Any dog that gets to come live at the Big Dog Rescue has hit the jackpot. Although it's not a forever home, it is a gorgeous sanctuary for dogs to leave the streets and shelter for some decompression in Sonoma County. My dog Cherly was a homeless hound from Oklahoma who lived at the Big Dog Rescue for a year and a half of her life. Cheryl saved my girl and gave her a chance even though no one wanted her as she was one of their long term residents. This peaceful palace is a fully fenced sanctuary. Cheryl (the owner) and staff has put so much love and care into her passions. They dogs she's rehabilitated, the care they receive, they support they get. You have to be one lucky pup to be at the Big Dog. My dog loves coming back to the Big Dog for visits. She's super excited and happy. Cheryl wants to make sure her dogs are going to the home that is the perfect match. She will carefully screen as every rescue should do. I've read some of the 1 star reviews on here. And Cheryl is right, dogs are not ment to spend hours outside. What if it's hot? She is correct and has every right to be concerned where her dogs are placed. If you are not a good fit of she is not comfortable with your household, then I'm sure there is another match out there waiting for you to save them. read more

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We have been thinking about adopting a dog for a long time. When we thought we were ready, we looked online and found a dog we liked. He was listed as available at Big Dog Rescue. I filled up the application and I received a one-liner response: "he is gone". I asked for a different dog and the answer was "gone too". I believe my application was a disaster, because I had no clue of what you are supposed to do with a dog and I wrote what I thought we would do. After researching the topic, I can see why they would not consider us for adoption with that application ;-) However, I wrote back asking to speak with them to understand why they did not spend more than a second to reply (I was looking for some suggestions on if we are ok to adopt or if we should not even bother). They never answered. I guess they are great with dogs but have a problem with humans. read more

I can't believe how great these people are. Our family really wanted a dog, but which one? Here's what we had to work with: 1) a small child who up until recently was terrified of dogs; 2) I'm allergic to about 75% of dogs; and 3) my cross-country running kid wanted a dog to run with. You'd think they'd roll their eyes and shoo me away. But no, they were patient and thoughtful, and worked with our entire family to find the best fit. Our process took longer than mostly because of the allergy thing, but I'm glad they were so patient with us. We ended up getting a big greyhound/lab mix, which was perhaps the farthest thing from my mind when we began the process. But she was the best fit. She's the perfect pet for our family--even though she just chewed my bare-root raspberry plant this afternoon. I highly recommend Big Dog Rescue and their people, especially Michele. read more

I have been to my fair share of rescue shelters in northern and southern CA, and BDR is hands down the most beautiful and pleasant experience I have had. Petaluma Animal Services recommended BDR to me with high praise. I had such a good feeling the first time my sisters and I visited that we have been volunteering for 6 months now. This rescue has no required limit of days you need to volunteer as many others do, which actually makes me want to come in more. We come and go as we please. Sometimes I spend hours just socializing and cuddling the dogs! I always leave feeling great and joke that it is free therapy. I believe the dogs here are genuinely as happy as they can be in their "in between" situation. They have room to run, sun bathe, go on tree-lined walks, and get lots of fresh air. The rescue has amazing trainers that come in to work with the dogs until they find their people. It is clear the women that run BDR have a serious love and compassion for animals, and they have dedicated their lives to it. My fiance and I ended up falling in love and bringing home two BDR dogs. We have had such a great experience (and talk about it so often) that 3 additional dogs have been adopted out into our family, and I'm sure there will be more because we can't give enough praise. They also give a really lovely "doggy gift bag" to take home with you. read more

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Where do I begin? I'm a volunteer with Big Dog & have volunteered with countless other rescue groups over the years. They only have two requirements to be a volunteer: compassion and a love for dogs! I have NEVER worked with any other rescue group that has flexibility. Most places are a weekly commitment at a set time, which is tough because of my other commitments & I no longer live in Sonoma County. The staff & volunteers are compassionate, friendly, knowable & outright amazing! Now let's talk dogs: they have large outdoor dog runs, sleep in doors at night & get play dates. The facility is NOT depressing, but peaceful & beautifully maintained. They are healthy and very well taken care of. It's clear there was a great deal of love, thought and resources put into this rescue sanctuary. I would highly recommend adopting or volunteering your time here. You will NOT be disappointed. read more

