Small Dog Rescue, Inc. is a not-for-profit, all-volunteer organization in Chico that specializes in rescuing and rehoming small dogs under 20 pounds. The group operates out of Butte County in the Shasta Cascade region, and their whole focus is giving these smaller dogs a second chance at life with families who can provide them with real care and attention.

What makes this rescue different is how hands-on the volunteers are. They don’t just pull dogs from difficult situations—they actually work with each dog on training and behavior before adoption, which means you’re getting a dog that’s been thoughtfully prepared for their new home. If you’re passing through Chico or live in the area and have been thinking about bringing a small dog into your family, this is the place to explore what they have available.

The rescue maintains an active Facebook page where they share updates about individual dogs available for adoption, volunteer opportunities, and events. Following along gives you a real sense of the dogs’ personalities and stories before you ever visit. Many people who come through Chico end up volunteering their time here, which is a nice way to connect with the local community while spending time with dogs that genuinely need interaction and socialization.

If you’re interested in adopting, fostering, or donating, reach out through their social media channels first. They can walk you through their adoption process and answer questions about what works best for different situations. Some visitors find that even a short volunteer shift scratches that itch to work with dogs while traveling. The volunteers are genuinely committed to matching each dog with the right home, so they’re worth having a real conversation with about what you’re looking for and what you can offer.