We adopted our girl Bentley from ACT. She was in a foster home with her siblings which is so much better and healthier for the puppies. We brought Bentley home healthy and happy. Other places we had adopted from before the puppies had kennel cough. ACT has done so many great things for our community. We absolutely support them and their vision to grow. ❤️
In 2014 during National Volunteer Week some of my co-workers and I chose ACT to volunteer at. I had gone through a life changing 2013 including the loss of a much loved (rescue) family member. Walking into "ACT" I told God I was not going to adopt another pet. The timing wasn't good. I was amazed at how clean and orderly the kennels and grounds were. I could tell all the animals received a lot of love and care at ACT. One of the workers opened the door to the kennel area and a gorgeous Hound was looking my way wagging her tale. The sunlight caught her eyes and they looked golden. She hit my heart as she looked so much like my much loved Coonhound Shepherd mix I had to put down 18 months earlier. I found she was a female which made it harder for me to turn her down. I talked to the volunteers at ACT and Brenda Mitchell and they all shared great information about Jakee. I came back the following Saturday and spent some time with her and thought well, I think we can do this. I adopted Jakee that day. As with any rescue the first few months were a challenge for both of us I'm sure but she has filled my world with so much unconditional love, joy, laughter and more. Once rescues know you aren't going to abuse them in any way, I feel they love you with everything they have. She excelled at puppy training and we look forward to more classes in the future. She completes my world and if I hadn't have taken a chance that Saturday, I would have missed out on a remarkable family member. Brenda Mitchell and the volunteers at ACT are phenomenal individuals who have a genuine love and concern for the welfare of all animals and will go to any extent to insure they are loved, protected and safe.
I got my sweet baby boy Baci from ACT in Nov 2015. He had been abandoned in a box with his siblings out in Fresno.
I brought him home to Santa Barbara when he was just a little puppy and he's been my constant companion since.
This past year he and I were forced to evacuate by the Thomas fire and stayed at a local campground. We were home when the mudslides came and the roads were blocked. We ended up trapped at home for many days, just he and I.
Through all of this I would have felt terribly frightened without him, but because of him we turned it into a memorable adventure.
Thank you ACT from the bottom of our hearts
Lisa Arias and Baci
Before ACT, there wasn’t really anyone doing such amazing rescue work in our community. They’ve done TNR for feral cat colonies, rescued countless dogs and cats at risk and promoted responsible pet ownership. I adopted my sweet terrier/spaniel mix, Alyssa when they first got started. She’s 10 now and still the love of my life. I will be grateful forever that ACT saved her life.
I started volunteering years ago to help the animals, but it’s what the animals give back that keeps me returning. So many of the animals saved by this organization are what society considers broken,but their spirits have made me whole. My favorite dog Cassidy took several years to get adopted. His whole litter was found mutilated , Cassidy lost an ear and his back legs. He was rescued years once as a puppy and then found himself in a hoarder situation. This is where Act stepped in. If good things come to those who wait, great things come to those who wait even longer. Cassidy is now being spoiled in his forever home, and I’m still going back to Act,waiting for the next miracle ,my next Cassidy.
I would like to tell you about Animal Compassion Team of Fresno, CA. The first time I learned about this organization was when I adopted my first dog. They were just starting out and pulling dogs from high kill shelters and were solely based in on home fostering. This group worked hard to get a facility to begin to save even more lives. About 4 years ago I began volunteering with this organization. The passion and determination to save all lives they come in contact with is inspiring. The organization has grown ten-fold since my first encounter with it. They continue to find ways to reach even more animals and save more lives.
ACT did everything possible to help me find my best friend. They show multiple areas for the type of dog you describe, and if you see one you like they’re happy to give you some time with them! They helped me find my forever best friend, and I’m forever thankful!
I started volunteering with Animal Compassion Team of California in December of 2012. I had recently retired from 28 years of work and was looking for something new to do. I love animals, especially cats. So, when I saw A.C.T. on a local news station, I knew that was my calling. I have been with Animal Compassion Team ever since. They are a wonderful organization that manages to work on a shoestring budget. I love this place and the people that work in it. I'm so glad I found them and I am proud to be a part of the team.
I adopted my first dog and best friend, Brady, from Animal Compassion Team in January of 2017. A few months later while taking a leadership class I had to do volunteer hours so I joined Team Boss, the dog walking team. I met my foster fail, Jetta, along with some really great friends and ended up becoming more involved than I thought I would. I was drawn in by the kind hearts of ACT and I am amazed at how much love goes into finding each dog their forever home. I’m happy to say an ACT rescue is my favorite breed!
Animal Compassion Team Fresno California! This is home away from home for many dogs and cats. As the wait for their furever home the are given medical attention. Walked and given play time in one of several play yards. Fresh food and water in cleaned everyday kennels. Shy dogs are given special social time to get used to other people and dogs. The Coordinators and volunteers are the most caring human beings I know!
ACT is amazing! You can see the love for each and every animal that comes through the doors! I volunteer as a "Boss Walker" we take daily walks to make sure the dogs who can not participate in play groups get time away from their kennel for exercise, treats and lots of scratches and love. We also work with several dogs on leash skills, basic commands and socialization to help get them ready for adoption. Pictured below is my boy Sid who was adopted from ACT 2 years ago. The staff and volunteers know the animals so well they do a great job helping to fit the perfect animal with each family. ♡♡♡
We adopted Pope on May 27, 2017 shortly after I had lost my constant companion Deacon. I had seen Pope's (they called her Alley) picture several times . I had contacted ACT about adopting her and spoke with a woman named Tish the previous week over the phone in a what I would call a get to know you phone call! We made arrangements to meet the following Saturday so that I could see her. It was love at first sight and I decided right then that she was going home with me. TIsh was very thorough in going thru all of the stuff for her , and explaining everything so it was easy for me to understand . I found out she was microchipped and TIsh made sure I had all the info and a tag for her. The experience was so pleasant for me. I am so glad they were able to rescue Pope and her litter mates! She is sitting by my side as I type this!!
