Labradors & Friends Dog Rescue

Tag: Dog Adoption

  • Happy Tails: Bronco Found His People (And His Office Chair!)

    Happy Tails: Bronco Found His People (And His Office Chair!)

    From running out of time at the shelter to living his very best Labrador life.

    Some happy endings remind us exactly why we do what we do. Bronco’s is one of them.

    Not long ago, this handsome three-year-old chocolate Lab mix was sitting in a shelter. He had arrived as a stray, developed kennel cough, and was running out of time.

    Shelter volunteers knew he deserved a second chance and reached out to Labradors and Friends.

    One look at that big, blocky head and those soulful brown eyes, and how could we say no?

    A Second Chance, Thanks to a Foster

    Bronco’s next chapter began with his foster mom, Robyn, who welcomed him into her home and gave him the love, stability, and care he needed.

    And Bronco quickly showed everyone what a character he was!

    Sweet, easygoing, affectionate, and full of personality, Bronco loved people and seemed to take everything in stride.

    He also had one very important Labrador characteristic: an unwavering devotion to food.

    Leaves? Possibly edible.

    Sticks? Worth investigating.

    Random sidewalk treasures? Absolutely deserving of a taste test.

    Robyn worked on teaching Bronco that not everything he encountered belonged in his mouth. Apparently, his career as a neighborhood vacuum cleaner was going to require some retraining!

    But underneath that goofy personality was a wonderful dog waiting for his forever family.

    Then Along Came Hana and Her Fiancé

    A few months ago, Hana and her fiancé decided they were ready to welcome their first dog together.

    Neither had adopted a rescue dog before, but both knew they wanted to give a dog a second chance.

    Then they discovered Bronco.

    They fell in love with his picture, submitted an application, and soon connected with our adoption coordinator, Christie.

    Christie introduced them to Robyn, who arranged for them to meet Bronco and patiently answered all their questions.

    It didn’t take long for them to realize they’d found their dog.

    They adopted Bronco that very same week!

    And as his new family shared:

    “It was immediately clear how much love and care Bronco had received while in her home.”

    Those words mean so much because fostering is where so many happy endings begin.

    Almost Three Months Later…

    Bronco isn’t just settling into his new life. He’s thriving!

    His family regularly spends time with two other dogs and several children under five, and Bronco has handled it all beautifully.

    He’s gentle and sweet with the children, gets along wonderfully with his canine companions, and has become an inseparable part of the family.

    He’s enjoyed trips to the beach, made new friends, and, judging by the photographic evidence, may have claimed the office chair as his personal throne.

    And the best part?

    His family says they simply cannot imagine life without him.

    “We’re almost three months in now, and we can’t imagine our life without Bronco.”

    The Happy Ending We Always Hope For

    Bronco’s family also shared something that means the world to our volunteers:

    “We can’t say enough good things about Labs and Friends, Christie, and Robyn. The entire experience was wonderful, and it brought us our newest best friend!”

    From the shelter volunteers who advocated for him, to Robyn who opened her home, to Christie who helped bring everyone together, Bronco’s journey was made possible by people who believed he deserved more.

    And now?

    He’s exactly where he belongs.

    With a family who adores him, children to love, dogs to play with, and an office chair that may never be available to humans again.

    Thank you to Hana and her fiancé for choosing rescue, sharing these beautiful updates, and giving Bronco the life he deserves.

    This is why we rescue. This is why we foster. And this is why every yes matters.

  • Weekly Tail Wag 016 – Every Act of Kindness Creates a New Beginning

    Weekly Tail Wag 016 – Every Act of Kindness Creates a New Beginning

    63 foster dogs, one very special volunteer, a new beginning for Baxter, and a rescue community that keeps showing up.

    Sometimes the biggest changes begin with one simple act of kindness.

    This week at Labradors and Friends, we’re celebrating the people who make second chances possible, sharing some exciting news about dogs who have been waiting, and introducing a very special boy who still needs someone to open their home.

    Read This Week’s Full Newsletter

    This week’s stories include photos, rescue updates, and ways to get involved.

    READ WEEKLY TAIL WAG #016

    Meet Cindy, the Great Pyrenees who helped inspire Carole’s incredible rescue journey.

