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The Best Des Moines, IA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

3 dog rescues found

Pit Bull
Senior dog
German Shepherd
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The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc — Sniffspot

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc

#99 in United States, #3 in Iowa, #1 in Des Moines

The ARL serves people and pets from across the state of Iowa through its programs, which include pet adoption, humane education, pet behavior training, spay/neuter, animal cruelty intervention and much more. The Animal Rescue League is dependent on individual and corporate contributions to care for its animals.

"Love Sky Sanctuary!!"

Des Moines, IA

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport — Sniffspot

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport

#99 in United States, #3 in Iowa, #1 in Des Moines

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport, Inc. is a 501(c)3, non-profit, foster-based animal rescue organization, headquartered in De Soto, IA. Our main purpose is to care for the homeless companion animals in our community and surrounding areas. We also provide much needed services to the pet owners in our area thru food assistance, low cost spay/neuter clinics, and TNR services. In addition to our own community, we strive to bridge the gap between traditional animal shelters and no-kill rescues throughout the central United States in 2 different ways: 1) By pulling dogs out of traditional shelters that are on death row and placing them in foster homes and forever homes through our organization; and 2) By providing free transportation for dogs from traditional shelters to other no-kill rescues all over the Midwest and Canada

"Wonderful rescue!"

Des Moines, IA

Safe Paws — Sniffspot

Safe Paws

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Safe Paws is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue dedicated to finding safe, permanent homes for animals who have set dates to be euthanized.

Des Moines, IA

Boone Area Humane Society — Sniffspot

Boone Area Humane Society

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

The Boone Area Humane Society was founded in 1977. We believe that because people domesticated animals, we have a responsibility to ensure their welfare. To ensure humane treatment, we respond to animal neglect and abuse calls, provide animal control for the Boone area, operate an animal shelter for lost, found and unwanted pets and provide humane education. We provide animal control services for Boone County and the cities and towns within. We also provide a safe place for people to bring in their unwanted pets. “Unwanted pets” come to the shelter for a variety of reasons. Some owners have exhausted their efforts to find homes for litters. Some owners may need our help due to health problems or when relocating. Some pets are abandoned. We ask for a nominal fee when relinquishing your pet to us. This is to help cover the cost of care- food, vaccinations, medical assessment, loving care, etc. while they are in our facility. We have a volunteer program and an orientation once a month for those who are interested in giving a little of the free time to the homeless animals. We also take donations of money, and high-quality food.

Des Moines, IA

Animal Protection and Education — Sniffspot

Animal Protection and Education

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Poweshiek Animal League Shelter (PALS) — Sniffspot

Poweshiek Animal League Shelter (PALS)

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

At PALS, a no-kill animal shelter located just south of Grinnell, IA, we change lives. We provide a safe haven and veterinary care to homeless cats and dogs, and we match them with individuals and families who benefit from the companionship, spontaneity, and joy they bring to a home. PALS relies entirely on donations and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. PALS works hard to provide our county with a shelter for animals in need. We care for our cats and dogs 365 days a year. Prior to our opening, the only option for stray animals picked up by city police and sheriff’s departments in Poweshiek County was a 7-day stay at local veterinary clinics. If owners or an adopting family were not found in that short period of time, the animals were then euthanized. PALS has stepped in not only to provide a safe haven for these homeless animals, but to also ensure they receive responsible vet care including spay/neuters, shots, deworming, and flea/tick control, as well as addressing any emergency medical concerns. We began with a network of foster homes in 2004, and we began our licensed shelter in 2007 after a generous donation from an anonymous source. We purchased 7 acres south of Grinnell, which is the animals' current home. We are happy to report that we have helped over 3000 cats and dogs find loving homes! Read more about our life-saving statistics. We rely entirely on donations. Unlike most animal shelters in Iowa, PALS receives no public funding of any kind. PALS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. We are licensed by the Iowa Department of Agriculture.

Des Moines, IA

Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown — Sniffspot

Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Animal rescue League of Marshalltown is a no-kill animal shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need. The Animal Rescue League of Marshalltown is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming lost, homeless, and abused companion animals. Our mission is to reunite pets with their families, find new loving homes for adoptable animals, and strengthen the bond between humans and their animal companions.

