Pet Refuge
Our Mission
At Pet Refuge, Inc., we believe that every animal deserves a second chance at a happy life. Our mission is to protect the health and welfare of every animal in our care, providing them with the best possible placement in a loving, forever home.
Why We Do It
Founded on the belief that every life has value, we operate as a no-kill shelter in South Bend, Indiana, working tirelessly to address the local pet overpopulation crisis. For over 30 years, we have advocated for responsible pet guardianship and the importance of spaying and neutering to ensure every pet can be a cherished family member.
How We Care
Our organization is powered by a dedicated group of volunteers who operate a physical shelter on South Burnett Drive while maintaining a vital network of foster homes. By providing medical care, including spaying, neutering, and essential vaccinations, we ensure every dog and cat is healthy and ready for their new start. We believe in providing the best possible care for all our residents until they find their perfect match.
The Adopter Connection
Adoption is a joyful partnership, and our process is designed to create lasting harmony for both pets and families. We prioritize thoughtful matches, ensuring that the animal’s personality and needs align perfectly with your home life. Our team is here to support you through the transition, offering guidance and resources to ensure your newest family member thrives.
Join Our Family
Are you ready to meet your new four-legged friend? We invite you to explore our available pets online or visit us during our open hours on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Whether you choose to adopt, foster, or volunteer, you become a valued part of the Pet Refuge family where new beginnings have happy endings.
- Friendly and caring staff
- Efficient adoption and neuter services
- Undisclosed animal health issues
10/10 - Is this gray cat the perfect companion for you?
Grayson is a 4–5-year-old gray cat with green eyes waiting for a forever home. Grayson is available through Pet Refuge in South Bend.
10/1 - Meet Sparky the energetic dog ready for adoption
Sparky is a two year old dog at the South Bend Animal Resource Center looking for an active family to adopt him.
9/28 - The Morning Stretch - Monday, Sept. 28, 2026
Watch The Morning Stretch every weekday from 7-8 a.m.
9/26 - Need a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle? Scout can!
Meet Scout, a playful two-year-old shepherd mix looking for an active family to call his own. He has a fun-loving personality and sweet disposition.
9/22 - Three Paw Patrol puppies charm Frankie while house-hunting for forever homes
Frankie meets three paw patrol puppies who are looking for a new home!
9/17 - Adopt Lacy, the shy Pomeranian, seeking a loving home
Lacy is a 6-year-old Pomeranian looking for a patient family to help her blossom in a loving home environment.
9/11 - Meet Mae, Humane Society of St. Joseph County's featured adoptable pet
Mae, 6, has a playful, goofy personality that will keep you smiling. She is available at Humane Society of St. Joseph County.
9/3 - Pet Refuge Animal Shelter
Learn about Pet Refuge's mission, adoption process, fees, hours, and contact information for adopting dogs and cats in South Bend.
8/13 - This merle miniature poodle mix is looking to live life to its fullest
Jasper is a 6-year-old poodle mix looking for a loving home. He is crate trained and ready for adoption soon. Call Second Chance to set up a meeting.
8/7 - Meet the cat with the longest name in the shelter
Cooperstown has been at the Humane Society of St. Joseph County since October. She has lots of love to give. Can you offer her a quiet home?
7/9 - Baby Girl, sweet 1-year-old mix, is ready to call your family her own
Baby Girl is a sweet one year old Rottweiler mix looking for a forever home after her owner was no longer able to care for her.
7/7 - These adorable kittens help share shelter needs
Frankie heads to Pet Refuge to not only talk about the cute kittens but also about the needs of the shelter to care for pets in need.
7/6 - 2nd Chance Pet: Otis
Kristin Szymanski from Pet Refuge joined us on 16 News Now at Noon to introduce us to Otis!
7/3 - Meet Mookie the playful dog seeking a new family
Mookie has been at the shelter for 10 months. She will win your heart with her affectionate personality. Can you provide the loving home she needs?
6/22 - 2nd Chance Pets: Harley, Hadley & Henley
Elaine Baell from Pet Refuge joined us on 16 News Now at Noon to introduce us to three 3-month-old kittens who are looking for their "furever" homes!
6/10 - Adopt Otis and you could turn one lonely pup into a full-time family member
Otis needs a family. Pet Refuge wonders if you could be the one he's looking for?
6/6 - Can you foster these two retired Cocker Spaniels?
Second Chance Small Dog Rescue is seeking foster homes for two retired Cocker Spaniels in need of care.
5/28 - Why this shy shelter cat is worth the wait
This shy, orange cat named (Coffee's For Closers) is looking for a patient family and a feline companion.
5/26 - This sweet girl is in need of a new home
Lizzy is a sweet husky who is asking for a forever or foster family to get her away from the loud and stressful shelter.
5/25 - 2nd Chance Pets: Good Looking and Lovebug
Elaine Baell joined us on 16 News Now at Noon to introduce us to a couple of kittens named Good Looking and Lovebug!
5/21 - Meet Heath Bar and Hershey Bar, two cats for adoption
Meet Heath Bar and Hershey Bar, two 'candy bar' cat brothers with sweet personalities looking for a forever home together.
5/2 - Pearl and CoCo, senior dogs, seek a loving home
Meet Pearl and CoCo, two 11-year-old Poodle/Yorkie mixes seeking a new home after their owners lost theirs.
