10 Best Bichon Frise Rescues for Adoption (2024): Our Top 10 Picks!

Best Bichon Frise Rescue for Adoption

While many dog lovers fall for a Bichon Frise’s charm, there are some who relinquish them due to several reasons which are often personal ones. Because of this, many Bichons find themselves in rescues and shelters and in need of a new home.

If you are interested in saving a Bichon Frise’s life, reading this article is a good place to start. This list will help you find the right Bichon Frise for you since I have listed the top 10 Bichon Frise rescue organizations that can offer you one.

Let’s begin your adoption journey!

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Most of the Bichon Frise rescues in this list follow the same adoption process. If you want to ace your application, I suggest that you read our ultimate adoption guide which features key tips and techniques starting from choosing the breed to home introduction.

Top 10 Bichon Frise Rescues to Find Bichon Frises for Adoption

Adoption is the best option for anyone who wants to help abandoned dogs receive the love and care they deserve.

We do not want you to fall prey to illegitimate groups that claim to be rescues or shelters for this breed. That is why we have collected some of the known and reputable Bichon Frise rescue organizations for adopting Bichon Frises.

Along with their credibility, we will briefly discuss their adoption process so that you can have a good insight on which rescue to choose.

1. Bichon Frise Rescue of Northern New Jersey – New Jersey

The Bichon Frise Rescue of Northern NJ has been rescuing and finding homes for unwanted Bichons since 1979. The small group of volunteers ensures that their rescued dogs are fully vetted, microchipped, and spayed or neutered.

They also work with experts to give the necessary emotional and behavioral therapy to those who have been mistreated by their previous owners.

The group is currently accepting applications from those living an hour away from West Orange, New Jersey.

Applicants must also agree to undergo basic house training. This will help the Bichon be aware of its new surroundings and avoid small accidents in the house.

They are also very strict with doing virtual or personal house checks. Applicants may choose to send photos or videos of their property or welcome a volunteer from the rescue to assess if their home is suitable for the dog.

The full adoption form can be found on their website which includes basic questions about the applicant to more assessment-type inquiries regarding access to vet care and dog grooming services.

Bichon Frise Rescue of Northern New Jersey Information and Details:

2. Bichon FurKids – Southern California

Bichon FurKids is a team of 16 volunteers who have saved over 3300 Bichons, Bichon mixes, and other small dogs since 2016. They want to ensure that their “FurKids” (the rescued Bichons) will be greeted with open arms as a new family member.

Unlike in Bichon Frise Rescue of Northern NJ, the list of available dogs for adoption can be directly seen on their website.

The FurKids have their bio and all applicants are encouraged to read them all the way through to better understand their conditions and future needs.

The application form is separated into two parts. The first part answers questions about the applicant, their home, and other pets while the second asks about the FurKid you are interested in.

It is important to note that they do not consider applicants without other dogs at home. You must also be willing to pick up the Bichon from Southern California where most of their dogs are in foster care.

Bichon FurKids Information and Details:

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3. Bichon Rescue Brigade (BRB) – California

Another Bichon Frise rescue in California is giving Bichons a new chance at life. BRB has rescued over 700 dogs and does not plan to stop any time soon.

BRB’s website provides a step-by-step guide for their application process which is summarized below:

  1. Complete and submit BRB’s application form.
  2. Wait to be contacted within 48 to 72 hours for a phone interview and to schedule a home safety check.
  3. Once approved, sign the contract, and pay the required fees. Then, get ready to meet your newly adopted Bichon.

All the rescue dogs are spayed or neutered and updated with their vaccines. In case you are not able to take care of your adopted dog, a relinquish form can be filled out on the same website. This is to ensure that the dog can still find a new home through BRB.

Bichon Rescue Brigade (BRB) Information and Details:

  • Website: Bichon Rescue Brigade (BRB)
  • Address: 1442 E Lincoln Ave. #252 Attn: Admin Address Only Orange, CA 92867
  • Phone: 714-817-9798
  • Email: info@bichonrescuebrigade.org
  • Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram.

4. Bichon Rescue of Orange County (BROC) – California

BROC is another organization dedicated to rescuing Bichon Frise and Bichon mixes. However, unlike other Bichon Frise rescues, they are focused on saving senior Bichons and placing them in the care of senior adopters as well.

