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The Best San Jose, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in San Jose, CA. 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.

Furry Friends Rescue
#74 in United States, #13 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/
"Furry Friends Rescue is where I’ve volunteered as a foster dog mom and as transporter for several years. The volunteers..."
— jacqui b.
Volunteer / foster
"Fully supportive with everything the dogs need. Apply only positive reinforcement methods to training their dogs. Go above and beyond..."
— ani e.
Volunteer / foster

West Coast Cane Corso Rescue
#99 in United States, #25 in California, #2 in San Jose
San Jose
We are responsible rescue dedicated to saving the Cane Corso and similar mastiff type breeds
"Hannah with West Coast Cane Corso Rescue was an absolute angel to work with. She provided updates to me for..."
— sylvia d.
Adoptee

Woof Den Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
#7 in husky
Husky
San Jose
Woof Den Rescue is a non-profit organization that specializes in rescuing husky and herding breeds, including Huskies, Husky Mixes, Cattle Dogs, Queensland Heelers, and Australian Kelpies. We are an all-volunteer foster-based group committed to providing second chances to these wonderful dog breeds. We were founded in 2019. All dogs in our care are spayed and or neutered before adoption, are up to date on vaccinations, are microchipped for identification, and live in foster homes, allowing us to have a good understanding of their behaviors. We evaluate them for temperament and trainability, conduct heartworm tests, provide NexGard flea & tick treatment, deworm the dogs, and feed them a grain-friendly diet and some basic training. Adoption fees and additional funds we receive from donors go towards covering extra medical expenses, food, supplies, and other needs for the dogs that come into rescue. Our staff has evaluated all dogs, and we describe their temperament and behaviors to the best of our knowledge to ensure they fit well with us at Woof Den Rescue plus with you and your family. We provide information from our perspective. We also integrate our dogs with foster dogs, taking them to the beach, on hikes, walks, biking, engaging in recreational dog carting, and snow dog sledding. Once you adopt one of our beautiful and smart dogs, you will be thankful you did. Our rescue is called Woof Den Rescue, in a heartfelt tribute to all the amazing dogs who have been a part of our lives and rescue, both past and present. that loves and did love all the activities we loved together. We will surely miss the dogs we have lost.

Karmic Rescue Without Borders
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose

Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
The Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority (SVACA) was formed as a Joint Powers Agency and provides ‘around the clock’ animal care and control services for the residents of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Mountain View and Santa Clara. SVACA’s Joint Powers Agreement describes SVACA’s purpose and structure. SVACA’s services and programs include the care of sick, injured, lost and abandoned companion animals, animal cruelty investigations, enforcement of animal laws, education and outreach programs, volunteer and foster programs, and much more. We place all of our healthy and treatable animals as well as many of our unhealthy and untreatable animals from our cageless Animal Care Center located in Santa Clara which resulted in an overall live release rate of 99% in 2023. Field operations began on July 1, 2001 and our state-of-the-art and cageless animal care center opened on November 14, 2006. The facility is also open to residents from throughout Santa Clara Valley and beyond who want to adopt animals, look for lost animals, or want to participate in educational programs. Our 17,000-square-foot facility can accommodate more than 150 cats, 50 dogs and assorted ‘other’ animals at any one time and features several unique animal areas. • Kitty Kondos that allow cats to climb and get accustomed to roaming loose in rooms as they would in a house. • Doggie Dens provide a homelike setting rather than confining the canines to cages or kennels. • Indoor and outdoor dog play areas for exercise, behavior assessments, and getting acquainted with other dogs and potential owners. • Low cost spay and neuter clinic to provide an affordable surgical option for the community. SVACA’s Board of Directors and Staff strive to ensure the well-being of both animals and people through advocacy, education, and cost-effective yet efficient services by providing a superior level of care, compassion, and respect for all living things.

