For dogs entering the shelter system, the risks are overwhelming. Many face euthanasia due to overcrowding, while others are handed off to unvetted adopters, shuffled between poorly managed rescues, or abandoned to uncertain fates. With minimal safeguards in place, shelters often leave dogs vulnerable to outcomes no animal should endure.

This is the reality in Bakersfield, California—a city at the epicenter of California’s dog overpopulation crisis. Home to two of the state’s highest-kill shelters, Kern County sees hundreds of dogs housed in overcrowded facilities, with dozens more arriving daily. Without intervention, these dogs face heartbreakingly slim chances of finding safety and stability.

There is room in this crisis for many different approaches to make a difference. While some nonprofits focus on spay and neuter programs to reduce future overpopulation, Foster Tales focuses on what we excel at: saving lives through adoption. We believe adoption is one of the most immediate ways to rescue dogs currently suffering and provide them with the stability, love, and safety they deserve after their harrowing experience in the shelter system.

Here’s what makes us different:

1. Rescuing Responsibly

We rescue only the dogs we can care for responsibly, ensuring they receive the medical attention, rehabilitation, and placement they deserve. Each adoption represents a chance to save another life, and we maximize every opportunity to do so.

2. Putting Adopters First

Adopters are partners in our mission, and we treat them with the respect and transparency they deserve. By working with one adopter per dog at a time, we avoid games, surprises, or unnecessary rejections. Our goal is to build trust and create successful matches that save lives.

3. Innovative Adoption Practices

We pioneered Adoption Counseling, an hour-long session with certified trainers that helps adopters prepare for success. This personalized guidance addresses each dog’s unique needs, reducing adoption returns and ensuring smooth transitions.