This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.
#1 in United States, #1 in California, #1 in San Diego
San Diego
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
"I love all that the rescue goes through to help dogs in anyway possible. They truly care for the..."
— crystal d.
Supporter, Fan
"I have been following Bunny’s Buddies for 7 years now and the amount of hard work Amanda Jo puts into..."
— brittany k.
Supporter
#5 in United States, #2 in California, #1 in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach
"I received Buster 13 years ago from DPS. They were amazing to work with. The thing that sticks out the..."
— john w.
Adoptee
"DPS not only saves furry friends. DPS saves the humans who save the furry friends."
— dan a.
Supporter
#6 in United States, #3 in California, #2 in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach
We save dogs from high kill shelters & off the streets to find each of them their perfect #FurryTailEnding.
"No box is left uncheck in the attempt to find the animals a home."
— kylie k.
Supporter
"Thanks to FurryTail Endings, our family feels complete again. Adopting our two dogs from them was the best decision we've..."
— sandra d.
Adoptee
#14 in United States, #4 in California, #1 in Santa Rosa
#2 in senior dog
Senior dog
Santa Rosa
Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary is a primarily volunteer run nonprofit organization based in Petaluma, CA. Our mission is to provide a safe and loving home for large breed senior dogs (50+ pounds, 7 years or older) who have been displaced from their homes and/or abandoned for any reason, until they are adopted or to remain at the sanctuary until they pass on.
"I have been a volunteer thru my employer prior to COVID. I was so grateful for what they do...."
— deborah g.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
"The find homes for senior dogs to live their golden years. I can’t wait to adopt one!"
— carlie d.
Fan
#21 in United States, #5 in California, #2 in San Diego
San Diego
The Animal Pad is a non-profit, all breed dog rescue that focuses on saving dogs from high kill shelters and the streets of Mexico. We get them vet care, place them in foster homes and then find them loving forever families. A few years ago, we turned our attention to the street dogs of Mexico as there is very little help for them. Since then, we have developed a large rescue network in Baja California and we have a sister shelter in Ensenada that we focus on taking dogs from whenever funds allow.
"The animal pad is beyond amazing. I have never seen a more hard working, compassionate group of people. They sacrifice..."
— joanne r.
Supporter
"They do amazing work."
— amy b.
Supporter, Fan
#34 in United States, #6 in California, #1 in Oakland
Oakland
Dedicated to saving animals who are unwanted, abandoned, abused or on the euthanasia list and finding them the best suitable homes possible. All these amazing efforts are made through volunteers and foster homes! We are a non profit 501c3 animal rescue group. EIN 86-2134552
"I think this rescue is by far the best. If I was looking for a best fur friend, I would..."
— julianna l.
Supporter, Fan
"Such a wonderful rescue!! The absolute best!!!"
— mariah b.
Fan
#59 in United States, #7 in California, #1 in Stockton
Stockton
Better World Rescue is a proactive rescue focused on helping animals stay in loving homes as well as helping shelter animals to find loving homes. We focus primarily on community assistance and euthanasia-listed shelter animals. We offer spay/neuter assistance, training assistance, and medical bill assistance to at-risk animals in our community. We help save over 500 animals annually between our shelter and community programs.
"Better World Rescue(BWR) matched my daughter with Delilah, her dog soulmate. We only met Natasha once but it was easy..."
— sandra p.
Adoptee, Fan
"Great rescue, my brother fosters dogs from here. They have came out to train my dogs, I love this rescue...."
— javier g.
Supporter, Fan
#67 in United States, #8 in California, #3 in San Diego
San Diego
We are a free Pet Recovery Service assisting owners on a global scale. We also secure evasive street strays primarily in the San Diego are (occasionally Riverside). If the strays are not claimed at the local shelter systems and are in danger of being euthanized, we become their safety net pending kennel space. We rescue, rehabilitate and rehome when the dogs are ready and safe to do so.
"Babs goes above and beyond for the dogs. Whenever a family loses a dog, on every Facebook post, people recommend..."
— kristen m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"I have followed and supported A Way Home For Dogs and their mission for a few years now. The founder..."
— kim u.
Supporter, Fan
#84 in United States, #9 in California, #4 in San Diego
San Diego
From day one, our goal has been to help all dogs who need it. Big, small, medical cases, senior or puppy; ASR stands by our commitment- Lisa, Our Founder
"Amazing Strays Rescue is truly unlike any other rescue I’ve encountered. We are so thankful they agreed to help our..."
— alexandra w.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Amazing strays posts the cutest dogs on their insta. Every time i see them at an event their volunteers are..."
— travis r.
Supporter, Fan
#97 in United States, #10 in California, #2 in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa
Compassion Without Borders was founded in 2001 by Christi and Moncho Camblor with the vision to provide a brighter future to animals in need on both sides of the border. CWOB works a multifaceted approach to reach animals in need via our four programs: Mexico Dog Rescue, US Dog Rescue, Veterinary Wellness Clinics & Spay/Neuter Services. We also actively participate with other rescue groups in the US and Mexico to provide outreach for humane rescue education & training via seminars.