Des Moines, IA

Furry Friends Refuge — Sniffspot

Furry Friends Refuge

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Furry Friends Refuge is a nonprofit humane organization serving the animals of central Iowa. Furry Friends is a 501(c)3 tax-deductible organization and has created the first no-kill community in the Des Moines metro area. Until July 1, 2023, Furry Friends provided open admission services to pets in need for West Des Moines, Clive, and Urbandale. Furry Friends continues to serve all animal welfare needs for animals in Clive and Urbandale. We are currently assisting area shelters who are open admission and at or beyond capacity due to the current sheltering crisis being seen in Iowa and nationwide. Once we are able to provide sufficient support to stabilize those populations, we will expand our target jurisdictions to other neighboring communities who share our vision of building humane communities with a safety net for all animals in need. West Des Moines decided to terminate its partnership with Furry Friends as of July 2023 against the wishes of many citizens. Please contact the city manager Tom Hadden at tom.hadden@wdm.iowa.gov if you have a pet in West Des Moines who no longer has anywhere to go because of the city’s decision or if you are left waiting for hours or days with a stray animal due to the appointment only system for accepting stray animals the city has implemented in its new city run and taxpayer funded program. Furry Friends seeks to assist all area animals in need through a variety of programs including adoptions, spay and neuter, community outreach, and humane education. Additionally, the organization has partnered with Polk County Animal Control to provide housing, reunification, and adoption programs for stray animals in Clive and Urbandale. Furry Friends relies heavily on volunteers, and all donations go directly to the programs that serve the animals.

Des Moines, IA

Heartland Pet Hospital & Mobile Practice, P.C. — Sniffspot

Heartland Pet Hospital & Mobile Practice, P.C.

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

The Heartland Pet Hospital location has been a veterinary office for more than 40 years. Drs. Bright and McClatchey purchased the practice in 1998 and added Dr. Bright's house-call service to the business at that time. In 2007, the building was enlarged and remodeled to better serve our clientele. High quality in-house lab and x-ray provide results right away so treatment can be started immediately. In January of 2015, Dr. Bright became the sole owner of Heartland Pet Hospital.

Des Moines, IA

Safe Home Rescue — Sniffspot

Safe Home Rescue

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Paws-N-Claws Iowa — Sniffspot

Paws-N-Claws Iowa

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Paws-N-Claws Iowa was founded in Summer of 2020 by three very dedicated volunteers. Together these individuals have more than two decades of experience in the animal welfare industry and came together to provide the most progressive rescue practices while working to save the lives of those who need us most. We are a 100% foster based organization - meaning every one of the pets in our program resides in a volunteer's home. These volunteers are the backbone of our organization, providing loving, in-home care until our pets are ready for their forever home.

Des Moines, IA

Story County Animal Shelter — Sniffspot

Story County Animal Shelter

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Story County Animal Control & Shelter is responsible for overseeing and addressing animal control issues and concerns in rural Story County, as well as 12 cities that have agreements with the county for animal control and/or sheltering services. These services include, but are not limited to: o Enforcing ordinances related to the treatment and control of animals. o Responding to and handling complaints about animals. o Reports of animal bites. o Limited wildlife management. o Providing shelter and care while facilitating the process of reuniting animals with their owners and adoptions for animals in need of a new home. The team at the Story County Animal Shelter is comprised of committed individuals who share the mission of serving the public and safeguarding the well-being of animals both within the county and under their care.

Des Moines, IA

Heartland Greyhound Adoption — Sniffspot

Heartland Greyhound Adoption

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Heartland Greyhound Adoption is a volunteer, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, formed and operating in central Iowa to promote the adoption of retired racing greyhounds.

