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Doggie Protective Services

3.6 (474 reviews)
Closed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Updated 2 months ago

Services - Doggie Protective Services

Community Service/Non-Profit

Pet adoption

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Katie D.

TL;DR: Be cautious about fostering for this organization, and read reviews of other foster experiences first. I wish I had; our experience is not unique. While I understood there were no guarantees around adoption, the way we were treated throughout the process felt transactional and disheartening--marked by poor communication, lack of compassion, and an especially painful handoff when we had to return the foster dog we had bonded with. -- Going into this experience, I was sure I wasn't ready to adopt a dog, having lost my beloved senior Shih Tzu only a couple months before. While I knew what I was signing up for with fostering (no guarantees were made very clear), I wasn't prepared for how instantaneously my partner and I bonded with the first dog I fostered, "Lady Elizabeth" ("Ellie" for short). Within the first hour of bringing her home, we knew we were at risk of becoming foster fails. The attachment surprised us both, and the next morning I reached out to express our interest in applying to adopt her. I was told we needed to wait until she was listed on the website, which I respected. Looking back, though, it felt as though being her foster family somehow worked against us rather than in our favor. Over the next week, we continued caring for Ellie: transporting her long distances for her spay appointment (I opted to drive an extra 40 miles to bring her directly, rather than have her transported with the other foster dogs), supporting her recovery, and providing supplies and comforts to help her heal. We were happy to do this, of course, but I share it to illustrate how invested we were in her wellbeing. A week after bringing her home, I was emailed instructions for filling out a bio and submitting photos for the website with a 48-hour turnaround time. By then, she already felt like family to us, and it was gut-wrenching to write about her as if we weren't hoping to be her forever home. I submitted everything promptly and included a reminder that we were still very interested in adopting her. That interest was not acknowledged, and communication from that point forward felt increasingly cold and transactional. We were not given a heads up when her listing went live; I found out only because I was checking the site frequently. When applications opened, we submitted ours immediately. We were later told there were multiple applicants and that interviews were ongoing. For the next week, we waited anxiously with little communication. When I followed up, I was told we would know by that evening. Instead, I received an email saying Ellie needed to attend an adoption event. At that point, it became clear we had not been selected. On Christmas Eve, we were informed another adopter was chosen--a family who had already adopted from the organization multiple times. While I understand that decisions are complex and fosters are not guaranteed priority, the favoritism didn't seem fair. It was also confusing why the decision was final; in preliminary conversations, we were told potential adopters would have to set up a meeting with us and DPS (something that contradicts what I'm now reading in other reviews). We were devastated, but held onto hope that something still might fall through. What followed was the most difficult part of the experience. We were given little guidance about the handoff at the adoption event. I tried reaching out to the owner of the organization but got no response. When we arrived, a volunteer told us we could wait with Ellie until the adopters arrived. About twenty minutes later, a staff member abruptly took Ellie from my arms, without acknowledgment or thanks, before the adopters had even arrived. (Never mind that she took her away with my late dog's nice harness and retractable leash--something I was happy to donate to the new family, in addition to a bag of Ellie's favorite toys and clothes gifted by our family members at Christmas. But I was stunned by the lack of regard, compassion, or appreciation.) We left feeling so used and objectified, the whole experience was so transactional. I'm sharing this in the hope that future fosters go in informed and that the organization reflects on how its foster families are treated. I understand it's walking a fine line. Obviously, attachment and heartache are par for the course in the life of a foster. But clearer communication and compassion training for staff could go a long way in helping them feel more supported--and ultimately have a positive impact on the dogs they're caring for. The way fosters are treated is an extension of how the dogs are treated. And both matter.

Local shelter identified as Cairn Terrier but DPS advertised as Yorkshire Terrier mix. Why not put Cairn/Yorkie mix? Felt a bit deceptive
Regina N.

