Looking to adopt a Chinchilla?
We might be able to help! We volunteer as the Chinchilla Rescue Coordinator with Cali_FID Parrot and Exotics Rescue Sanctuary in Modesto, CA—a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
It all began in high school when I discovered the need for chinchilla rescue and fostering in my community. I became the sole chinchilla foster for Cali_FID and, over the past decade, have worked to expand our network of chinchilla foster homes. Today, our dedicated team—including Leah, Amy, Carol, Emily, Nina, Jen, the founder, and myself —has helped countless chinchillas find second chances and better lives.
We’re here to help you learn about and prepare for your future chinchilla companion. Whether you're new to chinchilla care or looking to adopt, feel free to reach out—we’d love to support your journey!
All adoption fees for the Chinchillas are paid to the rescue. We do not keep any of the money, that money is saving lives! Fees are collected during your final adoption appointment IN PERSON. Protect yourself from scams online please!
What is the process?
We’re not looking for perfection—we’re looking for committed homes ready to learn!
If you’re an experienced chinchilla owner, the process should be smooth and straightforward. If you’re new to chinchillas, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We highly encourage anyone interested in adopting to do thorough independent research about chinchilla care. Once we receive your adoption application, we’ll also provide a brief care guide to get you started.
Here’s how the process works:
Explore: Browse through our available chinchillas and find your potential match.
Apply: Submit an adoption application on the Cali_FID Rescue website.
Learn: A volunteer will contact you with our Chinchilla Care 101 Guide, Getting Ready Guide and a learning quiz to help reinforce your knowledge. During this time, you can ask any questions, and our coordinator will address them.
Approval: Once your application and quiz are approved, we’ll place a hold on your chosen chinchilla for 1–2 weeks. This gives you time to gather the necessary supplies outlined in the guide.
Final Review: After confirming you’re ready, the board will review everything and, once approved, we’ll schedule your adoption appointment!
Important Notes:
Adoption fees are collected in person at the time of adoption. We do not collect fees in advance or ship animals. Be cautious of scammers impersonating the rescue and requesting electronic payments—that is NOT us.
We look forward to helping you welcome your new chinchilla companion into your home!
FAQs
Do the Chinchillas Come with Enclosures & Supplies?
No, adopters are responsible for providing their own carrier, enclosure, and supplies.
Occasionally, the rescue may have gently used cages and supplies available for a small donation. If you're interested, feel free to ask! However, keep in mind that these items may require cleaning, repairs, or modifications before they are suitable for your new pet.
Our Adoption Coordinator will provide detailed enclosure recommendations, along with tips, tricks, and advice to help you prepare for your chinchilla. Soak up as much information as you can, and don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re happy to help!
What Are Adoption Fees?
Adoption fees are set by the rescue organization, not Chinnie Boutique. Chinnie Boutique does not profit from any fees related to the chinchillas.
These fees help the rescue recoup costs for veterinary care, supplies, enclosures, and other expenses needed to operate. Cali_FID is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so you can feel confident knowing your adoption directly supports life-saving work for small exotic pets—not just chinchillas!
In most cases, adoption fees are lower than market rates for a chinchilla. Currently, standard grey chinchillas typically sell for $250–$300, while certain color mutations can range up to $2,000 when purchased from a pet store or breeder.
Be Smart! Protect Yourself from Scammers
Scammers are everywhere online. Chinnie Boutique does NOT collect adoption fees for Cali_FID Rescue, and your Adoption Coordinator will never request payment electronically in advance.
🔹 All adoption fees are due in person at your final adoption appointment—when you meet your new pet and complete the adoption paperwork.
If anyone asks you to send money upfront, it's a scam! Stay safe and always verify with the rescue directly.
What Are The Adoption Fees?
Adoption fees are set by Cali_FID Rescue and are subject to change. Below is a general breakdown of fees for chinchillas:
$100
Standard Grey, Light Ebony & Beige
$200
Tan, Dark Ebony / Extra Dark Ebony, Black Velvet / Brown Velvet
$250
Young Chinchillas (Under 1 Year Old), White / Mosaic, Sapphire, Violet / Blue Diamond
$300
Goldbar
$500 (Uncommon)
Angora, Spayed/Neutered Chinchillas
Discounts
🐾 Senior Chinchillas / Pairs – $25 off
🐾 Fur Chewers – $25 off
Contact us.
If you have another question related to the volunteer work we do with Cali_FID Parrot and Exotic Rescue, please send us a message.
Please remember, we’re just volunteers helping the rescue get in touch with Chinchilla owners, because who better to ask for help than people who love their Chinchillas?
If you need to surrender your pet, you may reach out here, but you will be redirected to the rescue’s website and placed on a surrender list due to the rescue being limited to foster homes.
The information you provide below will be shared with Cali_FID Parrot and Exotic Rescue Sanctuary for the sole purpose of helping you with your pet, or to assist you with getting started as a volunteer. We don’t sell your information.