Welcome to the Companion Animal Rescue Effort About Us Page

The Companion Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) is a nonprofit network of volunteers who foster and adopt pets into caring homes.

Founded in 1987, CARE is a nonprofit, all volunteer, animal rescue organization based in Santa Clara County. We accept owner-relinquished, abandoned, abused and otherwise neglected kittens, cats, puppies and dogs that would otherwise face uncertain futures. These once homeless animals are taken into our volunteer foster homes where they receive quality nutrition, medical attention and lots of love and warmth until placed into quality, pre-screened, permanent homes at our adoption center located at 4190 Piper Drive in San Jose.

Because CARE is a "no-kill" animal rescue organization, our animals (barring severe illness) remain in foster care until adopted into quality, loving homes, regardless how long this may take. This long-term care can lead to further expenses over and above the animal's initial expenses.

Because CARE is a non- profit organization that does not receive local or federal funding, we depend on fundraiser along with support from our community to keep us operational. CARE is committed not only to saving the lives of homeless animals but to public education. It is our belief that with knowledge about responsible pet guardianship (in all its forms), we can curb and eventually end, the suffering of neglected animals and the tragedy of pet overpopulation which last year alone resulted in over 13 million pets euthanized in our nation's animal shelters every year.

Other community services provided by CARE include: referrals to low and no-cost spay/neuter services, grooming referrals, referrals to dog training and behavior classes, informational booths and displays at local community fairs, networking with other rescue groups, shelters, and humane societies and publishing our annual CARE newsletter for our members and adopters.

What kind of pet can I find through C.A.R.E.?
You'll get a pet that needs a home. We have a wide variety of healthy puppies and dogs, cats and kittens that are available for adoption. All our pets are spayed or neutered, current on their shots and have been checked by a veterinarian.

How much is your adoption fee?
Dog and puppy adoption vary by dog. Fees start at $250.00. Cats and kittens adoption fees start at $125.00. Our adoption fees pay for the animal's vet care and a small portion goes to advertising and equipment. Additionally there is a two week money back return period with every adoption. A service charge will apply to those needing to return animals during the 14 day return period.

How do I find a pet?
Once you have an idea of what breed, size, age, activity level, and grooming requirements you have in mind, take a look at the available animals on our site. We update our site weekly so check back regularly.

Is there a place where I can see the animals?
We have an adoption center at 4190 Piper Drive, San Jose, CA 95117 in the Maple Leaf Shopping Center at the corners of Saratoga and Piper Ave, across from Helm of Sun Valley in San Jose. We are open with dogs and puppies Saturdays only, from 10:30am-2:00pm.

Cats and kittens are shown on Friday Nights at Petsmart, 850 W. Hamilton Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008 from 7pm to 9pm. Please check the specific dog or cat sections for the most up to date information on any cancellations or additional dates and times.