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The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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.

Bunny's Buddies
#1 in United States, #1 in California
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

Doggie Protective Services (DPS)
#5 in United States, #2 in California
"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

FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue
#6 in United States, #3 in California
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

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
#14 in United States, #4 in California
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

The Animal Pad
#21 in United States, #5 in California
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

Pack Lyfe Rescue
#34 in United States, #6 in California
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

Better World Rescue
#59 in United States, #7 in California
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

A Way Home For Dogs
#67 in United States, #8 in California
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

Amazing Strays Rescue
#84 in United States, #9 in California
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

Compassion Without Borders
#97 in United States, #10 in California
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

Yreka Rescue Ranch
#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

ShepHeroes
#102 in United States, #11 in California
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

The Liberty Dog Network
#112 in United States, #13 in California
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

Furry Friends Rescue
#114 in United States, #14 in California
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

The Humane Society of Sonoma County
#130 in United States, #15 in California
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

The Barking Lot
#130 in United States, #15 in California
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

Little Big Paws Pet Rescue
#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

Berkeley Humane
#153 in United States, #18 in California
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

It's The Pits
#157 in United States, #19 in California
Pit Bull
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

Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS)
#170 in United States, #20 in California
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

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In California

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The Best Huntington Beach, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue
We save dogs from high kill shelters & off the streets to find each of them their perfect #FurryTailEnding.
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The Best Los Angeles, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Wags & Walks
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.
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Angel City Pit Bulls
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.
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Lange Foundation
We rescue cats and dogs from city and county shelters and prepare them for their new forever homes. Many cats and dogs come into our care needing extensive medical care, specifically surgeries. Thanks to our surgery fund, we are able to provide life saving procedures to those we rescue. We run intervention programs in San Bernardino and the Antelope Valley where we provide food, supplies, and medical assistance to owners who are struggling to care for their pets. We supply vouchers to residents of San Bernardino, Palmdale, and Lancaster that cover the full cost over $50 of the procedure.
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The Best Oakland, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Pack Lyfe Rescue
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
View profile

Oakland Animal Services
Oakland Animal Services is Oakland's only ‚open admissions‚ shelter: We accept all of Oakland's homeless, injured, orphaned, unwanted, lost, abandoned and mistreated animals, regardless of age, breed, temperament or medical condition.
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The Best Riverside, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS)
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.
View profile

The Best Sacramento, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

ShepHeroes
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.
View profile

Front Street Animal Shelter
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.
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Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue
Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue & Sanctuary was founded in the year 2000 based on a promise made to our founders' beloved Golden, Chelsea. Since then, we saved more than 11,200 dog lives through comprehensive rescue and adoption programs. Thanks to the vision and generosity of our founders, Jody and Mike Jones, we have carved out a peaceful haven from eight acres of the countryside where dogs can run, play, train, and be loved on their journeys to forever homes. Our facility provides refuge for dogs in immediate need. A robust foster program supplements our efforts so more can be saved. For those whose extreme age or health issues have rendered them unlikely to be adopted, they are welcome to live out their lives with us in sanctuary. None of this would be possible without you ‚ the hundreds of volunteers, supporters, adopters, fosters, and partners who truly are the heart of Homeward Bound.
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The Best San Diego, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Bunny's Buddies
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
View profile

The Animal Pad
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.
View profile

A Way Home For Dogs
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.
View profile

The Best San Francisco, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Muttville
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!
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Rocket Dog Rescue
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
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Animal Care and control San Francisco
The San Francisco Department of Animal Care & Control (SFACC) is a taxpayer-funded, open-admission animal shelter. Since 1989, SFACC has provided housing, care, and medical treatment to wild, exotic and domestic stray, lost, abandoned, sick, injured, and surrendered animals. SFACC's doors are open to all animals in need regardless of species, medical, or behavioral condition. The shelter also enforces all state and local Animal Control and Welfare laws and is the first responder for animals in natural disasters and citizen emergencies. SFACC shelters homeless, neglected, orphaned, and abused animals and offers a variety of services to the community. SFACC is the local City agency that investigates animal cruelty, abuse and neglect, enforces animal welfare laws, rescues wildlife in distress, and aids domestic animals in need. SFACC aims to adopt, rehome, or reunite domestic animals with their guardians and release wildlife to their native habitat.
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The Best San Jose, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Furry Friends 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/
View profile

West Coast Cane Corso Rescue
We are responsible rescue dedicated to saving the Cane Corso and similar mastiff type breeds
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Adopt My Block
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.
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The Best Santa Rosa, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
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.
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Compassion Without Borders
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.
View profile

The Humane Society of Sonoma County
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.
View profile

The Best Stockton, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Better World Rescue
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.
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The Best Vallejo, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Humane Society of Imperial County
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.
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What's the Sniffspot California Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

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.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In California

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States Near California

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot California Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in California?

There are 164 in California. 11 are located in San Diego with 153 are located in other areas of the state.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in California?

There are many reputable rescues in California, the top 3 on our list are: Bunny's Buddies, FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue, Doggie Protective Services (DPS)

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in California offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in California is Chihuahua with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Husky with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in California?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in California. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
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.

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

Yes! California has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Chihuahua Husky Puppy Beagle Yorkie Dachshund Pug Cocker Spaniel Boxer Labrador German Shepherd Golden Retriever Pit Bull

Can you recommend any dog rescues in California that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Yes! The top senior dog rescues and shelters in California are: Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, Frosted Faces Foundation, Muttville

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within California?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in San Diego is Bunny's Buddies. The top specialized rescue and shelter in California is Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary.

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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About Sniffspot

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 California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Bunny's Buddies

Doggie Protective Services (DPS)

FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary

The Animal Pad

Pack Lyfe Rescue

Better World Rescue

A Way Home For Dogs

Amazing Strays Rescue

Compassion Without Borders

Yreka Rescue Ranch

ShepHeroes

The Liberty Dog Network

Furry Friends Rescue

The Humane Society of Sonoma County

The Barking Lot

Little Big Paws Pet Rescue

Berkeley Humane

It's The Pits

Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS)

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In California

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In California

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States Near California

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot California Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in California?

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in California?

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in California offer?

How can I adopt a rescue dog in California?

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

Can you recommend any dog rescues in California that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within California?

David Adams

About Sniffspot

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