterinary hospital. And I'm so grateful to my foster mom.&n...read more about ROWDY (DAMIAN)
  LONO
LONO is a very special malamute seeking what we can best describe as a zen home.  This young guy has experienced some of the worst life has to offer a pup - both physical and emotional abuse, required to live in the garage once he 'outgrew' the house.  Due to that he has some behavioral challenges that will need time, patience, and training to change.  Specifically, he is sensitive when he is in a kennel (especially when someone approaches quietly), has some sensitivity around his neck and face, and has also shown some resource guarding.  All of these things are understandable, and frankly not unexpected with his history.  And fortunately this is only part of Lono's story.  He is also a young, playful malamute that knows 'sit' and 'down' already, enjoys walks, retrieves Frisbees, and is starting to seek petting and affection.  He has done well with another large dog, so may enjoy a furry pack member in his new home.&...read more about LONO
  BUBBA
BUBBA is a big boy that is ready to fill up your home and heart!  Sadly, Bubba's previous owner abandoned him - though at least he was left at a wonderful boarding facility where he was loved and cared for while working through the legal process of having ownership officially transferred.  The kennel owners were then able to contact WAMAL to have us help find him a new furever home and even gave him a groom before he joined us.  Bubba really enjoys people and getting attention and we think he will transition really well into his new home.  The kennel owners described him as fun to be around!  Typical of his breed he is a bit of a puller on leash; however, that is easily remedied by taking him on lots of adventures and training, which will work well for him since he enjoys exploring his surroundings and is a great car passenger!  He is very food and treat-oriented and he is ready to impress with his range of tricks and co...read more about BUBBA
  DEKOTA
DEKOTA came to us from a challenging living situation.  She had recently given birth but was surrendered, suffering from several health conditions.  Dekota is almost 1 ½ years old and weighs in currently at about 90 pounds, is thin and lithe, standing tall on long legs.  She has been under the care of a wonderful foster and has been nursed back to health! Dekota is super gentle but also very shy with humans. She is far more comfortable around dogs and so we will be looking to place her in a home with another medium or large well-behaved dog or two.  Currently she is best buds and a playful companion with her foster brother and she watches him for behavior cues around humans. Dekota is sweet, happy, playful and energetic with no guarding issues nor aggression. Dekota needs an adopter who has an abundance of patience and understanding of her fear and shyness. She needs time and a calm environment without a lot of commotion or noise.  W...read more about DEKOTA
  TIOGA
TIOGA is ready to GO!  This happy boy is all energy and effusiveness!  He came to WAMAL from one of our amazing shelter partners and is ready for a malamute savvy furever home that is ready for lots of activity and adventures.  He can get excited and will jump up, so may do better in a home with older children as he may knock into little ones.  Tioga is very friendly and loves attention and interaction - he even enjoys being brushed.  He knows the command of 'sit' so far and with his intelligence will quickly pick up other commands.  He enjoys walking and settles in nicely after some initial pulling.  While in the shelter it was reported he adapted quite well - better than most - and quickly learned the routine.  Tioga is a great pup that we expect will be adopted quickly so get your application in ASAP!
Read more about TIOGA...