"CWOB team achieves amazing rescue results and is financially the best at putting support $ into animal programs."
— beth b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"I have volunteered with Compassion Without Borders for 6 years. This organization truly lives up to the "Compassion" in its..."
— dianne m.
Volunteer / foster
#102 in United States, #11 in California, #1 in Sacramento
#4 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
Sacramento
Powered by volunteers and funded by donors, we rely on many heroes to help deserving abandoned German Shepherd Dogs; in return, these shepherds provide unconditional love to the families adopting them. The goal of ShepHeroes is lifelong placement; we take pride in finding the ideal lifelong match possible for dogs and humans alike by placing all of our dogs in foster homes to allow them to decompress and for us to learn their personalities, temperament, and needs. When committed foster homes are available for long-term care of medical dogs, we prioritize assisting those shepherds as they are the most at risk in shelters. Bean, Hayzel, Shania, Tori, and Stewie joined us in the past year for extensive surgeries and lengthy recoveries. Bean arrived with a chunk of her lip missing and will have surgery to repair her maxillofacial trauma when her muzzle reaches the adult stage at seven to eight months of age. In Shania's case, her fracture exam revealed a severe heart defect that, untreated, would have caused heart failure, which was repaired with heart surgery to give her a whole, healthy life. Shania was with us for seven months through three surgeries. Tori, in addition to her fracture repair, had an eye enucleation. Also, in 2023, Abbott and Costello were treated for parvo and survived thanks to prompt medical care. Multiple dogs have recovered in our care from surgeries for ingesting foreign objects like socks and balls before coming to our rescue. We have treated ear and severe skin infections, mange, influenza, and kennel cough, reduced many hernias, altered cryptoid male dogs, treated heartworm-positive shepherds, and ensured emaciated ones received care to reach optimum weight for their age. And have provided routine ongoing veterinary care of vaccinations, heartworm, flea/tick preventatives, spay and neuters, and deworming for over 340 shepherds since 2018. One of our special pups, Kenzo, came to us at the behest of his ER vet. Found on the street hit by a car, Kenzo was rushed by a good Samaritan to the local ER. He suffered from a brain injury, fractured leg, and bodily trauma, initially unable to walk, hold his head up, and possibly blind. With the guidance of his neurology vet, we gave him supportive care, trusting that puppy brains can heal. His brain healed with a residual head tilt, giving us a sweet, loving, active pup thriving in his adoptive home. We also assisted many shy and frightened shepherds who needed to learn to trust people, become at ease in new environments, and learn good pack manners thanks to resident dogs of our foster homes. Two of our dogs have become working dogs, completing service dog training and supporting their owners as hearing and seizure-alert dogs. A few of our dogs have completed therapy dog training and provide comfort through various venues. Since inception, we have assisted 24 municipal animal control shelters and partnered with seven rescues to bring shepherds to safety from the Sacramento Region south to Monterey County and north to Butte County. ShepHeroes was established in May 2018; our volunteer board and management team's experience saving shepherds encompasses over a decade of dedication to the breed.
"Teddy and I found each other 5 1/2 years ago, through the help of ShepHeroes, and he is truly my..."
— ann b.
Adoptee
"Shep Heroes goes above and beyond to save GSDs, responsive, adaptable, super caring, finds a way to help a dog..."
— ginny h.
Volunteer / foster
#102 in United States, #11 in California
Rescue Ranch, a no-kill shelter, was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2000. It relies on donations from the community and local businesses, as well as grants from foundations and organizations, and does not receive funding from any State, County or City agencies. Proceeds from the Rescue Ranch Thrift Store also support our work. Programs: We offer donation-funded community programs, such as Kitu's Fund, which covers high-cost medical expenses for Rescue Ranch dogs and offers no-interest loans to community dog owners; the Rescue Ranch Alter Assistance Program (RRAAP) which provides spay/neuter assistance; low-cost vaccinations and microchipping, and the Rescue Ranch Community Pet Food Bank. Rescue Ranch currently positively impacts the lives of more than 2000 dogs every year, by taking in 500 -700+ dogs and rehoming as many as possible while providing others with medical support, transport, rescue boarding, food, training, evacuation, and other assistance. Designated Dog Evacuation Center For Siskiyou County: Rescue Ranch has been the designated dog evacuation center for Siskiyou County since 2020.
"The Rescue Ranch in Yreka CA operates with a level of compassion and competency that is nothing short of amazing...."
— maureen h.
Volunteer / foster
"This rescue ranch is a wonderful place that cares for many dogs in need of a temporary home or shelter...."
— baxter e.