My husband and I had the pleasure to bring our 8 month old corgi Odin to meet a new buddy today. We were lucky to see that he bonded instantly with Lana. Cheryl and the crew do an amazing job and made our visit so enjoyable. The time and care they put into finding the perfect match for you and for the animals is outstanding!! It is so obvious to see they all love the work they do, as the animals are all so well taken care of. Our family has grown four paws bigger now, and we couldn't be happier. Thank you again, Cheryl!! read more

Well....as they say, "Sh*t happens". It's just like falling in love, when you know you KNOW. After finding our first two furry kids, a third little soul crept into our hearts 8 months ago. Now I love dogs, obviously, but I also know when a dog is meant to be in my life. Enter little miss Domino. I thought her photo was adorable on their posting, but meeting her in person? Meant to be. Now our little family pack is complete, and not a day goes by where I don't laugh, smile and feel undying love for our pups. So if you're looking for your forever friend, visit and meet the dogs face-to-face. If a dog picks YOU... you'll know, and it'll be magic. read more

Big Dog Rescue - Our baby girl "Domino". - Pet Services Near Me

Beware of this place! If you don't present yourself or your desired dog's home environment in exactly the right light, the staff at BDR won't let you adopt ANY dog from them. They have a certain dog "utopian" vision that, without understanding what you did/said wrong, will find you unfit. When I called BDR to see about picking up the dog my husband and I had visited and fell in love with the day before, the very mean and curt director told me my husband and I would not be allowed to adopt from them. She said we would keep the dog outside too much and that they "believe a dog should be an integral part of a family's life." (She wasn't even the woman who "helped" us; she was basing her decision on what someone else had told her.) I said that was exactly what we wanted and she most certainly would be an indoor dog! She gave me no chance to explain what we were looking for or the environment the dog would live in. She just refused to discuss it any farther, saying "that anything I said at this point cannot be believed!" This was extremely hurtful. When people decide it is time to add a dog to their family, it is an admirable thing to go to a rescue. Perhaps some of you are like my husband and I, who recently lost their two dogs to old age and were left with a hole that needed filled. Along with an empty nest (children have grown), we had all the time in the world to love and nurture a new addition. BDR had no right to treat us so rudely when we were feeling so excited at the prospect of finding the perfect dog. A polite, "we think we found a better match for this dog and we wish you luck in your search" would not have lead to this bad review and I would not have been blindsided by their treatment of us. There are lots of rescue organizations out there - work with an agency that is professional and respectful. Do not use BDR. read more

We got off to a bit of a slow start with me obsessively reaching out to them since I had already kind of fallen for one of their available pooches. I was feeling like I must be one of those one star folks who had said something wrong in her application, and they were black listing me already. I was pretty deflated. Imagine my delight when I got an email to make an appointment on Friday, and got to head up and meet said dream-pup that same day. We hit it off, so we went to pick up the boss (our other dog), and see what she thought of him. She wasn't impressed, and he was intimidated, but she warmed up to him (defined as "ignored") more quickly than some other dogs she's met. We hung out in the yard for a bit to see how things would unfold, and it went better than we had anticipated. We decided to give it a whirl and bring him home, and are so glad we did. The dogs are totally getting along (after drawing some boundaries at home of course), and starting to play and sleep all cuddled up together. SUCCESS!! Cheryl and Abby were super nice, knowledgeable and helpful. This is a beautiful temporary home for these rescued pups, and the folks working there clearly care so much about them. A million thank yous for helping us add a new little lovebug to the family. Edgar (now Poe) has his forever home! read more

