"WHAT IS A MAGICAL UNICORN?" you may ask. WELL, MAGICAL UNICORNS ARE AMAZING DOGS WHO, FOR ONE REASON OR ANOTHER, HAVE SIMPLY BEEN OVERLOOKED AT CROWDED SHELTERS.
They are dogs who may not run to the front of their kennel to greet visitors, so they're less frequently seen. Perhaps they're shy, or maybe they just don't do well in the stressful shelter environment. Maybe they have a treatable medical condition and just need someone to give them a little extra care. Whatever the reason, these dogs find themselves running out of time at the shelter. Previously overlooked, once you get these Magical Unicorns out of the shelter and into a loving foster or forever home, they reach their full potential as happy, loving companions!
BATES
AGE: 11 Years WEIGHT: 12 lbs BREED: Poodle (Miniature)
Did you watch Downton Abbey? Remember the valet Bates? If you adopt me, anytime you want you can say, “Bates, fetch me my slippers.” I probably won’t bring them, but you can say it. Unlike the TV Bates, I’m a dog on the mend. I recently had major dental surgery. While I was at the shelter, my mouth was basically rotting. But I’m feeling a heck of a lot better now. I’m going to be honest: I’m working on house-breaking and learning to trust humans again. I’m not so good with kids, but I’m good with other dogs. However, I can be possessive if given the chance. I’ve been told I respond well to leadership. If you’d like to meet me, get in touch.
BRIAN
AGE: 3 Years WEIGHT: 15 lbs BREED: Cockapoo & Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mix
Hi. I'm Brian. I'm a shy boy. My shyness does not define me, but it's important to know this because you will see an adorable face but maybe not realize that behind that adorable face is, well, me! Shy Brian :) I need a confident dog friend to help my confidence. I am the NICEST dog but I just wasn't exposed to the world much so walking on leash was super scary at first and I had no idea what a car was — but I got the hang of all of it. If you’re a patient person with a patient dog in your home, we might be a good match. Maybe we could meet? I’ll try not to be too shy.
CANDY
AGE: 10 Years WEIGHT: 8 lbs BREED: Chihuahua Mix
Hi, my name is Candy. I’m an adorable and amazing little Chihuahua! After my owner passed away, the rescue luckily picked me up. I am the quietest, gentlest, most loving little lady you will meet! I get along with everyone! I have cataracts but can still see just fine — and I can jump up on sofa, right into your lap! My favorite spot! If you have room on your lap (and in your home), let’s meet up.
CARROT
AGE: 6 Years WEIGHT: 6 lbs BREED: Chihuahua / Dachshund Mix
My story has a sad beginning, but I still believe in fairytale endings. The reality is that I had a really crappy life before I was rescued, but I don't hold any of that against anyone! You see, I was thrown and punched and had broken ribs, so they took me from my former "owner" and filed charges against him. Upon being rescued I had emergency surgery to remove two huge bladder stones, and, boy, do I feel so much better now! Like a new woman! I am all love! I love other dogs and all humans, and I just want to bring joy and cheer to everyone I meet! After all, a Carrot is good for your eyes. Because I’m so cute to look at. To see me in person, get in touch.
CHALUPA
AGE: 10 Years WEIGHT: 65 lbs BREED: Lab/Bloodhound Mix
Hiya, my name is Chalupa. As you can see, I am a curvy, mature woman that don't need no man. Ok, that's a lie. I would love a man or woman or a family to take care of me. I am working on my fitness, be my witness? My heart is even bigger than my backside, but I promise to love you for the rest of my days. I am great with other dogs and would love to meet the right one(s) who can help me on my journey to becoming happier and healthier. I can't wait to meet you!
Want to see me eat a snack very gently? Watch this.
CLEMENTINE
AGE: 3 Years WEIGHT: 35 lbs BREED: Rhodesian Ridgeback / Beagle Mix
My name is Clementine but my friends call me "Clem" I am a DELIGHT! Truly. Just an all-around, super-nice girl who oozes with love and charm. I was VERY lucky after I was hit by a car and rolled, leaving me with some abrasions and zero broken bones. Phew! Close call! I am fostered with dogs of all size,s and we love each other. I am a very special dog, and I am looking for a very special human(s) to show me the moon and the stars. If that sounds like you, let’s meet.
