I have been a cat owner for 20-plus years, and recently tried to adopt a kitten as a companion for my very active, very anxious senior cat after his bonded brother passed away from kidney disease last week. The only reason I was denied was because of the age of my senior cat. Diane, the subject of other negative reviews, had decided before even calling me for an interview that my senior cat would be "tormented" by the energy of a kitten. It didn't matter that I have to leash-walk my senior cat twice a day because of his pent-up energy. It didn't matter that she could hear him (via speakerphone) crying while jumping all over me and the furniture during the entire duration of our (5 minute) phone call. It didn't matter that I've seen my senior cat be territorial towards other senior cats but take swimmingly to foster kittens in the (recent) past. Apparently the philosophy of Rescue House is that this one woman knows the personality of your existing pets better than you do, and loving homes for their cats are less important than her philosophy. According to her, I should only take a senior cat because older cats are "slow" without regard to my cat's actual energy level and personality. I wish I hadn't waited a week for the application process at rescue house, because my very lonely, very energetic senior cat is keeping me up at night crying and zooming from window to window looking for a playmate. But, you know, senior cats can't handle the energy level of kittens. read more

We adopted a little girl kitten out of an adoption event at Petsmart. It was very clear that the volunteers cared a lot about the cats in their care and were serious about finding good homes for them. Many of the cats they rescue and foster are from shelters in LA region who are on euthanasia lists. We went through a pretty standard application and interview process and took our new baby home that same day. It was an easy and straightforward procedure. Yes, they work hard to ensure there is a good match with the prospective family, but I would expect nothing less. We had follow up calls and offers of advice and guidance which shows they truly care about the cats and not just to get them out the door. And the kittens are really well socialized since they are fostered by caring volunteers. Check them out at an adoption event. read more

I found out about the rescue house from the Cat Cafe. When I went to the Cat Cafe, all the staff were very understanding, and knowledgable about each cats' backgrounds, and if guests were being too loud or rough with the cats, the staff were very friendly about telling them. I recently adopted a cat from one of the rescue houses' Pet Smart locations, and found the volunteers to be friendly and helpful in person and in email. When I found the cat I was interested in adopting, I had to fill out a short application, which had a short turn around, and had a small interview on the phone. I am very happy with the cat I adopted, and with their dedication to having a lifetime commitment to the cats they bring into their shelter. I think the rescue house has a good selection of cats for both individuals and families, and I recommend for people to check it out. read more

The process to get our new furry friend was made so easy because of the Rescue House. Great place to look if you're looking to get a new pet! read more

We had a great experience adopting a sweet kitty through Rescue House. They are thorough and want to ensure their cats go to good homes, so if you don't take pet ownership seriously, or expect cats to live outdoors, look elsewhere. That said, the process went very smoothly. After filling out an application, we were contacted for a phone interview and then connected with the foster mom who was caring for the cat we were interested in. We then set up an appointment to meet the kitty and were able to take her home immediately. They really care about the animals they adopt out and try to ensure a perfect match. In addition, if for some reason things don't work out, they ask that you return the cat to them so they can help it find a new forever home. Great experience with a great organization! read more

Probably a cult of mentally defective people from another universe. We attempted to adopt another cat who would have been a perfect addition to our two rescue cats. They suggested we sign a waiver for the cat we wanted to adopt, swearing we'd never let her outside, as if this cat couldn't handle the outdoors because the outdoors is where satan's spawns lurk about. They also shared their immense concern for a cat we adopted from them some three years ago, somehow. Acting as though they gave birth to him, like he's some broken soul who couldn't feed himself; "we appreciate your patience with him," you haven't seen or known him for three years what do you know? And telling us to "reconsider, the way we're raising him." According to whomever we talked to on the phone, she said "it just wouldn't be a good fit, as we're concerned for her safety." Like it's better for this cat to NOT get adopted? By a household that already homes two safe and healthy cats? Definitely a difficult organization to adopt from, as they're far too judgemental, and apparently, tough graders. Not to mention they're all delusional and pleading. Also Laura is a massive bitch. read more