    63 Dogs, One Unexpected Beginning

    When Carole joined Labradors and Friends in August 2023, she couldn’t have imagined how many lives she would touch.

    What began with a Great Pyrenees named Cindy became an extraordinary rescue journey. Since then, Carole has fostered 63 dogs, including Flower, a frightened pup whose journey to trust and a forever family is especially touching.

    Read Carole’s Volunteer Spotlight

    Meet Hercules: 80 Pounds of Love, Waiting for a Home

    Found tied to a fence in Los Angeles on a leash so short he couldn’t sit down, Hercules was given a second chance when a compassionate stranger refused to leave him behind.

    Today, this sweet, 80-pound boy is safe, but he’s still living in a boarding facility.

    Hercules needs a foster or forever family who will give him the chance to experience life in a home.

    Big Paws, Belly Rubs, and New Beginnings

    Our November 7 adoption event brought plenty of smiles and promising connections for Selina, Calvin, Crickett, Emma, and her puppies.

    But one of the biggest moments belonged to Baxter. After a long wait in boarding, he’s finally getting an opportunity to experience life in a foster home in San Diego!

    Read the Adoption Event Recap

    A Full House for Rescue!

    Our November 4 Bingo Night was SOLD OUT!

    Thanks to our wonderful supporters, generous prize donors, Baran Mediterranean, Sham Paws, and our dedicated volunteers, it was an evening filled with laughter, fabulous prizes, and community spirit.

    See the Bingo Night Photos

    Sharing Smiles in Covina

    Our volunteers and dogs joined the Employee Health Fair at Masonic Homes in Covina, sharing information about rescue and bringing some extra joy to residents at the senior center.

    A reminder that the love our dogs share reaches far beyond adoption events.

    More Ways to Make a Difference

    Our Paint Your Clock fundraiser and See’s Candy holiday fundraiser are still underway, and we’re making one final push for our Pampered Chef fundraiser.

    Every purchase, every shared story, and every act of support helps us continue saying yes to dogs who need us.

    Different people. Different moments. One beautiful mission.

    Every yes changes a life.

  • Hot Weather, Warm Hearts, and an Award-Winning Oliver! 🏆

    Hot Weather, Warm Hearts, and an Award-Winning Oliver! 🏆

    The sun was blazing at Silverado Days, but so was the enthusiasm for rescue! ☀️🐾

    Our Labradors and Friends volunteers and adoptable dogs spent the day meeting new faces, making friends, and sharing a little of what makes rescue so special.

    From curious visitors stopping by our booth to plenty of puppy kisses and wagging tails, it was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community.

    And one of our very own decided it was time to steal the spotlight!

    Labradors and Friends Dog Rescue participated in the 2026 Silverado Days festival in Buena Park, California. Despite the hot weather, volunteers welcomed many visitors interested in learning about adoption, fostering, and supporting rescue dogs.

    And then there was Oliver! 🏆

    Our very own Oliver took the stage to compete in the Tricks division of the Mutt Competition, proudly representing Labradors and Friends!

    Oliver, an adoptable rescue dog with Labradors and Friends Dog Rescue, shows off his adorable red devil costume at the 2026 Silverado Days festival in Buena Park. Oliver also competed in the Mutt Show Tricks Division and received a Participation Award.

    He walked away with the Participation Award, and we couldn’t be prouder of our boy. Sometimes just getting up on stage and giving it your best is worth celebrating!

    Watch Oliver’s Silverado Days performance!

    The day may have been hot, but the hearts were even warmer!

    A Little Silverado Days Cuteness! 📸

    Every Conversation Plants a Seed ❤️

    While we didn’t receive any adoption applications at the event, we met so many wonderful people who stopped to learn about our dogs and the work we do.

    Sometimes a conversation today leads to an adoption tomorrow. Every introduction, every shared story, and every new connection helps bring our dogs closer to the homes they deserve.

    A huge thank-you to our dedicated volunteers who braved the heat, everyone who stopped by our booth, and the Silverado Days organizers for welcoming us!

    The best part of rescue events? You never know which hello might change a dog’s life. ❤️

    Friends don’t let friends go homeless.