This “Seniors for Seniors” advocacy can give both old Bichons and their retired adopters a chance to live out their best years together.

They firmly believe that senior dogs can teach us more about loyalty, respect, and unconditional love. If you are hoping to find a senior dog for yourself or your loved one, this is the perfect rescue for you.

Since Bichons are known to not be a fan of water so BROC refuses to consider applicants without fenced pools or water features in their house.

The adoption process is quite similar to BRB’s and will require you and your prospect pet to meet before any papers are signed.

Bichon Rescue of Orange County (BROC) Information and Details:

5. Bichon and Little Buddies Rescue – Wisconsin

Bichon and Little Buddies Rescue was founded in 2000 to solely rescue Bichon Frises. Later on, they expanded to include abandoned Chihuahuas, Mini Poodles, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, and other small breeds.

To adopt from the list of available pets, they provide three easy steps:

  1. An applicant should fill out the online pre-adoption form.
  2. Contact your veterinarian and request to share past and current medical records with the organization.
  3. Wait to be contacted for a meet-up schedule with the dog.

The second step is very important. They will not proceed with the application if you skip contacting your vet since they really want to ensure that you can provide good healthcare to your dog.

If you are curious to know about the previously adopted dogs, this Bichon Frise rescue has an “Alumni Updates” section on their website where the owners share how the Bichons adapted to their new lives.

Bichon and Little Buddies Rescue Information and Details:

  • Website: Bichon and Little Buddies Rescue
  • Address: 828 Perkins Dr, Suite 200 Mukwonago, WI 53149
  • Phone: 414-750-01522
  • Email: bichonandlittlebuddies@gmail.com
  • Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.

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6. Bichon and Buddies – California

Bichons and Buddies have been caring for homeless and unwanted Bichons since 2004. More than 3000 dogs have been placed in their forever home over the last 17 years.

Aside from doing local adoption, they partnered with Canadian rescues which have a high demand for small dogs and even old ones.

This allowed them to rescue even more Bichon Frise dogs and Bichon mixes that are too old for most adopters and those who have serious medical conditions.

Unlike other organizations, this Bichon Frise rescue has a “Foster-to-Adopt” period. This means you can take a dog home to assess their behavior and if they can adapt easily into your life.

This period usually lasts for a week and if everything goes well, the adoption papers can be forwarded and signed. In case it does not work out, the dog can be returned.

Aside from being spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and freshly groomed, the adopted Bichon will come with its leash, collar, and harness.

Bichon and Buddies Information and Details:

  • Website: Bichon and Buddies
  • Address: 4310 Westlawn Ave. Los Angeles CA 90066
  • Phone: 310-398-0237
  • Email: jc@bichonsandbuddies.com
  • Special Note: You can also find them on Facebook.

7. Bichon Frise Club of America Charitable Trust (BFCACT) – Indiana

The BFCACT Rescue Team tries to match their rescued Bichons to a well-suited applicant. Their adoption form includes the usual questions but may require in-depth explanation for some scenario-based inquiries.

They also have a relinquish option but will refuse if the dog is too aggressive because of liability concerns.

Their website has a FAQ section that can help you decide if a Bichon Frise is the right breed for you. It is also important to know about the rescue and the rescue volunteer’s best practices to ensure that the process for adoption is carried out accordingly.

This Bichon Frise rescue also conducts an annual Bichon bash where hundreds of rescued Bichons and their owners come together for a day of fun activities. However, it has been canceled due to the pandemic.

Bichon Frise Club of America Charitable Trust (BFCACT) Information and Details:

8. Delaware Valley Bichon Rescue (DVBR) – New Jersey

DVBR is a volunteer Bichon Frise rescue that takes in Bichons and Bichon mixes and puts them up for adoption in different areas including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Over time, they served families located as far as Massachusetts, Ohio, and North Carolina.

Their adoption process involves a meticulous screening process that involves filling out a comprehensive application form, vet reference, and a home visit.

They ensure that the Bichons have proper veterinary care before adoption. This includes rabies and distemper shots, heartworm tests, spay/neuter, and dental care if necessary.

Usually, a Bichon stays in their care for about six to eight weeks. This is enough time for the volunteers to evaluate the dog’s personality and needs and find adopters that will give them a new home.