I completely fell in love with a senior, toothless cat from this organization that I had seen posted on Petfinder. I inquired about him quickly and was able to get a phone call from Diane shortly after filling out my application. She was incredibly thorough about my application, which just shows how truly dedicated this organization is to finding the right match for you. Once my application was processed, I was able to safely meet my future cat who was being cared for by an excellent, communicative foster. It was love at first sight! A lot of these cats come from not-so-ideal backgrounds, but they have so much love to give to the right person that comes along. I really appreciated that I was even given the kitty's full medical background information so that I could stay active with his senior care. Now me and my cat are having a wonderful life together, and I'm so incredibly grateful to have had such a great experience with The Rescue House. Thank you for everything! read more

The Rescue House - Pet Adoption Near Me

I found two 4-5 week old kittens in fending for themselves while being hunted by an Osprey. I had no idea what to do since I can't have more cats than my one. Plan A was to take them to the vet to get checked out while I tried to figure out Plan B. Plan B was luckily there. The Rescue House was there doing adoptions. They not only set the kittens up with formula to drink, but they also immediately found a good foster home experienced in caring for very young kittens. I can't thank The Rescue House enough for everything today and for what they do. Deborah and her wonderful amazing fellow volunteers are truly a Godsend. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! read more

The Rescue House is an amazingly friendly and caring organization. We adopted our kitty about a month ago, and the transition was seamless. The staff is incredibly kind and willing to help with the process, and they definitely do their best to ensure each cat goes to a loving home. I can't recommend them enough! read more

Adopted two sweet kitties from them on 2-29-20 and you can tell they really care about the cats and placing them in good homes. Now we can't imagine not having our feline friends living with us. read more

There's something not quite right about this organization. We were denied the opportunity to meet any of the cats because we had an elderly cat who we used to take on a leash (she was an outdoor cat before we adopted her, and it helped her be happy as an indoor cat). 'Diane' told us this organization does not believe in exposing cats to the outdoors under any circumstances, even on a leash or in a catio, regardless of whether it helps the cats thrive. Beyond being unrealistic (they'll at least go to the vet), this dogmatic philosophy is not in the best interest of the cats. read more

2 years ago we decided it was time to open up our home to a kitten in need. We showed up at a rescue event at Petsmart and found our first baby. The volunteers explained his previous life, what his needs were and we eagerly discussed the life we would give him. Of course we will never allow him outside! City life or suburban life, the life of an outside cat can be short lived and dangerous. Our new baby would know luxury and love! We happily went home with a kitten that was given extreme care and affection by Val who put so much time and love into socializing our new baby. He's now a full grown cat and like they say "two is better than one". We found he needs a friend, someone to fill out his days. We again returned to The Rescue House for a companion for him. Again we went to a rescue event after communication with our already adopted baby's foster mother. She had another who was social, loving and the perfect fit for resident cats needs. We filled out another application, went they the necessary checks that we were the right fit and went home with our new baby. Thank you to all the volunteers for our wonderful kittens! Everyone in the organization puts so much time and energy into giving these cats the best possible lives and we will continue to support this organization! read more

I had a brief phone interview about adopting a cat. I was asked if I would keep the cat inside or outside to which I responded with inside. I mentioned that I had family cats that I lived with growing up, and that they were both indoor and outdoor cats. However, I made it clear this cat would be an indoor cat. My reasons for this was that I would not be comfortable having the cat outdoors because of my living situation. I was then asked if I would EVER consider letting the cat outdoors, even if it was ten years down the line, and I had my own yard. I responded that potentially I would let the cat go outside in that scenario. I felt as if I was being asked questions about hypothetical scenarios that may potentially not even occur. Poor customer service. I have previously worked in the service industry for years and this is not how you talk to people. Diane needs to work on her people skills. Would not recommend. Better to look for a company that doesn't trick you into answering strange questions. read more

We wonder how much Rescue House has the best interest of the cats in mind. I have a beautiful 4 bdrm house. We are elders so its quiet. We have no other pets. At petsmart I turned in app. And got short call. In discussing my house I told Diane I have enclosed yard so cat can go outside if it wanted. Im open to in or outside cats. Diane then snapped at me Im not eligible to adopt any of their cats and I dont understand. I was very clear it is open to animal and naturally dont go outside till its old enough to be with supervision. It was a very short interview and no effort was made to see my house or do any other thing. I have no other pets and have lots of room and love. Diane never bothered to get to know what I am like or my history of caring for my pets. Im sorry I'm having a hard time explaining my rejection because it is upsetting. We have a perfect house,lots of room and love. I find it impossible to believe they care. They have hundreds of cats needing homes. Shame on you Diane and petsmart for employing someone who really doesnt know how to do her job read more

