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Second Chance Animal Rescue Donate
A happy rescue dog being greeted by a volunteer at the shelter

Second Chance · San Diego · No-kill since 2014

Every animal deserves a home.

We rescue dogs and cats across San Diego, give them the care they need, and match them with families who will love them for life.

Donate today Adopt a pet
A volunteer walking a dog outside the rescue

Our mission

A second chance for every animal who needs one

Second Chance Animal Rescue is a no-kill rescue, which means a healthy or treatable animal is never put down for lack of space or time. We pull pets from overcrowded shelters, nurse the sick and scared back to health, and stay with them until the right family walks through the door.

We are powered by foster homes, volunteers, and donors who believe rescue is a community effort — not a building.

Read our story

What we do

Programs that change lives

See all programs
A newly adopted dog with its family

Find your match

Adopt a Pet

Meet adoptable dogs and cats who are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines. Our adoption counselors take time to understand your home and lifestyle so every match has the best chance of lasting a lifetime.

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A foster kitten being cared for at home

Open your home

Foster Program

Fostering saves two lives — the animal you welcome and the next one we can take in because of the space you opened. We cover food, supplies, and medical care; you provide the couch, the patience, and the love. Stays range from a weekend to a few weeks.

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A veterinarian examining a dog at the community clinic

Care for every budget

Community Vet & Spay/Neuter Clinic

Our low-cost community clinic offers spay/neuter surgery, core vaccines, and microchipping to San Diego pet owners — keeping animals healthy and helping end the cycle of unwanted litters. Sliding-scale pricing keeps essential care within reach.

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Our impact

Illustrative example metrics — replace with Second Chance's real figures.

5,000+
Dogs & cats placed since 2014
300+
Active foster & volunteer homes
2,000
Spay/neuter surgeries a year
100%
No-kill commitment

Get involved

Two ways to make a difference today

A rescued puppy looking up at the camera

Give

Fund a rescue

Your gift pays for the vet care, food, and shelter that turn a frightened stray into someone's best friend.

Donate now
A volunteer playing with dogs in the yard

Volunteer

Give your time

Walk dogs, socialize cats, foster a litter, or staff an event. Every hour helps another animal find home.

Get involved

Mark your calendar

Upcoming events

All events

  • Saturday Adoption Day

    11:00am – 4:00pm · Adoption Center · 2140 Kettner Blvd, San Diego

    Our flagship monthly event — dozens of adoptable dogs and cats, meet-and-greets with foster families, and same-day adoptions for approved homes. Bring the whole family (leashed resident dogs welcome for meet-ups).

    Details

  • Volunteer Orientation

    6:00pm – 7:30pm · Community Room · 2140 Kettner Blvd, San Diego

    New to the rescue? This relaxed evening walks you through dog walking, cat socializing, event crew, and fostering. No experience needed — just a love of animals and a willingness to learn.

    Details

  • Kitten Shower Supply Drive

    10:00am – 2:00pm · Adoption Center Courtyard, San Diego

    Kitten season is here. Drop off formula, heating pads, and unscented litter — or shop our wishlist online — and meet the tiniest residents up for adoption once they are old enough. Light refreshments provided.

    Details

Every animal deserves a home

Help us say yes to the next animal who needs us

Every dog and cat we rescue depends on people like you. Make a gift today and give a frightened animal their second chance.

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