CONNIE
AGE: 6 Years WEIGHT: 26 lbs BREED: Jack Russell Terrier & Chihuahua Mix
Hi, my name is Connie. As you can see, there’s a little too much of me right now. The vets say I am very overweight, but I am working very hard on getting to a healthy weight. I’m even eating vegetables as snacks now! I am an absolute delight and my foster family adores me! I’m a nice girl who loves other dogs, and my foster family thinks I’d do fine with cats. I’m looking for a home with patient, dedicated people who can help me continue to eat healthy and get the exercise I need. If that sounds like you, get in touch!
Watch me eat broccoli. Nom, nom, nom.
COUCH
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 75 Ibs BREED: American Staffordshire Terrier / English Bulldog Mix
Hello, I’m Couch. You’re right! I do know how to rock a Hawaiian shirt. I am a big boy, who’s currently on a diet and exercise plan to get down to a healthy weight of 55 lbs. I’m called Couch because I’m a couch potato, not because I have upholstered arms. I am good with dogs. My fosters think I probably could care less about cats, but we should probably test that to be sure. I love days when we can sit on the…you guessed it…couch, chillaxing and watching TV. Yes, I will go on hikes, but I take it slowly. I enjoy car rides, too. Call me, and I’ll come test out your sofa to see if we’re a good match.
CUCUMBER
AGE: 1.5 years WEIGHT: 5 Ibs BREED: Chihuahua / Dachshund Mix
My name is Cucumber, and I am a miracle dog! I was found in rural Kern County (way north of Los Angeles) with scabs all over my body. Yikes and ouch! After some tests and exams, we later found out it was because I had an untreated autoimmune disease! Now we have that under control, and my coat is looking great. FINALLY I am a normal, happy, playful dog again thanks to good doctors and great foster parents! This girl is feeling great, and ready to find her forever home. Fill out an application or come to an adoption event if you’d like to meet me.
Wanna see me get excited for a treat? Watch this video.
EARTHA
AGE: 12 years WEIGHT: 18Ibs BREED: Shih Tzu/Lhasa Apso mix
Hello Lovelies! My name is Eartha! I'm a mature gal with a zest for life and adventure! My foster Mom says I'm perfect, ahem, even better than her own dogs. What can I say? I'm divine! I'm a little, ahem, voluptuous at the moment. (I'm a foodie.) But I am working on my health and fitness so I can slim down a bit. I'm easy peasy — just want to hang with you, go for a stroll and catch up on some good TV. Talk about down-to-Eartha! If I sound like your kind of dog, call me.
Check out my one-woman. show “Eartha Speaks!” here.
GRAMMY YAMMY
AGE: 11 Years WEIGHT: 9 Llbs BREED: Shih Tzu / Maltese mix
Hi. My name is Yammy! Grammy Yammy! I'm a 9 lb, 11-year-old, little love who was surrendered to the shelter by my owner. Luckily, the nice rescue humans came and got me! I had a few masses removed and my teeth cleaned, and I am now looking for a wonderful home to spend my golden. years. I just want to sit in your lap and love you. I’m like a big sweet potato…or a yam. Get in touch if you’d like to meet me.
HAROLD
AGE: 12 Years WEIGHT: 32 Llbs BREED: Whippet / Pointer Mix
Hello, I’m Harold, and I am just a really nice guy! I'm good with all dogs and I love nothing more than a good cuddle sesh! I had a dental (yay!)and lost most of my teefers (boo!). I also had a mass removed, and I am feeling like new! Also, someone shot me at close range, and I still have some BB gun pellets in me but it's OK. They don't hurt. I might beep at the airport, though. But we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Wanna meet me? That’d be swell. Get in touch.
HULA
AGE: 11 Years WEIGHT: 5lbs BREED: Miniature Poodle
What’s that? You need a fabulous and sassy lady in your life?! Look no further. I’m Hula. My hobbies include mall walking, sunbathing, getting my hair set at the salon, and evening snacks.