Japanese Chin Care and Rescue Effort (JCCARE)
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
JCCARE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dog rescue organization comprised of all volunteers dedicated to the health and welfare of Japanese Chin dogs. Our sole purpose is to help, rehabilitate and find homes for abused, abandoned, or relinquished Japanese Chin across the United States of America and parts of Canada. While we enthusiastically support mixed breed rescue, and many of our members are active in organizations that accept mixed breeds, we have chosen to dedicate our limited funds and resources to purebred Japanese Chin. Chin come into our program from owners relinquishing their pets and from animal shelters. We do not buy Chin from pet stores, puppy mills or individuals and we do not accept relinquishments from active breeders. While we are not affiliated with the national breed club, we do respectfully support responsible Japanese Chin breeders. For this reason, we do make every effort to contact breeders and facilitate a Chin’s return to his breeder’s care whenever possible. Our Chin are not here because they are bad. Some were very much loved and pampered family pets and are here because of unfortunate situations, such as a move or divorce, death of their owner, or because of financial hardship. Others are here because the owners did not research the breed before buying on impulse and decided much too late that they shed too much, need too much time or attention, they don’t match the furniture anymore, or any number of reasons that should have been thought of before bringing a new Chin home. Some of the Chin do have health problems. Some of these problems have been brought about by irresponsible breeding practices. Still others are the result of neglect or abuse. All of our Chin need and deserve love and a second chance to be part of a warm, loving family. This is a chance some of them never had before coming into rescue. Occasionally we are presented with a Chin in need who has serious behavioral issues that presents a danger to foster home members and to prospective adopters. We regretfully cannot accept a Chin with a previous history of aggression toward humans. When a Chin is turned over to JCCARE, he is taken to the vet for a complete check-up including heart worm, shots, worming, and spay/neuter. Any apparent health problems are treated before being placed into a new adoptive home. We receive a variety of ages into our program, however, most are adults. We occasionally get puppies, but not very often. Males outnumber females and all Chin are spayed or neutered before placement. Sometimes people contact us who have strong preferences about age, sex and color of the Chin. The more open you are about these things, the more likely we are to find a suitable companion for you. If you do have very strong preferences, a rescue may not be the right pet for you. JCCARE does not sell our Chin. We do, however, ask for an adoption fee which helps to fund our program and pays for vet expenses and allows us to continue our work in saving other Japanese Chin. Adoption fees vary based on the age and health of the rescued Chin, but generally range from $200.00 to $600.00 but are occasionally higher for puppies and Chin who have incurred exceptionally high medical expenses. The adoption fees cover only about one-half of the cost of our vet care so additional and ongoing donations are always needed and most welcome. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, donations in excess of the adoption fee are tax deductible according to applicable tax law and help defray costs so that we can save more Japanese Chin that need us. We appreciate your generosity.

Jakes Wish Dog Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose

Angel’s Furry Friends Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
It all began in 2017 when our Founder volunteered to save 5 newborn puppies abandoned near a rural highway. Through that volunteering experience, she fell in love and decided to keep one of the puppies. She called him Angel – now a treasured member of the family and the inspiration for Angel’s Furry Friends Rescue. In 2018 we gathered a team of passionate animal lovers and officially registered Angel’s Furry Friends as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit. It has been such a rewarding experience for us since Day 1 and our mission is not only to find loving homes for dogs and cats, but also to connect families with their future furry soulmates. We are committed to helping animals in need in California and around the world. We actively work to raise awareness against animal cruelty and support campaigns for stricter legislation regarding animal abuse in the United States and internationally. We work with local shelters as well as partner shelters in Russia and Ukraine to save stray dogs from inhumane treatment and extermination. We have already brought more than 250 animals from Russia and Ukraine to California, and found them forever homes with loving parents! Each year, approximately 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized. We rescue dogs and cats from local shelters that were placed on the euthanasia list to give them a second chance at life. We provide each animal with medical treatment, training, place them with skilled foster families and eventually find them a loving home! To us, the story of Angel, the abandoned puppy, represents the story of too many neglected and mistreated animals in the world. With your support, we are striving to help as many animals as we can!

South Bay Purebred Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
South Bay Purebred Rescue is a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue, care, and placement of dogs of all breeds. Dogs accepted into our program for adoption are kept in our foster homes, receive necessary veterinary care, proper nutrition, training, grooming, and love until we find appropriate homes for them. We sincerely hope we can assist you in finding your special friend and companion.

Wiley's Wish Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
We are just two girls who want to make a difference. We save adoptable and unadoptable dogs and cats from high-kill shelters in Santa Clara County and some surrounding areas. We spay-neuter, vaccinate, and microchip all rescue animals while they await their forever home. We are dedicated to finding rescue animals the loving home in Santa Clara County, that they so desperately deserve. We collaborate with other organizations to train our rescue dogs by teaching them how to be the best dogs possible. We also train service dogs for veterans and first responders. Wiley's Wish partners with veteran organizations to match rescue animals with veterans and first responders. Wiley's Wish Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We rely on the goodwill and generosity of individuals and corporations. If you want to help, call us at (603) 609 - 8594, donate, foster, adopt and or donate to purchase one of our many funding products.

