Adopted 2 great German Shepherd dogs from them years ago. Fantastic organization. Donated a car…read moreto them years ago. Give them 2 thumbs up and 5 plus stars!

What a great experience with Marin Humane + Hopalong. My partner and I lost our pug earlier this…read moreyear in January. We adopted her from the shelter when she was two and she lived all the way to fifteen. She was everything to us. After she passed, we waited a while before feeling ready to adopt again. In the meantime, I followed a ton of Bay Area rescue groups on Instagram and checked the Petfinder app regularly. We knew we were drawn to flat-faced breeds, but the most important thing was finding a dog that could get along with our two cats. We actually found a Frenchie through another rescue and even went to meet him at an adoption event. Unfortunately, his foster parent said he didn't do well with other dogs and probably not with cats either. That was a dealbreaker for us. About a month later, during the week of July 4, I came across Sally Sitwell (now renamed Winnie) on Petfinder. Her profile mentioned that she was good with cats, and she sounded perfect for us. I applied right away but didn't hear back for a few days, so I was worried she might have already been adopted. But I totally understood since it was a holiday week and I'm sure they received a ton of applications. Eventually, I got an email from Ruthie, a volunteer, to schedule a 1:1 phone interview. She was really warm and easy to talk to. She explained that she usually handles phone interviews for people interested in brachycephalic breeds since she has experience with them. I shared our story about our late pug and everything we went through with her including surgeries, seizures, and IVDD, and Ruthie could tell we were familiar with the breed's needs. She planned to coordinate a meeting with us, the dog, and the foster parent, but she was going to be out of town. So she looped in Alex from Hopalong and Francesca, the foster mom, so we could set something up directly. We coordinated a visit to meet Winnie at Hopalong in Oakland. I really appreciated how flexible and communicative everyone was. It felt like everyone genuinely wanted the best for this dog. When I first met Francesca and Winnie, I lit up. Winnie was even more adorable in person and so much smaller than I expected. Francesca was such a kind person. She already had a Frenchie and cats, so you could tell she really loves animals. She walked us through all of Winnie's little quirks and her daily routine. A few minutes later my partner arrived and I ran out to get him. I told him right away, "You're going to love her, she's so adorable." The moment he walked in and saw her, he was smiling ear to ear. We ended up spending about 30 minutes with Francesca, chatting and also sharing more about ourselves so she'd feel reassured that Winnie would be going to a loving home. Toward the end of our visit, Alex, the program manager, came out to meet us. She was super bubbly and also a Frenchie owner. We let her know we were all in and wanted to move forward with the adoption. We asked if we could pick Winnie up the next day since we had a bunch of supplies being delivered like her crate, food, and bowls. Francesca was so accommodating and let us come to her house the next day to get her. The whole experience was amazing. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. There were no awkward moments and we felt supported from start to finish. I would recommend this rescue to anyone. Now Winnie is completely spoiled. We originally planned to have her sleep in her crate but that lasted exactly one night. She's now in the bed with us. She's been to the dog park, joined us on restaurant patios, come to work with me, and even had a few spa days. After hearing about her rough start to life, being used for breeding and then dropped off at the Hayward animal shelter, we knew we wanted to give her the best life possible. She is truly the sweetest, most loving dog we could have asked for. We're so grateful to everyone at Marin Humane + Hopalong for bringing her into our lives.

I recently started fostering a bunny for OAS and they are really wonderful. The folks working and…read morevolunteering there care so much about animals and put a lot of effort in to getting them in to foster homes and adopted. For example they have instagram pages for the senior dogs and the rabbits to help promote them more. Please consider fostering or adopting from OAS! And please know that the crisis of animals in needs is not the fault of rescues and shelters, it's the fault of breeders and buyers who keep exploiting animals for profit. As the saying goes "don't breed or buy, while shelter animals die" Separately from fostering, I do mutual aid with some unhoused folks and their dogs. One friends dog who I had gotten spayed ended up getting hit by a car and thankfully OAS received her body and was able to contact us so that her guardian could have closure and we could honor her life properly. It's not an easy job that OAS is doing, but they are saving lives in an ongoing crisis of abused and unwanted animals.