Delaware Valley Bichon Rescue (DVBR) Information and Details:

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9. Michigan Bichon Frise Rescue (MBFR) – Michigan

MBFR is a private organization and network that accepts strays and rescues sheltered purebred Bichons Frises. They also coordinate with other rescue organizations that have available Bichons for adoption.

For owners who directly surrender their pets, MBFR may ask financial aid for immediate veterinary care or grooming fees. However, it is not mandatory and only encouraged to those with the financial ability to help.

Their adoption fees are typically waived to 50% or even up to 100% depending on Bichon’s health condition.

Any owner who wants to surrender their pets or adopt a Bichon Frise can contact the rescue coordinator of the organization.

The available Bichons for adoption are usually posted on their Facebook page or their website where other breeds are also posted.

In terms of the adoption process, the applicant should also fill out a form and include photos and videos of your house and property.

An interview will then be conducted through a phone call and if you are a good fit, a meet-up will be scheduled.

Michigan Bichon Frise Rescue (MBFR) Information and Details:

10. Bichon Frise Club of San Diego (BFCSD) – California

Founded in 1964, BFCSD is a group of Bichon owners from Southern California who help in placing Bichon Frises in finding new owners for unwanted Bichons.

They have volunteers from Orange County, Oceanside, and San Diego who can assist in coordinating you with a trusted Bichon Frise rescue.

Owners who can no longer take care of their Bichons can directly contact them so that they can determine the special needs of these dogs and know what options they have.

They remind interested applicants that the Bichons they are helping out are often missing their documentation and therefore, it is difficult to assess if they are purebred or not.

On their website, you can view the organizations they work with as well as some information about the breed. Aside from rescue dogs, they are also focused on holding events to showcase show exhibitors.

They are also working with Bichons who are taking therapy for trauma and behavioral issues.

Bichon Frise Club of San Diego (BFCSD) Information and Details:

Another thing that can help you significantly with your dog hunt is reading our ultimate dog adoption guide. This, alongside the Bichon Frise rescue options from our directory will increase your chances of bringing home the dog you desire.

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Other Sources for Bichon Frise Rescues or Shelters for Adoption

Playing with cute rescue Bichon Frise

In case you were not able to find a good match using the list mentioned, you can try these websites:

  • Adopt-a-Pet – This is the largest non-profit pet adoption website in North America. It has been able to find permanent homes for abandoned animals from over 21,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies. You can read about the adoption process for a shelter, rescue, or private owner in the “How It Works” section of the website.
  • Petfinder – This is an online database of different animals that need adoption. There are over 11,000 shelters and organizations registered across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Their database is updated daily so you have a higher chance of finding an available Bichon for adoption.
  • Petcurious – This was founded in 2016 by a group of people that believes in the happiness and love that a pet can bring. You can search from over 74,000 listings from different shelters and rescues near your area.
  • Petco Foundation – This organization has partnered with more than 4,000 rescue groups and brought 6.5 million pets to loving families since 1999. You can search for an available dog—hopefully, a Bichon Frise—anywhere in the country.

Why Do People Put Bichon Frises up for Adoption or in a Rescue?

Even though Bichon Frises are easily the cuddliest and most adorable dogs out there, they are still among the most abandoned breeds.

Some of the common reasons why people put their Bichons up for adoption are the following:

  • The dog has many health issues.
  • The owner can no longer support grooming and veterinary expenses.
  • The owner has little time for interaction.
  • It has become too difficult to do house training.
  • The dog has behavioral problems that result in aggressiveness.
  • The owner is going through personal problems which prevent him or her from taking care of the dog.
  • The dog is not able to get along with kids or other pets at home.

Some of the stated reasons have a lot to do with Bichon’s temperament. Bichons require a lot of attention and human companionship.

Thus, an owner may feel that he or she cannot meet this need because of work or other personal concerns.

Bichon Frises can also be aggressive and may start barking loudly when threatened, but with patience and proper training, they can easily integrate into the household.

Watch this video featuring some Bichon Frises that are in need of a new home:

2 the Rescue: Rescued Bichons need homes

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How Much Should It Cost to Adopt a Bichon Frise?

Buying a Bichon Frise from a professional breeder can cost you around $700 to $2,000. Bichon Frise rescues typically charge $100 to $500 for adoption fees which cover basic veterinary needs and other necessities.