Every Pet's Dream
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Every Pet's Dream is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit foster-based rescue dedicated to saving animals that otherwise would have been euthanized. We provide them a fresh start and an opportunity to find their forever home.

San Jose Animal Care Center
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
We are a full-service animal care division of the Public Works Department comprised of four units: Field Operations (Animal Control), Medical Services, dog, cat, and small animals Shelter Operations, and Administration. Each unit works in collaboration with each other for the care of the animals in the community that we serve.

Four Paws to Love
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Four Paws to Love was established in January of 2014 by close friends who had been part of several different animal welfare organizations over the years. These friends felt that there was a need for another rescue group that not only focuses on the importance of helping save animals' lives, but also focuses on how the love of a pet in our everyday lives affects each one of us. Since our establishment in 2014 we have been an adoption partner with PetSmart Charities and had held our adoption events at the local PetSmart store here in Santa Cruz. While we are still an approved rescue with PetSmart Charities, in 2017 we decided to part ways with our local PetSmart store and instead partner with General Feed & Seed to hold our weekly adoption events. General Feed & Seed is a locally owned family business that has been a staple in Santa Cruz for almost 50 years! We are proud to have been accepted into their family and we will call it home as long as they will have us.

Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
#17 in senior dog
#15 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd, Senior dog
San Jose
Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue (TSGSR) is a rescue that focuses on helping German Shepherds with limited life expectancy, typically measured in months or possibly as much as a year, due to terminal illnesses or simply old age. Medical condition is not a restriction as long as the dog has some quality life left to it, no matter how short that time may be. Thulani has evolved since 2009 (Our History) from helping a few dogs each year during the first few year, to one in which we help about 70 new dogs each year. We started by servicing animal shelters primarily in the greater San Francisco Bay region, but our responsibilities have expanded to include all of California and Nevada (Our Area). This expansion has been driven primarily by the widespread need for the types of services that Thulani provides, and by the general lack of other organizations able to provide these services. Our goal is to save 100 dogs annually, a number we estimate will be necessary to prevent any Thulani-qualified GSD from dying prematurely in a shelter.

Silicon Valley Pet Project
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Silicon Valley Pet Project was founded in November of 2014 and is a San Jose-based organization. Inspired by the innovative spirit of Silicon Valley, our goal was to create a professional, sustainable animal welfare organization that celebrates rescue pets. Our organization is structured into dedicated teams focused on rescue operations, foster parent support, marketing, and communications, volunteer management, development, administration, and more. We embrace teamwork, professionalism, and flexibility in our organization, all with the goal of helping more animals in our community. We are proud to be the first San Jose based network partner of Best Friends Animal Society. SVPP strives to make the experience of volunteering, fostering, adopting, and/or donating to our organization rewarding, educational, supportive, and community-focused. We are an animal welfare organization that is first and foremost a people organization. We could not do what we do without every person who volunteers, fosters, adopts, or donates to SVPP. Check out our Newsletters for more information about SVPP's work over the years.

Santa Cruz SPCA
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Founded in 1938 by Dr. Charles Edward Graves, the Santa Cruz SPCA started after he generously donated a piece of land to create a shelter. Incorporated in 1955, we provided animal control and adoption services until 2002, when the County established its own agency (the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter). Since then, we have continued our mission as a fully independent community animal welfare organization, offering rescue and adoption, as well as other programs and services that support efforts to save and care for companion animals. In 2020, we celebrated the completion of a state-of-the-art shelter facility. With its adaptable design, modern animal habitats, versatile play areas, space for public engagement through programs and events, and facilities conducive to staff and volunteer efforts, Santa Cruz now boasts a community animal shelter ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Adopt My Block
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Adopt My Block is a non-breed specific dog rescue based out of North San Jose with a focus on outreach for struggling pet parents, and members of the houseless community.

