Experience was outstanding. The love they have for their dogs really shows in all that they do. We rescued our Toby after he was surrendered by a family who lost their home in the fires. He is such a funny pup with loads of energy. He is a great addition to our family. The owner of the shelter has a heart of gold and I wish we could come back for another but my husband says "not right now". Thank you for filling a hole the was left on our heart when we lost our yorkie. read more

Pet Harbor - Toby with his new brother Winston - Animal Shelters Near Me - Gardena, California

They don't answer the phone or return messages. You can only adopt a pet if you live in the South Bay, no matter how great you could care for a pet in need. I don't know anyone one there or what struggles they are dealing with, so I don't want to sound too critical. The bottom line is they are obviously helping animals and that is great. read more

They have heart and soul. Wonderful and amazing people run Pet Harbor. I cannot say enough kind things about LaVonne and everyone she works with. I've never met anyone quite like her. She is an angel, Heaven sent. The bottom line is that the animals come first. read more

If I were a dog needing to go to a rescue, this is the one I'd want to go to! Lavone and her staff are absolutely lovely and they truly care and know each dog there. The dogs have tons of room to play, run, and sun bathe. The facilities are clean and very organized. Lavone is stretched thin with a lot of responsibilities but she's super communicative, kind, and best of all, really wants the best for the dogs there. I'm so glad we went through Pet Harbor to get our newest family member, Charlie. He was well taken care of there and we love Lavone! read more

This place is a beautiful facility and really cares about their dogs. We haven't found our dog yet due to allergies but I am Hopeful and LaVonne says we will find "our dog". We are grateful for the time we got to spend there and hope we can find our new furry family member from there soon. read more

Lavonne and her team are amazing. They are all so committed to the well-being of all of the animals and their facility and the facility is impeccably clean, and the dogs are very well taken care of and comfortable. We had an amazing experience and adopted our adorable Milo from them. Can't say enough great things about this organization. read more

Pet Harbor - Milo. Adopted 7/10/23 - Animal Shelters Near Me - Gardena, California

See all

No place better to adopt a dog. Clean, well treated dogs who are loved and babied by the staff. I couldn't be happier! read more

Lavonne was not available, since she is on medical leave (returning 7/1/18). Although I was not able to leave the dogs I found, I appreciate the time the workers had for us. You can tell they truly care for the animals. They explained what our options were for the most dogs and suggested where we could take them (Carson animal shelter). I believe her name was Jenny? She explained how they work and how other rescues also try to help as well. This made me feel more at peace about leaving these babies there read more

Pet Harbor - Animal Shelters Near Me - Gardena, California

See all

I found a dog today that was in terrible shape while I was driving to work. She was so emaciated that she couldn't even walk. I scooped here up and drove around trying to figure out what I was going to do with her (while crying my eyes out). I stopped by my dog trainers facility (Wolfgang Expert Dog Training - great place!) to see if they could refer a rescue and they referred me to Pet Harbor. I called and LaVonne answered the phone. She answered my questions during my bought of heavy sobbing!! She came out to my car and took one look at the pitiful baby and agreed to take her! Not sure if the dogs journey is over yet, but I can rest a little easier for now knowing that she is in a CLEAN, CARING, FRIENDLY environment. I got a chance to meet some the the dogs who needed to be adopted while I was there. OMG - I wanted them all...especially the 3-legged Pomeranian!! They looked like they were all LaVonne's own dogs as they were so well-kept. I was thoroughly impressed with Pet Harbor and will keep them on my Christmas list moving forward :) read more

Pet Harbor - "Ginger" 1 week after being in Pet Harbor's care. So cute and getting stronger :) - Animal Shelters Near Me - Gardena, California

