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Top Dog Rescues In Orange County

dog rescue orange county

Looking to adopt a dog (or other animals) in Orange County? You’re in luck! OC boasts several reputable dog rescues dedicated to connecting furry friends with loving homes. Whether you’re searching for a playful puppy, a gentle senior dog, or even other adoptable animals like cats or rabbits, there’s a rescue organization ready to help you find your perfect companion.

Here’s a list of top-rated dog rescues in Orange County, known for their compassionate care, thorough adoption processes, and commitment to animal welfare. Many of these rescues also offer fostering opportunities, volunteer programs, and community events to help homeless pets.

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The Little Red Dog

Based in Lake Forest, The Little Red Dog is a non-profit organization focused on rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters. They emphasize rehabilitation and training, ensuring each dog is ready for a forever home. Their dedicated team works tirelessly to match dogs with the right families. In addition to rescue efforts, they advocate for responsible pet ownership and community education. Through foster programs, adoption events, and ongoing support, The Little Red Dog continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of both animals and the people who welcome them into their homes.

OC Animal Care

Located in Tustin, OC Animal Care is one of the largest shelters in the county. They offer a wide variety of adoptable dogs, from puppies to seniors. The facility is known for its community events and adoption promotions, making it a hub for pet lovers. With a strong focus on public outreach and education, OC Animal Care also provides resources on pet care, licensing, and responsible ownership. Their dedicated staff and volunteers work daily to ensure each animal receives proper medical attention, socialization, and the best chance at finding a loving, permanent home.

Priceless Pet Rescue

With locations in Costa Mesa, Chino Hills, and Claremont, Priceless Pet Rescue is a no-kill, non-profit organization. They are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming unwanted and abandoned pets. Their commitment to animal welfare has earned them recognition from GuideStar and GreatNonProfits. Each adoption center—affectionately called “The Orphanage”—offers a welcoming space for potential adopters to meet animals in need. In addition to adoptions, they run educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and community outreach events, all aimed at creating a more compassionate world for pets and their people.

Leashes of Love Rescue

Operating out of Lake Forest, Leashes of Love Rescue focuses on saving dogs from high-kill shelters and finding them loving homes. They also take in pets from owners who can no longer care for them, ensuring these animals get a second chance at happiness. This all-volunteer organization is driven by compassion and a mission to reduce unnecessary euthanasia. Through fostering, community partnerships, and thorough adoption processes, Leashes of Love Rescue helps dogs transition from uncertain futures to stable, loving homes where they can thrive.

German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County

Specializing in German Shepherds, GSROC is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming purebred German Shepherds. They provide medical care, training, and love to these loyal dogs, preparing them for their new families. Many of the dogs they take in have been abandoned, surrendered, or pulled from overcrowded shelters. GSROC’s passionate volunteers work around the clock to give each dog individualized attention, from behavioral assessments to enrichment activities. Their goal is to place every dog in a responsible, loving home where they can thrive as both companions and family protectors.

Mutts in Need

Mutts in Need is a volunteer-run, non-profit rescue organization committed to saving dogs of all breeds, with a special focus on mixed breeds—often the most overlooked in shelters. They rescue dogs from high-kill shelters, hoarding situations, and neglectful environments, providing them with the medical care, training, and love they need to start fresh. Mutts in Need places dogs in foster homes while they await adoption, ensuring they receive individualized attention and socialization. With a passionate team and a deep commitment to second chances, they work tirelessly to match each dog with a forever home where they can truly belong.

WAGS Pet Adoption

Located in Westminster, WAGS Pet Adoption serves the cities of Westminster, Stanton, and Seal Beach. They provide care and shelter for lost and unhealthy animals, striving to find them permanent, loving homes. As a full-service animal shelter, WAGS offers medical treatment, spay/neuter services, and behavioral support to ensure each pet is adoption-ready. Their team is committed to community engagement, regularly hosting low-cost vaccine clinics, adoption events, and educational programs. Through compassion and dedication, WAGS continues to be a trusted resource for both animals in need and the families looking to adopt them.

Bichon Rescue of Orange County

This rescue specializes in rehoming Bichons and other small, hypoallergenic mixed breeds. They focus on senior dogs and those needing special veterinary care, ensuring these often-overlooked pets find the care and love they deserve. With a compassionate approach, the rescue provides tailored medical attention and gentle rehabilitation to help these dogs thrive. Their dedicated volunteers work closely with adopters to support smooth transitions into new homes, giving each pet the second chance they truly deserve.

The Pet Adoption Center of Orange County

Partnering with Best Friends Animal Society, this center connects adoptable pets with loving people. They provide resources to ensure a lifelong bond between pets and their new families. From adoption counseling to post-adoption support, their goal is to create successful, lasting matches. The center also hosts community events, educational workshops, and volunteer opportunities to promote responsible pet ownership. By working closely with local shelters and rescue groups, they help reduce pet homelessness and create a more compassionate, pet-friendly community.

OC Animal Allies

OC Animal Allies is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Orange County families and their animals. They offer various programs, including low-cost spay and neuter services, emergency vet care assistance, and pet food distribution. Committed to strengthening the bond between pets and their owners, OC Animal Allies also provides educational resources and outreach initiatives. Their compassionate team works closely with the community to ensure that pets stay healthy and families can keep their beloved animals in times of need.

Adopting a dog is a rewarding experience that brings joy to both the pet and the owner. Orange County offers numerous reputable rescues, each with its unique focus and strengths. Whether you’re looking for a specific breed or open to any furry friend, these organizations are ready to help you find your perfect match. Here’s to making a difference in a life of a stray today! And then when you’re ready, you can take your new furry friend to the best dog parks in Laguna Hills!

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