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The Best Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

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Sweet Home Doberman Rescue

#69 in United States, #1 in Alabama

Sweet Home Doberman Rescue (SHDR) is the only 501c3, not for profit Doberman rescue organization in Alabama. Founded in 2015, SHDR has committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and placement of abused, abandoned, and/or neglected Dobermans. It is SHDR's personal mission to assist these magnificent breeds in any way we can. We are dedicated to educating the public as well as future Doberman owners about these majestic, often misunderstood breeds. They are often portrayed as aggressive dogs who will attack at a moment's notice when in fact they are Velcro dogs who are loyal, protective, and want to please their family! A Doberman wants nothing more than to be by your side and on your couch. All SHDR rescues are up to date on their shots, HW tested, microchipped, and spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Some come into rescue injured or abused and it may take a little longer to ready them for a forever home.

"We adopted our 1 year old Zoey and it has been amazing, she gets ..." more

Island of Misfits

#74 in United States, #2 in Alabama

Our mission at Island of Misfits is to make a difference in the lives of shelter and unwanted animals we can bring into our lives. We also hope to make an impact on the pet overpopulation by offering a low cost option for spay and neuter.

"Connie was amazing to deal with from the start! I was long distan..." more

City of Mobile Animal Shelter

#95 in United States, #3 in Alabama, #1 in Mobile

Thank you for visiting the City of Mobile Animal Services website! In August 2021, The City of Mobile began charting a new course to transform how we support people and animals in our City. The creation of a new Animal Services Department under the arm of Administrative Services signified a shift to a modern approach to shelter, control and programs. With a focus on community partnerships, this forward-facing approach works to ensure safe and healthy environments for people and pets. The department promotes responsible pet ownership, implements programs to reduce animal overpopulation, and has formed innovative partnerships and programs to increase the City's effectiveness in supporting animals and humans in Mobile. As part of this approach, a newly modernized Animal Services facility is currently in design and will be built in a new location central to all parts of the City, and many new positions are also being added to further our mission and programs. We look forward to serving your needs!

"testing testimonial"

Mobile, AL

Wags and Whiskers

#98 in United States, #4 in Alabama

Wags and Whiskers, Mobile AL is a 501c3 FOSTER based animal rescue along the Gulf Coast. We do not have a brick and mortar facility. All of our adoptable animals are in Foster homes. We take in dogs from local shelters, strays, and from individuals who are in need of help. We can only take in dogs that we have a foster space available for and that space is limited due to the sheer number of unwanted dogs in our area.

"This shelter is amazing and is one of the best I’ve ever seen it’..." more

Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter

#99 in United States, #5 in Alabama

Metro Animal Shelter is a 501c3 non-profit organization that opened its doors in July, 1994. We are funded by the City of Tuscaloosa, City of Northport, and Tuscaloosa County Commission. Along with those funds, we receive donations which are tax-deductible, redemption and adoption fees. We receive animals from both animal control and citizens.

"They have worked so hard to turn this shelter around and it shows..." more

Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary

#99 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

The mission of Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary is to prevent cruelty to all animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption into their forever homes. Full Circle is a small, 501(c)(3), 100% volunteer-run, foster-based rescue and sanctuary in central Alabama.

"Golden retrievers saved from hell is a difficult mission…and they..." more

Huntsville, AL

Greater Huntsville Humane Society

#99 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has been rescuing North Alabama's homeless animals for 55 years. Our mission is dedicated to supporting the humane care and treatment of all animals and providing adoption services to homeless and unwanted animals. We also proudly serve our community through programs and initiatives such as King's Community Kitchen, Pet Wellness Clinics (returning in 2024!), the Good Samaritan Fund, and Community Day. Three Tails ReSale, the GHHS Thrift Store, provides a unique shopping experience for all members of our community, while supporting the pets of GHHS.

"Such a necessary for our community."

Huntsville, AL

Dixie Girl Dog Rescue

#99 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

At Dixie Girl Dog Rescue, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home. We are dedicated to finding the right families for our animals, ensuring every pet is placed in a safe and loving environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals in need, and we strive to find homes for every pet, regardless of age or breed. We are committed to finding forever homes for each of our rescues and we are proud of the successful adoptions we have facilitated. We believe in the power of happy endings, and we are here to make that happen.

"We had a wonderful experience adopting our family member Tipper b..." more

Huntsville, AL

Greater Birmingham Humane Society

#100 in United States, #6 in Alabama, #1 in Birmingham

In 1883, a young educator, Dr. John Herbert Phillips, came to Birmingham to direct the city's floundering school system. Dr. Phillips realized that a well-rounded child must be taught humane values and compassion. To that end, he founded the Birmingham Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals as well as the city's first High School and Birmingham's public library. GBHS has worked through more than our share of obstacles and problems. And yet, when you consider our predecessors had to take uncharted steps through times of war, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, it is a credit to uncounted supporters that we have not lost sight of our primary goals. Our mission is, always has been, and will be to ‚promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services‚

Birmingham, AL

American Lurcher Project

#100 in United States, #6 in Alabama

An exciting movement is underway to save the American Lurchers. The American Lurcher Rescue Project is a team of dedicated volunteers concerned about the plight of the American Lurcher ‚ the underdogs of underground racing. Our love for the retired racing Greyhounds has drawn us together to help the thousands of lurchers who have often been forgotten. We hope to make a difference by helping them find loving forever homes through transport of these wonderful dogs to responsible adoption groups throughout the United States and Canada. We are a young group, but have accomplished much since we started transporting needy lurchers to groups in September of 2013. We hope to make a difference by raising awareness of the need for finding homes and adoption groups for the racing lurchers once their career has ended, through social media, networking, and the general support of a caring community.