I am very disappointed in this organization. I am a cat owner, have had my cats their full lives; 21 and 16yrs. I recently lost my 21 yr old cat and was prepared to adopt a new kitty. I found a kitty I wanted to meet, filled out the application and received a call. The woman asked me questions - then asked, "how would I go about introducing my cat to the new kitty?" I replied, "well, it's been 16yrs since I have adopted and I would love some guidance, but I would introduce them outside of my cats territory, and slowly invite them in." I explained I also use a body leash on my kitty when he is outside. That is when this very nice person turned on me and rudely said, "your ways of doing things aren't the philosophy of our organization and we don't think you will be a good fit." That was it. CRAAZY! Why, because I told her what I thought was right, yet asked for her guidance if I was incorrect? It's amazing, these people will adopt a sweet kitty out to some lying asshole who works for an animal testing organization- but a legitimate person who truly wants a kitty to be a family member - no way because they didn't agree with how I would introduce my cat. That's one day of stress for 20 years of happiness that cat could have experienced. But, because this woman has control issues... Poor animals under her control. They may never see good homes! Sad. read more

A few weeks ago my partner and I adopted a 12 week old kitten from the Rescue House that we found on their website. The process from submitting an application to bringing home our cat took just a few days. The Rescue House volunteers and the fosters were very nice and everything went smoothly. We're very happy with our new member of the family! read more

I adopted my first set of kittens from the Rescue House over 17 years ago. They were great to work with then, and just as wonderful now. They did interview me about the kittens we adopted last weekend, but were not rude as others have written here. They are volunteers who spend countless hours saving the lives of these animals, and care for them as if they are part of the family. THAT's why they interview; to ensure the kittens are going to a loving, forever home. And becoming informed about the behavior of cats/kittens before the adoption is about as easy as it gets these days. read more

This is a great organization that truly cares about the animals it rescues. They care for them and make sure they're socialized and healthy. I also liked their terms of adoption. One of my favorite things is that they remain a contact on the microchip. So if something crappy happens, the animal has a kind of "safety net". The kitty I just adopted was well socialized. He behaved well, off the bat and he's six months old! Kittens can be psycho. So, I would definitely adopt through them again, no question. read more

Let me start off by saying that all the bad reviews on Yelp should not scare you away from adopting with The Rescue House. We adopted our Salem (used to be Zoro) from them and have absolutely no complaints. They take great care of their cats and want to ensure that whoever is adopting their cats has similar values to them. Dianne and Trace were extremely helpful throughout the adoption process, and the fact that The Rescue House has a lifelong commitment to their cats is amazing. They truly care for their pets and are rightfully looking for people who they can trust will do the same. I highly recommend adopting through them read more

Was called at 8 o clock at night - quite rude to call so late - by a "counselor." When asked if I would possibly make a cat an outdoor cat, I said only after a long period of time (i.e., years and I stated this) where I feel that the cat is not happy being indoors. The counselor, completely aghast, said that their cats cannot be outdoors at all and quite promptly hung up. Quite rude to call so late, and the counselor was rude in general. I would not have wasted my time filling out the long application or giving my personal info (such as an address) if I knew that making a cat indoors/outdoors disqualifies; no where is it on their website. EDIT: I looked at all the reviews and many of them had a situation like mine! Unsettling conversation with a cult-ish cat lady who probably needs more friends than she does cats. Strange and I wouldn't be surprised if this place is secretly abusing these cats while denying them good homes. read more

