When my cat showed up last Saturday with a broken tail, the vet informed me that an amputation was…read morethe only option. Facing the high cost of the procedure while already in a difficult financial position, I felt completely overwhelmed and started desperately searching for any avenues or options that could help. ​After hitting dead ends elsewhere, I finally made contact with the Humane Society of Silicon Valley. Not only did they step in to help me out financially, but they also showed genuine compassion, love, and care that completely carried me through one of the hardest moments I've faced. ​There is simply no way I could have gotten through this without them. Their kindness has had a profound impact on me, and I can honestly say it's going to make me a better person moving forward. There are not enough kind words in the world to express my gratitude. I am forever indebted to this organization. ​Thank you for the financial help, and thank you for showing such deep compassion, love, and care when we needed it most.

UPDATE: My experience with HSSV has opened my eyes to a deeply disappointing reality. As someone…read moreinteracting with a major animal shelter non-profit for the first time, I am amazed by the sheer bureaucracy and fragile egos you have to navigate just to ask for kindness, context, and empathy. After posting my initial honest feedback, a supervisor called to apologize. I do want to acknowledge that Marianne from the adoption team was kind, apologetic, and took the time to listen to my concerns, which I genuinely appreciated. But the Community Services Manager, Denise, subsequently called me back. In an incredibly condescending tone, she flatly denied my newly adopted kitten his standard 14-day post-adoption medical care (routinely offered to all adopters), in what I believe was direct retaliation following my review and complaints about my experience. When a shelter manager chooses to withhold a juvenile animal's healthcare safety net in a way that felt punitive rather than centered on the welfare of the newly adopted kitten, the system is fundamentally broken. No wonder well-meaning people are forced to avoid places like this, and in the process, the innocent animals are the ones who suffer. To the donors funding this organization: please look closely at both sides of the coin. The frontline reality does not match the compassionate mission they sell you. ------------ My main interaction was with Hailey, the adoption supervisor. I understand why HSSV reviews an adopter's history and wants animals in stable homes. What disappointed me was the lack of context, empathy, and actual counseling. I had previously adopted two kittens who were later rehomed together with friends who already knew and loved them. Later, I adopted two more. I kept one, who is still with me and thriving. The other already had significant diarrhea when I adopted her. I cared for her for about ten days until it resolved, paid for her shots, and later returned her after realizing a single-kitten household was a better fit for me. She was adopted within the hour. They don't notice that the kitten went back better than she came from the shelter. About a month later, I returned because I wanted a second kitten. I was choosing between two, but one had active diarrhea. Having just gone through that experience, I asked about her medical notes, how long it might last, the recommended recheck, and what support would be available if it continued. Instead of those questions being treated as part of an informed decision, I felt they were interpreted as evidence that I was "unsure." I was repeatedly asked whether I was sure, warned that another return could affect future adoptions, and told no kitten would be adopted to me that day. I understood being asked to go home and think; what troubled me was that even returning the next day with a clear decision might not be enough. I explicitly asked for help deciding which kitten might be the better fit based on temperament, medical needs, and my circumstances. Instead, the focus stayed on whether I was "sure enough." The previous day was almost the opposite. I was interested in several long-haired kittens still in crates and difficult to assess. I asked to spend time with them in a room and was told no. After about ten minutes, the counselor told me to decide or go to the back of the line. I had to ask for one more minute while she watched the time as I tried to decide about an animal I could care for for the next 15-20 years. That contradiction is my main concern: adopters are expected to make thoughtful, permanent commitments and may be scrutinized if a placement does not work out, yet there can also be pressure to decide quickly without enough opportunity to understand an animal's temperament or medical situation. My issue is not that HSSV screens adopters or has safeguards. It is how those safeguards are implemented. Asking questions, reading medical records, understanding temperament, or needing time to think should not be treated as lack of commitment. I wish the process had felt more supportive.

