Foster Program
Small Breed Rescue of Southern California is an all-volunteer, non-profit, foster based organization funded by donations. We are dedicated to rescuing small breed dogs, small reptiles and select exotic pets primarily from public shelters and other rescues. Being committed to keeping administrative expenses low, virtually every dollar received goes directly to the care of the animals.
Our rescue is uniquely structured to rehabilitate animals who are at high risk due to manageable behavioral challenges, such as dogs who are declining in a shelter environment or reptiles / exotics that have not been properly cared for over their lifetime. We develop relationships to accommodate these specific assistance needs, which is what differentiates us from other rescue organizations.
We are looking to expand our foster team in the North County area – or within a 30 minute drive of Vista - that consists of a range of new and experienced individuals for the following animal types:
Small Breed Dogs (3 to 15 lbs)
Most of our dogs come from shelters where they were not sheltering well. This means that they have some minor behavioral issues that they need help to cope with or work through. In many instances, these dogs come out of their shells once they are in a home setting but this is not always the case. Some dogs are shy and fearful and will require patience, space, and understanding so that they can gain confidence. Some may also require socialization either with people or other pets, whereas others may never be ok with other animals.
Requirements:
Experience: Past experience with shy/fearful dogs and / or positive reinforcement training skills preferred
Children: Older respectful children
Pets: Other small breed dogs ok, cats that are dog savvy ok, larger dogs will need further discussion but can be ok
Environment: These dogs do best in a calm, low traffic environment. Fenced yards are preferred but not required. Tools and supplies will be provided to help provide a safe and positive experience for both you and the dog!
Reptiles
If you have been wanting a reptile but can’t commit long term to one (some live between 40 and 100 years!), this is the next best thing for you!
In general, many of the reptiles that come into our care are healthy and are simply needing to find their forever home. But there are several who come in who have not been provided the appropriate care. This can result in injuries or long term disabilities. While those who are more severe will spend the rest of their lives in serenity care at the rescue, most will be made available for adoption. Fostering a reptile can be a long term adventure. Some animals require an experienced adopter so finding the right match can take a while. Once found, the applicant must assemble the appropriate habitat or enclosure based on our recommendations prior to adopting. This can take several weeks for them to do. If you are interested in fostering (or adopting) a serenity reptile with special needs, please let us know!
Requirements for adult bearded dragons, small snakes, box turtles, Russian tortoises, geckos, amphibians, and baby large tortoises:
Experience: No experience necessary – these animals are very easy to work with. We will teach you what you need to know
Children: Are ok but must be supervised if handling
Pets: Are ok as long as they do not come into contact with the reptile
Environment: These animals do best in a calm, low traffic environment. Must have a space that is off of the floor to accommodate a 40 gallon tank (typically 38 x 18 x 18 inches) near an electric outlet as they require lighting and heat.
Requirements for adult large breed tortoises:
Experience: No experience necessary – these animals are very easy to handle and work with, we will teach you what you need to know
Children: Are ok but must be supervised if interacting
Pets: Are ok as long as they do not come into contact with the reptile
Environment: These animals do best in a calm, low traffic environment. Must have a secure space in your yard for them to be outside where it is okay if they dig. Must have a safe place for them to be enclosed and secured at night and during the colder months.
Requirements for iguanas, large snakes, chameleons, tegus, monitors, and other exotics:
Experience: Experience with these animals or larger reptiles in general is required. Some of these animals can be difficult to handle and require an understanding of their personalities and unique needs
Children: Are ok but should not handle
Pets: Are ok as long as they do not come into contact with the reptile
Environment: These animals do best in a calm, low traffic environment. Must have a space that is off of the floor to accommodate a 40 gallon tank (typically 38 x 18 x 18 inches) or bigger near an electric outlet as they require lighting and heat. Some may require an outdoor enclosure.
