Our Mission
Our Mission
Our mission is to find loving homes for Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, other breeds of dogs as space allows, feline friends, and other animal companions in need of rescue. We provide comprehensive rescue services including medical care, behavioral rehabilitation, and careful placement in forever homes throughout Southern California.
Our Commitment to Rescue
Retrievers & Friends is committed to saving every dog that comes into our care. We never give up on a dog — every rescue receives full medical treatment, behavioral support, and time to heal before being placed in a carefully vetted forever home.
Our all-volunteer team works tirelessly across four Southern California counties to ensure no retriever is left behind.
Our Story
A Legacy of Rescue
Retrievers and Friends of So Calif was founded in 2009 by a group of passionate dog lovers who saw the need for a dedicated retriever rescue in Southern California. What started as a small effort quickly grew into a respected organization serving Riverside, Orange, San Diego, and Los Angeles Counties.
From the beginning, we have operated as an all-volunteer organization — meaning every dollar donated goes directly to the care of our rescue animals. No staff salaries, no administrative overhead.
Today, with over $1 million in net assets and an annual operating budget of $319,000, we continue to grow our capacity to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need. Our proven track record of financial responsibility and compassionate care has earned the trust of adopters, donors, and volunteers throughout Southern California.
What Sets Us Apart
What Makes Us Different
Breed Specialization
Focused expertise in Golden and Labrador Retrievers, with deep understanding of breed-specific needs.
All-Volunteer Team
100% of donations go directly to animal care, with no staff salaries or administrative overhead.
Comprehensive Care
Complete medical care, behavioral assessment, and lifetime support for adopting families.
Local Focus
Deep roots in Southern California, serving Riverside, Orange, San Diego, and Los Angeles Counties.
Our Timeline
Key Milestones
Retrievers & Friends founded by passionate dog lovers in Southern California
Expanded rescue operations to cover four Southern California counties
Reached $500K in net assets through community support and responsible stewardship
Launched expanded foster care program to increase rescue capacity
Surpassed $1 million in net assets while maintaining all-volunteer operations
$319K annual budget — continued growth in rescue and rehabilitation programs
15+ years of all-volunteer rescue excellence across Southern California
Meet Our Rescue Dogs
See the dogs we've rescued and the families who have opened their hearts and homes.
Watch Our Story