My 15+ yo dog, Bella, passed away early this morning. The SVACA staff couldn't have been more kind…read moreand courteous while they helped me to coordinate post-mortem body care for Bella. As discussed ahead of time, I called to let them know we were on our way. Called them again when we arrived. They came out to wheel her box inside. Light paperwork and billing was all done car side. They made a difficult time easier and relatively brief. I'm very grateful.

I want this photo to resonate with this companies team. I found this kitten left at our companies…read moredoorstep. I called this company to ask if they could help, but they said since the kitten was outside the jurisdiction, they wouldn't help.. Yeah, good job guys, please seek employment elsewhere if you don't want to help.

Can't believe we got the cuddliest lap kitties here! My other cat is a cat distribution backyard…read morecat and we could not desensitize her in time. We came here last minute on a Friday and wasn't able to see any cats as they're closing. Dont go unless you have 2-3 hours before the closing time. The next day we wanted to see 2 kittens but they couldn't locate one of them and they also happened to be part of a bonded pair so we assume maybe they were adopted. We knew we wanted 2, so we asked to see 2 more kittens, and they allegedly gave my partner some attitude but let us see them. We got one free vet visit and went to VCA already, easy and great staff. They were 10 and 13 weeks at adoption, and are quickly growing and such a blessing. No fleas or ticks, both spayed and the older one with rabies shot, both began to do their other vaccine series as well.

I am extremely disappointed with my experience with San José Animal Care & Services regarding a…read morenoisy dog complaint. I invested a significant amount of time documenting the issue, maintaining a detailed log, and collecting audio evidence of the excessive barking. Despite making every effort to provide objective documentation, my complaint ultimately went nowhere. I was informed that the department could not open or review the audio files or links I provided. During a phone conversation, I attempted to play the recordings for Supervisor Flores so she could hear the barking firsthand. Instead of evaluating the obvious evidence, she complained about the noise herself and insisted she couldn't hold a conversation with the barking. Experiencing the barking first-hand only led her to give me unprofessional and rude service over the phone rather than admitting the barking established an issue. The requirement for a second petitioner was another major source of frustration. In my view, a complaint supported by detailed documentation and objective evidence should be evaluated on its own merits. Whether another neighbor is willing to sign a petition should not determine whether a documented nuisance receives attention. Their claim is that it eliminates targeting, but it does the opposite, whereas soliciting around my neighborhood would in fact create a great opportunity for targeting me. The system is backwards. Staff can read the rules off a sheet of paper but when asking the why/reasoning behind these requirements they can't elaborate. Throughout the process, I felt that staff were unable or unwilling to provide meaningful assistance or offer reasonable alternatives for submitting evidence. When I initially attempted to escalate the problem I was transferred and did not receive a call back in a timely manner after leaving multiple voicemails. I asked for the supervisors contact information, and was given the incorrect number for the Supervisor. Rather than working toward a resolution, the process felt focused on procedural barriers that prevented the complaint from moving forward. As a resident, I expect a city department tasked with enforcing nuisance animal ordinances to fairly evaluate documented complaints and provide workable methods for submitting evidence. Unfortunately, that was not my experience. I am left feeling frustrated, disappointed, and with very little confidence that the current complaint process is designed to address legitimate concerns from residents. I sincerely hope the department reviews its procedures for accepting evidence and reconsiders policies that may discourage residents from reporting ongoing nuisance issues. The current process did not leave me feeling heard, supported, or served.

We found a young sparrow that seemed injured and unable to move much. We sent them videos of…read morecurrent condition of the bird. They were very responsive and asked us to take bird in to them for care. We gladly will be handing bird over to them for medical observation & care. I'm so glad we have organizations like this on our community.