This is just one story of many stories about the magic that is ACT, this one told through the eyes of one of the most cherished, and missed, ACT family, Earl. This is Earl's Pearl of Wisdom.
I spend most of my days in front of this rather ordinary looking door, and that’s how I know this door is far from ordinary. Through it, magical, miraculous things happen. I've seen people walk through this door a little sad or a little lost and lonely, and then I see them walk out this same door, happy and loved with a new furry friend and a new happiness in their eyes. I've wondered what the source of this magic could be. What is it that can make such hurt and sadness turn into hope and love. And then I see the magic at work.
It's the people who believe in the magic that make the magic happen. No one person alone, but the collection of every individual who does just one thing - gives an hour of time, a few dollars, a couple cans of food, a few loads of laundry, some gentle pets and soothing words, a walk with the dogs - together they make the magic. They believe. They Have Hope. They Give Hope. They Are Hope. And that's all it takes to make magic real. My conclusion, if you have hope, you can make miracles happen. We do at ACT!
Okay, I just wanted to say that this is one of the best animal rescue groups out there. I am a supporter/donor, have adopted two dogs and volunteered for ACT. I have been involved since the summer of 2013 and have found them to be very consistent in their caring and compassionate mission towards animal rescue. Anyone who really wants to know the truth has only to visit their center and maybe volunteer, the more time you spend, the more you'll know that they truly make a difference. I have not received any compensation for this review, nor would I ever accept any, people should not take opinions too seriously, go and check it out for yourself, that's what I did, visited more than a few rescue groups before choosing this one to support (not that there aren't other fantastic groups out there). It's easy to criticize when you're not the one doing the work!
Previous Stories
I think that this organization is hands down, one of the best. They have all personally sacrificed much to bring their vision into reality. It is easy to criticize like "nice?girl" did in her review, but they are in the trenches making a difference every day. After volunteering for a few months to evaluate just what kind of shelter this was, I ended up adopting two dogs from ACT in 2013. They had both been rescued from being put to death at one of the county shelters and they both had severe health issues, which didn't stop ACT from taking them in. They are extremely compassionate and do their very best with every animal in their care. I realize no one organization is perfect, but the ones run by individuals that are passionate about their vision will stand for the long haul. In contrast to "nicegirl" I have to say that I for one am encouraged to see a nonprofit organization that embraces faith in God for help, direction and hope for a better future. ACT is worth your time, check them out for yourself, you'll be glad that you did.
Brenda is a very rude person ..she had a Small Chihhuaha that was up for adoption my daughter fell in love with her ..one lady gave my daughter the dog to hold then Brenda says oh no she is for an adult home only there wasn't any sign she had special needs or needed an adult home .my daughter thought we could have her then Brenda who was extremely rude to my daughter when she tried to go back to ask why because she felt rejected and she Is only fifteen ..why do these non profits take their dogs out when they really don't have intention on adopting Them out ..she is the president if she is rude to peoples how is she with animals ..feeling prejudice against poor customer service
Hmm......4 pages of 5 STAR Reviews all within 72 hours??? Really? This looks very suspicious. I think common sense tells us all that 39 reviews all of them being 5 STARS don't just appear within 72 hours. It appears there were incentives were being given.
ACT has a reputation of not answering their phone and using portions of the donation money to award to members. They may say they're all volunteers but others in Fresno's rescue community have witnessed much different. I really don't trust these reviews and it appears that ACT may just want to have the "Best Reviews in 2014" to drum up more donations in time for the Holidays.
Be your own judge. Seriously though, if a restaurant had thirty nine 5 Star Reviews within 72 hours would you believe them?
The below comment by Brenda is of interest. First, my review speaks about answering the phone. Meaning that my issue is that a human being is hardly there to pick up the phone and speak to the caller. in fact the greeting states that the phone is only answered during a few hours of the week. Anyone who has called ACT in the past can verify this.
You seem to have misinterpreted my review to believe i was referring to call backs. As a matter of business practice a live person answering the phone and call backs are two very different things. I do hope that your redirecting of this subject to call backs rather than addressing the issue of someone not answering the phone was simply a matter of misinterpretation, and not an attempt to deflect the issue. However, given the simplicity of this subject it appears deflecting would be most likely.
In regards to the financial issue. My review never said this applied to salaries so any monies given to members of ACT would never be classified as a salary. There are other terms used whereby members may receive monies, and I am not speaking of reimbursements.
Regardless of the manner in which you received your 5 star reviews, receiving 39 of them within 3 days appears suspect. You couldn't possibly imagine that no one would look at this and not question their validity. Internet reviews have been around for over a decade and most people are savvy to the tricks used by businesses. Even if your actions are honest, you can't just go arousing suspicion through blatant actions that resemble underhanded business tricks and then expect people to stay silent. You need to redirect your anger to the person who had this idea and lacked the foresight to know how suspect an avalanche of 39 Five Star Reviews given in 3 days right before the Holiday Season" while granting you "Best Reviews of 2014" would appear to the public.
Finally, My name is not Christine.
Previous Stories
Brenda Mitchell, Cassie Heffington are the worst animal advocates the Central Valley could offer. They care only for getting donations, publicity, and seeing their names on television.