We had been stalking basically all the local pet adoption sites for our perfect dog for a long time but were unable to take any action due to the no-pet policy of our apartment (yet three contraband cats, Laura B, holla!), but our move into our dog-friendly condo was suddenly imminent. Which, really, was probably all for the best that we had an extended waiting period, because it took that long to dissuade my boyfriend from his dream of a "face-eating" dog. After about the 1,000th time of pointing out that such a dog would result in a) the disappearance of our cats, and b) a likely bevy of lawsuits, we compromised on getting a dog that looks like a Muppet. Do you see what I'm working with? So, one night I was perusing 1-800-Save-a-Pet.com (check it out, excellent resource with a compendium of local adoption agencies and great search options), I saw him. A little scrappy black terrier/poodle mix standing proudly, as though he were in the background of some British aristocrat's portrait. Muppet-like? Undoubtedly. I turned my laptop toward D, who proceeded to freak the f*&^ out. "He's got buttons for eyes!" he exclaimed. "Buttons for eyes! You have to put the adoption application in NOW!" Because apparently his faxing finger was broken. Long story short, we put in the application, met our pup who managed to charm us even more, and after a home inspection, picked him up for our foster to adoption period. I love Big Dog Rescue for so many reasons beyond the inherent good of what they and similar organizations are doing. The dogs have a wonderful existence on an idyllic ranch while waiting for their forever homes, and the people behind Big Dog are determined to ensure that they reach a perfect and suitable home, and are in no rush to dump them off to the first taker. You initially get your dog for a foster period before the official adoption so that you will be certain that you want to keep the dog, and if not, return the dog to Big Dog so that they don't end up back in the shelter cycle. They are seriously wonderful people, and if you fall in love with one of their dogs, you just need to make sure that you are the one to maintain contact with them (as I so borderline-psychotically did, although they assured me it was a good thing), because they are really understandably busy. If you are hell bent on buying a designer dog, please check out Big Dog first. They have a sister shelter in Oklahoma that receives a lot of dogs from a local puppy mill, and all sorts of designer dogs that probably tickle your fancy, and that truly need and deserve a good home. Our dog Astro is not only an adorable scrappy Muppet, but also nothing short of perfect, or at least, perfect for us...he comes with me to work and sleeps on the couch all day, tussles with the bf in the evenings, ignores Bandido's continued threats to "cut" him, and is a GENIUS. (He learned how to shake in the course of 2 minutes, probably also due to the fact that I geek out over his shaking as though he were a Beatle.) read more

We have adopted 3 dogs from BDR over 5 years and have been delighted with them. They have big and small dogs. Their ranch is large with many play areas for the dogs during the day. At night they are tucked in their warm beds. They evaluate their dogs and can give you good insight on what they will need to adjust in their new home. The dogs are given all the usual vet treatments and shots. Some dogs are mix breeds and some are purebreds. They take only a limited number of dogs so they each get individual attention. They also sponsor medical care for needy injured dogs. We were fortunate to get 2 young "doodles" that were found near Bakersfield. Their calm ranch environment helps dogs that have been traumatized from their stay in shelters. They do great work. Karen read more

Big Dog Rescue provides an extraordinary service. I am so thrilled that I visited their shelter and decided to adopt 'Leo.' He is a wonderful and amazing companion and I am very grateful that Big Dog Rescue saved him from a 'kill shelter' in Salinas. Without their incredible effort and compassion, Leo would not have had a second chance, and I would never have met him. I would recommend Big Dog Rescue to anyone who is considering pet adoption. It is a beautiful facility and all the people who work there were very helpful and patient. read more

My girl Daisy was very depressed because her older brothers had to be put down. after looking at other dogs, we went to big dog rescue and found a little girl they called Pixie. I took my granddaughter with me because I wanted a friendly, happy dog who liked kids, well I found the perfect fit. They could not have been nicer or know their dogs better we ended up with our perfect new family member and Daisy has not been depressed since. Would not hesitate to get another dog from them, maybe next time I really will get a big dog(Penny weighs 10 pounds) I hope that is many many year off! read more

They rescue dogs and put in considerable time and resources doing so. The volunteers are lovely and kind and the setting is Eden-like. But there's something off here. When we arrived there was a young college couple leaving before our scheduled appointment. Within two minutes a lady comes walking out of the office, holding their application up high and out in front of her so we could see it. She dramatically ripped it in half and said, "No to this applicant. She has roommates, rents, and is still in college." I was horrified. That was none of our business. We saw some beautiful pups. Long story short, we fell in love with a nice calm large dog. We were steered by the application-ripper to two older black labs that were jumping and weighed in at 65 lbs and 90 lbs each. She kept telling us that we could adopt both for one fee, a 2-for-1 sale essentially. She asked that we call in the morning and let her know our thoughts. I called the next morning at 7:30 and left a message how excited we were to come and adopt our perfect calm and gentle dog. I didn't hear anything back by 11:30 so I called again and was greeted on the phone in a very curt and irritated voice by the application-ripper. She said she was busy and would call me later so we could talk. She didn't call back that day. She waited one more day and called my mother directly, informing her that the dog we wanted was no longer available. She told my mom that she was too old and frail to have that dog anyway. And now she thinks my mom should have a small dog (surprise, they have loads of them). Interesting, too old and frail to have the nice calm adoptable dog, but not too old and frail to have the unruly hard to adopt dogs that jump. A very unpleasant experience. read more