I’m a mature gal looking for my forever retirement home. I’m easygoing and get along with anyone — people, kids, dogs of all sizes and ages. I just need my bed and fur-trimmed slippers. Due to my age though a home where someone is home more so I can have frequent outdoor access is ideal. A lady needs her breaks, you know?
I’m quiet and love to give gentle little kisses. Send me a note if you want one. XO, Hula.
IMA
AGE: 1.5 Years WEIGHT: 44 lbs BREED: Pit Bull Terrier & Border Collie Mix
Hi, I'm Ima. The name Ima means “mama” in Hebrew. I ended up at the shelter still lactating with no puppies in sight. I guess you can say I'm a "teen mom" since I'm still a baby myself! I'm only 1 1/2 years old. I am a really balanced, kind, dog-loving gal who has settled into my foster home like a boss! Oh, I'm also relatively petite for my breed. I am house-broken, crate-trained, and an all around superstar!
Here’s a video of me playing and being silly. You know, being a dog.
JANET
AGE: 7 Years WEIGHT: 70 lbs BREED: Boxer mix
Hi. My name is Janet! Nice to meet you! I'm a 7 year old Boxer mix. (I might be part Mastiff.) I am new to rescue, but here’s my curriculum vitae, neatly typed of course.
I like dogs. 🐶
I don't know how I feel about cats.🐈 🤷
I worked as a greeter dog at the shelter. 👋
I am crate-trained. 📦
I am good in the car. 🚗
I am house-broken. 🚽
I like stuffed animals. 🧸
If you’d like to meet, get in touch. 📞
I have a video here where I am being silly. 🎬
I have another video of my bloopers where I try so so SO hard to catch things!
LULU
AGE: 6 years WEIGHT: 85 lbs (should be 50 lbs) BREED: English Bulldog / Boxer Mix
My name is Lulu Potato and I am THE ABSOLUTE BEST! My Foster Mom keeps saying that, so I guess it's true? I love EVERYONE and everything! My story is crappy but it doesn't define me and now that I was rescued I get to live my best life. I am VERY overweight. Currently 85 lbs but should be around 50 lbs. ACK! I am the nicest dog in the whole wide world and just want to roll over for belly rubs, eat my meals, wear pajamas, go for car rides to the dog park and be your best friend in the whole wide world. If you are the greatest human alive looking for the greatest dog, please come meet me and fill out an application.
Here’s a video of me being a potato pancake.
MAIA
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 55 lbs BREED: Labrador Retriever / Pit Bull Terrier mix
Hi-ah! I'm Maia! I had a family my entire life...well...until I was 8 years old. We lost our home, and I — along with my dog pal — had to go to the shelter. He was adopted, and I spent a year and a half waiting...and waiting. I had almost given up hope when one day the kennel door opened and off I went! Bye-bye, shelter! I am now a 9-year-old lady looking for the moon and the stars. I am around 55 lbs. I am house-broken, crate-trained, obedient, and dog-friendly with a proper intro. I am fostered with another dog. I also look good in car coats. If you’d like to meet, get in touch.
I love playing with my ball? Check out my video!
MR. G
AGE: 11 years WEIGHT: 10 lbs BREED: Yorkshire Terrier
Hello, I’m Mr. G. Here are some things humans have told me about myself: I’m a hoot, adorable and do great in the car. I like to sit in my car seat. Here’s something else that’s unique about this Yorkie: When I get super-excited, I start to cough. I’m seeing an internist, who says it’s sort of like human emphysema but that we can manage it. What else? I like other dogs, and I’m house-broken. If you’d like to know more about me, drop APR a line.
POPPY
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 10 lbs BREED: Pomeranian / Chihuahua Mix
Belly rubs! Sorry, I had to get that out of the way, I’m obsessed with them. I’m Poppy, and I was rescued from the Lancaster shelter where I was living temporarily in the medical ward. I’ve got some skin and hair loss issues that I’m pretty sure will clear up now that I’m on a much healthier diet. Can we talk for a second about how adorable I am? Being cute is the best way to get bully rubs so I’m always trying to look my best. It just comes naturally to me . I’m VERY popular with everyone. My personality could win awards. Back in “high school” I was voted Ms. Congeniality AND Most Likely to Steal Your Man. Also, I guess that I should mention that I have early kidney disease, but that just means I need some special (not-too-expensive) food and occasional visits to the vet to monitor the condition. I expect to be around hearts for many more years. If you’re ready to pick a Poppy, drop APR a line.