  BARBULA
BARBULA is in need of a loving home and, well, a barber!  As with many of us, Barbula was the recipient of a "quarantine haircut" and the important thing is it will all grow back and be beautiful!  And that bad haircut can't distract from the amazing pup she is.  Barbula comes to WAMAL from one of our amazing shelter partners and is described as a very nice, sweet girl.  She is curious about everything around her and is very attentive to people, sniffing around and then walking back to check in with our evaluator and give some kisses.  Her favorite things so far are attention, squeaky toys, and treats!  She will sit nicely for a treat and this smart girl will enjoy learning more commands in her new home.  She walks well on leash and is energetic so will make a great hiking buddy.  She may most enjoy being an only dog or possibly enjoy a large dog of the same energy level.  Barbula is a talker and she ...read more about BARBULA
  HAKU
HAKU was a return visitor to one of our amazing shelter partners and this most recent time his owners did not claim him, allowing the shelter to reach out to WAMAL to get him into an amazing furever home!  He is underweight and was stressed in the shelter environment, though still did well with the staff.  Haku would do best in a malamute experienced home and may do well with a canine companion.  Once he settles in we expect he will be a wonderful companion, and even allowed our transporter to hold his paw while he rode shotgun!  He walks well on leash and enjoyed laying down in the play yard and rubbing his body all over the grass!  He is described by one of our volunteers as 'a really cool guy' and we could not agree more!  Haku enjoys treats and will sit for them (though he tries to protest with barking!) but then will sit and gladly gulps it down!  It is good to see he is treat motivated as it will help him get back up to a healthy we...read more about HAKU
  ICICLE (Courtesy Listing)
Courtesy Listing ICICLE is residing with his foster, Genny, so for more info please contact her directly: gennybreon@gmail.com or 515-227-9092. Genny is coordinating his adoption directly. His foster says, “ICY is doing amazingly well! His last surgery was December 23rd at SVS in Kirkland, a bilateral TPLO plate removal. We don’t have enough kind words and prayers to thank Dr. Vince and his team for the wonderful care. He’s such a happy playful pup! He's loving our longer than usual walks and doesn’t seem in discomfort or pain anymore (before a bit of exercise could cause lots of discomfort). He’s in a better mood and always smiling. He is a bit more interested in the kitties and the playpen is not something he sees as a big obstacle, he’s more confident on standing, but we manage to be always close and put some blankets around so he doesn’t see them and it’s fine. So, I think definitely no other animals in his f...read more about ICICLE (Courtesy Listing)
  KONA (Courtesy Listing)
COURTESY LISTING KONA is a sweet, gentle and loving Malamute mix, he is around 5-6 years old and weighs 80lbs. He is ready to find his forever home! Kona is a well mannered, mellow and sweet dog who is happy to just be where his people are. Kona can be more shy at first and takes a little bit of time warming up to new people and feeling comfortable in new situations. Once he knows you, he is so loving and sweet as can be! He enjoys walks and walks well on leash. He does get a little more confidence with other dogs around to show him things are 'safe', so he would do well with another dog in the home. He would love to live in a quiet area with a fenced yard for him to lounge and roam. He is not a busy city dog. He is not tested with cats. Kids over 8. Kona is neutered, up to date on shots and microchipped. Also, Kona’s Son is Bowie so please check out Bowie too on their website. Kona is being lovingly cared for at Forever Home Dog Rescue. F...read more about KONA (Courtesy Listing)
  BOWIE (Courtesy Listing)
COURTESY LISTING BOWIE is a sweet and happy Malamute/Husky/Pit Mix, he is a little under 3 years old and weighs 90lbs. He is ready to find his forever home! Bowie is well mannered, fairly mellow after he gets a good walk or playtime in and enjoys being with his people. He is happy to go where his people go, he likes to be outside and would love to tag along for camping adventures! Since he is very large he would not make the best long or rigorous hike partner, but loves trails. Bowie is happy to lounge with you after his daily activity. Bowie is good with other dogs. He would love to have a fenced backyard to lounge and play in. He’s not tested with cats. Kids over 8. Bowie is neutered, up to date on shots and microchipped. Also, Bowies’ Dad is Kona so please check Kona out too on their website.   Bowie is being lovingly cared for at Forever Home Dog Rescue. For more info and to meet Bowie please contact them directly at f...read more about BOWIE (Courtesy Listing)
  MAX (Courtesy Listing)
Courtesy Listing My name is Max! Max is a 7-year-old Alaskan Malamute/German Shepard/Lab mix. Max has bounced around a couple of homes due to some behavioral issues but with the right family that is dedicated to him and his training, he is a wonderful dog! Max will resource guard and is protective over his food, toys, and his person. His previous family claims he began this behavior after getting attacked at the dog park at the age of 2. The majority of the time he is a great dog with no issues, but he will need a family that is experienced and can work with him in the areas he has some issues. He is up to date on all shots, neutered, potty trained, crate trained, and walks well on leash unless he sees a bunny, squirrel, or another dog. Since Max can be protective of his person, Max needs a single owner home or a home with two very experienced and committed owners as he will likely end up bonding with and being protective of one of the owners. We will not place him in a hom...read more about MAX (Courtesy Listing)