Greyhound

Des Moines, IA

Animal Rescue of Carroll — Sniffspot

Animal Rescue of Carroll

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Animal Rescue of Carroll (ARC) is a group of volunteers who began working together in 2006 to help improve the welfare for domestic animals in Carroll County. Since its start, Animal Rescue of Carroll has: - Grown to more than 100 active volunteers who help with the day to day operations including fostering, processing applications, grant writing, caring for dogs in the shelter, and much, much more. - On January 27th, 2009, ARC officially became a 501c3 Non-Profit organization allowing the public to make tax-deductible donations. - On February 3rd, 2011, ARC received its shelter license from the Iowa Department of Agriculture. Volunteers worked to convert a small hog confinement building into a full operational dog shelter. - Since achieving its shelter license, ARC now assists Carroll County's local pounds with animals facing euthanasia. - ARC is operating solely on generous volunteers who dedicate time to pets needing help as well spending time with their families, personal pets, and working their paying jobs. We would not be where we are today without our volunteers. - ARC receives no government funding. It operates from donations from the public, grants, fundraisers, and adoptions fees. Many times the adoption fees for an animal do not cover the cost of its care while awaiting for adoption. Without the generous support from our community and beyond, ARC would not be able to assist the 200+ animals that come into our care every year.

Des Moines, IA

Rescue Rehab Rehome — Sniffspot

Rescue Rehab Rehome

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Kiya Koda Humane Society — Sniffspot

Kiya Koda Humane Society

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

We are a state recognized non-profit 501(c)3 animal shelter. Our goal is to find loving, safe homes for these precious pets.

Des Moines, IA

Hope Animal Rescue — Sniffspot

Hope Animal Rescue

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Marion County Humane Society — Sniffspot

Marion County Humane Society

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

The Marion County Humane Society is an animal shelter located in Knoxville that serves the entire Marion County area. The purpose of MCHS is to give shelter to stray, lost or abandoned dogs and cats until either their owners are found or they are adopted to new homes. Since being founded in 1986 the MCHS has always required their adoptees to be altered to help the pet overpopulation. Part of the goal of the MCHS is to educate the public on the importance of spaying and neutering their pets.

Des Moines, IA

Raccoon River Pet Rescue — Sniffspot

Raccoon River Pet Rescue

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Raccoon River Pet Rescue (RRPR) was created with the vision of providing a safe and humane shelter for dogs and cats in Perry and the surrounding communities, activities for volunteers and opportunities for pet adoption. Through contributions from generous individuals and organizations, RRPR will build a pet rescue facility that will: Provide safe shelter for pets in Perry and the surrounding communities Strengthen the human-animal bond through volunteerism, fostering, and adoption opportunities

Des Moines, IA

Oh My Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

Oh My Dog Rescue

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

My. Dog. Rescue, based in Madrid and Des Moines, Iowa. You’re in for a real treat. Dog rescue simplified. It should be fun and rewarding to rescue, foster, volunteer and adopt! Our mission is to make that a reality with every life we save. We are Holly Kilstrom and Kara Berhow and fate slapped us together simply because the universe knew that two type A pawsonalities with a mutual love for sad-sack pups in need, were meant to join forces and change the world! We met when we both adopted dogs from the same rescue, and got drafted to be foster moms. Kara and her family spent just shy of 10 years fostering, and Holly has been part of the foster and rescue pack for 5 years. Together, we have found homes for hundreds of dogs. For many years we dreamt of creating a very special dog rescue to help area pups in need, and now it is a reality! Our joint experience in rehabilitating, fostering, rescuing, transporting, all the -ings that go into saving dogs, equals the perfect combination for a specialized rescue. Our hope is to help dogs that need a second, third, even a fourth chance to land in their furever homes (with a clean bill of health from the dogtor). Oh My Dog Rescue was officially established in November of 2022, taking in our first rescue in January of 2023! In our first year we rescued 200 dogs from overfull shelters, retiring breeders and owner releases. We are a foster-based rescue which means that no dogs in our care spend any time in a shelter. They learn “how to dog” in knowledgeable and loving homes.

Des Moines, IA

Ames Animal Shelter & Animal Control — Sniffspot

Ames Animal Shelter & Animal Control

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

Animal Lifeline of Iowa — Sniffspot

Animal Lifeline of Iowa

#100 in United States, #4 in Iowa, #2 in Des Moines

Animal Lifeline of Iowa (ALI), founded in 1986 outside of Carlisle, Iowa, is Central Iowa’s only special needs, no-kill animal shelter, celebrating nearly 40 years of serving the Des Moines area and all of Iowa. We rescue cats and dogs that are injured, handicapped, have a serious medical condition, are abused, are pregnant, are nursing moms, or are orphans that require bottle feeding. We rehabilitate the animals, who run a higher risk of euthanasia in a traditional shelter setting and then adopt them into loving forever homes. Animals are not euthanized because they have been at the shelter for a certain length of time.

