I first was introduced to SPR in 2001 when I got my first bichon, Kansas, from a pet store in CO (it was my first pet ever and I didn't know the horrors of pet stores at the time). After I got him, I discovered he was from a puppy mill and the pet store was not only ready to send him back because his nose was more pink than black but they were going to send his sister as well. I ended up going and getting his sister (who they still charged $1500 for- greedy bastards) and was trying to find a home for her & stumbled onto SPR. I ended up finding a home for her locally with a friend but was alerted shortly after about a bichon on deathrow in Denver. I fostered (well failed fostered) Gizmo from when he was 12 until almost 17 years old. I also fostered another SPR pup, Diego who one of my close friends adopted. Anyways, fast forward many years and I lost my dear Kansas to cancer and made a memorial donation to SPR. I wasn't ready at the time for another bichon as I thought it would remind me too much of Kansas - low and behold, they sent me a picture of the cutest bichon mix fostered in Illinois. I brought Tater Tot to his forever home in 2013 and he has been a true joy ever since. We lost our 2nd furbaby, Ginger, his week and I am once again reaching out to SPR to see about options in the near future to adopt another bichon/bichon mix. They have always been so kind, compassionate, and grateful for the donations over the years. I have never had a problem adopting with them and I would recommend to anyone who has had a negative experience to maybe explore foster care or being a little more patient as they really only have the best intentions to match the pup to a good home. I love you all at SPR- thank you for enriching my life. I will be a lifetime supporter - Tami Miller read more

They are more concerned with checking boxes than checking the character and commitment of people. I was denied adopting because I can not, for health reasons, neuter my current boy. And I specifically asked to adopt a male! They are too hung up on boxes and denied an amazing home and family a lifelong pet. read more

Totally embarrassed me on the adoption process by sending personal info to 8 other members of the rescue. They think they are doing a great service for the community but when it comes down to it they are just greedy. Not to mention some of the dogs listed are not even Bichon but are labeled as such. Look elsewhere read more

Well, got word of our little rescue dog having to be put down this past Friday because of advanced spleen cancer..Vikki, the regional head, actually had Little Roo at her home the last few days..a sort of hospice, if you may. It saddened us but we were happy to have helped a poor dog live out his life in dignity. Thanks for your support and positivity, Small Paws! read more

I have had fur babies for over 30 years and adopted from the shelter, rescues, etc. I was very disappointed in the adoption process for Small Paws and felt they are very unprofessional. My best friend,a Bichon, passed away so I had applied to this rescue in the chance I would have another special fur kid to spoil. My fur kids have always received prompt veterinary care over the years as needed. In fact, I had adopted through Westie Rescue, but Small Paws Rescue only added to my grieving for my Bichon. Some people actually have a job and need to earn a living. I will adopt another Bichon eventually, but I will never donate to this charity. read more

Love this rescue. They screen applicants, and are truly a responsible dog rescue.

I had supported this charity for years via financial donations. We are Bichon lovers and had them in my family for 30+ years. Our intention was always to rescue from them down the road. When my mother applied to adopt a Bichon they called her veterinarian. Whoever called was a terribly rude woman. The vet called us to let us know how unprofessional and rude the Small Paws representative was. They disagreed with a recommendation our vet gave us as to the care of our pets and for that reason declined my mother's application. Your loss. Not only did you lose a financial donor and long time supporter, but we also took our dollars and rescued 2 dogs from another rescue! read more

My grandma got her dog Lacey there and she got a great deal. And they sold the perfect dog to her. Her name is Lacey She can be a little restless. But what my grandma wanted was company and she got what she wanted. They can give you the perfect match for you. So thank you Small Paws for what you do. I don't know what my grandma & Lacey would do without each other. read more

Their adoptee selection process is terribly flawed in my opinion..I would not bother....

They may be a great bichon rescue but don,t expect tax donation form if you donate in kind property. I donated many objects ,all bichon, to the rescue for fund raising. Anti cruelty and other rescues in Chivago inventory the donation and give the tax donation papers. Small paws wanted the merchandise to be given to their rep of the Illinois chapter . The woman picked all the things up and when I called Tulsa they said no tax form until goods sold. - How will i know of sales. Not the norm when donating to other 501 (c) 3. Charities. I.e. Salvation Army, goodwill,etc. so I gave hundreds of dollars worth of goods and received no tax credit. I have many more things - 30 years collection of bichon things many by artists. I will stick to local well known nokill rescues. BE AWARE.. read more