South County Tail Waggers
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose

Friends Of San Martin Animal Society - FOSMAS
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Our primary goal is to lower the euthanasia rate in the South County. We can accomplish this goal by increasing adoptions, expanding our volunteer program, providing information and financial support for local spay and neuter programs.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is a non-profit Joint Powers Authority (EIN 90-0039494) serving the County of Santa Cruz, City of Santa Cruz, City of Scotts Valley, City of Watsonville, and City of Capitola. We are governed by a Board of Directors that has representatives from each of the participating jurisdictions. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter provides 24-hour animal rescue and is Santa Cruz County’s only full service, open-admission animal shelter. SCCAS has two locations where people can find and recover lost pets and adopt new animal companions. These shelters are tangible evidence of Santa Cruz County’s commitment to animal welfare. We are supported by numerous volunteers and foster care families who provide thousands of hours of assistance to SCCAS staff. We rescue and assure temporary shelter, veterinary and humane care for over 6,000 stray, unwanted, abandoned, mistreated, neglected and injured animals every year. Our History The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter began serving the community in July of 2002 with offices in Watsonville and Scotts Valley. In 2008, we moved into a newly-constructed county-owned building in Santa Cruz, on a site that once housed an SPCA facility. In 2022, we completed an exciting addition/renovation to our main shelter building and are beginning to plan for additional facility improvements to better serve Santa Cruz County’s pets and people.

Redwood Coast German Shepherd Rescue, Inc.
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
#15 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
San Jose

Companion Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.)
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #3 in San Jose
San Jose
Founded in 1987, the Companion Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) is a nonprofit, all volunteer, animal rescue organization based in Santa Clara County. We accept owner-relinquished dogs as well as abandoned, abused, or otherwise-neglected puppies and dogs that would otherwise face uncertain futures working with Bay Area shelters. These once homeless animals are taken into our volunteer foster homes where they receive quality nutrition, medical attention, and lots of love and warmth until placed into quality, pre-screened, permanent homes. Because C.A.R.E. is a “no-kill” animal rescue organization, our animals (except in extreme cases) remain in foster care until adopted into quality, loving homes, regardless how long this may take. This long-term care can lead to further expenses over and above the animal’s initial medical expenses. All of our dogs and puppies are spayed or neutered and microchipped prior to adoption. Since C.A.R.E. is a non-profit organization that does not receive local or federal funding, we depend on fundraisers along with support from our community and adoption fees to keep us operational. C.A.R.E. is committed not only to saving the lives of homeless animals but to public education. It is our belief that with knowledge about responsible pet guardianship (in all its forms), we can curb and eventually end, the suffering of neglected animals and the tragedy of pet overpopulation which last year alone resulted in over 13 million pets euthanized in our nation’s animal shelters.

What's the Sniffspot San Jose Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

Welcome to the 2024 San Jose, CA Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in San Jose, CA chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 22 private dog parks in the San Jose area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore San Jose dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near San Jose

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list

Sniffspot San Jose Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in San Jose?

There are 22 in San Jose. Outside of San Jose, there are 678 located in California.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in San Jose?

There are many reputable rescues in San Jose, the top 3 on our list are: Furry Friends Rescue, West Coast Cane Corso Rescue, Adopt My Block.

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in San Jose offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in San Jose is Husky with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Senior dog with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in San Jose?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in San Jose. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Please see our website: https://www.furryfriendsrescue.org/

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in San Jose?

Yes! San Jose has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: German Shepherd Husky

Can you recommend any dog rescues in San Jose that specialize in senior dogs?

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in San Jose, but these are the closest cities with senior dog rescues and shelters: Huntington Beach, Los Angeles, Salinas

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

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.

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The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

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Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best San Jose, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Furry Friends Rescue

West Coast Cane Corso Rescue

Woof Den Rescue

Karmic Rescue Without Borders

Silicon Valley Animal Control Authority

Japanese Chin Care and Rescue Effort (JCCARE)

Jakes Wish Dog Rescue

Angel’s Furry Friends Rescue

South Bay Purebred Rescue

Wiley's Wish Animal Rescue

Every Pet's Dream

San Jose Animal Care Center

Four Paws to Love

Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue

Silicon Valley Pet Project

Santa Cruz SPCA

Adopt My Block

South County Tail Waggers

Friends Of San Martin Animal Society - FOSMAS

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter

Redwood Coast German Shepherd Rescue, Inc.

Companion Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.)

What's the Sniffspot San Jose Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near San Jose

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot San Jose Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in San Jose?

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in San Jose?

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in San Jose offer?

How can I adopt a rescue dog in San Jose?

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in San Jose?

Can you recommend any dog rescues in San Jose that specialize in senior dogs?

David Adams

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