Supporter
#112 in United States, #13 in California, #5 in San Diego
San Diego
The Liberty Dog Network was established in 2022 and is a small, Southern California based dog rescue. We rely on fosters/people to open their home to care for the dogs we rescue. We provide all medical care and supplies to our fosters, they provide the home and supply the love.
"This is a great small rescue that I have enjoyed following and supporting for a while now. It’s wonderful to..."
— morgan p.
Supporter
"The Liberty Dog Network is an amazing rescue. They take in animals that would other wise be put down and..."
— daisy s.
Supporter
#114 in United States, #14 in California, #1 in San Jose
San Jose
Dedicated to the Rescue, Sanctuary (Volunteer Foster Homes) & Adoption of Companion Animals in Northern CA. We rescue dogs and cats of all ages and breed types. We have no office or shelter building. All dedicated volunteer foster homes that feed quality foods, home training and TLC. https://www.furryfriendsrescue.org/
"Amazing rescue"
— ramon d.
Supporter
"I’ve been truly impressed by Furry Friends Rescue. My initial introduction was when our family was looking for a..."
— sandra s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#130 in United States, #15 in California, #6 in San Diego
San Diego
Located on 10 acres in San Diego County, we adopt to anywhere in the US and Canada. It's our goal to find an excellent match suited to both you and each of our Temporary Barkers. Having rescued over 9,000 dogs since our inception in 2006, we are primarily volunteer run with a soft spot for the underdogs. Our Temporary Barkers come from all over the world as we have partnerships with Soi Dog Foundation in Thailand, Four Paws in Cambodia/Vietnam and Ark119 in Korea from which we've taken in over 1000 dog meat trade survivors. We also rescue heavily from Mexico where the abandoned dog population is extensive, the neglect is vast and the stories are heart wrenching.
"They do incredible work saving dogs lives. I adopted my sweet Luna from them. She was found on the streets..."
— melody d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"TBL Rescued my beautiful Golden who had been hit by a car. Henry was the best dog."
— peter l.
Adoptee
#130 in United States, #15 in California
We are a woman-founded, volunteer-run, and foster-based rescue dedicated to helping animals in need. Our rescue was founded in February 2023, with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs and cats who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. We rescue dogs from over crowded shelters and from euthanasia lists.
"Little Big Paws helped us rescue a medical dog Luna from Carson Shelter. Luna had ACL issues and they stepped..."
— georgia m.
Supporter
"The folks running this rescue aren’t afraid to do the hard stuff! I was so impressed with the wonderful catio!..."
— tori o.
Adoptee
#130 in United States, #15 in California, #3 in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa
The Humane Society of Sonoma County is a donor-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to kindness. With the generosity of our supporters, we save lives and enhance the well-being of pets and their people through kindness, innovation, and leadership. Programs like our Community Action team, Community Vet Clinic, and Free Vaccine Clinic provide vital support to our community.
"It’s wonderful seeing all the love and caring given by all staff and volunteers. All the animals have their own..."
— barbara w.
Volunteer / foster
"This shelter is amazing, not just because it is a no kill shelter, but because of the fact that every..."
— royalene m.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
#153 in United States, #18 in California, #2 in Oakland
Oakland
Berkeley Humane is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors that work on behalf of Berkeley Humane and the animals in our community. We have provided over 125 years of trusted service and dedication to Berkeley and the East Bay.
"Besides rescuing from the public shelters, the Berkeley Humane responds to calls for action when there are emergency situations such..."
— gail k.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Not only does Berkeley Humane have a stellar adoption center, but a fabulous dog-training program, and the best thrift shop..."
— hallie s.
Volunteer / foster
#157 in United States, #19 in California, #7 in San Diego
#9 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
San Diego
It's The Pits is a 501c3 canine rescue that coordinates the fostering and adoption of dogs that haven't yet found their permanent home. We specialize in American Staffordshire Terriers (Am Staffs), Staffordshire Bull Terriers ("Staffy's"), and American Pit Bull Terriers, but will do our best to help all breeds, often by referral to other local rescues that specialize in that type of dog. You can find many of these on our links page. We are located in San Diego county, as are all of our foster homes. We work alongside our fosters to give the dogs a temporary and loving home before they are placed into permanent homes. We rescue dogs from various shelters, evaluate them, ensure they are healthy, and then match them with the appropriate family. We take pride in matching the best dog for the individual family that contacts us. We do this by matching the activity level of the dog to the family's needs, as well as making sure that the other pets in the home work well with the new addition to the pack.
"It's the Pits is such a great rescue! They really go the extra mile for every dog in their care!..."
— cherry g.
Adoptee
"It's the Pits does a great job vetting their fosters and adopters to ensure the right fit for all parties...."
— alyssa m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#170 in United States, #20 in California, #1 in Riverside
Riverside
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS) is a no-kill nonprofit dog and cat rescue based in Yucaipa, CA. Our mission is to strive to prevent the euthanasia of dogs and cats throughout the region by providing them a temporary safe haven until a permanent and loving home can be found.
