The XCA Rescue League was created in 1986 during the XCA’s inaugural meeting. Breed rescue is considered a primary purpose of our organization. To make that possible,
a portion of our club’s annual budget is reserved solely for the purpose of providing temporary and permanent care for any Xolo in need. We accept dogs from shelters, private individuals and breeders who cannot care for their dogs. We also work with other rescue groups.

XCA rescued Xolos vary in age, breed type and quality. They range from healthy purebred puppies to elderly dogs of mixed ancestry. All XCA rescues, regardless of quality or ancestry, are neutered prior to placement. We provide all necessary medical care prior to placement.

We also provide ongoing advice and support for our adopters. We cannot guarantee the future genetic health or behavior of our rescues. However, we do as much as possible to evaluate dogs before placement and apprise potential adopters of potential issues that may occur.


The XCA Rescue League is NOT a source of free or low cost purebred Xolos. We do everything in our power to ensure a good match between our rescues and their future homes. However, prospective owners should be prepared to provide a loving stable permanent home for a rescue Xolo. In many cases, this includes substantial commitment to training and rehabilitation.

Potential adopters are invited to visit our rescue page to download an adoption form and join our waiting list. This is a screening process involving a home check and background check.

If your application is approved we may have a Xolo for you within a few weeks. Or you may face a wait of several months.

Our adoption fee is $200 which includes neutering, vaccinations, health check, microchipping. Adopters are required to sign and adoption contract and join the XCA for a minimum of one year. New Xolo owners are encouraged to participate in club activities with their adopted Xolos in order to learn about the breed, dog care and training. We offer classes for rescue Xolos at our specialties. They can also obtain an Indefinite Listing Privilege (ILP) registration number and compete in AKC companion dog events. Activities like this offer an ongoing source of education about dog care and training. We do no condone the practice of exploiting rescue Xolos by exhibiting them in “Ugly Dog” contests.

The Xolo Rescue League is always looking for volunteers to assist with fundraising and foster care. Anyone interested in joining XRL is invited to contact our national coordinators Kathy Lawson or Shannon Larson.