Joybound People & Pets — Local services in Walnut Creek

We adopted a calm, friendly and affectionate poodle mix, "Loo-Lah," from ARF in Walnut Creek and were so very excited to finally find such a sweet dog after searching for a few months. She was wonderful in every way with the exception of severe separation anxiety that could not be rectified easily due to her breed and unknown history x approximately 3 years. We were told that she was a schnauzer/poodle mix, however she clearly looks like a West Highland Terrier/poodle mix or Westiepoo. This breed is documented to be highly anxious when left alone. We, unfortunately, had to surrender her back to ARF mostly for her well-being as she deserves to be placed with someone who is home with her and not working. We would hate for her to be placed within the same predicament, especially after ARF now has updated information on her. We communicated every aspect of her in home behaviors and socialization at the dog park, all of which was very positive, with this one exception of separation anxiety. We are quite disappointed to find Loo-Lah posted on ARF's site to be adopted with the same exact description as we found 2 weeks ago when we adopted her......even after Alex voiced such an interest in her behaviors, good & not so good, so that she could update her profile with vital information in Loo-Lah's best interest. How could ARF turn around and post an outdated profile on such a wonderful dog who deserves so much better?!!! How sad. Sad for many reasons...."Loo-Lah" (who was given a new name) bonded with us and we bonded with her, we loved her, we gave her everything...daily trips to the dog park, the best grain-free healthy dog food & treats from Concord Pet Feed, a comfy bed, lots of toys, grooming supplies, 3 walks a day, a vet check up, etc. She never barked. She was so good with other dogs and people. She was trained, never having an accident in the home. She even knew several commands. We informed ARF of her personality traits as they asked and had us fill out a form. Why? They didn't keep their word and update anything. Her weight is 18.5 lbs., not 16. She does not resemble a schnauzer in any way, even the vet agreed with us. We can only hope that this dog is properly placed with the right companion(s). If not, ARF is the only one at fault here!!! To add insult to injury, ARF actually charged us a "convenience fee" for surrendering the dog without an appointment even after we called on Saturday and left a voicemail without a call back. We went in on Sunday never knowing about a $50.00 fee as we were informed of a full refund of the $250.00 adoption fee if the arrangement with our new pet was not the right fit. We even gave ARF a bag full of food, several treats, a brush, shampoo, toothbrush/paste, leash & collar and her updated vet...

I was refused adoption of any dog from ARF, due to them disagreeing with my training method. I do not abuse my dogs, nor have I ever raised a hand to any of them. I did not develop this method on my own, nor is it a one size fits all policy. I adapt it and change the method according to the dog, because animals are like humans, in that they have distinct personalities. The method I use was taught to me by a dog behavior expert who has 35+ years of experience and cost me several thousand dollars. Clearly I care about the well being of my dogs and take every measure to make sure they are taken care of and very well fed. I even spent approximately 30 minutes with the ARF staff talking about everything down to the food mix I use, which I spend more on than most humans spend on their own food in a week. After all this I was told I would not be allowed to adopt a dog because I use "adverse" training instead of only positive reinforcement. These people dont care about getting the dog to a good home that will take care of them. They I my care about you using rainbows and sunshine to train your dogs. So if you are a person that recognizee some dogs need a little bit of a stronger hand because of their breed, dont tell ARF because they'd rather turn you away then send the dog to the best...

I just adopted a kitten from this agency and want to leave a review to let others know that this place is awesome! They responded to my inquiry about one of their kittens within one day. They gave me copies of my pet's complete medical history and this included some information that may have deterred some from following through. The details given to me before adopting were transparent and comprehensive. I spent weeks looking for a kitten and didn't get a fraction of the information that this rescue provided. They also explained in detail their process and polices and sent me the details electronically. I knew that I found the best source for adoption. The appointment for pickup went extremely well. Everything exactly on the mark. I brought my kitten home and noted that he was very healthy and his personality is exactly as described. They staff there are efficient, kind, thoughtful and professional. If I could give them ten stars, I certainly would. I've never been happier! They gave me a bag of cat food, couple of cans (all what my new kitten already eats) and his favorite soft, cuddly blanket!! This is THE model of a perfectly run business and I am going to recommend them to everyone I know who may be interested in adopting...