5* for the process and communication when applying for an adoption, as well as the pickup. 1* for the deception and high prices. After browsing Pet Finder for weeks, I found a little cutie Yorkie girl and applied for adoption. Unfortunately, DPS let me know she was already lined up for a home, so I looked at their website and found another cute guy. He was advertised as a Yorkie mix, with typical Yorkie attributes, described as low shed, energetic, and gets along with both other dogs and humans. I've owned a Silky Terrier before so this sounded about the right temperment. Sounded like a dream dog! I put in my app and was surprised that I got him so quickly (within 2-3weeks). DPS communication was great. They text me, provided clear instructions, and scheduled an interview and a date for me to meet him at an adoption fair. I drove 2.5 hours out to meet this little guy, even though I noticed some things about DPS. First off, the adoption fee is SO much higher than the dogs I've adopted in the past. It felt almost like I was buying a dog. I shopped around other rescues in the bay area and noticed DPS was $100-200 more, but figured it was due to bay area prices and the fact they advertised more plus services/neutering. But it seems they only adopt out cute dogs, puppies, or highly-sought breeds. So I understood the price. BUT, I later learned that they advertise based on the highly-sought breeds to attract adopters and justify that high price. I wondered do they ONLY rescue cute/desirable dogs? I was too excited to notice some red flags on adoption day. When I came to meet my new dog, named Rocket now, the DPS staff had to coax him out of his kennel. I took it as if he was shy to his new environment. The first thing I noticed was that he didn't have the Yorkie fine low-shed fur and was taller than the typical breed. His fur was coarse like a Cairn. I asked the staff if he was mixed with Cairn and she casually said Yorkie, Maltese and Cairn, with a disclaimer that they didn't really know because they can't be 100% sure with rescues. I noticed she threw in all the highly sought breeds first, but I know mixed dogs and he had no Maltese. He looked mostly Cairn than Yorkie, but I just let it go. She tried to pick him up and he did a little snap so she stopped. I was allowed to spend time with him and walk him around. When I came back holding him, the staff said "oh! He must like you". Of course, I didn't think much of it since I was able to interact with him just fine. The process of paying was so easy (paid by cash) and I was on my way. I was surprised how easily I was able to take him home. In the instructions, it stated he must have a dog tag, collar, and leash before they would release him. I thought wow, they really want to know you are serious to adopt to weed out those who didn't. I went out of my way to get the tag, struggling because I didn't have a name picked out yet. So I was surprised to see I was able to take him home just like that without them checking if I had all the "required" items. Looking back, I now see all the inconsistencies that my excitement blinded me to. When I took him home, I realized he wasn't the friendly boy as described. He was scared of everybody and everything!! He did like other dogs, but not people. Apparently not everyone can pick him up as easily as I did. I guess he really did choose me. In looking up my dog's profile from the local shelter where they got him from, it clearly states he is a Cairn Terrier. Yes, I agree he is mixed with some Yorkie by how his face looks, but DPS did not disclose this in his profile, putting him down as Yorkie mix instead. I felt this was an advertisement tactic to get more adopters, but deceptive in a way. If he was labeled Cairn/Yorkie mix, I still would've been interested, but why hide it? My experience with other rescues were that they were honest and disclosed everything they knew about an animal. DPS only wanted to highlight the desirable aspects and not any potential issues. As adopters, we need to know as much as possible to see if it would be a good fit. I still kept Rocket since I've had experience with adopted scared dogs before. With lots of love and exposure, a nice healthy diet, his fur has grown out nice and soft and he's more trusting of humans. But definitely was not what I thought I was getting and I would've appreciated it DPS gave me these warnings, because the staff clearly knew he didn't like everybody by the comment of me being able to pick him up. I probably would not adopt from here again as there are many other rescues to support that take in all types of breeds, regardless of popularity.

Daisy D.

"My adoption experience - unfair and maybe racially biased" I wanted to share my experience trying to adopt a rescue dog named Hampton. Unfortunately, it was deeply disappointing and left me feeling unfairly judged -- and possibly discriminated against. I applied for Hampton because his bio described him as a calm, 6-year-old dog who was already trained and low-maintenance. When I got a call from Cindy, I was excited to talk more. But right away, I felt dismissed. She questioned why I didn't bring my cat with me, and I explained it was out of respect for my younger sister's space. I also shared that I work full time with weekends off, my sister is home in the afternoons, and we're fully ready to give a dog time, care, and training if needed. Despite all this, Cindy quickly told me I wasn't suited for Hampton. She started listing behavioral issues -- barking, biting, and not being trained -- none of which were mentioned in his bio. The description change felt confusing, like the information had suddenly shifted. What hurt the most were the personal comments. She implied my "family" wasn't right for the dog -- even though it's just me and my sister -- and kept bringing up that I was a "first-time pet parent" as a reason I wasn't qualified. Even after explaining our availability and commitment, I was brushed off. At the end, she said she would only consider me "if the dog doesn't get adopted tomorrow," which felt like I was being treated as a backup -- not someone seriously considered. The way I was spoken to made me feel judged for things beyond my actual application. Honestly, it felt like assumptions were made based on my background or where I live. Whether intentional or not, the tone and treatment felt discriminatory. Lastly she said she would email me about specific dogs that would and I quote be better suited for someone like me. I have yet to hear back. I truly hope this organization takes a deeper look at how applicants are evaluated. I know I could have given Hampton a loving home, and I hope others in similar positions are treated with more fairness and respect.