See all

If we could give less stars we would. This was a horrific experience and has completely convinced us to stay with AKC breeders since we can only have standard poodles due to allergies. We've lived the last 26 plus years of our life with standards so we know we can offer them the perfect home with a retiured couple, walled and gated house and tons of time for walks, hikes and play dates. Our 11.5 year old standard died suddenly of bloat 3 weeks ago. We knew we'd go to a breeder but a friend sent an ad for a 6month old standard that needed rehoming through Pet Harbor and we thought it would be a good thing to adopt if the puppy seemed a good fit. We were put through serious interviews and a home video visit after sending numerous pictures of the property. We also mentioned that we kept a second (getaway) small apt. 2 hours away that was also fully walled and gated. We were contacted by another member of their team and were told that text was the best way to communicate over email. Fine by us. We received a text that we could meet the dog last Saturday. Perfect. We kept texting for a time and address and were given the address but not the time. Finally late on Friday we received a text that the dog was being groomed and wouldn't be available until the following Wed. Problem. We had doctor and dentist appts scheduled all day that Wed. and Thursday. Had we gotten the puppy Sat. as originally committed we would have had him with us and taken turns taking care of him while each of us was in with docs. We've lived that way with our standards since we retired. Our doctors all know our dogs. We asked them to please wait until Friday as we needed to keep our appts and we only have one car. All messages saved and sent by text as requested. NEVER heard back. Thought we were meeting him tomorrow. Finally emailed this morning and asked what was going on and got back a rude email saying they were put off by our not finding time to come on Wednesday and this was the first that they had heard back from us as she lost her phone and obviously didn't get numerous texts. Seriously? It's our fault that she lost her phone? Couldn't make time? We had doctor and dentist appts. Anyway, after finding this out we sent copies of all the texts and emails. Received a "DO NOT BOTHER US TEXT WE'RE GOING A DIFFERENT DIRECTION SINCE YOU COULDN'T MAKE TIME FOR US". No question in my mind that wherever they place this animal it will not have as wonderful a life as it would have with us and we're looking at a breeder littler next week which is probably best for us to raise a puppy from infancy as we have always done in the past. BTW we repeatedly asked the dogs weight and rehoming fee and were never answered. These people were horrible to us and it's not our fault that they changed the meet date, lost their phone and didn't receive our texts. They asked us to wait from Sat. to Wednesday but they couldn't wait until Friday. No matter how committed anyone is to their animals we all have other commitments that we sometimes have to work around. One needs to be flexible in life. These people were beyond inflexible. Be forewarned. Should they bother to respond know that this review is not embellished in any way and came down exactly as written. read more

We were so moved after going to Pet Harbor and given a tour by LaVonne. The level of order, cleanliness, love and care here is a sanctuary for all the furry loves. If I was a doggie, I'd pray to end up here if lost or abandoned. LaVonne's dedication, positive spirit is what makes the experience inviting and positive. We felt honored. We'd adopt from Pet Harbor again and again. read more

We adopted our newest family member from Pet Harbor on March 14, 2021. Lavonne was quick to respond, met with us in a couple days, and the adoption was settled in less than a week after our home check. We appreciated how thorough she was with regards to checking that we were could provide the best forever home for our newest family member. It was very clear how much Lavonne and the staff care for all of the animals under their care and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Their extra diligence in making sure adopting families are the right fit and would be good owners is a testament to that. The honor of adopting a dog is a lifetime commitment and every dog deserves the right family. read more

Tried to adopt got turned down they said by appointment only and referred me to other animal shelters to look at which I already did , wasted my time read more

This shelter has changed my life. That's a bold statement -- but its true. When it came time to get a second dog, (back in 2010) I chose to search on Petfinders despite not knowing much about how shelter systems worked. Luckily, my soon-to-be dog was at Pet Harbor. After speaking with the wonderful Lavonne, (who runs this shelter) made an appointment to come down and visit. I was hesitant but my fears soon subsided as Pet Harbor is an ultimate haven for dogs who have been left behind. That too is a bold statement for an area like LA with such a homeless dog problem. The shelter is no kill, its beyond clean, secure, well taken care of among other things. The dogs there also 'run free' so they learn to socialize ala a doggie day care. Also, before Pet Harbor will place a dog, a house check and full interview is required to make sure they are being placed in the right home! I can't say enough good things. Without them, I wouldn't have found my dog! They truly do G-d's work. Fast forward to the present -- I was bringing some items to the shelter when my third dog happened to also be there. I had been there multiple times over the years but lo and behold, 3rd dog found me at the same shelter. If you live in the South Bay and are considering a dog -- please please check them out. read more

Pet Harbor. Little known about this place but they have assisted in my pet and a friends "crossing over": I almost fell out on my dog (18 yr old Bee) when she was being put down, but you all were so supportive and caring. People, when it is time for your babies to cross over, don't dump them on the street or at the shelter, do the humane thing and be there when it's time for them to cross over. Call them--bring them here. Small donation, or donate pet items for their rescued furbabies I've not had to use you for years, but I do have seniors and will when the time comes. read more

