Available for Los Angeles area adopters. Rico is a wonderful , sweet pure black Labrador that weighs around 45pounds. He was born on May 2021. . Rico is the most loving , kind, gentle, sweet dog that we have seen. He has been wonderful with everyone he meets and he grew up with kids , he is excellent with all size kids, including infants. He did well with a cat in his foster home , but he tries chasing feral cats. Rico is a Velcro dog, he will follow his person to every where, loves to touch and loves to be petted, loves to snuggle. He is wonderful with other dogs, goes to dog parks and does very well. He is housebroken and knows to use doggie door. He walks really well on leash , since he is so easy we use just a regular harness on him.

Please click "Read More" for more info, photos and adoption fee ##2083900##

Please click "Read More" for more info, photos and adoption fee Lucky is great with other dogs, and is easily trainable! He will be a great addition to any home. ##1753166##

Mario was rescued from Devore at 10 months old, in March this year. He was going to be euthanized for space. He is the sweetest dog I've ever had in my home. He has not an aggressive ounce in his body, does not barely even bark let alone attempt to bite. He is on the timid side in fact. But incredibly affectionate and knows how to wake you up with kisses. He can walk decent on leash but still needs some skills on that. However he is excellent with every dog he has met, as long as it is not at a dog park full of a bunch of them. He is also wonderful with kids.

Meet Stella: A Sweet Soul Searching for Her Forever Home! Stella is an 8-year-young Labrador mix with a heart full of love and a spirit that shines! She adores people and enjoys playing with bigger dogs, making her a wonderful companion for an adult-only home where she can be the spoiled queen she deserves to be. This resilient girl was found on the streets after a kind-hearted Good Samaritan feared she had been hit by a car. Thankfully, she hadn’t—but she still needed a hero. That’s when Hope For Paws stepped in to rescue her! Now, Stella is ready to find a forever home or a foster family to shower her with love. Though she has a bit of arthritis (as wise pups do!), she still loves to run, play, and chase after her favorite tennis balls. She’s a perfect mix of playful and cuddly—a loyal friend who just wants a safe, loving place to call home. Could you be the one to give Stella her happily ever after? If you’re interested in adopting or fostering this sweet girl, please reach out today. Let’s find Stella the loving home she’s been waiting for! #AdoptStella #FosterMe #RescueDog #HopeForPaws

Meet Snuffles—better known as Snuffy! A loyal and intelligent approximately seven-year-old Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Siberian Husky mix currently living in San Francisco, CA, whose heart is as big as his 75-pound frame. With his sleek black coat and soulful eyes, Snuffles is the kind of dog who forms deep bonds with his people, always eager to please and quick to learn, especially when there are treats involved! Snuffles is a well-trained and affectionate companion who knows a variety of commands, including sit, stay, heel, and “place” (which means he’ll go straight to his crate or bed like a pro). He thrives in a structured environment and enjoys having a routine, whether that’s his morning and evening walks, backyard playtime, or simply lounging indoors by your side. Despite his size and strength, he’s more of a quiet presence—rarely barking unless there’s a reason. When it comes to his favorite pastimes, Snuffles is all about chasing tennis balls and splashing in his wading pool. He has an endearing way of tilting his head when you talk to him, as if he’s hanging on to every word, ready to be your devoted sidekick! While Snuffles is deeply devoted to his people, he is also protective of his space and has shown reactive behavior toward unfamiliar individuals entering the home. He has bitten people who attempted to pet him when he was uncomfortable, so he needs a patient, experienced caregiver who can respect his boundaries and continue working on his confidence with positive reinforcement. He is also dog-reactive and would do best as the only pet in a calm environment. Snuffles is being rehomed because his elderly guardian can no longer provide the structured environment he needs. A quiet suburban or rural home, away from the overstimulation of city life, would be ideal for him. To make sure that Snuffles has a great start with his new family, we have a canine behaviorist available for a free consultation. This strong, intelligent boy is looking for a home where he can feel safe, loved, and understood. If you have experience with protective dogs and can provide Snuffles with the structured life he needs, he will be a fiercely loyal and loving companion. Are you ready to be Snuffy’s new best friend? If so, reach out to adopt@joyfulpets.com to learn more about this special boy!

