Frequently Asked Questions
The Ranch & Our Program
Where is The Misfit Ranch located?
Murrieta, California.
Can I visit the ranch?
No. The ranch is a private residence and is not open to the public.
Are all of the dogs located at the ranch?
No. Most of our dogs are in private foster homes. The Misfit Ranch is not a shelter.
How can I see Misfit Ranch dogs?
Visit our Adoptable Pets page to browse current listings and check back often as fosters and availability change.
Adoption
How do I adopt a dog from The Misfit Ranch?
Start by browsing adoptable dogs on our website, then submit the free adoption application. If approved, we’ll contact you to schedule a meet-and-greet.
How long will it take my dog to adjust after adoption?
Every dog is different. Some settle in quickly, but most need time, patience, and consistency. The 3-3-3 Rule is a helpful guide: 3 days to decompress (may not eat much, may hide, potty regression is common), 3 weeks to start learning your routine, and ~3 months to truly feel at home. Some behavioral regression can happen during the first 3 months—don’t give up. You’re always welcome to reach out for support and tips.
How can I meet a dog I'm interested in?
The first step is to submit a free adoption application. If approved, we’ll contact you to schedule a meet-and-greet.
What is the process for meeting the dog?
Once approved, we will contact you to schedule a meet-and-greet. Most meet-and-greets happen in Menifee or Murrieta and are scheduled with the foster family and a Misfit Ranch adoption counselor. To respect our volunteers’ time, we offer one meet-and-greet.
When do I get to take my dog home?
If you decide to proceed, you must be able to take the dog home directly from the meet-and-greet unless arrangements are made with us BEFORE the meet-and-greet. We do not “hold” dogs—until an adoption is finalized, they may be available to other adopters.
How and when do I pay?
If you would like to proceed with the adoption at the meet-and-greet, payment of adoption fees will be due. We accept Cash, PayPal, Venmo, Check, and Zelle. Please do not submit payment until after meeting the dog.
What is the adoption fee?
Typical adoption fees are: $350 for puppies under 6 months, $250 for adolescents/adults (6 months–7 years), and $150 for seniors (8+ years). Fees may be higher for some dogs (usually depending on medical expenses). Please verify the fee for a specific dog prior to the meet-and-greet. Adoption fees are non-refundable.
What does the adoption fee include?
Spay/neuter (or arrangements with an approved vet if a puppy is not old enough yet), current vaccines (and a plan for remaining vaccines if needed), rabies vaccine, microchip, and a martingale collar + leash. The martingale helps prevent slipping out of the collar; we recommend leaving the collar and tag on, and leaving the leash on for the first week to help keep your new dog safe.
Do you adopt to homes outside of California?
We primarily serve the Inland Empire region including Temecula, Menifee, Hemet, Winchester, Murrieta, and Wildomar. However, we may consider adoptions to nearby areas on a case-by-case basis.
What if the adoption doesn't work out?
We want every adoption to be successful. If for any reason the adoption doesn't work out, we ask that you contact us so we can help rehome the dog. We never want our animals to end up in shelters.
Donations
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes! The Misfit Ranch is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 39-3327714). All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You will receive a receipt for your records.
What do donations go toward?
Donations directly support our rescue dogs through veterinary care, food, shelter improvements, rehabilitation, and daily care. Every dollar helps us save more lives and provide the best possible care for our animals.
Can I make a recurring donation?
Absolutely! Monthly donors are the backbone of our rescue. Recurring donations help us plan for ongoing care and ensure we can continue our mission. You can set up monthly giving through our donation page.
Do you accept in-kind donations?
Yes, we gratefully accept dog food, blankets, toys, cleaning supplies, and other items. Please contact us before dropping off donations so we can let you know our current needs.
Volunteering
How can I volunteer at The Misfit Ranch?
We welcome volunteers for various tasks including dog walking, socialization, event support, foster care, and administrative help. Contact us through our website to learn about current volunteer opportunities.
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No prior experience is necessary! We provide training and guidance for all volunteer positions. A love for animals and a willingness to help is all you need to get started.
How can I become a foster?
Fill out the foster application on our website. Foster homes must be in Riverside or San Diego County and willing to transport to Temecula / Murrieta / Menifee as needed for meet-and-greets and coordination.
About Our Animals
What kind of dogs do you rescue?
We rescue dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes. Many of our dogs are "misfits"—those overlooked in shelters due to age, medical needs, or simply being misunderstood. Every dog deserves a chance at a loving home.
Are the dogs spayed/neutered and vaccinated?
Yes, all dogs available for adoption are spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped, and have received a veterinary health check before going to their forever homes.
Do you take owner surrenders?
We are 100% foster-based. If we do not have an open foster home, we cannot take a dog in. We wish we could help them all. Please contact us and we will do our best to share resources and referrals.