I attended the CCSPCA meetings at Fresno City Hall in summer of 2012. They made no effort to fight for the lives of the animals. They just did whatever City Hall told them to do. They behaved like a bunch of scared children afraid of being punished by their father for asking a question. It was sad. At one point Katie or Cassie (I can't remember which one) said to a room of 50 people, "Animals are going to die. That's just the reality of it. Animals are going to die." I mean this is someone who is supposed to be standing up for Fresno's animals? I almost cried seeing the animals betrayed.
Do you know what their strategy was to win better conditions for the shelter animals? Prayer. Not prayer and asking the City Council the hard questions. Or prayer and showing our elected officials of how No Kill shelters work in other parts of the country. Nope, just good ole fashion been to the desert on a horse with no name because there ain't no one to give you a name Prayer. I mean when they were pressed by other animal advocates to take a course of action Brenda Mitchell said, "We just have to have patience. God will show us a way." Then she sat there very smug and stern as if saying, "I have spoken". Then the only HIspanic woman in their group raised her right hand as if in church giving witness and said, "I know God has a plan. And I know if we just have faith...[insert tears, I'm serious she started crying, waterfalls down her cheeks]..that if we have faith in God, He will show us the way. We need to have patience because God will give us a way, I know he will. I know, but we have to have faith." Then she sniffled in her tears and the rest of the ACT members nodded and commented in agreement.
Well, nothing has changed in regards to animals dying in the CCSPCA so it looks like the, "Prayer and Only Prayer" method didn't work. Although I think most people who have ever attended college, led a business meeting, been active in politics, or watched the news could have told them that. There were individuals in attendance to the those meetings that attempted to discuss a concrete strategy with members of ACT (Brenda, Katie, Cassie, and the others) but they would not have it. If anyone came up with another idea that did not involve prayer these woman would go high school mean girls on them. They would give them evil eye and attempt to turn other individuals against them. If you're a woman think back to 8th grade and how the mean popular girls treated those they didn't like. Yep, that's how ACT members treated those animal advocates they didn't agree with or like. To say they are unprofessional would be kind.
I've spoken to other Fresno animal advocates. They share similar stories. Members of ACT like to silence other animal lovers by calling them "radical", or "fringe" simply for wanting to become more involved in promoting the No Kill philosophy to City Hall. What it comes down to is that these women of ACT want to be the only animal saving game in town and they will demean anyone who tries to step on their turf. For them it's not about animals, it's about their egos.
Fresno still has the one of the highest kill rates in the State. So why hasn't ACT been promoted the No Kill philosophy? Why have they not done any type of campaigns to have City Hall take action to reduce the shelter euthanasia rate? Not even a letter writing campaign or an internet petition. Because in the minds of ACT thats "too radical".
So if you've ever wondered why Fresno hasn't progressed further with animal issues all you need to do is look at Brenda, Cassie, Katie, and the other ACT members and you'll have your reasons.
If you want Fresno to be a better place for animals you can not look to ACT. They've already proven themselves inept. If you want to change Fresno to be a better place for animals then you'll have to do it yourself. But you will probably get the "8th grade mean girl" treatment by ACT members if they see you. I mean, these women don't like you treading on their territory. Just remember, it's what they do and don't take any of it to heart. Just push them aside and show them how it's done. I mean you couldn't do any worse than they already have.
Oh, I may add, I had a neighbor who tried to call them to see if they could take a stray that was found. They were told ACT doesn't accept strays. No good reason was given. It was heartbreaking.
In sum, with friends like these what dog needs enemies?
We adopted Clark, a yellow Lab/German Shepherd mix, in May following the loss of our beloved Corgi a few months before. Clark came to us very well trained, neutered, and in perfect health. He has never tried to mark the house, gets along perfectly with our other dog, and has all of us wrapped around his little paw. He's now the love of our lives!
ACT provided a wonderful dog park for the two dogs to become acquainted, and a canine behavior expert also observed their interactions and gave us words of wisdom to help him adjust to our forever family. They followed up with contact to make sure all is going well. A free vet health exam came long with the adoption fee.
I whole heartedly recommend ACT for anyone wanting to add a furbaby to their family. I used to breed and show Shelties, so I have more than the average layman's knowledge of dogs, and I respect their care standards for each animal. In the future, I will always go to ACT for any future adoptions.
I found the love of my life thru ACT. They worked with me to find the perfect dog for me. I wanted a dog that I could use in Therapy Dog work. They match me with Ruby an Australian Shepard. She was perfect and was able to pass the certification test within 3 weeks of me adopting her. The really help me in finding the most wonderful dog and I love their program that allows people to take home an animal to make sure it is a good match. I think this shows that they are more concerned about find permanent homes for the animals rather then just cycling them though the system.
Back in March my best friend adopted a dog from ACT when it came time for my parents to get a cat ACT was the place I took them to and even found a lovely cat for myself.
They are kind and loving people who work hard to take care of many dogs and cats. Their cat rooms are clean and taken care of, all of their dogs are happy and in clean areas. A VERY nice place! I know if I’m ever looking for another pet I will be returning to them.
I adopted my dog Jett (he is half Gordon Setter and half Irish Setter) a little over 1 year ago. After seeing him on their website I spoke with Brenda and that weekend drove to Fresno from Healdsburg to adopt Jett. He has been a great dog and it was super easy working with the people at ACT. I recommend them to all my friends.
My wife and I adopted our dog from ACT and have gone to a couple of their fundraisers. We were very impressed by their facilities and the people working and volunteering there. They are a great place on a great mission!
I have never met more caring people than the ones that run A.C.T. They are people that truly live up to their name. I have been involved with this organization for 21/2 years. Their facility is so clean. The animals do not want for anything. If you are thinking about getting involved this is the group.