Meet Baxter! A lovable nine-and-a-half-year-old Labrador Retriever mix from San Marcos, CA, whose heart is as big as his goofy grin and whose black-and-brown coat gleams with charm and warmth. Baxter is that perfect blend of silly and sweet—the kind of pup who’ll make you laugh with his playful antics one moment and then melt your heart by leaning gently into your side the next. At 60 pounds, he’s a medium-sized bundle of affection who adores people, thrives on connection, and is always ready to be part of the action—or the cuddle puddle! While Baxter may be considered a senior, no one has told him that. He’s still very much up for long walks, jogs, or even hikes if you’re game! He’s got a youthful spirit, a wagging tail that rarely stops, and the kind of cheerful energy that makes every day feel like an adventure. He’s also wonderfully calm in the home—quiet, house-trained, and polite, never getting into things he shouldn’t. He settles beautifully after a burst of excitement and makes for an excellent work-from-home buddy or companion for someone who’s around during the day. This charming pup knows basic commands like sit, shake, and down, and while he could use a bit of leash training (who doesn’t get excited about walks?), he’s smart and eager to please. He plays nicely with larger dogs—his wrestling buddies of choice—but can be a bit too enthusiastic around smaller dogs. A home with a fellow big-dog pal would be a dream come true for him! Baxter is neutered, microchipped, crate trained, and up to date on vaccinations. He doesn’t love loud noises like fireworks, but give him a safe place to curl up and some soothing pets, and he’ll be just fine. He currently sleeps best in the room with his person and enjoys a routine of two meals and a nice walk each day. Ready to bring home a big-hearted boy who’ll be your shadow, your cheerleader, and your cuddle companion? Contact us at adopt@joyfulpets.com to meet him!

Logan was abandoned in the desert to fend for himself. He was being threatened by people who thought he was a nuisance. So we stepped up and brought this boy to safety. To my surprise, he was great with my baby Pearl and they both slept next to me all night. He is such a great dog it amazes me that someone dumped him. he does have energy and loves running around. he would love to cuddle in bed with you and be loved. He truly deserves someone who can love him.

Meet Loreto! A loyal Labrador Retriever mix currently living in Carlsbad, CA, estimated to be between three and five years old, whose gentle heart and black-and-white coat make him an irresistible companion in the making. Loreto’s journey began in Mexico, and while his passport is imaginary, his heart is very real—and ready to love! Medium-sized at 57 pounds, this playful boy has settled well into home life. He’s crate trained, sleeps soundly, and has already picked up “sit” like a pro. While he hasn’t had formal obedience classes, Loreto is smart and eager to please, and he’ll flourish with positive reinforcement and a consistent routine. He’s doing well with leash training and enjoys a daily walk, followed by his favorite activity—chasing after a ball! Loreto is adjusting to his new surroundings with courage, and while he may still be nervous in unfamiliar situations, he has come a long way in a short time with his guardian. Early on, Loreto was startled when a mobile groomer reached toward him unexpectedly and reacted fearfully. Since then, he’s shown no recurring issues—he attended doggie daycare without concern, handled a follow-up grooming visit smoothly, and is currently enrolled in a board and train program to continue building his confidence. See Loreto's progress in his training video below! With the right caregiver—someone calm, patient, and understanding—Loreto will continue to blossom into the steady companion he’s meant to be. This sweet boy would thrive in a cat-free home, as he becomes overly fixated around them. And here’s some great news: Loreto is making strides with dog interactions and may do well with another dog with slow introductions. He even did well at the dog park, showing curiosity and potential for forming furry friendships. With his eager-to-learn attitude and growing confidence, Loreto is showing just how adaptable and resilient he can be! He does well when left alone for short periods and is content with a daily routine of two meals, one walk, and plenty of cuddle time in between. What’s most endearing about Loreto? His deep desire to simply be near you. He doesn’t need the spotlight—just a place by your side! Are you ready to welcome a dog who’s traveled far and is now searching for peace, love, and a little patience? To learn more or meet Loreto, reach out to adopt@joyfulpets.com!