UPDATE as of 2/4/25…read more Keea's Test Results came back from the lab in New York. " Very Strong Positive " for Bartonella aka Cat Scratch Disease. Bartonella in Cats Transmission: Spread among cats primarily by the cat flea (Ctenocephalides Felis). Symptoms: Most infected cats show no signs of illness, acting as carriers. In rare cases, they may experience temporary fever, lethargy, or swollen lymph nodes, particularly if stressed or immunocompromised. It is CONTAGIOUS and they must be kept away from other animals and for humans you must not let them scratch you. Cat Scratch Fever (Disease) in Humans Symptoms: Develops 1-3 weeks after a scratch or bite, typically causing a small, red bump at the site, followed by swollen, tender lymph nodes, fever, headache, and fatigue. Severity: Usually mild and self-limiting in healthy people, though it can cause serious complications (heart or neurological issues) in those with weak immune systems. Bartonella can also cause severe, chronic inflammation in cats leading to eye issues and, in some cases, blindness, as well as neurological symptoms which would explain Keea's eye issues and the fact she has trouble using back legs. Hopefully whoever adopted Gramps (who was in the same room as her) will see this. TREATMENT - 5 weeks of Doxycycline. The cat must initially be treated for 4 weeks and if they test negative after 4 weeks be treated that extra 5th week as a safety precaution. Again if you have other pets, children etc PLEASE keep away. Protect yourself and wear gloves if the cat is a risk of scratching you when medicating. Also if you see the white third eyelid this means the cat is dehydrated and must be given IV Fluid's immediately.

My triend and I had an impromptu Taco Bell picnic at Crown Beach when this adorable little pup…read moreappeared. Rather, someone was trying to find him a home. He was part of a surprise litter. She knew just what to do and off we went to FAAS! His temporary name is Bell Grande. This is the most chill little puppy! Calm, quiet and always willing to accept a snuggle! FAAS said to bring Bell Grande in so they could begin the process of finding him a fur-ever home!!! Please help them help him!

***This review is ONLY for their South Shore Center satellite location for "Cat Adoptions"***…read more This place can hardly be called an animal shelter. It's literally 2 employees/volunteers and a "cat experience" center. There were supposedly 10 cats in the whole facility but only 2 were visible while the rest were either napping or scared and cowering away. With the 2 that were visible, one was cowering and hissing in the corner of her cage and the other was laying on top of their cage, only allowing to be touched by an extendable cat scratcher. It was an open space configuration and it was made for the cats to have freedom to roam around. But I didn't mind that, I actually enjoyed the "immersive cat motel" style...if it'd had worked. What I did mind was the way this facility was run. There was a secretary, and a volunteer who couldn't care less about the people coming in to see the cats. With the cat that I did use the scratcher on, I made the mistake of moving my hand closer to try and let it smell my scent, but it SWIPED and SCRATCHED me right away in a hissy fit. The volunteer was then so nonchalant while blood was profusely running down my hand, giving me an "I told you so" attitude. All she said was that the cat didn't like to be petted, but failed to disclose the fact that the cat would swipe at you even if your hand was at any close proximity within a foot of it. She said those cats have been there for several months to nearly half a year. I'm thinking in my mind: "Wow, you've had them here for so long and you just let them run amok and do and act however they want, exactly the same way since the day they've arrived, rather than spending time to rehabilitate them so that they can tolerate/enjoy human interaction and actually be adoptable cats?" I actually did ask her "how do you expect to adopt them out if they can't even tolerate human touch"? All she replied with was "Well, ideally they'd warm up to you, but if not, then you'll just have to adopt them and never touch/hold them". The worst part was that there were no warning signs posted anywhere and also that they allowed a cat that swipes at people to literally roam freely outside its cage. What if there were children around? This was literally the most insane "animal shelter" I've ever been to and after my first visit, I definitely will NOT be coming back until they figure out how to run an animal shelter because these people have absolutely no freaking clue what they're doing. This is at most, an animal "sanctuary" and have no plans to help their animals adapt to human interaction and become adoptable pets. I would stay away. PS: The attached photo was updated 3/5/26 and was about 2 weeks after visiting. Permanent scars from the cat swipes.

Super impressed with the vet clinic at the EAST BAY SPCA. Last week saw a Great doctor/dentist who…read moregave thorough explanation of her diagnosis. Vet tech also great at keeping me informed as to progress, details, and expedited blood test, too. Today, i Just dropped off fec. sample to reception and Marina not only expedited, but remembered my name and my cat Onyx's name, too!! Sheesh, I can't remember what I had for breakfast! And she must see dozens of people per day. She also explained exactly when test results come back, costs for services VERY CLEARLY all while managing batch of others in waiting area. Altogether a very well-run clinic with top notch professionals in all departments.

I was just admire all the work on the road. They were so deep in this hole…read more It was just a pretty cool sight to see. Near the SPCA. I love Oakland SPCA. My daughter and I used to volunteer all the time. We will have to go visit soon.

