05/29/2026
Please consider adopting from local rescue groups and rescues within driving distance. It’s not “only cats and dogs” ending up in shelters.
Here in the Valley, there are large numbers of rabbits, guinea pigs, small bird species, reptiles, and other small pets being surrendered by families or dropped off at animal control as “found” animals. It may not be in the tens of thousands like cats and dogs, but it is still hundreds to thousands of animals needing help.
You CAN adopt many of the same small animal species constantly sold at chain pet stores. You CAN adopt the same kinds of animals people rush to claim with “I’ll take it!” or “I want it!” comments in lost-and-found groups. If you want one of these animals, apply through a rescue group so rescues can continue helping the public with lost and found animals, pulling animals from shelters to avoid euthanasia, and assisting families who genuinely need support.
Notice how our area lacks nonprofit small animal rescue groups? Communities have to value these resources to keep them alive. Support them through adoption, volunteering, donations, networking, and advocacy. A lack of community support is exactly why so many rescue resources eventually disappear, leaving entire areas struggling to find help.
What is stopping you from applying to adopt when looking for a pet?
Most organizations will vet adoptive homes to ensure basic care standards will be met. Are you open to learning in order to provide that? Adoption fees help cover medical treatments, food, housing, transportation, and boarding costs. It’s never free. Animals require labor; they cost time and money whether they are with us or with you.
We are constantly asked whether animals come with cages, supplies, food, and full setups “for free.” The reality is rescues cannot give away the animal, its supplies, and absorb all medical costs at the same time. We NEED those supplies for the next animal. Rescue work is expensive, and most groups are volunteer-run, which means unpaid.
This list was made through volunteer effort. You may need to do some legwork using the “@” handles to find exact locations, species accepted, contact information, and websites. Please do your part before reaching out to rescues.
And if you know of grants, sponsorships, funding opportunities, or businesses willing to help, please reach out to rescue organizations directly. Many of them desperately need community support.
I know our grant funding we rely on has not come through this year, and it very well may not. Where we will find $20,000+, I honestly don’t know.
So please, adopt.
California Small Pet Rescue Groups
This is a reference list, not a complete list. It is loosely organized by region/location and is intended only to help direct you. Some Instagram handles may represent foster networks, sanctuaries, or advocacy pages rather than registered rescues. A few organizations may overlap geographically or collaborate. Some locations were inferred from names or commonly known service areas and may need verification.
This list was made through volunteer effort. You may need to do some legwork using the “@” handles to find exact locations, species accepted, contact information, and websites. Please do your part before reaching out to rescues.
Loosely Organized by Region / Location
Close to Home
Central CA: Modesto
Cali_FID Parrot and Exotic Rescue Sanctuary ()
Little Hearts Rescue Group ()
Bay Area / Northern CA
Gardner's Pig Pen Rescue
CA Chins Chinchilla Rescue ()
Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA
Rattie Ratz Rescue
Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue
Radical Rodent Rescue
(Henderson, NV — close enough to Northern CA)
SPCA Monterey County
Southern California
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Species-Based Quick Reference
Rabbits
Little Hearts Rescue Group
Guinea Pigs
Gardner's Pig Pen Rescue
Little Hearts Rescue Group
Radical Rodent Rescue
Rats / Rodents
Rattie Ratz Rescue
Radical Rodent Rescue
Hamsters
Little Hearts Rescue Group
Radical Rodent Rescue
Chinchillas
CA Chins Chinchilla Rescue
Radical Rodent Rescue
Birds / Exotic Pets
Cali_FID Parrot and Exotic Rescue Sanctuary
Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue
Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA
SPCA Monterey County