I called for an injured crow from Fremont since our rehabilitation center here is temporarily…read moreclosed for a while. Authorities and resources centers instructed me to contact this facility and a very rude receptionist picked up. I understood that the location could not take in a "Fremont bird" asked her kindly if there are any recommendations of what my next steps would be and she straight up told me "No I can't help you." I hung up and received a message to contact the same place for help and again, was met with the same rude tone from the lady. "Yes you called earlier no we cannot take your bird." lasked her what I should do for overnight care since all of the sites near me are closed and again refused to help me. I am left dumbfounded with the lack of assistance, care, and actual work being put into this. Why hire this person in the first place?

Update: Barkley gave us 12.5 wonderful years and losing him was tough. Sonny just turned 12, but…read morethis resilient senior pup is still as energetic as ever despite losing his brother. We are so incredibly thankful for this organization for giving us such wonderful pups. They have made our house a home for over 10+ years and we never had any issues with health or behavior until their older age (11+)

I met Loree and Dr Schwartz while doing rescue with another group years ago. The more I come to…read moreknow about them, the more impressed I am with them, and - believe me - I am not easy to impress. They rescue hundreds of animals every year, most from the brink of death. They work tirelessly with other rescue groups and shelters, often taking the toughest cases with the greatest care needs. They take hundreds of "disposable" beagles from the labs who breed and use them for animal testing. They are just incredible. When it was time for me to adopt another dog for own family, Loree and Monte were the obvious choice. I have never had a single regret from any interaction I've had with any individual from this group. Not one. My little yorkie loves her Auntie Loree and Uncle Monte, and I am so glad and grateful they are who they are. Just incredible, the work they do and the way they do it. Among others, in the space of a year, they place dozens of yorkshire terriers, shih tzu, poodles, lhasa apso, beagles, and small dogs off all kinds - most of whom require grooming. If you want a cute little dog who will return your love and devotion ten-fold, contact Toy Breed Rescue. They will tell you how it is.

We have adopted two kittens from the HSSV located at the Petco in Saratoga. Both experiences were…read moreexcellent. This time a woman working there named Cat helped us pick out our kitten and answer all our questions. She was very sweet and knowledgeable. Wouldn't have got my baby if she had not been there to help. Thank you! Also a volunteer named Florence was great help too!

I've tried to visit twice now, both times during posted business hours (once mid-day, once evening,…read morea couple months apart) they have been closed both times. The staff at Petco knows nothing about their hours either "it says they should be open...so they should be back there" both times

The Nike Animal Rescue Foundation has been active for at least two decades. The people who help…read morewith placing dogs and cats are loving, caring people. There are no paid people, everything that is done, and there is a lot, all volunteer their time.

I wanted to adopt 1 when this pandemic started but due to the SIP the animal shelters were closed…read more I signed up for Next door, an app so I can stay busy. I even held a few Zoom book clubs thanks to that community! Anyway. I don't remember how it came about - either I posted about fostering or I replied to a posting but a woman sent me a PM to tell me what possible fostering opportunities they may have. After a phone call and a few text messages a sweet semi-feral momma arrived w/ her 3 little gems. The transition from day 1 was a bit rocky but she found herself at the dining table where I was working and let me pet her. I was advised to keep her in the kennel but I couldn't do that.. I let her roam in a defined area. I was in love w/ her, whom I named Seren (Serendipity) and her kittens. I've had them for 9 wks before momma and a kitten were adopted by my good friend. I decided to keep the other 2: Gus Gus and Mo (Moana). Yes, Disney characters. This non-profit is a wonderful organization; respectable, responsive, friendly, resourceful, everything. Cat made sure I had enough food and litter and answered questions whenever raised. They take care of the vaccinations and spay/neuter for the 1st year. If you can't adopt, please consider fostering. I cried so much when Seren and Caterpillar were adopted but deep down I knew that we helped save their lives. The world is cruel and I am an animal lover... they drink bottled water and they have a plethora of food and treats and toys. I was going to get it but I'll refrain from getting a pet stroller.. you know... because I'm not a crazy cat lady. They have brought so much joy in my life. Thank you so much!!

