About Us
Hi, I’m Crystal Cassese, founder of Miko's Rescue Mission Inc., based in sunny California, and that's Miko in the picture with me!
I adopted my sweet Miko in November 2022, he is my Soul Dog and the inspiration behind our rescue organization! He has some special needs related to having a panic disorder which includes separation anxiety, animal reactivity, sound sensitivity, and being dog-selective.
Let's just say I was NOT prepared at all when I first adopted him, and together through building a close loving bond, utilizing humane reward-based training (as well as behavioral meds), he has grown and come such a long way since 2022.
We strive to help as many pitbulls and bully breed dogs to live lives full of joy and love in their furever homes OR on our future animal sanctuary property!
Our Philosophy
We’re all about focusing on dogs having opportunities to be themselves without trying to control them. Dogs deserve to have choices as well as freedom and autonomy in their lives as much as possible.
This is why we say NO to making an 'obedient dog' who only listens to you out of fear of being 'corrected' or punished. Instead, we encourage building a loving relationship based on providing a safe and loving environment along with a solid connection with your dog.
How We Help Our Fosters & Adopters Succeed
We offer virtual training programs with certified trainers for our fosters and adopters and are fully committed to being a lifelong partner with all of our adoptive pet parents!
Ethical and humane treatment of dogs is crucial, especially when it comes to training or working with a qualified and certified trainer. We advocate for science-backed programs that align with LIMA-based methods for building a loving connection without the use of aversive tools (no e-collars or prong collars ever!)
We use a combination of rewards-based training that includes a blend of force-free, positive reinforcement, cooperative care, 'talking buttons', and the open-minded approach to guide dogs through a happy, loving, and exciting life!
Tax-Deductible Donations
We are a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit organization since 2024. We are dedicated to serving the long-term needs of pitbulls and bully breeds across California and getting more dogs into loving furever homes!
What Your Donation Provides
You help provide everything our dogs need to thrive! Here is a general list of ongoing expenses (not limited to):
- Dry Dog Food, Food Toppers (Tuna, chicken, Wet Dog Food, etc.), Training Treats, Chews and Other Treats
- Vet Care, Medications (flea/tick/heartworm, behavioral, prescription foods/supplements, etc.)
- Toys, Bedding, Blankets, Play Yard Fencing, Baby Gates, Kennels and Crates, Fans
- Virtual & In-Person Training w/ Certified Trainers
- Transport Costs, Housing (such as Paid Foster Homes, Boarding, or Pet Sitters)
- Outings such as Sniffspots
- Administrative Needs (Website, Legal, Renewal Costs, etc.)
- Animal-Safe Cleaning and Sanitation Supplies, Laundromat Fees, Detergent, Pee Pads, etc.
- Other Supplies such as Apple AirTags, Muzzles, Leashes, Harnesses, Food and Water Bowls, Security Cameras, etc.
Our Partners
We are proud to be in the process of partnering with a variety of businesses, organizations, and individuals to provide the best possible support and care for our dogs. Together we are saving and changing the lives of our pitties, fosters, and adopters!
By supporting Miko’s Rescue Mission Inc., you are supporting your community while working towards a more sustainable and humane future for as many pitbulls and bully breed dogs as possible!
Future Goals
Our goal is to eventually have the funding to provide financial assistance to help more people KEEP their dogs, as well as creating or supporting a spay-and-neuter voucher/sponsorship program for local communities.
We also hope to one day purchase a property to build and furnish a pitbull and bully breed sanctuary. This will be a place where dogs who are not adoptable due to specific behavioral needs (or lack of finding an experienced handler) can live their lives in safety and love. This is our ultimate dream and we hope to make it happen by 2028!