"YAPS has been a longstanding member of our community for over 60 years, saving hundreds of dogs and cats from..."
— krista d.
Staff member
"Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS as many of us lovingly refer to it) is a place of dedication, compassion, and..."
— kristin s.
Adoptee, Staff member, Supporter, Fan
We are a small local rescue working hard to save lives and find homes for orphaned pets in the Tehachapi area. Non-profit status: APPROVED, State and Federal 501c3 Save Tehachapi's Orphaned Pets est. in 2008. Many homeless animals have been abandoned, abused, or neglected, without ever knowing the love of a caring human being. Every day, dogs and cats are euthanized in the overcrowded Kern County area animal shelters. From the moment S.T.O.P. rescues a dog or cat, we begin changing its life for the better. Each pet is placed in a caring foster home until the right owner is found. During their stay, the pets are evaluated, socialized, and given the loving care they need, prior to adoption. Pets have their basic shots and are spayed/neutered (we actively support spaying and neutering of all companion dogs and cats).
The FF4L members are a small group of animal lovers. We bonded while volunteering for non-profit organizations in our community. That’s when we realized we wanted to do more and came up with the idea for our own non-profit organization. Fur Friends 4 Life was created to help find loving homes for the abandoned, forgotten, and overlooked animals in Kern County. We take pride in helping the downtrodden and believe every animal has a right to health and happiness. The joy of bringing people and pets together for the perfect match is our reward. And with the love, help, and time of our friends, family, and community we believe we can make a difference in the lives of people and animals alike. Since we are a non-profit rescue, we are able to fund Fur Friends 4 Life solely through donations. Our dogs will be available for a adoption donation price of $250 for an adult dog & $300 for a puppy.
Mell's Mutts was given the non-profit 501c3 “Buy, Sell, Rescue Inc.” by a good friend; a real estate broker who wanted to infuse his real estate business with his passion for rescuing dogs. We do business as Mell’s Mutts.
In 1992, Valley Animal Center's predecessor, the California Feline Foundation, was founded in Downtown Fresno as a no-kill shelter for cats. Thanks to the generosity and support of the community, along with the dedication and hard work of countless volunteers and staff members, this humble, no-kill cat sanctuary grew to include a low-cost spay and neuter clinic and eventually became a no-kill shelter for dogs, also. The Greater Fresno Area has long had a need for no-kill humane efforts due to the unfortunate fact that the San Joaquin Valley has one of the highest euthanasia rates in the United States. Our high stray population contributes to this dilemma. For years, Fresno County's animal control agencies have been overburdened with stray and surrendered dogs and cats. A variety of factors have contributed to the severe overpopulation and under-adoption of dogs and cats. These factors include: • a historical lack of a progressive animal welfare presence • insufficient public awareness regarding the importance of spaying and neutering • a temperate Central Valley climate which has allowed for higher than average reproductive rates Valley Animal Center, along with numerous no-kill shelters in the area, are working together to try and stop the use of euthanasia by rescuing animals from animal control agencies. Valley Animal Center is taking the lead on reducing the use of euthanasia and to help decrease the stray population. There are many ways we go about accomplishing this. Our low cost clinic offers affordable spay/neuter services as well as other comprehensive veterinary care. We offer humane education to the public on how to be responsible pet owners. Finally, we rescue animals from animal control facilities whose time has run out and bring them to our facility for another chance at finding a forever home.
We save dogs from high kill shelters & off the streets to find each of them their perfect #FurryTailEnding.
The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation is built of a group of inspired, motivated humanitarians who work tirelessly to fight animal cruelty by educating the public, animal rescue, and finding loving families to give the helpless a second chance at a happy life. Founded by Oscar nominated and renown animal activist Linda Blair to bring the much needed attention to the growing problems related to animal welfare and the work required to stop animal abuse and neglect.
Angel City Pit Bulls is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to creating a better future for pit bulls by promoting their positive image as loving family companions through education, public advocacy, adoptions, and owner support.
A beacon of hope in the realm of animal welfare. Our foundation is dedicated to transforming lives through responsible pet ownership education, spaying, and neutering initiatives, vaccination advocacy, and comprehensive dog training. We confront the challenges within the rescue community head-on, driven by a resolute mission to put an end to dog homelessness. Aligned with our mission, we champion accessible veterinary care. Our support has extended to sponsoring spay and neuter clinics across California and Mexico, with ongoing plans to broaden our reach. Our unwavering commitment includes partnering with affordable specialty veterinary clinics and addressing the critical need for accessible and affordable care through advocacy and legislation. As we continue to evolve, our unwavering focus remains on the core tenets that define us. Our journey is built upon the principles of rescuing, rehabilitating, and advocating for dogs, particularly with neonatal orphans needing intensive care, medical/special needs animals, and nursing mother-and-babies. Our foundation stands upon pillars that encompass rescuing animals in need, educating the community on responsible pet care, facilitating forever homes, fostering a supportive community, and prioritizing the overall well-being of animals.