My mom and I attended one of the events they host - cross-stitching cats led by instructor Tiffany…read moreTzeng! There were only 12 seats available to be reserved/paid for in advance on their site. The space is beautiful and cozy for the cats around. Mary, the director, briefly introduced us to the organization, the mission, and explained their careful interview process for matching cats with interested adopters, which they call "Tinder for cats" haha. The event lasted 2 hours and 45 minutes but it felt much shorter! The whole time, different cats (all available for adoption) would flop down on the long table all of us sat at and let us pet them. We had a wonderful experience socializing with the cats and the people around us and learning how to cross-stitch too! All materials were provided and we got to bring all supplies home to finish the piece.

Local cat rescue located in downtown San Jose and it's a great place to visit if you're looking to…read moreadopt or just wanting to hang out with cats. The Dancing Cat is a peaceful place where they have approx 6-12 cats that live in the space, just depends on how many get adopted and other factors. I came by during my birthday because I love cats and it was so nice seeing them so at peace and comfortable. Some cats prefer peace and quiet while others are actively seeking out play and treats! Would recommend people to check this place out. Love their mission and what they aim to do.

(This review is for the Palo Alto location)They were so nice and it was truly cat heaven. If you…read moreare wanting a friendly, cuddly, playful cat this is the spot to get one because they raise them so well. They may be pricy, but they're so worth it. We got our little baby Dusk from here, best purchase ever!!! we just moved from Texas and our Texan cat was lonely, now he has a brother

Funny how I knew there would be other reviews about the staff. Stop hiring 16 year olds that don't…read moreknow how to talk to people. Rude as hell and takes away from the experience. Each time I popped in to consider having a look the immediate reaction of staff is to rudely ask, "Did you get on the list". Sounds harmless but it was the way in which she asked. That was the 2nd time. The first time I went in the kid said, "Are you gonna pay to get in?" Was my first time so I didn't know how it worked. I asked the prices and stood for a split second to consider it. He rudely says, "You can't wait here". Like give me a second you obviously. The staff just act like unsocialized weirdos... No reason to mention there was also NEVER a simple greeting. The 1st kid was a short Indian boy and the 2nd kid was a short Asian girl. These people need to be fired. It's less tolerable to me as someone who had to bust their ass in customer service since I was their age. It's not that hard to make people feel welcome. Especially when they are wanting to feel inclined to bring a cat to a new home. Stop hiring entitled brats that don't respect the hustle. Absolutely terribly vibes. How many more staff reviews do you want to get?

I had been looking online for different animal rescue shelters to adopt a puppy. I tried emailing…read moreand calling a bunch of different places around the bay area, and they either took took weeks to respond, or didn't respond at all. A lot of times, the staff who I did get ahold of was really unhelpful. Enter, CARE Pets. They responded quickly and answered all my questions and I was able to see my puppy within a week. I was glad to hear that CARE pets fosters all their pets and then brings them to the adoption events on the weekends. JoAnn, who fostered my new puppy, was extremely helpful and walked me through the whole adoption process via email, then in person. All the staff and volunteers there are really friendly and they have a lot of cute dogs to adopt! And I love how if an owner is unable to take care of their pet anymore, CARE pets asks the owners to bring the pets back and not to give the dog away or give it to the pound. That makes me feel great about all the dogs that they manage and look after. If you're looking to adopt a puppy in the South Bay area, I highly recommend CARE pets!

I cannot say enough nice things about the people involved in this organization…read more We adopted our dog from here 5 years ago. We try to bring him in to visit his former foster mom every year or two. The people who foster these dogs are truly special, they save so many lives and make sure that the animals go to the right home. Cat Glass and her mother are heroes for broken dogs. They nurse them back to health, and give them all the love and affection you could possibly give a pet. They saved our pooch's life, and I will be eternally grateful. If you want to rescue a pup, this is a great place to do it.