If you're stopping by New Wave Bagel on Sunday, October 25, there may be a few puppies to meet along with your breakfast.

A New Life Rescue is hosting a Puppy Pop-Up from 10 a.m. to noon at the Leucadia shop. You can meet adoptable dogs, ask questions and talk with the volunteers. You don't need to be ready to adopt.

A Sunday Stop With a Bigger Purpose

New Wave Bagel is at 312 North Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. The rescue's event flyer lists the October 25 pop-up there.

If you've been thinking about adopting, it's a chance to meet some of the dogs in person. Photos are helpful. Spending a little time with a dog tells you more.

You can also stop by just to learn about the rescue. Check with the organizers for any last-minute event changes before heading over.

The Volunteers Behind Every Introduction

A New Life Rescue is foster-based. Its dogs stay with volunteer caregivers rather than at one central shelter while the rescue works to find homes.

If you meet a dog, ask the volunteer what they know about its routine and needs. How does it do around people? What kind of home might work best?

And if adopting isn't possible right now, you can still ask about fostering, transportation or helping at events. Rescues need people for more than dog walks.

What Happens After You Meet a Puppy?

Meeting a puppy doesn't mean you're taking it home that afternoon. A New Life Rescue has an adoption process.

Interested adopters can fill out a nonbinding application for pre-approval. The rescue also requires a home evaluation, which may be virtual or in person.

Household members and any dogs already living with you must meet the prospective new dog in San Diego. The rescue wants to check that the match makes sense.

Not every adoptable dog comes to every pop-up. If you have your eye on one from the rescue's website, ask in advance whether that dog will attend.

When you're there, follow the handler's lead. Give the puppy a moment to settle and ask about its health, temperament and daily care. It's okay to take your time.

A Good Morning, Even Without an Adoption

You can go for the puppies and leave with information. Maybe fostering turns out to be a better fit, or you know someone who's been looking for a dog.

And if all you bring home is a bagel, that's fine. You can still pass along the rescue's information to somebody who's ready.

Questions Before You Go

When is the Puppy Pop-Up?

Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon, according to the event flyer and dated rescue listing. Confirm any updates before attending.

Where will it take place?

New Wave Bagel, 312 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, in Leucadia.

Can I visit without adopting?

Yes. You can meet the dogs and ask volunteers about adoption or other ways to help.

Can I take a puppy home that day?

Don't assume so. The rescue has an application and home-evaluation process, and not every available dog attends.

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