Des Moines, IA


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Showing 1 - 3 of 3 rescues

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 3 private dog parks in the Des Moines area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Des Moines dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Des Moines, IA. 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.

Sniffspot Dog running on field

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list


Sniffspot Des Moines Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Des Moines?

There are 3 in Des Moines. Outside of Des Moines, there are 0 located in Iowa.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Des Moines?

There are many reputable rescues in Des Moines, the top 3 on our list are: AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport, The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc, Kiya Koda Humane Society.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Des Moines?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Des Moines. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
What to BringValid Driver's License or picture ID, and proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement). You must be 18 years or older and sign an adoption contract. Children and dogs that live in your household (if applicable). If you would like your child to meet an adoptable pet or your dog to be introduced to an adoptable dog before adopting, please bring them with you. We recommend dogs meet any resident dogs before adoption. All adults living in the home must also know about the pet and agree that it can live there. Leash and collar (dogs) or carrier (cats and small pets). Required when taking a pet home for safety reasons. If you don't have these items, you can purchase them at a discount from our Animal House pet supply shop at ARL Main.The ARL may require other information or require other steps be taken prior to adoption to ensure a pet is the right match for your family. The ARL only adopts animals as family pets, not for consumption or research. The ARL reserves the right to deny any adoption for any reason.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Des Moines, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Iowa

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Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool

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  • 15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private thumbnail

    15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private

    Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.

  • Dog Parks Near Me: Las Vegas Edition thumbnail

    Dog Parks Near Me: Las Vegas Edition

    Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!

  • Top Sniffspot Locations: Find the Perfect Dog Park thumbnail

    Top Sniffspot Locations: Find the Perfect Dog Park

    Looking for the perfect dog park? Whether you need a wide-open public space or a private, fenced-in spot, this guide will help you find the best dog parks across the US. We'll cover top-rated public parks, the perks of private dog parks, and even explore Sniffspot locations – giving your pup a safe and fun place to play. Ready to find your dog's new favorite spot? Let's go!

  • Sniffspot: Portland's Best Private Dog Parks thumbnail

    Sniffspot: Portland's Best Private Dog Parks

    Ready to discover Portland's best dog parks? Whether you're looking for a public park or the unique experience of a private Sniffspot, this guide has you covered. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your pup, with tips on what to bring, how to prepare, and even understanding dog body language. Plus, we'll explore some top Portland dog parks, including public and Sniffspot options, so you can plan your next dog-friendly adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • German Shepherd Lifespan: How Long Do GSDs Live? thumbnail

    German Shepherd Lifespan: How Long Do GSDs Live?

    German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. They're also incredibly versatile, excelling as working dogs and devoted family companions. This guide covers everything you need to know about GSDs, from understanding their unique traits and rich history to practical advice on training and care. We'll even address common questions like, "जर्मन शेफर्ड कुत्ते की उम्र कितनी होती है?" (How long do German Shepherds live?). So, whether you're a seasoned GSD owner or just starting your research, let's explore this remarkable breed together.

  • Pitbull Feeding Guide: How Much & How Often? thumbnail

    Pitbull Feeding Guide: How Much & How Often?

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Golden Retriever Advice: The Complete Owner's Guide thumbnail

    Golden Retriever Advice: The Complete Owner's Guide

    Golden Retrievers: they're gorgeous, playful, and incredibly popular. But before you welcome one into your home, you need the right golden retriever advice. This guide draws on the wisdom of nearly 10,000 Golden Retriever owners, offering practical tips for caring for these affectionate dogs. From understanding their high energy levels to mastering grooming and training, we'll cover everything you need to know. So whether you're already a devoted Golden parent or just starting your research, get ready to learn how to give your furry friend the best possible care.

  • American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide thumbnail

    American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide

    Think American Staffordshire Terriers are tough? Think again. While their muscular build might intimidate some, these dogs are known for their playful and loyal personalities. This guide draws on the experience of nearly 10,000 AmStaff owners to reveal the truth about this often misunderstood breed. Want to learn more about caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier? You're in the right place.

  • Australian Shepherd Facts: Breed Info & Care Guide thumbnail

    Australian Shepherd Facts: Breed Info & Care Guide

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US