  • Still Here. Still Hoping. Still Worth It. ❤️

    Still Here. Still Hoping. Still Worth It. ❤️

    Some dogs find their forever families in days. Others wait weeks, months, or even longer.

    But the passing of time doesn’t make them any less deserving of love.

    At Labradors and Friends, we have some truly incredible dogs who have been waiting for someone to see what we see in them.

    A sprinkler-loving goofball. A senior who refuses to slow down. A fetch fanatic. A shy soul waiting for someone to earn his trust. And so many more.

    Seven dogs. Seven personalities. Seven hearts still hoping.

    Meet Baby Girl, Twinkle, Marilynn, Kira, Connor, Baxter, and Venus.

    They may have different stories, personalities, and needs, but they all have one thing in common:

    They’re still waiting. And they’re absolutely worth it. ❤️

    Baby Girl — The Official Welcome Committee ❤️

    Baby Girl, an adoptable rescue dog with Labradors and Friends, wearing an orange bow

    Some dogs just have a way of making everyone feel special, and Baby Girl is one of them!

    This happy, social butterfly greets every volunteer with excitement, as though they’ve come just to see her. She loves people, adores playtime, and has a particular weakness for squeaky toys!

    With her infectious enthusiasm and joyful personality, Baby Girl has so much love to share. She’s been waiting for someone to recognize what our volunteers already know — she’s a wonderful girl who deserves a family of her own.

    Could Baby Girl be the happiness missing from your home? ❤️

    Twinkle — Senior? Don’t Tell Her That! ✨

    Twinkle, an adoptable senior rescue dog with Labradors and Friends, relaxing on autumn leaves

    Age is just a number, and Twinkle is living proof!

    This spirited senior has more energy than some dogs half her age! While other dogs might prefer a leisurely stroll, Twinkle would much rather go for a run. She’s an enthusiastic explorer with incredible endurance, and sometimes you have to convince her it’s time for a break!

    And then there’s her love of water. Give Twinkle a bowl to drink from, and don’t be surprised if she decides it’s actually a splash pool! Her silly antics never fail to make our volunteers laugh.

    Twinkle is proof that growing older doesn’t mean slowing down, and she still has so many adventures ahead of her.

    Could you be the one to share Twinkle’s next great adventure? ❤️

    Marilynn — Small Girl, Enormous Heart! ❤️

    Marilynn, an adoptable black rescue dog with Labradors and Friends, sitting on a blue dog bed and looking at the camera

    Marilynn may be petite, but the love she has to give is anything but small!

    This sweet, athletic girl has a heart as big as her personality. She absolutely adores her people and is happiest when she’s right by their side, soaking up affection and attention.

    Marilynn forms deep bonds with the people she trusts. She’s eager to learn, responds well to praise and gentle guidance, and genuinely wants to make her humans happy.

    Behind those beautiful eyes is a loyal, loving companion just waiting for someone to give her the chance to shine.

    Marilynn has so much love to give. Could you be the person she’s been waiting for? ❤️

    Kira — Fetch Champion. Ball Return Optional! 🎾

    Kira, an adoptable black rescue dog with one blue eye, enjoying an outing on a paddleboard

    If enthusiasm were an Olympic sport, Kira would bring home the gold!

    This beautiful girl absolutely LOVES attention, affection, and most of all, a good game of fetch. In fact, one of her favorite days is new volunteer orientation, because it means plenty of new people ready to shower her with love and throw her favorite ball!

    There’s just one little catch. Kira doesn’t always believe in returning the ball. 😂 But she’s figured out a pretty good system — bring a second ball, and she’ll happily keep the game going until she’s completely worn out!

    Kira’s playful spirit and love for her people make her unforgettable to the volunteers who know her.

    She’s been bringing joy to our volunteers for so long. Isn’t it time she had a family to share that joy with? ❤️

    Connor — A Little Patience, A Lifetime of Loyalty ❤️

    Connor, an adoptable tan rescue dog with Labradors and Friends, relaxing in the green grass

    Some friendships happen instantly. Others take a little time to grow. And sometimes, those are the most rewarding friendships of all.

    Meet Connor, a handsome, goofy boy with an adventurous spirit and a heart worth earning.