ACT is absolutely an amazing organization! The amount of kindness, compassion and care that they show to both humans & animals is truly extraordinary! They really go above and beyond to save the lives of animals in need and they have a really great foster program! They are a first-rate animal shelter!
ACT is a class act compassionate organization who takes GREAT pride in saving as many homeless animals as possible...even if it means sacrificing everything you have...and they do! :)
Animal Compassion Team is an amazing organiztion. They go above and beyond to care for the animals at there shelter. I always refer people to ACT when asking of a great no kill shelter. I have adopted one of my dogs through ACT and I look foward to adopting many more through ACT.
We highly recommend ACT for your next adoption! They are a fantastic group to work with. Extremely knowledgeable & caring people who obviously love animals. We drove 3-1/2 hours from Los Angeles to Fresno to adopt one of their puppies & it was definitely worth the trip! We were super-impressed with ACT in how organized & responsive they were in their Adoption Process. We can't thank ACT enough for all they did for our puppy, Jimmy (aka General Motors Camshaft), along with Jimmy's 5 siblings & their mother when the pups were barely 3 weeks old. ACT found all The General Motors great homes along with thousands of other homeless animals that they have rescued. We LOVE ACT & we're sure you will too.
We adopted our dog buddy two years ago. They helped us get the perfect dog for our family. Our dog has been amazing with my autistic child.
Okay, I'm biased--I live and breathe ACT. But let me just say from "behind the scenes" that this organization is driven 150% by love, faith, sweat, and determination (with a healthy dose of dog poop tossed in!). NO one gets paid, but EVERYone who makes up the Animal Compassion TEAM works HARD on a daily basis. We work hard to pull animals out of death-row situations in the Central Valley, we work hard to keep them healthy and happy at our center and in our foster homes, and we work hard to match them up with just the right families across California. In a world that can sometimes seem hopeless for homeless animals, WE make a difference! I'm proud to be a part of something so amazing.
I was so impressed by the volunteers, fosters, organization, facilities and mission of Animal Compassion Team that I donate monthly to their cause. I appreciate the outreach and education they provide for the community. I drove all the way from Monterey County to adopt my little Milly from ACT. She's been with me for 10 months and I'm so grateful that they saved her at the last minute; a reprieve from a high kill shelter. I subscribe to their Facebook page and so enjoy the pictures of happy cats and dogs finding their forever families. This is a WONDERFUl organization that deserves our support.
Animal Compassion Team is a wonderful organization that gives so much to the homeless animals of the Central Valley. I have adopted two dogs from them and will never go any where else. The animals there are so loved and we'll cared for, exactly what they need for that second chance at a loving home.
As a volunteer I can say that the facility is well run, clean and cared for. We strive to have adopters not see us as a shelter, but a rescue facility and adoption center. I am so passionate about what we do there I tell everyone I can.
My husband and I adopted our first dog together from ACT. We could hardly wait to get home from our honeymoon to visit this place we had already grown to love just from viewing the website. Upon finally getting to visit ACT, we fell in love. We expected to love the dogs, but we did not expect to be so moved by the experience. The facility is completely run by volunteers and there is no denying each person found there is there because they love animals. The property is beautiful and the dogs are so well cared for despite the challenge of being completely supported by donations. It is a sad reality that there are places that "save" animals only to give up on them shortly after, but ACT is different. Each animal is able to call ACT home for as long as they need to and no animal is turned away. This sanctuary serves as a home for each of its residents and is full of smiles and new beginnings.
The little dogs act as the welcoming committee as you enter the gates. Sweet Earl greets you once you enter the building with a full-body wiggle inspired by a pure love of all guests. Angel runs the front desk under the supervision of Fowler's Babe and makes sure to help Earl let the humans know visitors have come. Once you get into the hallway, Romeo, the gentle giant, escorts you to your next destination. The entire facility is colored with murals of happy animals and success stories. You can look into the rooms and see perfectly content animals everywhere. One of my favorite rooms is the senior citizen lounge. There you can find some of the older tenants enjoying their age while watching the same video cassette tape all day and finding comfort on an old couch. If you ask the volunteers why they leave a television on for them they will probably tell you, "They seem to like it that way. It makes them happy."
Once we got outside to see the bigger dogs, we realized that we were in trouble because we were falling in love with each of them as we toured their spaces. I am someone who has to engage with all of them so our visit was lengthy, but no one there ever rushed us. We were able to bond with the potential new family members in a beautiful play yard and the volunteers helped us along the whole process. They were supportive and well-informed because they knew each individual detail of each dog, and they cared. Even the response of the dogs made it evident that the love shared at ACT is mutual.
Baron was added to our family in June and has been such a blessing to our lives. We had such a wonderful experience the first time, we ended up adopting our second ACT family member, Boomey, in August. We have been given the gift of coming home to our sweet boys every day, but there has yet to be a day that I don't think about the welcoming committee and Earl, Angel and Babe, Romeo and the senior citizens...
I can personally guarantee that your life will be so positively changed if you even just visit this place, getting to take one (or two) of its residents home with you will only serve as a constant reminder that you are forever a member of the ACT family, and you, just like Brenda and Brian and Katie and all of the other wonderful blessings do every day, have had two hands in saving an animal that deserves a forever home.