Poor sweet Bear, he is about 3yrs old, found in a box of 6 puppies that were abandoned on someones doorstep and all the other puppies in his litter have been adopted. He came to the rescue at 5 weeks old and has been there HIS WHOLE LIFE. :( Is it black-dog syndrome? Why did no one want to give him a chance when he was a cute little puppy? Will anyone help him now that he's full grown and has known nothing other living in an outside kennel his whole life? It's so sad, to see some dogs never even get a chance. From the rescue.... He is a bit shy outside of the yard (didn't get out and socialized when he was a puppy) and away from the friends he knows. But with a little bit more socialization and time he would be a great dog. Probably best in a calm home. Very sweet and loving, wants your attention, just gets scared of being outside of his comfort zone, but with the right home that is patient and understanding we feel he will blossom to being a happy boy. WELL, GUESS WHAT? BEAR WAS ACCEPTED INTO A TRAINING PROGRAM SPONSORED BY GRACIOUS DONORS (find out how you can help more dogs get the help they need at apeaction.org on the S.P.E.A.K. – Where Fear Ends and Life Begins page). IF YOU THINK YOU ARE THE PERSON TO GIVE BEAR HIS FOREVER HOME, PLEASE CONTACT US TO FIND OUT HOW TO ADOPT BEAR ONCE HE IS DONE WITH TRAINING! The trainer LOVES him and wishes she could keep him, he's a great dog! He's a shy dog and if you have ever had a shy dog, you know how special they are. He needs a calm home, he doesn't want to go to a dog park, and outdoor festival, dog beach, he want's to be in a calm home where he feels safe and loved. He's someone's soul dog. HE HAS TO GO TO A HOME ONCE TRAINING IS DONE, HE CAN NOT GO BACK TO LIVING IN AN OUTSIDE KENNEL 💔🐾🙏🏻

Meet Gus, a 3 year old 60 lb Lab mix who was rescued with his brother from a barn in Barstow on Christmas Eve '22. They were found along with several other dogs who had been abused and neglected. Gus particularly had deep cuts and scars all over his sweet face. And yet, these boys wanted so badly to trust those rescuing them. We originally wanted to keep the brothers together, but it was proving to be more detrimental than helpful for them. Gus' brother was quickly adopted, and when they separated that was tough on Gus. His foster didn't have the time and patience to help him through it with at home training. So he went to board and train to work on his fears and separation anxiety. Fast forward over a year and a half he finally found a committed foster home and hes doing wonderful! Gus has come such a long way in his journey. He's been working very hard with his trainer and has overcome his fear of the crate. He loves walks and hikes and is very food motivated. Peanut butter is this guys favorite treat. He now warms up to people in under 5 minutes and is asking for belly rubs. He even enjoyed his very first grooming appointment! Gus needs a patient adopter who's willing to continue helping him gain his confidence, and continue his training. He would does well with other calm dogs. No huskys or large energetic dogs, and while he has worked hard on his impulse control on chasing small animals, no cats. Apply to adopt him today!

About Me: Hi, I'm Olive! I had a rough start and was surrendered to a veterinary office where my future was uncertain. Luckily, a kind trainer took me in and helped me become the well-trained pup I am today! Personality: I'm a shy and skittish girl, but once I warm up to you, I'm a loyal companion. I need a patient family who understands my past trauma and is willing to give me the time and space I need to feel comfortable. I may be wary of strangers, but I'm full of love for those who show me kindness. Ideal Home: I'm looking for a calm and understanding family who will give me the love and patience I need to thrive. I prefer quiet environments and would do best in a home without too much hustle and bustle. I love the outdoors, especially the beach or a hike, so a family who enjoys outdoor adventures would be perfect for me! I also get along well with other well-trained, mild-tempered dogs. Health: I'm in good health and fully trained thanks to my wonderful trainer. I'm up-to-date on all my vaccinations and ready to find my forever home. ##1630754##