Lavonne is truly a guardian angel to fur babies. My wife and I came to see the facility and we were extremely impressed. There's cottages for all the dogs. They have so much room even though they may be separated from other dogs. It's a beautiful facility and the work Lavonne does is admirable. She truly loves each one and has their best interest at heart. If you're looking to adopt a dog, please visit Pet Harbor. The staff here works very hard to keep the entire facility clean and the dogs happy. A truly wonderful place for any dog before it goes to it's forever home. read more

Over the years I have adopted 3 dogs from Pet Harbor. They were all neutered, groomed and cared for. They came with collars and leashes and had their vaccinations. It was a wonderful experience both for our family and for the dogs. What a special well run shelter which is why I keep going back and referring friends who are looking for a pet to adopt. read more

I rarely review anything. My cocker spaniel of 14 years died and as any dog owner knows I was bereft. I needed a new dog but it is a big heart and soul commitment. But...life without a dog..... I talked to many many rescue places. So many of the people acted like you should love their dogs more than your children. Or promise one but have another. Somehow my guardian angel dropped LaVonne into my life. She was so kind and gentle with the dogs and me. Honey, my 12 lb hmm what is she exactly.....is absolutely wonderful. Extraordinarily playful and remarkably affectionate. So what does this have to do with LaVonne. There were dogs that I would point to and she would steer me away saying "temperamental". She said that they knew that some dogs were permanent guests. She wasn't trying to push any dog. She really wanted me to have a dog that would make me happy. Honey is smaller than I wanted so I chose another dog and as she was getting the paperwork and Honey was jumping on my leg, she said are you sure that it isn't this dog? Well of course it was. The children in the neighborhood love her. When my uncle was in a wheel chair on oxygen she sat so still he could pet her. I have given Pet Harbor (and LaVonne's) name to countless strangers who have asked. I never think twice! I have never done this. I will try to post a picture of Honey above. read more

Pet Harbor - Honey - Animal Shelters Near Me - Gardena, California

If you're interested in adopting a dog you must talk to Lavonne at Pet Harbor she's so caring and takes her time in making sure that her fur babies go to their forever home. Lavonne is an extraordinary person with a heart of gold. Please call Pet Harbor when you're looking to adopt. Thank you, Lavonne for Mr. Riley....he's living the life of Riley! xoxo read more

It a literal pet heaven...I've never seen so many happy, well cared for dogs in one rescue. It's spotless & the rescues are loved & playful. Lavonne is a saint & it's obvious she has the dog heart. It's my Doggie Disneyland! read more

I've adopted from this Pet Harbor. Everything about it is exceptional. Clean, loving, caring, precise about a dog's health and well-being. Ours came from Pet Harbor beautifully groomed and in great shape. I remain in touch with them, and want to adopt another dog from them. read more

It is hard to find the words to share the amazingly positive experience it was to visit Pet Harbor today. Their entire facility is kept in pristine condition. All their dogs are clean and well groomed (not even a hint of typical kennel odor). It is heart warming to see people who care so deeply for our "Best Friends". read more

A hidden away little gem. Dogs are so happy and content and the place is bright and clean and welcoming. The lady who runs it obviously loves the dogs and was very patient with all my questions. read more

Have two wonderful fur babies from Pet Harbor rescue. No better place to find a forever friend.

We recently adopted a beautiful 3 year old Shih Tzu from Pet Harbor. We had applied to adopt "Ming Ming" after losing our 15 year old Shih Tzu to old age. We searched online initially, but then Lavonne sent us an application. After Pet Harbor received the application, we were visited by Sue & Ward who checked to make sure our yard was fenced and that we'd be a good fit for Ming Ming. When we were approved for the 2nd round....Lavonne contacted us and we set a date to meet Ming Ming. A few days later we went to Pet Harbor and met Ming Ming, Lavonne, and a bunch of other dogs who were all in immaculate and healthy condition. We fell in love with the whole place, the owner, and Ming Ming. We are thankful Pet Harbor exists and that we were able to bring Ming Ming home in time for Thanksgiving. A 5 star rating is not enough for Pet Harbor. read more

We are thrilled about the precious little pups we adopted at Pet Harbor. There is no finer shelter to be found anywhere, and believe me, we've seen quite a few. Pet Harbor is like a 5 star hotel for dogs! The facility is pristine and lovely. The little dogs are allowed to romp and play together, and I think that's the reason they are so affectionate and socialized. Also it was amazing to learn that the dogs are groomed every other week. We were delighted to know that the owner takes the adoption process very seriously, scrutinizing adoptive parents and making sure that each pet fits into the family and the home in which they will be residing. My husband and I would give this facility a 10 star review if we could. read more