I adopted my pup Izzy ( formerly McBree) at the end of July 2014. ACT was so responsive as soon as I filled out an application. I began this process not knowing what dog I wanted, but more so the characteristics of what I was looking for, fit my lifestyle and was suitable for apartment life. Within 48 hours, once my application was approved, I heard from ACT. They had a few dogs that met what I was looking for. I fell in love with a litter of 3 puppies, pug x terriers. I was in conctact with the Foster mom until the day I drove 3.5 hours to ACT Everyone was so welcoming when i arrived, it was within 2 minutes, we were placed in a room to meet the 3 puppies. Fell in love with the small female of the group, and after we reviewed her information, medical papers etc. I was determined to take her home that day- and that is what I did. One of the best decisions I have made. The shy little puppy I picked out is coming into her own every day. She is the sweetest dog. She is excelling in obedience training, and has caused class to end eaely twice - since she is such a quick learner! I will be returning to ACT when I am able to add anther furbaby into my life!
My Husband and I had been hearing a lot about the Animal Compassion Team and all the magnificent work they do in our community. We would often see them at our Veterinarians' office bringing in their adoptables for treatment and all the staff there raved about them as well. When we lost our 17 year old Cocker Spaniel, it took over a year before we felt ready to open our hearts to another dog. We had two rescue cats and finally started looking for a dog over the course of many, many months...checking the various rescue groups' adoption events and web pages. One day Animal Compassion Team posted a picture and description of a new rescue they had pulled from an area shelter and we just knew he was the boy for us!!! We contacted Brenda and expressed our interest...there was only one catch...our cats had now taken over the house so,. any new family member had to be "cat friendly". Brenda was so patient and understanding and promptly set about "cat testing" our new little furbaby,,,,he passed with flying colors and we quickly filled out an adoption application and made arrangements to meet him and take him home! We were impressed by the very thorough application and vetting process they used...after all, our precious baby couldn't be allowed to go home with just anybody!!! We were approved and adopted our new little one immediately. We could not be more thrilled with Animal Compassion Team and our newest little "Son". We've even made a provision for a donation to this wonderful, caring organization in our will. They are simply Angels on earth!
Animal Compassion Team is one of the best Rescues I've ever encountered. The entire team has a deep love for animals, regardless of how hopeless a single case may seem. I've adopted from ACT and am sooo pleased with our furry family member. Had ACT not stepped in to save her, our dog Beverly surely would've died. If you're wondering if this is a good place to donate to or volunteer, I'd say absolutely!!!!
We learned about ACT 4 years ago. We adopted one of the dogs through one of their foster homes. Since then we have followed their work daily & supported them with donations. They are truly one of the best rescue groups we have ever seen. Their dedication to the animals is incredible. They go above & beyond in their rescue & their foster volunteers are amazing caring people. I tell people all the time about ACT. They deserve all the help & recognition they can get.
My husband and I were looking for a second dog for our family after adopting our first one in October, 2013. Using Petfinder I would search daily for small terrier mixes, as we wanted a similar breed and size. In early July, I saw a listing for Lucas, a dog rescued by ACT. Despite living three hours away in SF, I reached out to learn more about him as he sounded like a good fit for us. Within 20 minutes of inquiring, his foster mom had emailed me back! She was so responsive and sent along so many pictures and videos. We decided we had to meet this little guy, so we drove to Fresno that weekend.
When we first met Lucas, I must admit I was uncertain. He was a shy little dog who didn't seem to like me or my husband much. He did, however, get along great with our dog. Still, I didn't want to take Lucas if he wasn't a good fit, something his foster mom recognized. She graciously let us spend two hours at her house and then suggested that we do a "sleep over". She said if a Lucas wasn't a good fit, we could bring him back.
Well, within 20 minutes of leaving Fresno it was clear to is that Lucas was not going back. He took a few days to fully warm up to us, but now he is loving and affectionate all the time. He is such a sweet dog, but he's a shy one and I can understand that he never would have shown well at a noisy, crowded, scary shelter. He was scheduled to be euthanized and if the great people of ACT hadn't swooped it and rescued him, he wouldn't be here today. It would be a huge loss for our family and I can't thank the people of ACT enough for saving him so that we could find him and give him a wonderful, loving home.
Every person you encounter at ACT is volunteering their time, giving their resources and money to ensure that dogs and cats are not euthanized. They are saving lives daily and changing the lives of both the animals they rescue and the families that adopt their pets. My husband and I are so in love with Lucas and he and our other dog are best friends. He is the perfect addition to our family and I cannot thank ACT enough for saving such a great little animal. We will be supporters for life. If you are looking to adopt a dog or cat, or looking to donate to an organization that truly saves animals' lives, look no further than ACT. Their foster network pulls animals from high-kill shelters and literally saves lives every day. They are nothing short of incredible.
ACT works non stop saving lives and providing the best environment for the animals until they can find their forever homes. The main people know every dog by name. As a volunteer I have no idea how they do it, except they truly treat each animal with the love they so desperately need and provide a home atmosphere. The animals all get play time outside and plenty of hugs and kisses. Medical needs are met at a huge cost to the center. My volunteer hours are immensely appreciated. I'm not sure when the main people at ACT sleep. But I know when ever I leave ACT I'm in complete awe of what they are doing for our community's animals everyday. Act is an inspiring place to be....
I'm a first time pet parent, before adopting Noah (a lab retriever mix) I didn't see myself in becoming one. But one Saturday morning I looked up puppies for adoptions and saw Noah's profile and it was love at first sight. I talked with my family and decided to fill out an application, I didn't even know they had to interview possible pet parents before proceeding with the adoption process. Anyway ACT was prompt, courteous and really take the animals best interest as a top priority. I met Noah's foster mom and she was very accommodating and waited for us so we can have the opportunity to meet and eventually take Noah home. And even after we took Noah home I was able to keep in touch with her and ask questions to help me become a good pet parent to Noah. Now Noah is a lil over 6 mos and we love him so dearly and vice versa. It was a great first time experience in pet adoption and will definitely adopt from them again in the future.
