California is home to some of the most compassionate and effective animal shelters and rescue organizations in the United States. Whether you're looking to adopt a pet, volunteer, or support animal welfare, these top-rated shelters offer exceptional care and services.
Top Pet Shelters in California
1. Muttville Senior Dog Rescue (San Francisco)
Specializing in senior dogs, Muttville has rescued over 12,000 dogs since its inception in 2007. Their new, larger facility in the Mission District aims to double their intake and adoptions within five years, providing a welcoming environment for both dogs and adopters, many of whom are senior citizens.
2. Hope For Paws (Los Angeles)
Founded in 2008, Hope For Paws is renowned for rescuing animals facing death or danger due to abuse or abandonment. They document their rescues on YouTube, raising awareness and funds to support their mission.
3. Pasadena Humane (Pasadena)
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area since 1903, Pasadena Humane offers adoption services, veterinary care, and community programs. They played a crucial role during the 2025 wildfires, providing emergency boarding for various animals.
4. San Diego Humane Society (San Diego)
This organization provides comprehensive services, including adoption, wildlife rescue, and veterinary care. They are committed to creating a more humane San Diego by inspiring compassion and advancing the welfare of animals.
5. The Milo Foundation (Point Richmond)
A no-kill organization, The Milo Foundation rescues dogs and cats from high-kill shelters and finds them loving homes. They also offer sanctuary to animals not ready for adoption and educate the public about responsible pet guardianship.
6. Best Friends Animal Society (Los Angeles)
Located in West Los Angeles, Best Friends is dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in shelters. They provide adoption services and work to create a no-kill Los Angeles.
7. Animal Place (Grass Valley & Petaluma)
Founded in 1989, Animal Place is one of the oldest and largest sanctuaries for farmed animals in the U.S. Their 600-acre sanctuary in Grass Valley provides refuge to neglected farmed animals, and they operate a 12-acre adoption center in Petaluma.
8. The Gentle Barn (Santa Clarita)
This sanctuary rescues abused animals and offers animal-assisted therapy programs for children and at-risk youth. They provide a safe haven for animals and a place of healing for people.
9. D.E.L.T.A. Rescue (Acton)
As the largest no-kill, care-for-life sanctuary in the U.S., D.E.L.T.A. Rescue houses over 1,500 animals on its 150-acre property. They rescue animals abandoned in the wilderness and provide lifelong care.
10. Priceless Pet Rescue (Multiple Locations)
Operating in Chino Hills, Claremont, Costa Mesa, and the City of Industry, Priceless Pets is a no-kill rescue recognized as a top-rated charity. They are committed to saving one by one until there are none.
Adoption Success Story: Sky's Journey
After the devastating wildfires in Maui, a 2-year-old Plott hound mix named Sky was airlifted to California. Thanks to the efforts of Marin Humane in Novato, Sky found a loving home just two days after arriving, showcasing the incredible impact of these shelters.
Supporting these shelters through adoption, volunteering, or donations can make a significant difference in the lives of countless animals. Each organization plays a vital role in promoting animal welfare and finding forever homes for pets in need.