My husband and I live in Carlsbad and we were looking for a kitty companion. Randomly, we decided to check out PetSmart in Encinitas where the Rescue House is the primary organization that provides for the adoption of kittens and cats there. We went inside where all of the cats are located and we were immediately greeted by one of the Rescue House volunteers. We spent about an hour in there and we were mesmerized by little Anna, a gray 4 year old female cat who is nothing but a bundle of love. We didn't hesitate before we put an application in for her because she was just perfect for our home. About 2 hours go by, we receive a phone call! Already, it was so quick and we were ecstatic. After the interview process took place, we were approved and were told that we could bring home Anna the next morning! The next morning comes around, we head to Petsmart and finish the paperwork for adopting our princess Anna. The process was quick and professional, and it really shows how much the Rescue House loves these kitties! They put in so much hard work day in and day out to ensure these kittens and cats get an awesome furrrever home and my husband and I loved that about the organization. Not long after, we decided to adopt a buff orange and white 11 month old tabby, his name is Chandler. The benefits of having two cats is just amazing and provides Anna with a new companion to keep her busy. Chandler is a quirky, handsome, active little boy and we love him so much. The process, once again, very easy and professional. You really know that this organization looks out for these cats and does whatever they can to make your experience (and of course the kitties) an unforgettable, great one. read more

I had a great experience with The Rescue House and adopting my two precious cats from them. I highly recommend them. Rescue House is an all volunteer group that finds forever homes for unwanted, homeless, and abandoned cats. The volunteers were very responsive to questions about cats/adoption locations and followed-up on my adoption application in a timely manner. It was evident very early on that this organization and the volunteers care deeply for the cats and truly want to find the best, forever, permanent home for each and every cat. One of the great things about The Rescue House is that they promote an indoor lifestyle for cats (which I wholeheartedly agree with). The adoption process includes a phone interview with a volunteer to make sure you and the cat(s) are a good match. Once I was told my adoption was approved, the volunteer reminded me that each cat adjusts to a new home at their own pace - some take a few days, some a week, and some a month or more. Even though I've had cats before, I still needed that reminder. My boys took just over a week to adjust/stop hiding and because of the volunteer's reminder, I wasn't worrying that maybe I was doing something wrong/should be doing something different; instead I was thinking - they just need more time to adjust and that's ok. At the adoption pick-up, you sign some documents and the volunteer updates you on the cats. All Rescue House cats have had a recent medical exam, vaccines, microchip, spay/neuter, deworm, and flea treatment. All of these items would be pricey if you had to handle them yourself, but the Rescue House has you covered before you've even taken the cat home! They also provide you with a very useful resource ("Cat" booklet) that contains information on cat care, microchips, feline behavior, and how to help the cat adjust to a new home. I've had cats most of my life, and I still found this resource to be very beneficial. I'm sure it's something I will refer back to as time goes by too. Volunteers also followed-up after my adoption to see how the cats were adjusting and answer any questions I had. This organization is there to support you even AFTER adoption. They are friendly and responsive to ANY questions you have about cats - don't be afraid to ask. read more

On my way home after work, I stopped to see the cats put up for adoption by Rescue House at Petco at the Clairemont Town Square. I finally expressed my interest to a volunteer about adopting a cat. The immediate response was, "Have you ever owned a cat?!" Not something like, "Isn't that wonderful!" Despite being shocked, I proudly said that I took care of one for 17 years. To my horror the same volunteer replied, "That doesn't mean anything!" Well, despite this nasty volunteer, I adopted a wonderfully loving cat. I feel as though I rescued the cat from Rescue House. However, I would never use their cat adoption service again. Instead, I would recommend any other pet adoption service that appreciates people willing to adopt and take care of cats. I am not sure why they are in the service of putting cats up for adoption when a potential "pet parent" is treated with such disdain. read more

My husband and I stumbled upon a Rescue House weekend adoption event at PetSmart Encinitas. Although neither of us had ever owned a cat before (and we honestly didn't even know we wanted a pet), we ended up falling in love with two kittens. The volunteers were so enthusiastic and helpful, and provided so much great education for first-time cat owners! One volunteer even "went shopping" with us, walking us around the store and recommending good products/making sure we'd have everything we needed. I also thought it was pretty amazing that the kittens were already vaccinated, spayed/neutered, microchipped, etc. It was very clear that their foster had put in a lot of time, energy, and devotion to raise them to be awesome little companions, and that all the volunteers are truly committed to finding the perfect home for each cat. After several months with our awesome kitties, my husband and I decided to pay The Rescue House back for our great experience by signing up to volunteer. We love this organization! read more