SAMMIE
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 15 lbs BREED: Wheaton Terrier/Cairn Terrier mix
Hello, I'm Sammie! Nice to meet you! I'm 9 years old and I weigh 18 lbs. I'm adorable! I am also very kind and my foster family cannot say enough nice things about me! Here's some info about me: I'm house broken, good with my foster dogs but can be particular with other dogs, don't like cats, LOVE kids, have some skin issues so I take medication to make me not itch ahhhh. I'm real cute and real fun!
My foster Mom thinks I would do best in a home with a yard because I love to run around and sun myself. I can also be a little vocal when left alone for too long so if you have long work days I may not be the pup for you. It's only because I love my people SO much! You can see it for yourself in this video.
Check out my Marnie the Dog impression and adoption video, and drop me a line if you'd like to meet.
SETH SILVERMAN
AGE: 11 year WEIGHT: 15 lbs BREED: Poodle
Nice to meet you! My name is Seth. Seth Silverman. Even though I already have a last name, I could take yours if I become part of your family. I’m an apricot poodle and a good boy who likes other dogs, cats and kids. Full disclosure: I do have an issue with one dry eye, so I will need to be on medication for that. But it’s not that expensive. Besides, lots of celebrities have dry eyes. I’ve seen their TV commercials. So I guess I’m just very on trend. If you’d like to meet me and gaze into my trendy eyes, get in touch.
SHAZAM
AGE: 1 year WEIGHT: 58 lbs BREED: Pit Bull Terrier mix
Hi! My name is SHAZAM!!!! ⚡⚡⚡Nice to meet you! I'm a young boy — around 1 years old—and I LOVE everyone! I especially love humans, and I really love my foster-dog family! I weigh 58 lbs, and I walk really well on a leash. I am working on house-training stuff. I never learned it before, but I'm working really hard on it. My foster dad says I am a super-fast learner! People say I radiate kindness and love. Aw, that’s nice. I cannot wait to meet you! If you feel the same way, drop me a line.
How good am I on a leash? This good.
I love making doggie friends! Check me out with my new friend Karen.
SHIITAKE
AGE: 8 years WEIGHT: 28 lbs BREED: Poodle / Cockapoo Mix
Hello, I’m Shiitake, a very sweet girl. I am the NICEST, most well-behaved dog, and someone is going to be very lucky to adopt me! I was probably left at the shelter because I had a crusty skin condition on my face. But the meds are helping, and now my skin has cleared up. Yay! If you’d like a dog who’s a real champ-ignon, Shiitake might be your gal. Fill out an application, and set up a meet-and-greet. Hope to see you soon!
Wanna see a video of me shaking hands? Click here.
SLUG
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 9 lbs BREED: Miniature Pinscher / Chihuahua mix
Hi. My name is Slug! I'm around 9-10 years old and I weigh 11 lbs (ahem, but I am on a diet because I SHOULD weigh around 8/9 lbs). What can I say? I'm a foodie! This good boy is new to rescue, and I need to see a neurologist because I walk kinda funny. We are going to find out what is going on and get back to you on that! I can walk — just not on slippery surfaces. I LOVE other dogs! I love kids! I like being a couch potato while you watch TV. Oh and I like to eat bananas. How good does that sound? Call me.
Here’s me having a ball…with a ball.
STARFISH - Adoption Pending
AGE: 7 Years WEIGHT: 6 lbs BREED: Shih Tzu & Maltese Mix
Hi
My name is Starfish
I am brand new to rescue and not quite available yet so check back in soon once I get all my vetting done!
Here are a few things about me:
I am 7 years old and weigh around 6 lbs
I was rescued from the shelter with a terrible skin infection and so much of my hair is missing. Don't worry-it will come back now that I actually saw a vet and got meds and will have regular bath's and good nutrition.