The table below shows the average cost of expenses for a Bichon Frise in a rescue:

 ExpensesAverage Cost
Vet Checkups $50 – $100
Rabies Vaccination $15 – $25
Spaying/Neutering $150 – $300
Heartworm Test $15 – $35
Flea/Tick Treatment$50 – $200
Deworming$20 – $50
Grooming$40 – $60
Microchip $50
Total$390 – $820

As you can see, Bichon Frise rescues charge a lot less than what they spend for these Bichons. At the same time, these adoption fees are meant to meet the expenses of the other dogs they rescued and are awaiting adoption.

Aside from the adoption fees, you may also want to be informed and prepared for the monthly, yearly, and lifetime expenses of owning a Bichon.

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Is It Difficult to Adopt a Bichon Frise From a Rescue?

Adopted Bichon Frise walking on snow

Given the number of rescue organizations across the country, it will not be difficult to find a Bichon Frise to adopt. All it takes is one click on the internet using the links provided in this article.

However, many Bichon Frise rescues are strict with their applications. As mentioned, they may need to schedule an interview or a house survey.

They can instantly reject your application if they find that you live in an unsafe environment or if you do not own other dogs.

They will also contact your veterinarian for previous medical records and ask if you have access to grooming services. They will call the references you wrote in the application to further assess your standing as an adopter.

It is a tedious task to do and will require time and effort on your side. Rescues only want their dogs to live in a safe home with parents who can truly take care of them.

They will simply give you a chance if you pass their requirements and if they see your sincerity and willingness to welcome a new dog into your life.

7 Tips for Getting Approved by a Rescue to Adopt a Bichon Frise

Not everyone will be lucky enough to get that adoption approval. Each Bichon Frise rescue has its requirements and policies that they strictly implement. Ignoring them will simply lower your chances of getting a Bichon.

The following tips will make sure that you will be driving back home with your new Bichon Frise:

  • Ask yourself multiple times if you are ready to adopt a dog. Are you ready for the responsibility of owning a new dog? Can you handle taking care of multiple dogs or pets? Can you afford medical care and grooming expenses? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself before making this big decision.
  • Do intensive research about Bichon Frise. Being knowledgeable about the breed can help you firmly decide if a Bichon Frise is the right dog for you. Information about their temperament, health risks, and other special needs are easily accessible on the internet. The Bichon Frise rescue’s website may also have a separate section about the breed on their website.
  • Compare the adoption process of different Bichon Frise rescue organizations. The adoption process may differ from one rescue to another. Ask yourself if you are willing to have a foster period before the adoption or if you are willing to undergo house inspection to comply with the rescue’s policies.
  • Meet their specific requirements. Once you have chosen the rescue, you need to make sure that you can meet their strict requirement. They usually require your yard to be fenced as well as your pool or water feature, if any.
  • Be honest in your application. Take your time in filling out the application form and answer them honestly. State if you have a job that will require you to work extra hours. If so, tell them who takes care of your pets during the day. Many scenario-based questions need your sincere explanation.
  • Visit the Bichon Frise in the rescue facility. Some rescues schedule a meeting for you to see your chosen or matched Bichon. If not, you can request to visit the dog in their facility to prove your dedication to adopting them.
  • Be patient. Processing applications may take some time. Bichon rescue organizations are mainly run by volunteers who are handling hundreds of applications each day. They need to make an in-depth assessment to assure that the dogs will be adopted by trustworthy applicants.

Wait for their phone call or email confirmation. If you get rejected, you can always try applying to another rescue.

Final Thoughts: Should You Adopt a Bichon Frise?

There are easier ways to get Bichon such as buying them from professional breeders or even backyard breeders. Adopting a rescue Bichon has a financial advantage but can also be a lot of work.

However, choosing to adopt shows support for a good cause. These abandoned dogs deserve a better life.

Bichons are one of the commonly abandoned breeds in the country. Even though they are sometimes stereotyped negatively, they are still one of the most affectionate dogs out there. Just like with any other breed, it requires patience to raise them successfully.

Applications require a lot of effort and could be a slow process. There will surely be rejections along the way, but it will all be worth it once you find the perfect Bichon Frise match for you.

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