Becoming a rescue partner means your organization works alongside Big Bear and Devore Animal Shelters to help shelter pets in need by providing rescue, rehabilitation, foster care, and ultimately adoption. Your collaboration with us saves lives, particularly for shelter pets who may have difficulty initially finding their forever home or need special care.

We are partnered with a network of 844 rescue group partners as of 2024. These partners play a crucial role in reducing the homeless pet population by finding loving homes for our shelter pets. Together, we work to ensure that as many shelter pets as possible are provided the opportunity to find their forever home.

To partner with us, please download and complete the application packet below.

  1. Fill out the attached application and rescue agreement completely.
  2. Supply copies of your 501(c)(3) tax status designation, applicable kennel license and/or permits.
  3. Mail/fax/email all of the above to:
    • Mail: San Bernardino County Animal Care
    • Attention: Rescue Coordinator
    • 658 E. Brier Drive
    • San Bernardino, CA 92408
    • Fax: 909-387-0125
    • Email: SBAC.Rescue@dph.sbcounty.gov
Rescue partner rescuing shelter pets
What types of pets can I rescue from Devore and Big Bear Animal Shelters?

Our shelters care for a wide variety of pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and sometimes farm animals. The specific pets available for rescue may vary depending on the current intake and the pets’ needs. You can inquire about available pets by contacting our rescue coordinators.

Are there any costs associated with rescuing shelter pets?

We do not charge rescue partners to rescue shelter pets. You are responsible for providing basic veterinary care, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering if not already completed. Some shelter pets may need special care or treatment before being placed with your rescue.

Do you provide veterinary support for rescued shelter pets?

We provide initial veterinary care and vaccinations for pets that enter our shelters. Should additional veterinary attention be required for a rescued pet, the responsibility for ongoing veterinary care lies with the rescue partners. However, we are available to assist in coordinating or providing guidance on specialized care as needed.

How will we communicate during our partnership?

To ensure all logistics run smoothly, our rescue coordinators will stay in close contact with your rescue organization via email and phone calls.

How long does it take to be approved as a rescue partner?

Once we receive your application, the review process typically takes 1 week. This includes verifying your nonprofit status, ensuring your organization is a good fit for our shelter pets’ needs, and aligning on expectations. We will notify you once you are officially approved as a rescue partner.

Can my rescue organization collaborate with other rescue partners?

Absolutely! We encourage collaboration among our rescue partners. If you have specific connections or partnerships with other rescues, we are happy to facilitate joint efforts to help more shelter pets in need.

How do I submit a pull request?

Approved rescue group partners can pull shelter pets from Big Bear and Devore Animal Shelters by emailing a pull request to SBAC.Rescue@dph.sbcounty.gov with:

  • The Transporters name
  • Shelter Pet(s) ID
Can I be a rescue partner and a pet foster partner?

Yes, you can be both a rescue partner and a pet foster partner. To learn more about becoming a pet foster parent, please visit our upcoming webpage.

Type Name Category
pdf Urgent Rescue Needed Letter