I am upset that they will not consider Home Rescues. They wrote me bask and said that they mostly…read moretake rescue dogs from shelters that are being euthanized. I am being displaced due to a Domestic Violence event, which I won in court. I cannot find a desent place that will allow dogs. This entire situation breaks my heart.

EXTREMELY grateful to Gabe and all the people at Rocket Dog rescue for helping to get 3 abandoned…read morehuskies and 3 abandoned chihuahuas fixed. I was part of a network operation to get all these dogs rescued (I was in charge of transporting the chihuahuas) but really have no time or money to be doing any more fostering right now (to say I am way overbooked is an understatement), so I was super grateful that Gabe was able to help find a foster for Biggie (his siblings found other fosters in my area). When I rescued 4 shepherds 3 years ago I had to pay for everything myself, and even though I found an awesome low-cost clinic, it all really adds up when you are trying to help multiple dogs. It's great to know there are organizations that care so much about dogs, they're willing to help out. Gabe was also above-and-beyond patient on the day I went in to get them some treatments for fleas, worms, etc.. The chiuahuas he was treating were super scared after being abandoned in a back yard in Stockton. But I can see from his last pic uploaded that he is doing better and had a smile on his face. I heard Gabe volunteered for a long time at this place before he actually started working there. I'm so grateful I got his contact info from someone on NextDoor, he is so helpful. Gabe and the people at Rocket Dog really saved these dogs' lives. HUGE THANKS!

After losing my heart-cat 5 years ago, I am ready to consider a new companion. Cat Town's staff was…read morefriendly and informative. It's obvious from the cats I met they are well cared for. I didn't feel pressured to take a furry friend on my first visit unlike some shelters. And, while I didn't find the right match, I will return and hopefully will meet a new friend. Thanks for your warmth and compassion!

A Disneyland for cat lovers and cats. A beautiful space with the best volunteers and workers one…read morecould imagine. Only warning is you might fall in love - I know I did. You are important. Yes, you the reader of this right now. You are important to the successful operation of this cat cafe. An important part of this cafe is to socialize the cats with visitors so they become more friendly. Friendly cats get adopted. I found a friendly cat. He came right to the door to sniff me. Then as I entered from one door he was guided to his little stool - very obedient - so well trained I was in awe. His more shy brother always in the background - he would protect him and check me out first to make sure I was ok. The little guy had only interest in my - none of his toys. I gently got closer with some affectionate love pats and scratches. It is a love story of him and his brother and what landed them here. I fell in love with how they were so bonded and took care of each other. My heart melted as they snuggled up together in their little box as I left. If you are curious they are two brothers by the name of some sweet frozen desserts. A cute bonded pair that I spent all my time with there. There are so many other great ones here. I was blown away with the variety of colors and good movie star looks they had. I will be back.

Feral Change, a nonprofit dedicated to helping the Oakland community control and manage its feral…read moreand homeless cat population, is a great resource for information and assistance if you are struggling with how to manage community cats in your neighborhood. About a year ago, I noticed what looked like a litter of kittens hanging around outside near my home at all hours and in all weather conditions. I quickly developed the habit of looking for those kitties every time I passed by the trash cans where they often congregated. After some months, I posted an inquiry on NextDoor to see if the kittens had a caretaker. No one claimed the animals. Eventually, I crossed paths with one of the feeders of the cats who explained that they were free-roaming animals that neighbors put food out for and that one, in particular, had a serious tail injury. Concerned about the animals' health and their probable rapid reproduction, I submitted an online request for assistance to Feral Change and attended a trap-neuter-return (TNR) training session. After a few months, a Feral Change volunteer contacted me and arranged for a free spay / neuter appointment, if we caught and transported the cats. Trapping night was a nail-biter, but, ultimately, all three cats received spay / neuter and veterinary services, including a much-needed tail amputation. Things to know: If you submit an online request for assistance, it may take some time to hear back since the organization is run by volunteers. Feral Change will lend out traps, but you will need to capture and transport the animals yourself. If you cannot make one of the free TNR training sessions, instructional videos are also available on YouTube. If you make an appointment and change your mind at the last minute or are a no show without communicating with the organization, they will likely not offer you another free appointment since demand is so high and they are often not able to refill a slot without adequate notice.

Great organization! They really care about the urban abandoned and feral cat population and do all…read morethat they can to help trap, spay/neuter, socialize for adoption, provide vaccinations etc. Reach out to them and they will do all that they can to help.

Karen is awesome and takes wonderful care of our dog when we are on vacation - she hikes her every…read moreday and my dog is so happy when we show up at Karen's door - we recommend Piedmont Pet whole heartedly!