Wags and Walks is focused on advocating for wrongfully stereotyped bully breeds, medical dogs, and mamas + puppies that are often overlooked and at-risk due to overcrowding. We do not select dogs based on their size, age, or breed. We select our dogs on a case-by-case basis, factoring in our ability to help and their likelihood of thriving when placed in the right home. We know that, like amazing dogs, loving families come in all shapes and sizes. Our goal is to find every pup an adopter whose home, family, and lifestyle are a perfect fit for a lifetime of love and happiness.
I have always had a love for animals since I was young. I was always bringing something home. All my own pets have always been rescues.When I was 18 I worked in a pet store for a couple years then went to work for a veterinary hospital for 9 yrs in the foothills. I moved to Arizona and worked in another veterinary hospital for 2 more years. Then moving back to Cali I began working in an office at a Fabrication shop in 1997. Soon moved out into the country towards Turlock where our Rescue venture began. One afternoon November 2000, a lovely Border Collie mix Moma, we named “Nanny" , showed up skin and bones, looking like she had had pups and smelling like something the cat dragged in. We cleaned her up, gave her much needed food and water, made her a comfy bed and headed off to Turlock for some well needed supplies. We received a call about 45 minutes later from my daughter in a panic, “mom, That dog just came back with her puppies!!” To our surprise, “Nanny” jumped our short fence and went and retrieved her 2 pups. They were about 4 weeks or so at the time. So my daughter “Holly” got them all settled in while we picked up addition supplies needed :) At 8 weeks my friend and brother adopted one of each pup. CJ my brothers dog, has been a joy for their family and they love her dearly. CJ is getting up there in years (now 17yrs old), but still enjoys her family, doggie friends, and taking well deserved naps. Many THANKS to all the local Rescues, Shelters, Veterinary Clinics and friends that helped us get started. I had not intended to start a rescue but to save this poor girl whom was just left behind to fend for herself. But as most of you in the rescue world know that is how most Rescues start and it was only the beginning for us.
Lindy Turner began rescuing all types of animals from a very young age. Whatever stray or hurt animal she found, Lindy would always bring it home to love and care for it. In Lindy's lifetime, she has always been an advocate and rescuer for the underdog. Since 2006, she began saving one dog at a time from the shelters. After rescuing and rehabilitating the dog, she would find it a wonderful loving home. In the last 15 years, her mission became much more intense - concentrating on seniors, especially the medical need dogs. Her ability to rehabilitate these dogs became well know by shelters all over the state with many of them calling her for assistance in helping the ones that no one would adopt or rescue because of their old age or health conditions. Lindy decided she needed to do more and in 2017 and started her own 501(c)3 non profit rescue, Casa de Love Animal Rescue, in hopes of saving many more dogs in need that are slated to be euthanized in our shelters. Headquarters are in Redding, CA with a branch in Turlock CA.
For over 25 years, People for Pets has been serving pets and families of our local Tracy area. We love caring for and connecting with animals and creating everlasting relationships. Holding strong with 25+ years PEOPLE FOR PETS is the longest existing non profit pet adoption organization in Tracy. We are all committed and compassionate, non-paid volunteers. We take in homeless dogs and make sure they are current on all vaccines, micro-chipped and spayed or neutered & then find them new FUR-ever loving homes. You can help support us in two ways. Donate to us through PAYPAL or support us through Amazonsmile foundation at https://smile.amazon.com Choose People for Pets as the non-profit organization you wish to support. PEOPLE FOR PETS is continuously looking for foster families for our rescues. Our fosters' happiness and care is priority and we strive to provide a service we would want our own pets to receive.
Dedicated to saving animals who are unwanted, abandoned, abused or on the euthanasia list and finding them the best suitable homes possible. All these amazing efforts are made through volunteers and foster homes! We are a non profit 501c3 animal rescue group. EIN 86-2134552
Berkeley Humane is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors that work on behalf of Berkeley Humane and the animals in our community. We have provided over 125 years of trusted service and dedication to Berkeley and the East Bay.
Underdog Animal Rescue is a foster based rescue serving the Bay Area of Northern California. Since our start in 2014, we have built an outstanding team and have grown into a strong network of volunteers dedicated to saving the Underdogs in our shelters and community. We have dedicated our efforts to giving a second chance to the dogs that are most in need (medically or behaviorally) and the dogs that have been overlooked for too long.
Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit all breed, no-kill dog rescue and adoption organization. Since 1996, CARL has rescued and placed thousands of unwanted, sick, abandoned, and homeless dogs. Dogs in our adoption program are placed in pre-screened, loving and secure homes. We make a lifetime commitment to all of our dogs. CARL is located in Ventura County, California and primarily serves Ventura County dogs. Because of our lifetime commitment to our dogs we have a preference to place dogs locally so we are available to them if needed. We rely on donations and do not receive government, state, or city funding. We operate almost entirely by volunteers
Doberman Pinscher & Little Paws Rescue is a non-profit 501(c)3 charity. We are located in rural Fillmore, California on a small ranch dedicated to animal rescue and to finding new homes for all of our charges. At any time, approximately 90 Doberman Pinschers are waiting for homes as well as about 20 other mixed-breed dogs. We're a no-kill sanctuary. That means that we do NOT euthanize any dogs that don't get adopted. We do not usually have puppies, as we are not breeders. Saving a dog from our sanctuary is similar to rescuing one from an animal shelter, with three main advantages: 1. The dog's temperament is generally better known 2. The dog is believed to be free of serious disease such as distemper and parvovirus 3. The dog has a safe place to return to in the event the adoption does not work out as anticipated
SPARC is a unique partnership between public and private resources with a shared goal of creating a more humane, no-kill system for saving the homeless and abandoned animals of our community. When successful, this prototype can be recreated in other cities. In the long run, we strive to show that smaller, local shelters can attract a larger volunteer and foster corps, be a true community partner and make reclamation of lost pets easier and provide a better solution for all homeless pets.
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS) is a no-kill nonprofit dog and cat rescue based in Yucaipa, CA. Our mission is to strive to prevent the euthanasia of dogs and cats throughout the region by providing them a temporary safe haven until a permanent and loving home can be found.
The Animal Services Department consists of Field Services and Shelter Services, working together to protect public safety and provide humane animal care through sheltering, pet placement programs, education and law enforcement. Our philosophy is to promote responsible pet ownership, compassion toward animals and safe human-animal interactions. We celebrate partnerships with various individuals and rescue organizations that allow us to increase placement of adoptable animals into permanent loving homes. Working together, we all can provide a "Better Way of Life" for the animals in our care - four paws at a time.
We are a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) that helps prevent the suffering and neglect of Chihuahuas which are second-most euthanized breeds in the shelters. Our primary focus is subsidizing Spay and Neuter programs to prevent the needless suffering of unwanted dogs. We also support foster programs by funding medical and dental, along with pain meds for dogs in most need to alleviate suffering. To date, we have fostered hundreds of dogs and spayed and neutered thousands of dogs here and in Mexico over the years. We continue to do spay and neuter events, support fostering to find loving homes, and subsidize medical expenses to relieve extreme suffering of shelter animals. We also promote humane education for the betterment of the lives of companion animals.
Powered by volunteers and funded by donors, we rely on many heroes to help deserving abandoned German Shepherd Dogs; in return, these shepherds provide unconditional love to the families adopting them. The goal of ShepHeroes is lifelong placement; we take pride in finding the ideal lifelong match possible for dogs and humans alike by placing all of our dogs in foster homes to allow them to decompress and for us to learn their personalities, temperament, and needs. When committed foster homes are available for long-term care of medical dogs, we prioritize assisting those shepherds as they are the most at risk in shelters. Bean, Hayzel, Shania, Tori, and Stewie joined us in the past year for extensive surgeries and lengthy recoveries. Bean arrived with a chunk of her lip missing and will have surgery to repair her maxillofacial trauma when her muzzle reaches the adult stage at seven to eight months of age. In Shania's case, her fracture exam revealed a severe heart defect that, untreated, would have caused heart failure, which was repaired with heart surgery to give her a whole, healthy life. Shania was with us for seven months through three surgeries. Tori, in addition to her fracture repair, had an eye enucleation. Also, in 2023, Abbott and Costello were treated for parvo and survived thanks to prompt medical care. Multiple dogs have recovered in our care from surgeries for ingesting foreign objects like socks and balls before coming to our rescue. We have treated ear and severe skin infections, mange, influenza, and kennel cough, reduced many hernias, altered cryptoid male dogs, treated heartworm-positive shepherds, and ensured emaciated ones received care to reach optimum weight for their age. And have provided routine ongoing veterinary care of vaccinations, heartworm, flea/tick preventatives, spay and neuters, and deworming for over 340 shepherds since 2018. One of our special pups, Kenzo, came to us at the behest of his ER vet. Found on the street hit by a car, Kenzo was rushed by a good Samaritan to the local ER. He suffered from a brain injury, fractured leg, and bodily trauma, initially unable to walk, hold his head up, and possibly blind. With the guidance of his neurology vet, we gave him supportive care, trusting that puppy brains can heal. His brain healed with a residual head tilt, giving us a sweet, loving, active pup thriving in his adoptive home. We also assisted many shy and frightened shepherds who needed to learn to trust people, become at ease in new environments, and learn good pack manners thanks to resident dogs of our foster homes. Two of our dogs have become working dogs, completing service dog training and supporting their owners as hearing and seizure-alert dogs. A few of our dogs have completed therapy dog training and provide comfort through various venues. Since inception, we have assisted 24 municipal animal control shelters and partnered with seven rescues to bring shepherds to safety from the Sacramento Region south to Monterey County and north to Butte County. ShepHeroes was established in May 2018; our volunteer board and management team's experience saving shepherds encompasses over a decade of dedication to the breed.
