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The Best Oakland, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oakland, CA. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.

    Pack Lyfe Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/65/aa6ea5a4ed34-IMG_0382.jpeg
    None
    oaklandCaliforniaUS
    I think this rescue is by far the best. If I was looking for a best fur friend, I would go through them. The way they care and love the animals is truly remarkable and they do their best to get them into the best, loving home possible. Priscilla is so kind and I know she treats all the animals with kindness and takes care of all of them like her own.
  • Pack Lyfe Rescue Logo

    Pack Lyfe Rescue

    Oakland

    Dedicated to saving animals who are unwanted, abandoned, abused or on the euthanasia list and finding them the best suitable homes possible. All these amazing efforts are made through volunteers and foster homes! We are a non profit 501c3 animal rescue group. EIN 86-2134552

    "I think this rescue is by far the best. If I was looking for a best fur friend, I would..."

    julianna l.

    Supporter, Fan

    "Such a wonderful rescue!! The absolute best!!!"

    mariah b.

    Fan


  • Berkeley Humane
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/74/624fdc9d8380-cropped_BerkeleyHumane_Logo2014_Alt2_sm_q8zjcc2pofah50g1aj5a3xpqwn9e8ve3j8tdxh5fuo.png
    oaklandCaliforniaUS
    Besides rescuing from the public shelters, the Berkeley Humane responds to calls for action when there are emergency situations such as dogs that are displaced due to wildfires, hurricanes, etc. On a regular basis, they intentionally choose many dogs that might not be as adoptable - those with medical and/or health issues. The shelter’s hospital team does their diagnosis, provides care and treatment, and the foster program helps ensure that they are placed in loving homes for rest, rehabilitation and recovery. The top notch animal care team creates an environment of trust, helping to meet all the shelter dogs’ needs on a daily basis and provides enrichment and for their physical and spiritual well being. Hands down, the Berkeley Humane is the best rescue group!
  • Berkeley Humane Logo

    Berkeley Humane

    #153 in United States, #18 in California

    Oakland

    Berkeley Humane is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors that work on behalf of Berkeley Humane and the animals in our community. We have provided over 125 years of trusted service and dedication to Berkeley and the East Bay.

    "Besides rescuing from the public shelters, the Berkeley Humane responds to calls for action when there are emergency situations such..."

    gail k.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

    "Not only does Berkeley Humane have a stellar adoption center, but a fabulous dog-training program, and the best thrift shop..."

    hallie s.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Underdog Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/113/19fa4d216832-10629416_333765856788163_245907383146688.jpg
    oaklandCaliforniaUS
    We adopted a pitbull 5 month old puppy. They posted videos and did a great job sharing her story. The fosters were amazing and had a dedicated and dog centric backyard complete with an entire room with banquet wrap around couches, fenced huge area with shade sails to protect their dogs. They gave us history, behavior, and health information onsite and facilitated the meet and greet with our family (including our other puppy) after we were vetted. The communication with Underdog was great, informative, and we received all the documentation and vet info immediately after completing the adoption.
  • Underdog Animal Rescue Logo

    Underdog Animal Rescue

    #207 in United States, #26 in California

    Oakland

    Underdog Animal Rescue is a foster based rescue serving the Bay Area of Northern California. Since our start in 2014, we have built an outstanding team and have grown into a strong network of volunteers dedicated to saving the Underdogs in our shelters and community. We have dedicated our efforts to giving a second chance to the dogs that are most in need (medically or behaviorally) and the dogs that have been overlooked for too long.

    "We adopted a pitbull 5 month old puppy. They posted videos and did a great job sharing her story. The..."

    michelle m.

    Adoptee

    "We adopted our dog from Underdog Animal Rescue 4 years ago. We were so thankful to them for bringing her..."

    heather w.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster


  • Humane Society Silicon Valley
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/94/6224afa1241d-HSSV_Logo.jpg
    oaklandCaliforniaUS
    I am so blessed that DPS rescued my dog from a meat market in Korea. My dog was very timid when I adopted her. She's gotten more used to me. She clearly had a bad experience in Korea, I still can't pick her up after four years. She does lay next to me in bed, so she gets lots of tummy rubs. I'm so thankful I can give her a great life. She has two fur baby sisters also.
  • Humane Society Silicon Valley Logo

    Humane Society Silicon Valley

    #266 in United States, #33 in California

    Oakland

    We are committed to saving healthy and treatable animals in shelters in our community and across the nation. By leveraging our expertise and building partnerships with under resourced shelters, we are saving more lives together.

    "I am so blessed that DPS rescued my dog from a meat market in Korea. My dog was very timid..."

    k l.

    Adoptee

    "I was a dog socializer and outreach volunteer for at least 4 years. They are a flagship animal community center..."

    donna g.

    Volunteer / foster, Supporter


  • Oakland Animal Services
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/99/557fd7a3e33e-Capture.JPG
    1101 29th Avenue, Oakland, CA 94601
    oaklandCaliforniaUS
    Tragic to Magic is nothing short of a beacon of hope for Mexican street dogs. Their dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating these animals is truly inspiring. From the moment I first encountered them, it was evident that their passion for the well-being of these dogs transcends mere words; it's a genuine calling. What sets Tragic to Magic apart is their unwavering commitment to each and every dog they rescue. They don't just provide temporary shelter and food; they invest time, effort, and love into ensuring that these once-neglected animals find a new lease on life. Witnessing the transformation from the tragic circumstances they endured on the streets to the magic of finding a loving forever home is a testament to the incredible work this organization does. But beyond their rescue efforts, what truly strikes me is their motivation. It's not driven by recognition or profit, but solely by their deep-rooted love for these animals. They understand the hardships these dogs face and refuse to turn a blind eye. Instead, they dive headfirst into the challenging task of saving as many lives as possible, one dog at a time. I have nothing but admiration for the team at Tragic to Magic. Their selflessness, compassion, and tireless dedication are qualities that shine brightly in the often dim world of animal rescue. Thanks to them, countless Mexican street dogs have been given a second chance at a happy, fulfilling life. They are true heroes, and I feel privileged to support their noble cause.
  • Oakland Animal Services Logo

    Oakland Animal Services

    #361 in United States, #46 in California

    Oakland

    Oakland Animal Services is Oakland's only ‚open admissions‚ shelter: We accept all of Oakland's homeless, injured, orphaned, unwanted, lost, abandoned and mistreated animals, regardless of age, breed, temperament or medical condition.

    "Tragic to Magic is nothing short of a beacon of hope for Mexican street dogs. Their dedication to rescuing and..."

    samantha t.

    Volunteer / foster


What's the Sniffspot Oakland Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

Welcome to the 2024 Oakland, CA Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Oakland, CA chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 32 private dog parks in the Oakland area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Oakland dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Oakland


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States Near California

Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Oakland


Sniffspot Oakland Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Oakland?

There are 32 in Oakland. Outside of Oakland, there are 668 located in California.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Oakland?

There are many reputable rescues in Oakland, the top 3 on our list are: Pack Lyfe Rescue, Berkeley Humane, Underdog Animal Rescue.

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Oakland offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Oakland is German Shepherd with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Husky with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Oakland?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Oakland. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
1. Submit Application 2. Interview 3. Home Check/background check 4. Meet the Pet 5. Approve Application 6. Sign Adoption Contract 7. Pay Fee

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in Oakland?

Yes! Oakland has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: German Shepherd Husky Pit Bull

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Oakland that specialize in senior dogs?

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Oakland, but these are the closest cities with senior dog rescues and shelters: Huntington Beach, Los Angeles, Salinas

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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