Pet Harbor is a wonderful place to find your forever friend. We have adopted three of the most wonderful dogs there & would never go elsewhere. The people there led by Lavonne Rodstein are the most caring I've ever seen! Animals a pet Harbor are treated as family & friends. read more

Many years ago my husband and I were trying to rescue an injured dog without success, but two ladies from Pet Harbor were trying to do the same and they rescued the dog.That is how we got to know about Pet Harbor. Please let me know how to get their IRS tax identification number so I may include them in my will. Need it fast. Anonymous read more

I have two wonderful dogs that I adopted from Pet Harbor. Was so impressed with the facility - truly is like a doggie day care. Upon adopting my second dog, I then decided to volunteer at the shelter. It is so rewarding to see the many dogs be adopted and go to their forever homes. Great care and concern is taken by the owner to make sure she is adopting to the correct parents. I cannot say enough about Pet Harbor, the wonderful facility, the caring volunteers who help groom, socialize, and assist in keeping the dogs happy until they move to their new home. If you are thinking of adopting, contact Pet Harbor - there are some wonderful dogs available for adoption. Pam S. read more

2 years ago this month we adopted the two most perfect darlings from Pet Harbor. Our vet was so impressed with how healthy our two girls were when we brought them home. Now they are the most adorable, funny pair you have ever seen. Brains of Einstein, sense of humor like the 3 Stooges! LaVonne is the very best - makes sure her babies are homed in the right place. Cannot recommend more highly! read more

Our family had a 16 year old Rott mix, Shep, who had a great life but could no longer stand. We made one call and took him to Pet Harbor in Gardena! They did an excellent job putting him down. He was so relaxed and calm, went to sleep and never woke up! Thx read more

Pet Harbor is such a wonderful place. So much compassion and love for all the animals who come through the door under any circumstances. I wish we could clone Pet Harbor and all those who work there and, especially Lavonne, and create hundreds of sensible, kind shelters like this. The entire world would be different for animals who need new homes and for those who open their hearts to "experienced" pets!!. read more

I have such mixed feelings about this facility. We are senior citizens and will be adopting a new doggie into our family after our final planned trip the first week of February. We went to Pet Harbor in Aug. 2014 after hearing from someone who had just adopted from Pet Harbor in Gardena. Our visit was nothing less than fabulous. We got to visit with all the small and medium sized dogs in the facility. We even offered to become volunteers, to walk or brush or bath the doggies once a week. The location was a bit difficult to find, but after our wonderful visit, I couldn't stop talking to everyone I know about what a great facility this place is. How this is how a dog shelter should look and treat these homeless future adoptees. I gave two donations, one from us & one for a friends birthday. They did send out two notes. At the end of October, I wanted to bring some requested needed items listed in their newsletter which was given to me when we visited. I called and was informed what type of detergent they used, etc. A couple of days later, I arrived and there was a sign on the dog that they were closed. I called on my cell phone saying I had several items to donate. I asked why they were closed and was told that since they no longer accept cats, they are demolishing the cattery. I left $50 worth of special detergent, bleach and large box of 100 dog biscuits. Neither the younger gentleman nor the lady said thank you. I called a week ago to say I was writing out my Christmas donation checks to my favorite charities and was still a bit bothered at the reception received when I dropped off the items. I was told they are "closed" because they are still remodeling. She was unfriendly and not a bit apologetic/grateful about my last contribution, nor even very open about receiving a Christmas donation for the animals. I just have very mixed and somewhat fearful feelings about this place. You look online, it says they are open. You drive over, the sign says they are closed. I have been an animal lover my whole life and always had dogs and cats at the same time. After we return to the U.S. mid February, we will be seeking our new doggie to add to our family. I guess then I will give it another thought. There are so many that need homes. read more

This wonderful facility is a terrific place to find a pet. The staff are dedicated to making sure that all of the dogs are treated with love and kindness, and, as a result, the dogs are able to accept a new owner with equiminity and without anxiety. Each dog is special and its personailty is known by the staff so that the adoptive "parents" knows what their new family member is like and what they can expect. Pet Harbor always tries to find the right match of owner and pet so that both are happy and compatible. The love at Pet Harbor is palpable; these caretakers are personally invested in their charges and find the good in all of them. Pet Harbor keeps dogs until they are adopted; there is no time limit on their stay. Some become permanent residents because for one reason or another they might not be able to maintain in a home setting. We have gotten two great dogs from Pet Harbor and I can only say "Thank you!" for the joy they bring to our lives. read more