I love to play
I am ADORABLE
I like dogs
I will probably like cats too
SUSHI
AGE: 8 Years WEIGHT: 55 lbs BREED: Labrador Retriever/German Shepherd Dog Mix
Hi! My name is Sushi. If my life were a rom-com, this part would be the "makeover montage" (cue the music ... "Just Fine" by Mary J. Blige.) I've left my old life far behind and now I'm getting pampered at the salon (my fur is growing in nicely!) and showing off the new me to the world. Just like Julia Roberts at the polo match, I'm sometimes not totally confident about what to do in new situations, but I'm watching, and learning. And when I'm at home I can let loose and be the real me ... loving, loyal, curious, soulful. This new life is pretty amazing so I'm happy to just go with the flow ... short walks, long hikes, lounging around the house, going out to brunch, sleeping in my crate, having the house to myself, meeting new people, head scratches from little kids. I'm pretty good at ignoring little dogs (under 25 lbs) but best to not let them get too close ... nobody's perfect. It's been a tough road, but I'm ready to find my people and let my love shine bright.
Here’s a video of me giving a low five.
Did you know that I’m the cutest at dinner time?
TUBA
AGE: 7 years WEIGHT:90 lbs BREED: Chesapeake Bay Retriever & American Staffordshire Terrier mix
Hi! My name is Tuba, and I am a gentle giant!! I am around 7 years old and weigh 90 lbs! I'm a big softie who loves other dogs and people — and would probably not even mind cats. I am house-broken, crate-trained and just an all-around super-star dog! I love nothing more than lounging on the sofa with my foster-dog sister named Bernadette. My foster family says I'm just a really swell guy! Wanna meet me? Well, use your Internet machine and get in touch!
Do I look good on a sofa? This video answers that.
TUFFY
AGE: 10 years WEIGHT:85 lbs BREED: Labrador Retriever
Do you like Labs? Of course you do. You wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t. I’m Tuffy, a sweet gal who’s good with everyone and everything. My fosters say that they can’t say enough wonderful things about me — and that I’m everything people love about Labs. Aw, that’s so nice. If you’d like to meet me, that can be arranged. Just drop APR a line.
TULIP
AGE: 6 years WEIGHT:20 lbs BREED: Poodle Mix
My name is Tulip! I am a very sweet girl, and I love other dogs. I can't really see or hear super well, but that's OK! I'm resilient! Other dogs help me a lot, so a home with at least one would be ideal. I am working on house-training and also my fitness. I take medication for high-blood pressure but I hope that doesn't deter you. If you’d like to have a Tulip in your home, get in touch.
TURNIP
AGE: 9 years WEIGHT: 5 lbs BREED: Chihuahua
Hi!
I'm Turnip!
I'm a spectacular dog! Technically, I'm the size of a hamster but, NOPE, I am NOT a hamster! I am a dog! A 5 lb, 9/10 year old dog!
I love other dogs. I love to lay in your arms or your lap, love car rides, and take snoozes.
I have a minor heart condition that requires medication but it is easily managed.
WASABI
AGE: 12 years WEIGHT: 12 lbs BREED: Pekingese
Hi.
I'm Wasabi.
I'm around 12 years old and my former owner dropped me off at the shelter to be euthanized. Lucky for me the shelter said NOPE and a couple days later the rescue came and got me! I'm Independent, adorable, love to sleep and hang out with my foster family, and I'm just looking for a wonderful home to spend my golden years. Wanna meet me?
WILMA
AGE: 8 years WEIGHT: 65 lbs BREED: Hound & American Staffordshire Terrier Mix
Wilma is WONDERFUL. Gentle, quiet, dog loving...a damn dream dog if you ask us! Wilma is around 6 years old and weighs 65 lbs. She is fostered with multiple dogs of all sizes and very much enjoys their company. She is house broken, crate trained, and just a really nice dog who will make a human(s) VERY happy!
ZUCCHINI
AGE: 7 years WEIGHT: 40 lbs BREED: Corgi / Golden Retriever Mix
Hello, I am Zucchini. Much like my namesake garden vegetable, I am long and low to the ground. As a zucchini starts to grow, it has a lovely blossom, and I like to think of myself as a lovely blossom, too. You see, I am great with other dogs, playful and not pushy. I am a loving girl, and I really enjoy riding in the car and going to the dog park! If you’d like to have a little more Zucchini in your life, get in touch.