Are you looking for a specific breed of dog? Chances are there is a rescue overflowing with dogs of that breed.

While some people find the adoption process lengthy or "too many hoops to jump through," keep in mind that many of the dogs in rescue have been in and out of multiple homes for no reason other than human irresponsibility. Rescues try to ensure that each dog placed is going to their "forever home". Rescues that don't carefully screen potential adopters may be equally as relaxed about the health and temperament of the dogs they adopt out. Adopting a dog is a 12-20 year commitment, be thankful for the rescues that take the time to match you with the right dog.

Responsible rescues only adopt dogs that have been evaluated with other people, dogs and other animals and have been spayed/neutered. It is against California law to sell/adopt an intact animal.

Benefits of adopting adult dogs

Petfinder.com
Search for available rescue and shelter animals by breed, age and size.

Sacramento SPCA
See local animals available for adoption.

BadRap
Pit Bull Rescue and Public Education

BARK
Bay Area Keeshond Rescue

Border Collie Rescue of No. California
Good breed information and lots of dogs needing homes.

Cattledog Dreams Rescue
Good resource for adopting and rehoming Australian Cattle Dogs/Queensland Heelers

German Shepherd Rescue of Northern California

Great Pyrenees Rescue of Northern California

Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Dog and Cat Rescue

Homeward Bound
Golden Retriever Rescue

Labrador Retrievers
There are always an abundance of purebred Labs and Lab mixes at local shelters - Search Petfinder.com to see local Labs.

Norcal Aussie Rescue
Australian Shepherds

Norcal Beagle Rescue
Beagles in need of homes

Northern California Sheltie Rescue
Good information on Shelties

Northern California Sled Dog Rescue
Siberian Huskies, Malamutes and more!

Northern California Weimaraner Rescue
Available dogs and breed information

Pit Bull Resource Center
Where Education Meets Rescue

PugPros
Pug Rescue

Pug Savers
Pug Rescue

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue
Bay-Area rescue group

Give a Dog a Bone
Providing comfort and kindness to long-term shelter residents

To add a link for your rescue group, please email lisa@4pawsu.com