  KEISHA (Courtesy Listing)
Keisha is the latest lovely lady of advanced age to join Forget Me Not after the tragic death of her owner. This 9 year old Malamute/Husky mix has a marvelous personality and adores attention and affection. She is a talkative girl who loves water, plays with pinecones, and enjoys riding in the car. She wants to be an integrated member of the family, rather than being left outside in a yard alone (she has been known to dig a bit and even open gates when she feels bored or neglected). She is housetrained and has good manners.  Video of Keisha  https://youtu.be/GS1cgj30CS0 Keisha would do best as an only pet, though it's possible she could live with a male dog. She is not a fan of female dogs, and like many malamutes and huskies, she has a high prey drive and we do not recommend cats or poultry for her family members. She can be a little grouchy around small children (like many dowagers), and would love a fairly low-key, relaxing life with her final family, perhaps with...read more about KEISHA (Courtesy Listing)
  INDIGO (Courtesy Listing)
Courtesy Listing INDIGO is a 6 year old female who is currently living in Dallas Texas. She was bought directly from a breeder and was the runt of the litter. She stands at 24 inches tall and weighing in at 65 lbs. Her owners are moving to the Seattle area by the end of the summer. Indigo does have smaller siblings but due to her inability to realize the size difference, she has been kept separated from them. She is non aggressive but she plays too hard. The owners are moving to a houseboat and there is no way to keep her dogs separated in a already smaller living arrangement. Owners just want what is best for Indigo. They were going to move earlier until the Texas blizzard, causing damage that need repairs before selling. Indigo has little experience with other dogs so preferably a one dog home with no small children. Indigo's main goal in life is to be petted and cuddled. She also loves watching action movies and will bark at all the crazy scenes. Indigo is Spayed and ...read more about INDIGO (Courtesy Listing)
  PHOENIX (Adoption Pending)
***Adoption Pending*** PHOENIX is rising from the ashes and looking for a soft place to land.  Already in his young life he has been through some very challenging times.  In fact, his owners leaving him behind was one of the best things to happen as he was rescued after a week of no food or water (but at least he wasn't being abused anymore).  Now Phoenix is in a wonderful foster home getting the TLC he deserves while waiting to find his forever home.  With the resilience typical of the breed and his age, he is already thriving and letting his mal personality come out!  He takes treats gently and will enjoy some extra while he gets to a good weight.  He is very attentive to his foster mom and is enjoying spending time inside and with people.  He already knows some commands and follows them - when it suits him of course - including sit, lay down, and will give his paw.  Phoenix did well with another husky he was introduced to, so ...read more about PHOENIX (Adoption Pending)
  HUNTER (Adoption Pending)
***Adoption Pending*** HUNTER is on the hunt for a cushy bed, lots of snacks, and - most importantly - his furever home!  With his striking good looks, sweet demeanor, and great energy (active but also enjoys some good chill time) we don't expect this boy to be hunting for long!  Coming to WAMAL from one of our amazing shelter partners, Hunter quickly became a staff favorite at the shelter.  This young boy is described as attentive, easy to walk, likes to give kisses, and obeys commands...sometimes.  He technically knows 'sit' and 'lay down' but does have that typical malamute selective hearing.  He is very connected to people, looking back at his handler while walking and sitting next to folks to get love and pets.  We think he will do well in most homes where he can get attention and be included.  Hunter adjusts to new environments quickly and is ready to move in with you today!   
Read more about HUNTER (Adoption Pending)...
  DIESEL (Adoption Pending)
***Adoption Pending*** DIESEL is ready to roll right into your home and heart!  In fact, he is hoping he can be your co-pilot and go on adventures with you before cuddling on the couch for the evening.  Diesel would do well in most homes where he can be with his family and has done well with kids and adults alike.  That said, he can be a little protective of his people, which is a wonderful trait, though it will need to be monitored.  He has done well with another dog in his home and enjoys meeting other dogs, so may like a furry companion as well.  He is excited to meet new people and, once he settles down, is happy to show his training and tricks including 'sit', 'down', and 'shake' so far!  This big guy is a little underweight at 90 pounds, so will enjoy learning new commands using a treat-based training approach.  Our WAMAL evaluator described Diesel as 'very happy' and his waggy tail and dogg...read more about DIESEL (Adoption Pending)