This all volunteer group is completely dedicated to finding forever homes for unwanted dogs and cats. The facilities are clean, and the animals very well taken care of. Many spend time in foster homes, so are well socialized, and have some training. Because they spend so much time with the animals, they are able to provide adopters with a lot of personality details, likes, dislikes, which increases the chances of good people/animal matches. They have a lot of community involvement, and do a great job!
We have gotten 2 of our three dogs from Act, they are amazing! I have sever stories I
Could share but the most important one to our family would to the story of Joey. Joey was my granddaughter s first dog, she picked him out and taught him everything from potty training him to playing nice to the babies in the family. One day he had some bad cesers then more he was not in a good place , Joey could not even stand up by himself. We decided to put him asleep, but what we did not know is that the animal control called ACT and they picked Joey up. Our family was grieving the lose of a wonderful kind dog. But wait I received a call staying that they were from ACT and they had Joey and he was doing title better and gave us a choice to take him back, which we did! They even took it apond themselves to reach out and help us with Joey in getting medical care to include a surgery we could not of funded without their great help, after his surgery they actually took care of him for our family was unable to. We were very blessed and pray for their organization always. We still can not repay their staff for all they have done for us. We appreciate there support and act of kindness to this day. Love all of you at Act, I can not thank you all enough for your love of pets and especially Joey . The Cerda family
We love ACT. We got our little Cocker spaniel mix from them in 2011. Since we already had a dog they allowed us to take her home for a sleepover to see how they would get along. It ended up being a three week sleepover before we could actually say they were going to be okay together. ACT was great. They checked in with us every few days and let us take the time we needed. So glad we adopted from them and have recommended them many times.
The staff, volunteers and fosters are the most caring and dedicated that I have ever seen! They truly get to know all of their animals, and match them with the right homes. I have rescued 2 dogs in the last year (one from another great Fresno rescue), and they are amazing! ACT really cares and I admire all of them!
I am a two time adopter and also foster and volunteer for Animal compassion team. I love the way this group is run. The animals come first and we as foster parents get to be the voice for the voiceless. We take in the animals that need us most. Often requiring extra care to be ready for adoption. ACT'S support system for fosters and adopters is a huge part of our success.
ACT is a wonderful animal rescue group. I first heard about them when I was feeding the feral cat colony at my work place. A member of ACT was trapping some of the ferals for their TNR project downtown when she told me about their group. Prior to this, I had never heard of the group ACT. Several years later, after our old dog Dixie crossed the Rainbow Bridge, we decided to adopt another dog. We tried looking at several rescue shelters but couldn't find a dog that would fit in our household that included 3 cats. We decided to try ACT. Brenda at ACT was extremely helpful in helping us find our perfect canine companion. Sadie, our shepherd-husky mix, has been a wonderful addition to our family.
We couldn't have found a more perfect dog. Thank you ACT!
ACT saved the day when we discovered 3 tiny pups that had been abandoned in a friend's pool yard a number of years ago. As a brand new Animal Rescue, they patiently took us through the Fostering process step-by-step as this was all new to us. They checked out the pups, got them shots, spay/neuter and we posted our 'Painter Pups' on their website. Once the puppies were old enough, it was only another 3 weeks before we found perfect homes.
The second time was with a female pittie/boxer I had found when I was out running. Again, PATIENT with me and helping me get her shots, spay, and posting on their website. I found the perfect family for our gal Maxie.
We continue to supply newspaper and extras that we can gather together to donate to ACT. They are so well respected in our Community. Their corp of Volunteers are pure GOLD. They are beyond GREAT!
I recommend my friends use ACT for either adopting and/or fostering ALWAYS.
Animal Compassion Team really is compassionate about their animals. I have found two different dogs that I took to them and they scanned them, and thanks to them finding micro chips and contacting the owners, help me get the dogs back home. They help rescue dogs from our over loaded animal control and place them in loving homes. They rescue Chihuahuas and ship them to another state where they find loving homes instead of being euthanized because California has an over abundance of them.
When it comes time to adopt my next fur baby I will definitely adopt from them. My cousin and her mother-in-law have both adopted dogs from them and they are the sweetest most loving dogs.
We have adopted a female shepherd mix through ACT, who formally went by the name of Misty. When we went to look at adoptable pets, we brought our other dog with us. The volunteers at ACT knew exactly which dog might be a good match for our family and our dog Jeff. They let Jeff and Misty play together in the yard as long as we needed in order for us to decide to try her out on an "overnight". They let us keep Misty for four days before we decided definitively that she belonged with our family. It was the amount of time we needed to determine if we could handle two large dogs.
Misty had previously been found by someone at the age of four months. When she was found, she had demodectic mange. A volunteer nursed her slowly back to health. It took her a year to find us, her "forever home". We will always be grateful to ACT for their patience and generosity towards our wonderful Misty!
ACT is an extremely caring and professional volunteer organization! They take wonderful care of their rescue animals. We will continue to adopt through ACT.
I love ACT and everything they stand for. Not only am I a volunteer along with my daughter but I also foster for them and have adopted twice. I have never been around a better group who truly is in this for the animals.
I absolute love Animal Compassion Team! I volunteer with their cats and even adopted one of my own! The people that run ACT are amazing and passionate about what they do. Because of them, I have been inspired to open my own shelter some day!
Two of my three furbabies are from ACT. Our first dog was one of there first few rescues. He is a GSD who along with his brother was an owner surrender. They were suppose to have been aggressive. We met with him and fell immediately fell in love with him. ACT wanted to make sure we were a perfect fit so we spent about 3 hours getting to know each other. We called it our " you have our hearts " meeting. He is the most kind hearted big baby!