    Connor can be cautious around new people, and he needs someone who understands that trust isn’t always given immediately. But with patience, kindness, and the opportunity to get comfortable at his own pace, his wonderful personality begins to shine.

    Once you’ve earned Connor’s trust, you’ll discover a loyal, fun-loving companion who’s ready to share life’s adventures with you.

    He doesn’t need someone who expects perfection. He needs someone who sees his potential and is willing to build a lasting bond.

    Connor may take a little longer to give you his heart, but once he does, it’s yours for life. ❤️

    Baxter — Professional Sprinkler Inspector! 💦

    Baxter, an adoptable black rescue dog with a white chest, relaxing near the beach

    Some dogs chase tennis balls. Others chase squirrels. Baxter? He chases sprinklers! 💦

    Meet Baxter, our fun-loving boy who has turned an ordinary backyard sprinkler into his very own amusement park!

    The moment Baxter spots a sprinkler, he’s off and running, charging straight toward the spray with pure joy. Lakes, baths, and garden hoses are perfectly fine, but sprinklers? Those are something special!

    His enthusiasm is absolutely contagious, and watching him enjoy the simplest things in life is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

    Baxter reminds us that happiness doesn’t always come from grand adventures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a sunny afternoon, a little water, and the freedom to be yourself.

    Baxter has mastered the art of finding joy in everyday moments. Now he just needs someone to share them with. ❤️

    Venus — Smart, Sweet & Full of Surprises! 🖤

    Venus, an adoptable black rescue dog with Labradors and Friends, wearing a colorful bandana

    Behind those beautiful eyes is one very clever girl with a whole lot of love to give!

    Meet Venus, a sweet, intelligent, and resourceful girl who has proven she’s quite the survivor.

    Venus is friendly with people, other dogs, and even cats! She can be a little shy at first, but give her time to feel comfortable, and her affectionate personality begins to shine.

    She’s also an accomplished escape artist. After getting out of her foster home, Venus survived an entire week on her own before being safely recovered. That adventure taught us just how smart, determined, and resourceful she can be!

    Because of her escape history, Venus needs a family committed to keeping her safe. A secure home, careful management of doors and gates, and supervised outdoor time are essential. She should never be left unattended in a backyard.

    Venus isn’t looking for just any home. She’s looking for someone who understands her needs and will give her the security, patience, and love she deserves.

    This clever girl has spent enough time finding her own way. Now she deserves a family who will help her feel safe and loved forever. ❤️

    Their Stories Aren’t Finished Yet.

    Seven dogs. Seven very different personalities. Seven hearts still waiting for someone to call their own.

    Some need an active family. Some need patience and understanding. Others simply need someone who sees the wonderful companion our volunteers already know and love.

    They’ve waited through countless adoption events, watched other dogs find their families, and continued hoping their turn will come.

    They don’t need everyone to choose them. They just need the right person.

    And even if you can’t adopt, you can still help. Share their stories. Tell a friend. Help us reach someone who might be searching for a dog just like one of these seven.

    Because sometimes, all it takes is one person seeing one photograph, reading one story, and deciding to give a dog a chance.

    They’re still here. Still hoping. And every single one is worth it. ❤️

    Friends won’t leave friends behind.

  • Weekly Tail Wag #011 — One Yes Can Change Everything

    Weekly Tail Wag #011 — One Yes Can Change Everything

    Sometimes rescue begins with something incredibly simple: someone saying yes.

    Yes, I’ll foster him.
    Yes, we’ll make room for them.
    Yes, I’ll keep sharing her story.
    Yes, I’ll bring him home.

    Here’s what happened this week. 💗🐾

    Bentley, a 10-year-old rescue dog, relaxing and cuddling with his foster family in a four-photo collage

    This week at Labradors + Friends, those yeses showed up everywhere—from a 10-year-old dog who needed somewhere to go, to two tiny puppies who made it safely into rescue, to a long-awaited Happy Tail and a volunteer whose commitment to LAF didn’t end when she moved out of state.

    And one very special Rainbow Bridge story reminded us just how much life can fit between that first yes and a final goodbye.

    Plus, we’re celebrating an incredible Pulls for Pups fundraiser, sharing new ways to join us at upcoming events, and asking for more foster homes so we can keep saying yes when the next dog needs us.