Alex D.

We got a wonderful, loving, well-behaved, and healthy dog Blue from DPS. DPS made the adoption process simple and smooth while also doing their necessary checks to make sure Blue was going to a good home. They contacted the foster family on our behalf to have all of our questions answered and on adoption day the process was so smooth. Blue has been an absolute joy to have in our lives and totally completes our little family. Additionally, DPS has every-other-week adoption events where you can meet all the puppies and get your puppy fix! A great organization dedicated to saving pups and kittens in need that gave us our best furry friend!

Stephanie V.

We had a great experience with DPS. We filled out the adoption application and within a few hours received a call from Caroline. We did a phone interview and found out the following day we were chosen to adopt Chutney (formerly Cheers). We paid the $50 deposit, scheduled a date/time to meet her, and got her medical records. On the day, we met at a Pet Food Express during one of their adoption events. Chutney was waiting for us in the back and we were given the opportunity to walk her around and get to know her a bit. We immediately knew she was perfect for our family. We paid the remainder of the adoption fee, confirmed she was microchipped and took her home. They even gave us a 20% coupon for Pet Food Express to buy her a few things. Overall, a great experience! If you're hesitating due to their negative reviews, don't. I saw first hand during the adoption event how much love and care they put into their operation. Are the adoption fees perhaps higher than a shelter? Yes, but they are comparable to other rescues. Plus you get a pup that is vaccinated, has a health check-up, spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, and thanks to the wonderful fosters a sense of their demeanor.

Maddy
Natalie C.

My partner and I were interested in rescuing a dog and with so many various organizations, we tried our best to select one that best described the potential pup. We were pleased with the thorough dog descriptions on the website and decided to take a chance. We had originally inquired about one dog and after completing the lengthy (but completely understandable!) application process, we were shortly notified that our first choice had been adopted, but that they would be happy to connect us with another pup. We chose another guy that we thought would be a good fit and had a quick phone interview. I am so thankful for their honesty regarding that dog. Apparently he was a friendly guy, but did nip at people he didn't know. While I'm comfortable with most dog training, biting was something I didn't feel ready for so we selected another dog. DPS was very understanding and matched us with our next choice as it seemed like a much better fit. We paid the deposit, met our girl a few days later and even had the opportunity to meet her foster mom that day! They gave us plenty of time to ask questions and we didn't feel rushed at all. After about a half hour or so, we were convinced that we had found our new baby. The staff were so kind in ensuring our dog was safely collared and that we received her primary medical records even before our meet up. A few days later we got her full medical notes and were able to take her right to our vet for an initial check up. While her history was limited, she was in perfectly good health and overall our adoption experience was fantastic. Pricing was definitely steeper than the local shelter but being able to touch base with our foster mom and get helpful information meant everything to us. Thanks DPS!

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Ask the Community - Doggie Protective Services

Review Highlights - Doggie Protective Services

. DPS rescue spends hours of their own time and money to ensure these matches lead to a mutually happy outcome

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California Native Plant Society - CNPS Santa Clara Chapter- Palo Alto