Animal Compassion Team has so many ways to volunteer and donate that virtually anyone can find a way to help valley animals.
ACT is awesome. I was going through cancer and just staying at home doing nothing, but feeling sorry for myself. My husband brought home a cat for me and it just opened my world. My husband and son then each got dogs, but they came down with Parvo. At the time Brenda Mitchell, the president of ACT, worked at the SPCA, ut she would take home Parvo babies and get them healthy. One of ours didn't even make it to Brenda's. The other one did and when she was ready to go home Brenda told my husband she had another one she just nursed through Parvo. Hubby took that one home. Shortly after, Brenda left the SPCA to start ACT with other committed, compassionate friends. We happened to run into her and she told us what she was doing and we offered to take a dog to foster. Well at one point we had 24 fosters some kittens and some were Mommies with litters. ACT was so helpful through the whole process. We even ended up keeping 2 of our fosters and adopting them. There were many tears shed when my fosters went to their foster homes, but they were tears of happiness. I love that I met the adopters. All their animals are raised to be inside dogs or some are raised to be working dogs with experience fosters. I love the Mommas with their new litters and I so miss doing that. I moved back East and I am trying to hook up with another rescue, but not found one like ACT. I love and miss you guys. Pat and John Harley
I have fostered for two years now and like that I have a choice in who can adopt my fosters. I know their personality. I had one request for a busy little dog I had. He didn't like to be left more than about 3 hours or would start getting into things and tearing stuff up. One person wanted him that said he was at work for 10 hours, so when I explained this wasn't the dog for him, he became beligerant. He had never met the dog, only saw his picture and thought this was the only dog for him. If I had allowed him to adopt this dog, both the dog and the man would have been very unhappy with the arrangement and I hate to think what might have happened. Please take the time to talk to the foster parent and have ideas of what personality of dog you would like, not looks. Be willing to look at other dogs that are suggested if the one you want doesn't seem to fit your lifestyle/or you fit its. This is a LIFETIME committment as a new family member, not a fashion accessory.
Acutally client NOT served. Met these fine people at Whities Pets. Found a wonderful Shepperd/Husky mix. While the wife was filling out the application, they insisted I walk the dog round the store. No problem. Wonderful dog. While the wife was getting the money out of the car, they started asking me questions. Specifically about the care of the dog. They didn't like the idea that we were going to keep him outside. We are looking for a security dog. They suggested a "Beware of Dog" sign, until we calmly explained how that opens us up to potential lawsuits. Instead the person who was fostering this dog did not care. She did not want (WANT) it to be an outside dog. We are talking about an 80-100lb dog, when full grown, and she DEMANDED it be an indoor dog, or we wouldn't get it. We left. Mostly in shock, my wife in tears. This woman would rather lock that dog up in a cage at Whities until someone else comes along. This is not compassion. It's a JOKE.
I worked with ACT on a fundraising event and was amazed at their very real compassion for animals of all ages and health situations. They see an animal and think "companion" where some people see impediments and think "imperfect." They are truly about love of and for furkids.
Great organization and the volunteers serve the community well. These guys are active all over the Fresno area and extend a helping hand to animals in need all over the valley.
I love ACT. They not only rescue animals, but every animal stays in a Foster Home, so when someone adopts an animal, they know what its personality is.
ACT is an amazing organization with exceptional volunteers. I adopted the sweetest dog (Kirby) there. Her foster mom was such a pleasure to meet. I love that they are dedicated to finding the best home for the animal rather then just making money. I could not be happier with the new addition to our family and the experience of adopting from such a wonderful organization. I will forever recommend them to anyone looking for a new pet.
I first learned about ACT through volunteering with some of ACT's founders. I was amazed by their drive, commitment, and passion for helping the valley's homeless animals. I quickly saw the limits of what I could do as a volunteer in the high kill shelter I was fostering/volunteering in at the time, but I was eager to help the valley's animals. I started volunteering with ACT as they were working to open their first adoption center in the Sierra Vista Mall. I quickly realized I was on the right team- the knowledge, dedication, heart, and vision was apparent from the start. Since then I have become a foster, volunteer, board member, and the volunteer coordinator for ACT. I am happy to say that over 1700 animals have found new homes through ACT over the past two years. Most of these animals were scheduled to be euthanized at local shelters, and are now living wonderful lives in loving homes. ACT set out to be more then an adoption center though and is continuing to work on education, pet retention, and TNR. We have BIG dreams, and many more ideas for the future. ACT is an organization that I am proud to be a part of and feel lucky to have found.
Brenda and the team at Animal Compassion Team do a great job in helping the valleys homeless pets. Their dedication to educating the public regarding the need for spaying and neutering is making a difference. They also trap, spay, neuter and release feral cats to help curb the population problem. The deserve the support from the public for doing the hard work for them. They are the ones who spend all their spare time helping the helpless and going way above and beyond what most people could ever imagine what needs to be done to save these dogs and cats.
I love ACT! I currently have one of their dogs on a Foster basis. Molly is being treated for heartworm. She has quite a story, and could have easily been turned away by ACT. As a part of their screening process her heartworm was detected. There was NO hesitation about her care, they wanted to help Molly and so did I. She is an incredible animal. Without ACT and their compasion I don't know that Molly would have had the same outcome. It is most likely that her heartworm would not have been found. Molly is continuing her treatment and hopefully will be heartworm free! I love ACT, all of their volunteers and their tireless efforts for the animals who can not speak for themselves.