Sammie's Friends is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Tax ID #52-2439192. The mission of Sammie's Friends is to provide medical care for the animals at the Nevada County Animal Shelter, making them adoptable, and to support other disadvantaged animals in Nevada County that without help would continue to suffer or would be euthanized. Sammie's Friends also operates the Nevada County Animal Shelter at 14647 McCourtney Road.
The Front Street Animal Shelter is located at 2127 Front Street (with a cross-street of Broadway) and is open 7 days a week from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Walk-ins are welcomed. No appointment needed. The Main Building is located next to the parking lot and provides services to those who wish to adopt a pet, search for their lost pet, and license their pet. The Reception Center is a short walk up the sidewalk and provides services to those who are bringing in a stray animal.
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit all volunteer rescue organization focused on physically rescuing and reuniting lost/found animals within our community. We provide medical assistance and care to the injured, abused, neglected, abandoned and underaged animals. We also rescue at-risk animals from local shelters. For the animals that come into our rescue, they are placed in safe, nurturing foster homes to prepare them for adoption. We are dedicated to match each and every animal with the very best forever home.
We provide shelter and care for homeless domestic animals, reunite lost pets with their families, facilitate pet adoption, and investigate complaints of animal cruelty and neglect in the community to improve the lives of people and animals in the county.
Our Neighborhood Pet Project was formed in January 2023 to provide service to the communities in South Monterey County, a rural area on the central coast of California. We believe that the best solution to reducing the number of unwanted dogs and cats is to provide access to low-cost spay and neuter for all residents in need.
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
The Animal Pad is a non-profit, all breed dog rescue that focuses on saving dogs from high kill shelters and the streets of Mexico. We get them vet care, place them in foster homes and then find them loving forever families. A few years ago, we turned our attention to the street dogs of Mexico as there is very little help for them. Since then, we have developed a large rescue network in Baja California and we have a sister shelter in Ensenada that we focus on taking dogs from whenever funds allow.
We are a free Pet Recovery Service assisting owners on a global scale. We also secure evasive street strays primarily in the San Diego are (occasionally Riverside). If the strays are not claimed at the local shelter systems and are in danger of being euthanized, we become their safety net pending kennel space. We rescue, rehabilitate and rehome when the dogs are ready and safe to do so.
dogs in good health with wonderful personalities are euthanized. Why? Because they're older, and not considered adoptable. A dog is brought in because he can't jog with his guardian anymore. Or he needs a little time to get up the stairs. Or he's simply not a puppy. In some cases, dogs are moved from loving homes to concrete cages because their guardians have died or simply can't care for them anymore. We reach out to senior dogs at risk, give them the care they need, and find them loving forever homes. If we had our way, no dog would spend their last days in a shelter. There is so much love and joy in these dogs!
Rocket Dog Rescue saves dogs from abuse, neglect, and death at overcrowded shelters and places them in loving homes. We support pet owners in need in our community, and serve as first responders in emergency animal situations and natural disasters. Funded entirely by donations, we are a volunteer-run, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Learn about what we do or apply to adopt a dog in the San Francisco Bay Area
DogZone Rescue is a registered 501(c)3 Non- Profit who saves unwanted, abused and abandoned dogs and places them in loving and responsible forever homes to live out their lives as cherished family members. We would love for you to join us by adopting a dog, volunteering as a foster parent or donating your time for other needed volunteer positions with the rescue.
Dedicated to the Rescue, Sanctuary (Volunteer Foster Homes) & Adoption of Companion Animals in Northern CA. We rescue dogs and cats of all ages and breed types. We have no office or shelter building. All dedicated volunteer foster homes that feed quality foods, home training and TLC. https://www.furryfriendsrescue.org/
We are responsible rescue dedicated to saving the Cane Corso and similar mastiff type breeds
A PURPOSEFUL RESCUE IS A 501c3 NON-PROFIT THAT SAVES DOGS FROM HIGH-KILL LOS ANGELES AREA SHELTERS. THERE ARE MANY AMAZING DOGS WHO GET OVERLOOKED, OR NEED A LITTLE EXTRA WORK AND CARE, AND WE AIM TO GIVE THOSE DOGS A SECOND CHANCE.
Shepherd's Paws Animal Rescue was established in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the specific purpose of operating an all breed animal rescue. We are dedicated to providing rescue to abandoned, abused, neglected and homeless animals. We rescue dogs in the United States from imminent death at animal shelters, humane societies, pounds, and from owners who no longer keep their dogs, and place them into new and permanent adoptive homes. All of our dogs receive vet care, are up to date on their vaccinations, micro-chipped and spayed or neutered.
