Common questions
Good questions
What people ask us most about adopting, fostering and the rescue.
Before you apply
Adopting
How much does it cost to adopt a bull terrier?
The adoption donation is $600. Because California Paws Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it’s a tax-deductible donation. Every dog comes spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and vet-checked with bloodwork.
How does adoption work?
Fill out the adoption application. We follow up with a phone interview and a virtual home check over FaceTime, Zoom or Google Meet. Once your home is approved, we set up a time for you to come to the rescue and meet the dogs.
How long does adoption take?
It depends. Once your home is approved, you book your visit to meet the dogs on your own schedule. If your dog needs to be transported to you, that adds time.
Can I adopt if I live out of state or in Canada?
Yes. We work with trusted transport companies to get your dog to you. The adopter pays the transport fee, which varies with the distance.
Can I come and meet the dogs?
Yes. Visits are by appointment, seven days a week, at the rescue in Palm Desert. Browse the dogs first, then get in touch.
Can I adopt if I have young kids or cats?
Every home is considered case by case. Small kids and cats are the hardest match for most of our dogs, but we sometimes make an exception for owners who are very experienced, especially with introducing dogs to cats. Each dog’s page says how they do with dogs, cats and kids.
What if the adoption doesn’t work out?
We take our dogs back. It’s in the adoption contract. It may not be right away: we take the dog back when we have an opening at the facility, and you care for the dog until then. The contract also asks you to work with a trainer first, and we like to talk to the trainer to understand the problem.
Is there a trial period?
No. For some first-time bull terrier owners, we suggest fostering to adopt for a couple of weeks first.
Do you take miniature bull terriers and mixes?
Yes. We rescue standard and miniature bull terriers, and bull terrier mixes.
Opening your home
Fostering
How long do fosters keep a dog?
We look for long-term, committed fosters: usually at least four months. It can take a while for a dog to be adopted.
What does the rescue pay for?
The rescue covers all of the dog’s medical needs. Fosters usually provide the food.
How do I become a foster?
Fill out the application and choose “Foster Care” at the top. We schedule a call and a home check, then you sign the foster agreement and pick up your foster dog in Palm Desert.
Who we are
The rescue
Where do your dogs come from?
We pull bull terriers out of kill shelters, off the streets and out of the desert. We heal them, train them and find them homes that last.
Can I surrender my bull terrier to you?
We’re not taking owner surrenders right now. If you’re struggling with your bull terrier, contact us and we’ll point you to support resources and breed groups that can help.
Where is California Paws Rescue?
73650 Dinah Shore Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92211. Visits are by appointment, seven days a week. Call (760) 656-3833 or email info@californiapawsrescue.org.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. California Paws Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Tax ID 47-4371116. Donate here.
Still wondering?
Ask us anything. We love talking bull terriers.