Why This Site Exists
Rotts of Friends Animal Rescue, based in Woodland, California, presents itself as a reputable dog rescue serving Northern California and beyond. Its founder, Renee Lancaster, claims to adopt dogs out nationwide — but behind the branding lies a troubling reality.
This site was created to expose what’s really happening:
A growing record of deceit, manipulation, and cruelty — supported by dozens of firsthand accounts, public reviews, and direct experiences. What’s emerged is not a string of isolated incidents, but a clear pattern of unethical behavior and emotional harm to both animals and people.
We tried to give Renee a chance. We tried to believe her.
She lied. She broke every agreement. And she is still doing it to others.
This is not a smear campaign. It’s a warning.
This is not vengeance. It’s accountability.
This site exists to inform the public, demand transparency, and help prevent others from being hurt.
Regulatory agencies have been alerted. Formal channels are in motion.
This site is here to make sure the truth is impossible to ignore.
Chappy’s Story
Chappy, a Rottweiler grieving the loss of his owners after a tragic boating accident, was entrusted temporarily to Rotts of Friends with the understanding he would be returned. Instead, Renee Lancaster refused to return him, stopped communication, and weaponized his trauma against those trying to protect him.
What followed was silence, deception, and the exploitation of a vulnerable dog and grieving guardian. Chappy deserved better. Everyone does.
Click here to read Chappy’s full story and learn how this beloved Rottweiler was failed by the rescue that was supposed to protect him.
What People Are Saying
Below is a growing collection of firsthand accounts pulled directly from Google Reviews. Each paints a troubling picture of repeated behavioral patterns: manipulation, threats, unauthorized medical decisions, aggressive conduct, and deception. Click anywhere to learn more
"She refused to return my dog, claimed I surrendered him, and later told the court he had been euthanized without notifying me — weeks after I asked to pick him up." – Donna D.
"Adopted a dog listed as 'gentle' that bit me the first day. When I returned the dog, Renee threatened me and posted my private info online." – James M.
"Asked about dogs good with kids and Renee said 'You’ll just dump the dog in a few weeks.' Rude and presumptive." – Cody
"I boarded my dog and she later told me I had surrendered him. Now she says I have to re-adopt him and pay vet bills I never approved." – Dee D.
"We were turned away for arriving 15 minutes late, despite confirming no appointment was needed. She was condescending and hostile." – Nicole S.
"She screamed at us, refused to let us see dogs after a 2.5 hour drive. Extremely unpleasant and unprofessional." – Maurice M.
"We gave $1800 for a dog’s care and adoption. She gave us no updates, ignored us, and possibly lied about what happened to him." – Kathy K.
"She told us to euthanize a dog because he wasn’t a fit and made my fiancée cry. Absolutely horrifying experience." – Charles J.
"Demanded a $1000 donation after shaming me for rehoming my dog. Her attitude was disgusting." – Andrew L.
"I asked a question and she hung up on me. Her tone was erratic and unstable." – K.L.
"Told me she’d place me under citizen’s arrest for trying to retrieve my dog. No compassion. Just threats." – Anonymous
These are just a few of the many voices coming forward. We will continue to publish more to protect others from facing similar treatment. Click here to read and learn more
Make No Mistake: The Pattern Is Clear
As you read through the public reviews linked below, take a moment to sort by the 1-star ratings and actually read what people are saying. Renee Lancaster will often tell others she “doesn’t read reviews,” or claim that those who post negative experiences are lying, confused, or at fault. But the volume and consistency of these one-star reviews say otherwise.
This many people cannot be lying. This many people cannot be wrong.
Yes, some positive reviews exist — but the overwhelming number of serious complaints represent a pattern of behavior that cannot be explained away. These are not isolated incidents. They are the lived experiences of people who trusted this rescue and were hurt by it.
Read them. Decide for yourself. And most importantly — be careful.
Before You Adopt, Board, or Donate
Read the public reviews about Renee Lancaster and her affiliated businesses. These links speak for themselves:
- Rotts of Friends Animal Rescue (Yelp)
- Rotts of Friends Animal Rescue (Google)
- 29 Palms Pet Resort (Yelp)
- 29 Palms Pet Resort (Google)
- Yolo Canine Academy (Yelp)
- Yolo Canine Academy (Google)
Let the truth be known. Protect yourself. Protect the animals.
Share Your Story
If you've had an experience with Renee Lancaster or Rotts of Friends that you feel the public deserves to know, we want to hear from you. Please email [email protected]
Disclaimer
This site is presented for public education and transparency. All claims are supported by firsthand accounts, public records, or submitted statements. We aim to be factual and fair. Nothing on this site constitutes defamation — only truth, protected opinion, and publicly sourced evidence.