California Native Plant Society

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- Virtual event:…read more Rosewood Medicinal Native Garden, a talk by Radhika Thekkath - This talk will feature an in-depth visit to the Rosewood Medicinal Native Garden, one of the gardens on the 2021 Going Native Garden Tour. Come on a tour to a suburban garden stocked with native plants valued for their medicinal value. The Rosewood Palo Alto garden is about 12 years old, converted from non-native grass to native plant areas. The garden features a pond with waterfall and bathing area for birds and wildlife, a native pollinator meadow, edible fruits, and a compost area. The tour will be followed by a question and answer session with the garden owner. This talk is part of the 2021 Going Native Garden Tour, which started in April, and is providing virtual tours throughout the year. Register for the tour at www.gngt.org to receive updates on upcoming tour activities. Radhika Thekkath is a retired computer scientist who has been gardening with native plants and has been an active member of our Chapter for over ten years. She recently returned to California after a three year stay in Washington state. Her more recent work includes active forestry management and stewardship as well as sustainable building with cob and straw bale. She is currently completing an in-depth course in permaculture design. This talk will be live streamed on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/CNPSSantaClaraValley) Good sources on native medicinal plants and their uses: https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/references/public/GA/23MedicinalPlantstheNativeAmericansUsedonaDailyBasis.pdf

I love this nonprofit and the work they do! educational legends and a real staple for gardeners…read moreeverywhere :,)

Collective Roots Community Garden - Organic harvest variety of tomatoes.  Thanks Collective Roots for education & garden space.

Collective Roots Community Garden

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hubby surprised me with a cheese making 101 class at collective roots this weekend. didn't know…read morethat this place existed in east palo alto and must admit was a little wary of the location, but once we got there it felt like we were at someone's private residence. there is a beautiful garden with herbs, vegetables, fruit trees, chicken coop with hens and roosters, and beehives! we made 5 different yogurts and cheeses in our short 3 hour class: -yogurt - went through the steps of yogurt making using culture from store bought yogurt -greek yogurt/yogurt cheese - let the yogurt drain and have a richer yogurt -cultured butter - yogurt culture in fresh butter -ricotta - super easy to make and enjoy -mozzarella - fresh mozzarella in 1 hour the class was enjoyable, we got to meet lots of new people and learned a lot about local produce and cheese making. the best part was using the fruits, herbs, and honey right from the grounds of collective roots! nothing like fresh, local produce. great experience...can't wait for cheese making 102!

From the owner: The Collective Roots Community Garden provides an opportunity for gardening skill-building,…read moreresource sharing, and community empowerment in East Palo Alto, CA. Operated by 501(c)3 non-profit Fresh Approach, the garden offers a place for community members to gain hands-on experience with organic gardening. Through our workshops, volunteer workdays, and community resources, we equip families with the skills and means to grow their own fresh fruits and vegetables. Residents of East Palo Alto can enjoy additional free resources, such as a tool lending library and free seeds, while qualifying residents can apply for free home garden installation and use of garden plots at the Collective Roots garden. By building a strong, sustainable network of local growers, we're improving access to healthy food while helping preserve the food sovereignty of the many cultures that call East Palo Alto their home.

Second Harvest of Silicon Valley - Food distribution on the way at Grace Covenent Church South SanFrancisco.

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Second Harvest of Silicon Valley is truly one of the most impactful and well‑run organizations in…read moreour community. Every interaction I've had with them whether donating, volunteering, or simply learning more about their programs has left me inspired and grateful that such a dedicated team is working to fight hunger right here at home. What stands out most is their professionalism and compassion. The staff and volunteers treat every client with dignity, and you can feel how deeply they care about making sure families have access to healthy, nutritious food. Their operations are incredibly organized, and the scale at which they serve the community is nothing short of impressive. I also appreciate how transparent they are about where donations go and how efficiently they use their resources. It's rare to see an organization combine heart, innovation, and operational excellence so seamlessly. If you're considering supporting a local nonprofit, volunteering your time, or looking for a meaningful way to give back, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley is an outstanding choice. They are making a real difference every single day.

Second Harvest of Silicon Valley is one of our preferred charities. Lets face it, there were people…read morealready hurting before COVID hit and now that's all the more exacerbated. When it comes to food security or a lack thereof, you need a charity that literally helps put food on peoples table. They provide food for those that would otherwise have to do without. They also take fruits and vegetables (You must call ahead and set it up) along with the more typical donations. In addition you can also volunteer to help sort and setup. They have a website to help direct you. However, it is very popular and sometimes days are already filled up. As with all charities they need our help. How can you help? 1) Food donations. Every bit helps 2) Volunteer to help out 3) Cash is king. Consider a cash donation so they can pay for operations and buy essential items that they don't get donated. I mean how many cans of pumpkin filling can you make someone eat right?

Doggie Protective Services - petadoption - Updated May 2026

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