Shiloh’s Animal Rescue Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit certified organization where we strive to do our best to give animals a second chance at life. We work towards rescuing red-listed animals all over the state of California who are about to be euthanized due to overcrowding.
Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary is a primarily volunteer run nonprofit organization based in Petaluma, CA. Our mission is to provide a safe and loving home for large breed senior dogs (50+ pounds, 7 years or older) who have been displaced from their homes and/or abandoned for any reason, until they are adopted or to remain at the sanctuary until they pass on.
Compassion Without Borders was founded in 2001 by Christi and Moncho Camblor with the vision to provide a brighter future to animals in need on both sides of the border. CWOB works a multifaceted approach to reach animals in need via our four programs: Mexico Dog Rescue, US Dog Rescue, Veterinary Wellness Clinics & Spay/Neuter Services. We also actively participate with other rescue groups in the US and Mexico to provide outreach for humane rescue education & training via seminars.
The Humane Society of Sonoma County is a donor-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to kindness. With the generosity of our supporters, we save lives and enhance the well-being of pets and their people through kindness, innovation, and leadership. Programs like our Community Action team, Community Vet Clinic, and Free Vaccine Clinic provide vital support to our community.
Better World Rescue is a proactive rescue focused on helping animals stay in loving homes as well as helping shelter animals to find loving homes. We focus primarily on community assistance and euthanasia-listed shelter animals. We offer spay/neuter assistance, training assistance, and medical bill assistance to at-risk animals in our community. We help save over 500 animals annually between our shelter and community programs.
The HSOTC is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization established December 12, 1947. In 1997, the shelter acquired its current facility in Jamestown, CA. In 2010, the HSOTC became a limited intake/no-kill shelter where animals are only euthanized if they are too sick to be treated or too aggressive to be suitable for adoption. Since the HSOTC is limited in the number of animals that can be accepted, we employ waiting lists of owners wishing to surrender their pets for adoption.
Saving Dogs through Adoption and Education Our Mission is to provide education about the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) breed, find homes for abandoned GSDs and build a community of support for them. Our volunteers and rescued dogs are primarily located in the Central Valley of Northern California. Established in 2009, we are an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization with no paid staff or facility. We are recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity and all of your donations are tax deductible.
Dogwood Animal Rescue Project is a foster-based, volunteer led non-profit rescue organization focused on the rescue and placement of animals into safe, nurturing homes. Our goals include providing necessary medical care, ongoing spay/neuter clinics, hands-on nurturing, and placement of the homeless animals of Sonoma County and beyond. Dogwood is continually striving to successfully fulfill our vision to establish programs tailored to assist animals in need by ensuring they find safe, loving homes and receive the medical care necessary to live long and healthy lives.
The Humane Society of the North Bay is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation that was established in 1986 to offer shelter and adoption services for homeless animals. We were formerly known as the Benicia-Vallejo Humane Society. We are a no-kill shelter. For nearly four decades we have found permanent homes for thousands of homeless cats and dogs. HSNB has witnessed many joyous reunions. Although we have a contract with the City of Vallejo to shelter stray animals found in the community, we are not a city shelter, nor are we managed by, affiliated with, or financially supported by any local, county, state or national organizations. Our funding comes almost entirely from donations by generous individuals and local businesses. We welcome grant opportunities of all kinds, special event fundraisers, monthly donation commitments, and estate and memorial bequests.
San Francisco Samoyed Rescue (SFSR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by volunteers in Northern California. We rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Samoyeds and Samoyed mixes. We understand that Samoyeds require a high level of care. Our mission is to ensure all owners are equipped to have fulfilling friendships with their Samoyed.
Pawsitive Connections was founded in the Spring of 2010. We are a no-kill, 501(c)3 nonprofit, dog rescue, located in Kingsburg, CA, but hold weekly adoption events in San Jose. Our dogs and puppies are rescued from California Central Valley shelters where many are at risk of euthanasia. Our Pawsitive Connections (PC) Pups are fully vetted, before they begin their search for a forever home. Our organization believes in the human to animal connection and we strive to cultivate that connection between our rescue pups and potential families. Our staff and volunteers are proud of our ability to match our pups with the right family based on energy level, temperament, and size.
LOA, Inc. is a non-profit animal welfare organization [501(c)(3)]. Our foster homes are in Tulare County located in California's central San Joaquin Valley. Our focus is on the rescue, some rehabilitation, spay/neuter, and placement of animals in need. All work is done by volunteers; there are no paid staff.
Welcome to the 2024 California Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in California chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore California dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Our adopters must be here to save a life. Rescue dogs need help, not another to do list. All adopters must truly be here to give back to a soul in need.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.