My daughter and I have been planning on getting another kitty for some time and knew we wanted to rescue. We have been to the Cat Cafe in downtown San Diego before and are on their email list and know most all the cats there are up for adoption. We started on their website and were directed to the Rescue House website. I started emailing with them, they were very quick to respond and answer my questions about cats they featured on their site and where to find them in San Diego..the Rescue House has multiple locations where they house cats! So we went to a few places to check them out. The volunteers we met we're FABULOUS and helpful, and told us all about the kitties we met. They also suggested we go to an upcoming adoption day that was coming up at a Petsmart near our house because they bring a lot of cats from all the multiple locations over for the event - so you get to meet as many as possible in one place. We arrived, and again, such lovely and helpful volunteers. We chose a little gray female, we named her Kiwi. She is just a doll. We are so grateful for the work the Rescue House does for homeless kitties in San Diego. Blessings!!!! THANK YOU!!!! read more

My partner and I had the best experience working with the Rescue House. About two months ago, we adopted two of the sweetest black cats (Tully and Jamie) who were rescued as a part of a litter that was saved from a hoarding situation. From beginning to end, it was clear that the Rescue House truly puts effort and care into their rescue and adoption process. We visited Tully and Jamie in person at the Cat Cafe downtown. Not only were the staff at the cafe wonderful and warm, but they were also very informative and seemed to know a lot about the background and personalities of the cats at the location. The cats were also clearly treated very well and seemed to be enjoying their environment. The adoption process was also noteworthy for its thoughtfulness and care. While more elaborate than some other adoption organizations, each step of the process was clearly designed to ensure that the animals were placed into a proper home with a responsible, loving, well-matched family. I really appreciated this. What is most impressive, however, are the volunteers. Their dedication to the mission of the Rescue House is evident; despite the fact that most of them lead busy lives, they still cut out time to ensure that the organization runs smoothly. I left all of my interactions with the volunteers feeling confident that I was working with people who not only cared deeply about all of the animals, but were willing to go above and beyond to ensure that they found good home. I would highly recommend to anyone interested in adopting a rescue animal to go through the Rescue House! read more

Horrible. Horrible place. I appreciate that it's volunteer run. And that they provide loving cats and such. But the volunteers try to shove a cat down your throat and make you leave with 2 plus. Most volunteers were very rude especially if you hadn't had a cat before or you had kids or wanted another animal. Then when it comes to the adoption process if you don't say "I will never declaw" and "I will absolutely never give up this cat ever" you aren't allowed to get the cat. On top of that the RUDE SNOOTY counselors who talk with you expect you to know EVERYTHING about a cat. How, what, when, why, where. Even though they advertise that they will give you instructions and teach you the safest way to ease a cat into your home. If you don't know during the interview. You don't get the cat. If I could leave -100 stars I would. I absolutely fell in love with a cat. Waited a week for my interview and got denied because I didn't know enough information and answer the questions word for word. When they finally called me. It was 8:00 on a Thursday night and the lady was rude and snooty the whole time. Good luck getting ahold of anyone. They are trying to find a cat a home? That's a complete lie. Go elsewhere. read more

I had, perhaps, an unusual experience. I met up with a woman who had the cat I wanted to adopt. The cat and I bonded. I was pleased. I answered questions for 60 minutes, filled out a form and was told someone from RH would call me within 2 days. The next day I was called by Jennifer from RH. She began by asking me why I wanted a cat now. I answered her question. She then asked me essentially the same question. At which point, I admit I became annoyed. I told her I felt their process was adversarial, not cooperative. The conversation degenerated to the point that she eventually suggested that I go to a local shelter where "they won't ask you questions". That was enough for me. I hung up on her. After answering questions for over an hour and filling out a form, clearly, being asked questions wasn't the issue. I feel they are more interested in being gatekeepers, not so much in what's good for the cats. read more

Back in September 2017 we went to rescue house located inside petsmart and let them know we were looking for a cat , as a first time at owner . We found a cat , and she was cute , grey and about 5 years old. She was purring on the cage and was so perfect. The only thing that was odd was alittle growth on her head. The lady working at that location (off aero dr.) told us it was a mole and not to worry about it. We took her to the vet for a check up and I told the vet that she keeps scratching the mole , so the vet took a sample with a needle and put it under the microscope and in about 10 mins she told us the growth is actually CANCER. I am so heartbroken and frustrated that this supposed rescue for cats is hiding the fact that they have a cat with cancer and we're so willing to lie about it. I hope everyone takes this as a warning to look elsewhere and to not take what the people who work for rescue house say so lightly. read more