ACT is a grass-roots non profit that started with a few people wanting to help animals in need. I have watched it grow, become official as a non-profit organization and blossom. I have been fortunate to be able to volunteer in a few small ways. On a rare day off several months ago, I read a post on Facebook that ACT needed a driver to take 2 Dalmations to a rescue organization in Turlock specifically for Dalmations. I called and said that I was available. I met Brenda, the volunteer coordinator for ACT at the house of a man I didn't know. He was surrendering these 2 dogs in hopes of giving them better homes. The dogs were unsocialized, untrained, hadn't ever been on leashes, and very wary of us. This was my first experience helping any animal in this way. It was heartbreaking to see the man give them up, but, heartwarming knowing they would get the care they truly needed. With Brenda and her daughter's help, we loaded them into my small SUV and I drove my precious cargo from Fresno to the meeting point in Turlock. The woman from the Dalmation rescue was waiting, and it was a bit challenging to transfer them to her vehicle. They were scared but she knew how to handle it. Overall, it was a very rewarding experience for me to be able to help transport these dogs. I hope to be able to volunteer more in the future at this wonderful organization!
I adopted a sweet yellow lab from these folks....and I am not even from CA! I was on vacation, saw my pup on the facebook page and happen to be in CA at the time. I called and they were holding an adoption fair in SLO and promised to send him on the truck the next Saturday. I was there bright and early and met my sweet Buster. (aka Fabio) Now he is part of our pack in AZ. He is such a happy boy! We love him!! What a great group ACT is!! I follow their activities and send donations when I can. Great folks in this organization!!
ACT is amazing! My husband and I both are volunteer foster parents and have adopted from ACT as well. They take wonderful care of the animals they rescue, going above and beyond what others might do.
Without ACT we would never have met some amazing people, taken care and helped find homes for cats and dogs or have our sweet puppy love.
ACT ROCKS!!
This organization is wonderful about not just working with the animals that they have, but supporting other organizations. They get the word out, they keep people motivated, they CARE.
I have a friend who adopted a dog from ACT and told me about their adoption site, how great the volunteers were, how you could do a "sleepover" with a potential adoptee, etc..so I decided to stop by one Saturday afternoon and just "look", as I already have 2 pound rescue dogs at home. Well, my friend was right...what a great organization ACT is!! The volunteers were so friendly and knowledgeable, and Hurli (now Olive) stole my heart at first sight:) The adoption process was so easy, organized, and customer friendly, and Olive is the sweetest dog I have ever been around.
I received texts and emails thanking me and wanting photo updates of her, from her foster mom. I have since told my sister (from Sacramento) about ACT, who adopted Wiggles and is the new family favorite!
ACT really has the right idea and knows how to get the message out and help the animals. Their volunteers are amazing people, who work tirelessly to help the animals. I helped fundraise for their annual large fundraiser, and hope to help again next year, and get more people and businesses to see what a great organization ACT is and how successful they are at helping the valley's homeless animals.
I have opened my home and become a foster home for ACT. This rescue team is amazing. Every need of the animal is met in a very timely manner. The compassion and support of the Board of Directors and other volunteers really keep you up beat and positive in some very difficult times. I have volunteered with many "rescue groups" and they have been great, but there is a difference with ACT. They never give up in their battle to make our Valley a safe place for the many homeless animals. The sacrafice many of the Board members make in their very own personal lives is beyond words. I have never met a group that takes every challenge head on like ACT does. Fostering for this group has given me so many joyous moments. Watching a dog find a new life after being beaten, starved, sick, and scared is life changing. I am happy that ACT has allowed me the pleasure of helping them with their mission.
My first interaction with Animal Compassion Team occurred when I bought my first house and was looking for a dog as a companion. I researched all of the shelters and rescues in my local area. ACT was the least expensive for the amount of wonderful "perks" they throw in with the adoption. And I found my perfect little doggie, Alyssa. I was impressed that ACT required an adoption application and contract. I immediatly could see that they care first and foremost about the animals. They run completely off of donations and have begun to have a huge presence in the animal loving local community. I had such a great experience adopting from ACT that I decided to become a foster for them as well. I've been able to network with other animal lovers and learn a lot about animal care because of ACT. Please donate to this amazing rescue. They do so much.
The Animal Compassion Team runs completely based on the generosity of the community and volunteers. They do so much with what little resources they have and in their short existence have already become one of the biggest rescues in the Central Valley, if not the biggest, in terms of rescuing and adopting animals. Not only do they work hard to help get animals out of local kill-shelters and into loving foster and forever homes, but they work to help fight the pet overpopulation problems with TNR (trap, neuter, release) programs for feral cats. Such a great group of people who will do anything they can to help improve the lives of our animals.
The Animal Compassion team works together like a loving family to adopt dogs and cats that would otherwise be killed at the SPCA. They are ALWAYS coming up with new and inventive events.
The most recent "Doggie Kick Ball" takes place on Tuesday nights and all are invited to come meet Brenda, Cassie and other members of the team, bring their dogs and just have some plain goode old fun.
I believe ACT has adopted out more cats and dogs than our local SPCA and they are heavily involved in fostering (which is so impotant!).
All-in-All A+++++++++
brenda23 10/17/2014
Christine Leo, Your comments are simply untrue. We are 100% volunteer and work tirelessly to save the lives of animals. Anyone who spends any time with us knows this. We received so many reviews because we posted on our Facebook page and asked for people to review us honestly, and they did. We work so, so hard. Our IRS financials clearly show that we are not taking any salaries. Our "staff" consists of teachers, bookkeepers, vet tech students, lawyers, retirees, veterinarians, and even a 911-dispatcher. We return every call, as well as emails. If there is ever a delay, it's simply because of the heavy call volume we get for animals in need. Having said this, we are always striving to improve as an organization. If you have any constructive, life-saving suggestions, please feel free to contact us directly.