I picked up a rescue dog from Big Dog Rescue in Penngrove, CA, over 10 years ago as a puppy. She's a Wheaten Terrier cross (possibly with Jack Russell) and she is the sweetest dog ever. I won't hesitate to go back to BDR to get another dog. They take excellent care of their dogs and provide you with the information and support you need to match the perfect dog for you and your family and lifestyle. They're very personable and professional. Check out their website frequently for updates for these wonderful pooches! http://www.homelesshounds.us/ read more

We were referred to BDR from a friend. When we first arrived at the facility- we were wondering how we could be considered a dog so that we could be rescued- it's an amazing facility. Very calm and peaceful (and incredibly clean). The staff and volunteers were all very friendly and took their time with us answering questions about the different dogs and they were very knowledgable about which dog would/would not work for our home. After working with BDR, we found our new forever friend and we couldn't be happier. I would highly recommend BDR to anyone looking for a new pet. One word- AMAZING! read more

We adopted our Standard Poodle Pierre from Big Dog Rescue about eight years ago and he has been the most wonderful dog that we've ever had. Thank you Big Dog rescue. read more

The other reviews here have really said it all. We adopted a wonderful pair of Australian shepherds three years ago, and couldn't be happier with the experience. BDR is careful and thorough and an outstanding partner in pet adoption. It's a great place to visit too. Wonderful people all. read more

A wonderful rescue. They have some of the sweetest, most gentle and awesome dogs.

Absolutely love the staff at BDR. They take such good care of the dogs and really work hard to make sure their dogs are placed in the best home possible. I was initially but off by the long application process but soon realized it was best for the dog's placement. The dog we got from them was the perfect fit for our family. Thank you for rescuing our dog from Oklahoma! read more

BDR is the best. I adopted 2 dogs from them....the first, alas, had aggression problems-- and bit two people. I loved this dog and was heartbroken because clearly he had to leave my home. BDR took him back and provided care and sanctuary. Dog #2 came several months later... a puppy Aussiepoo... now 4 years old and the most amazing dog I have ever had.... BDR was so supportive both in my sadness about having to give up dog #1 and in matching me with dog #2. An incredible place.... full of love and 'dog people'. read more

I just went through the process of adopting a dog from Big Dog Rescue in Penngrove, CA. It is one of the most beautiful sites for these homeless animals. I worked with Cheryl who had my application approved and my veterinary send in a letter of approval since I am a prior dog owner and lover. She matched me with a beautiful dog named Annabelle, whom I fell in love with. The date was set for me to come and spend a few hours with Annabelle and if we connected I would be able to take her home. Since I am 5 hours away, I would need the letter from my vet for approval. Everything was set. I would meet Annabelle and bring her home on Saturday. While en-route, Cheryl decided to allow another family to come and meet with Annabelle even after I had been approved as her new owner provided our visit went well. My visit with Annabelle was perfect! However, while at the shelter, Cheryl began to introduce me to other dogs to see if I would be interested in another pet. I was confused at first until she told me that she now had another family she was considering for Annabelle. I couldn't believe I had come all this way and gone through the process, only to be told, she changed her mind. The final decision was to give Annabelle to the other family. I am still heartbroken and a little confused. When I spoke with Cheryl asking why she did this, she simply implied that it was unfortunate that "I thought" I was already approved to take Annabelle home. Cheryl acted dishonestly and has the power to do this and suffer no penalty for it. I've now decided not to adopt at this time. I must mention she did offer me a consolation prize of a first right of refusal for another dog and no adoption fees. If she didn't act with integrity this time around, why would I expose myself again through your agency? No thanks! Please consider when adopting through this agency and especially if you are working with Cheryl, that until you have your new pet in possession and safely home, they may and can change their mind regardless of their previous agreement and how it will affect a person. Sincerely, Veronica F read more

7 years ago we brought our German Shepherd up to big dog rescue to find a companion for him and we found our little penny girl ! we love her very much and the experience and care and their facilities are all fabulous! Don't let the name fool you they have all shapes and sizes read more