Showing 1 - 10 of 10 rescues

The Best Birmingham, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Greater Birmingham Humane Society
In 1883, a young educator, Dr. John Herbert Phillips, came to Birmingham to direct the city's floundering school system. Dr. Phillips realized that a well-rounded child must be taught humane values and compassion. To that end, he founded the Birmingham Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals as well as the city's first High School and Birmingham's public library. GBHS has worked through more than our share of obstacles and problems. And yet, when you consider our predecessors had to take uncharted steps through times of war, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, it is a credit to uncounted supporters that we have not lost sight of our primary goals. Our mission is, always has been, and will be to ‚promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services‚
View profile

The Best Huntsville, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary
The mission of Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary is to prevent cruelty to all animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption into their forever homes. Full Circle is a small, 501(c)(3), 100% volunteer-run, foster-based rescue and sanctuary in central Alabama.
View profile

Greater Huntsville Humane Society
The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has been rescuing North Alabama's homeless animals for 55 years. Our mission is dedicated to supporting the humane care and treatment of all animals and providing adoption services to homeless and unwanted animals. We also proudly serve our community through programs and initiatives such as King's Community Kitchen, Pet Wellness Clinics (returning in 2024!), the Good Samaritan Fund, and Community Day. Three Tails ReSale, the GHHS Thrift Store, provides a unique shopping experience for all members of our community, while supporting the pets of GHHS.
View profile

Dixie Girl Dog Rescue
At Dixie Girl Dog Rescue, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home. We are dedicated to finding the right families for our animals, ensuring every pet is placed in a safe and loving environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals in need, and we strive to find homes for every pet, regardless of age or breed. We are committed to finding forever homes for each of our rescues and we are proud of the successful adoptions we have facilitated. We believe in the power of happy endings, and we are here to make that happen.
View profile

The Best Mobile, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

City of Mobile Animal Shelter
Thank you for visiting the City of Mobile Animal Services website! In August 2021, The City of Mobile began charting a new course to transform how we support people and animals in our City. The creation of a new Animal Services Department under the arm of Administrative Services signified a shift to a modern approach to shelter, control and programs. With a focus on community partnerships, this forward-facing approach works to ensure safe and healthy environments for people and pets. The department promotes responsible pet ownership, implements programs to reduce animal overpopulation, and has formed innovative partnerships and programs to increase the City's effectiveness in supporting animals and humans in Mobile. As part of this approach, a newly modernized Animal Services facility is currently in design and will be built in a new location central to all parts of the City, and many new positions are also being added to further our mission and programs. We look forward to serving your needs!
View profile

What's the Sniffspot Alabama Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

Welcome to the 2025 Alabama Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Alabama chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Alabama dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Alabama. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Alabama

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Alabama?

There are 10 in Alabama. 3 are located in Huntsville with 7 are located in other areas of the state.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Alabama?

There are many reputable rescues in Alabama, the top 3 on our list are: Sweet Home Doberman Rescue, Island of Misfits, City of Mobile Animal Shelter

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Alabama?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Alabama. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
We are a best match rescue. Please visit our site for application details.

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in Alabama?

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Alabama, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby states, including New Jersey, Utah, Illinois.

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Alabama that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Alabama, but these are the top senior dog rescues from nearby states: The London Sanctuary, Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, Reed's Rescue, Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue, Adopt a Golden Atlanta, Misspits Rescue, Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc., Animal Farm Foundation, Over the Hill Senior Dog Sanctuary, Frosted Faces Foundation, Laramie Animal Welfare Society, Old Dogs Go To Helen, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Muttville, Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, Young At Heart Senior Pet Adoptions, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, Home Free Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Hound Haven of Lone Pine, Living Grace Canine Ranch, Tails of Gray, Sunny Sky's Animal Rescue, Senior Pet And Animal Rescue, Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary, Leashes End Senior Pet Sanctuary, Sammie’s Senior Dog Sanctuary, The Golden Bark Foundation, Camp Golden Years, Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue, Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary, Charlie's Foundation, Daisy Senior Dog Foundation aka DaisyLu Ranch, Silver Linings Rescue Ranch, Lionel's Legacy, Rusty's Angels Sanctuary, Gray Muzzle Society, Colorado Senior Dog Rescue and Hospice, Grand-paws Senior Sanctuary, Angels For Sara Sanctuary

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Alabama?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Huntsville is Dixie Girl Dog Rescue.

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Dog enrichment guides

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Dog reactivity guides

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What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
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City dog parks guides

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The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
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Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

What's the Sniffspot Alabama Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Alabama

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Alabama?

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Alabama?

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Alabama?

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in Alabama?

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Alabama that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Alabama?

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