We are very thankful for Karen and Piedmont Pet! We have entrusted our animals to Karen for…read moreseveral years and have only ever had great experiences. Piedmont Pet is an excellent in-home boarding and daycare provider for small dogs. Nervous pet owners like me will appreciate the genuine care, attention to detail, and communication Karen brings to every pet care interaction. Our little 17-lb terrier mix has a few health issues and is on a special diet and meds, and needs to be in an environment where he will be handled gently. We never, ever worry with Karen! She was extremely thorough when we first started working with her, making time to ask lots of good questions and answer all of ours. She is a confident and very experienced animal lover who organizes and handles small-dog pack walks like the pro she is. We get daily photos of his adventures when our dog is with Piedmont Pet which we really, really appreciate. Karen takes care of him like one of her own (little sweaters in the winter, no-pull harnesses, comfy beds and blankets, etc.), and we can tell he feels secure and comfortable with her and his "vacation pack". His time there is a great mix of snuggles and downtime and walks and enrichment time. Karen also provides drop-in visits for our cat when we're away which we really appreciate. Our cat doesn't like anyone and she actually plays with Karen and allows pets (we get pics and videos of this too)! We feel secure knowing our sweet little dog buddy is in great hands and our less-sweet but still loved cat buddy is getting wet food and playtime when we can't be there. Strongly recommend Piedmont Pet, especially to anyone with small dogs in the East Bay in search of secure, loving home boarding or daycare!

We had a lovely adoption experience with Island Cat Rescue. The process was thorough, but still…read moremoved quickly. From the time I saw the kitty online to his move-in date was about 2-weeks, mostly because of my schedule. The volunteer was kind and the foster mom was delightful. Couldn't be happier with our experience.

I had (and continue to have) a terrible experience with ICRA. I fostered my cat through ICRA back…read morein 2018 and provided a clean, safe, loving home for her. Being new to owning a cat, I still had a few questions and instead of being calmly educated I was berated by Peggy for various things that I was doing "wrong" with litter and other cat-owner related things. She tried to force me to give the cat back (which made no sense since I was in love with the cat and own my own home). Years later (this year in fact) I emailed ICRA for records of her being spayed and they said they have no record of me ever adopting her. Insanely unprofessional. As a current cat rescuer, I have no idea how an organization could become so backwards. In their mission to "save cats" they're actually making it harder for homeless cats to find homes. Good news is that my cat is a very loved part of our family! If you're going to adopt, go to Oakland Animal Services. It is a much more straightforward adoption process and they always have more cats and kittens who need homes.

Reply to owner: You are so rude. Rude people like you should not be allowed to run any…read moreorganization because your communication skills are so terrible. It's better my dogs were overweight, well-loved and spoiled with food unlike those unfortunate dogs that are neglected, malnourished and starved. My dogs were up-to date on all annual exams and NOT unhealthy. I ended up taking them to Miranda's rescue in Fortuna. Just an FYI to those in desperate circumstances and need to place their pets in legitimate rescue. Contact any other location except this one. To the owner, you also have a bad reputation on Nextdoor and other Platforms for your feisty attitude. Try to learn compassion or change the field you are in. When you move out of your long term house and can't take your dogs to circumstances out of your control -- DO NOT REACH OUT TO BAD RAP. They will not try to help you.

I ruv, ruv, ruv this organization!…read more As dog lovers, we were aware that pitties had a bad reputation, but didn't think too much about it. We know that most dogs are good unless mistreated. Then we fell in love with and adopted our Mei Mei from the Alameda County shelter. She's a blue nose pit mix. And we learned how truly feared these lovable beasts are. Mei Mei loves everyone: children, adults, little dogs, big dogs. She's been a super foster sister to numerous rescue dogs from Dusty Paws Rescue, and is a cuddle bunny and kissing alarm clock to my two young girls. So it's always startling to see the terror in the eyes of some people on meeting her. And the hotel rules at some pet-friendly hotels ("No pits or pit mixes"). Someone told me about Bad Rap, and I started following them. Their mission is to change the overwhelming misconceptions about these dogs. They do this in lots of important ways. - Offering free spay, neutering and vaccinations to pit owners who can't afford it - Running a shelter/foster program and socializing dogs so they can be cherished family members - Teaching the importance of training and responsible dog ownership, which is relevant regardless of breed - Providing free training classes - Evangelizing pittie lovableness with a great website, Facebook presence, and adorable calendars Yesterday, we attended their open house in Berkeley, "Fool in Love". We got to see their classes in action, check out the spay/neuter van, meet many amazing volunteers, and get tons of slobbery dog kisses from adoptable blockheads. Keep it up, Bad Rap. I'm with you.