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The Best Kentucky Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Kentucky. 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.

Bluegrass Bully Rescue
#19 in United States, #1 in Kentucky, #1 in Lexington
Lexington
Bluegrass Bully Rescue is a non profit all breed dog rescue founded in 2019. We are a volunteer run organization serving the Central Kentucky area primarily. We are a foster based organization who is committed to the health and safety of the dogs we rescue while looking for their adoptive homes. Our goal is to grow our volunteer and foster base in order to allow us to save as many dogs as possible.
"Adopted two dogs from here, they made sure we were taken care of, made sure the dogs were taken care..."
— andrew d.
Adoptee
"This rescue is truly selfless in all that they do. They rescue dogs that have no other hope, and bring..."
— joshua p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

Lexington Pit Crew
#41 in United States, #2 in Kentucky, #2 in Lexington
#3 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
Lexington
We are a Bully Breed rescue operating in Central Kentucky. We have been a nonprofit for over 10 years and work strictly with volunteers who have the same passion for pitbulls as well do.
"Highly recommend LPC. They go out of their way to support their fosters!"
— tracy c.
Supporter
"My wife and I have adopted two dogs from LPC. We also volunteer at events and have fostered before"
— dj m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

Tier Haven Rescue, Inc
#89 in United States, #3 in Kentucky, #1 in Louisville
#5 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
Louisville
At Tier Haven our hearts belong to the working dog breeds of Kentucky - German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois being our most common companions. The Tier Haven family is comprised of volunteers, adopters, and donors who have a passionate love for these working breeds and all of their quirks. We are brought together by the dogs that steal our hearts while chewing the shoe collection. Tier Haven Rescue, Inc was originally incorporated in 1996 under the name ARK Project, Inc and is a long standing member of the animal rescue community in Kentucky. Originally an all-breed rescue Tier Haven shifted to focus on working dogs with the rise of breed specific legislation which was leading to larger numbers of German Shepherds, and other working dogs, being euthanized. We are rooted in Kentucky with a strong passion for enacting change within the state which has a long journey towards building our animal welfare laws. Even as breed specific legislation has dwindled there are still large numbers of working dogs finding themselves at risk of euthanasia due to a lack of breed knowledge and/or training. Tier Haven is committed to giving these dogs a second chance and we are all honored to be part of their paths to a better life.
"During the Pandemic, like many people, we decided to adopt a shelter dog. After browsing many different sites, we were..."
— bob h.
Adoptee
"My husband and I adopted 3 German shepherds from Tier Haven over the last 5 years and we cannot say..."
— alina h.
Adoptee

Stray Animal Adoption Program (SAAP)
#100 in United States, #4 in Kentucky
Stray Animal Adoption Program (SAAP) was founded in 1998 and is dedicated to the rescue of dogs and cats that are in need of a forever home. Our animals are fostered in homes where they are provided with love, food, medical care, and socialization until adoption into a new loving home.

Wichita Pug Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Kentucky
#3 in pug
Pug

Franklin County Humane Society, Kentucky
#100 in United States, #4 in Kentucky
The mission of Franklin County Humane Society is to care for our area's homeless animals, to re-home as many animals as possible, and to improve animal welfare throughout our community. As an open-admission shelter, we accept all cats and dogs in need. We are an independent 501c3 organization, and we are contracted by the City of Frankfort and the Franklin County Fiscal Court for animal control services.

Mispits and Friends
#100 in United States, #4 in Kentucky, #2 in Louisville
Louisville
To provide a temporary safe haven for all dogs: all breeds, big and small, puppies and adults, fluffy and bald, differently-abled -- we help them all. We aspire to bring people and dogs together. Together, we create a family. Mispits and Friends Rescue is a non-profit organization formed in January of 2018.

Ariel Bully Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Kentucky, #2 in Louisville
#26 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
Louisville
Ariel Bully Rescue focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing bully breed dogs, in particular pit bulls and pit bull mixes. We help those abandoned on the street, abandoned in boarding facilities, and in shelters in Lousiville, Kentucky. Usually the dogs we take on have medical issues and/or behavioral issues due to neglect. They may also have suffered abuse. Our program of care involves: • allowing them to decompress in a safe, calm environment. • providing needed vetting, addressing any nutritional challenges through a diet of real food, and natural, holistic supplements. • training with our expert trainers to overcome any negative patterns and allow them to be a well adjusted dog. • love and care from a suitable foster parent.

The Best Lexington, KY Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Bluegrass Bully Rescue
Bluegrass Bully Rescue is a non profit all breed dog rescue founded in 2019. We are a volunteer run organization serving the Central Kentucky area primarily. We are a foster based organization who is committed to the health and safety of the dogs we rescue while looking for their adoptive homes. Our goal is to grow our volunteer and foster base in order to allow us to save as many dogs as possible.
View profile

Lexington Pit Crew
We are a Bully Breed rescue operating in Central Kentucky. We have been a nonprofit for over 10 years and work strictly with volunteers who have the same passion for pitbulls as well do.
View profile

The Best Louisville, KY Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Tier Haven Rescue, Inc
At Tier Haven our hearts belong to the working dog breeds of Kentucky - German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois being our most common companions. The Tier Haven family is comprised of volunteers, adopters, and donors who have a passionate love for these working breeds and all of their quirks. We are brought together by the dogs that steal our hearts while chewing the shoe collection. Tier Haven Rescue, Inc was originally incorporated in 1996 under the name ARK Project, Inc and is a long standing member of the animal rescue community in Kentucky. Originally an all-breed rescue Tier Haven shifted to focus on working dogs with the rise of breed specific legislation which was leading to larger numbers of German Shepherds, and other working dogs, being euthanized. We are rooted in Kentucky with a strong passion for enacting change within the state which has a long journey towards building our animal welfare laws. Even as breed specific legislation has dwindled there are still large numbers of working dogs finding themselves at risk of euthanasia due to a lack of breed knowledge and/or training. Tier Haven is committed to giving these dogs a second chance and we are all honored to be part of their paths to a better life.
View profile

Mispits and Friends
To provide a temporary safe haven for all dogs: all breeds, big and small, puppies and adults, fluffy and bald, differently-abled -- we help them all. We aspire to bring people and dogs together. Together, we create a family. Mispits and Friends Rescue is a non-profit organization formed in January of 2018.
View profile

Ariel Bully Rescue
Ariel Bully Rescue focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing bully breed dogs, in particular pit bulls and pit bull mixes. We help those abandoned on the street, abandoned in boarding facilities, and in shelters in Lousiville, Kentucky. Usually the dogs we take on have medical issues and/or behavioral issues due to neglect. They may also have suffered abuse. Our program of care involves: • allowing them to decompress in a safe, calm environment. • providing needed vetting, addressing any nutritional challenges through a diet of real food, and natural, holistic supplements. • training with our expert trainers to overcome any negative patterns and allow them to be a well adjusted dog. • love and care from a suitable foster parent.
View profile

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

Welcome to the 2024 Kentucky Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Kentucky 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 Kentucky dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Kentucky

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Kentucky Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Kentucky?

There are 7 in Kentucky. 3 are located in Louisville with 4 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Kentucky, the top 3 on our list are: Bluegrass Bully Rescue, Lexington Pit Crew, Tier Haven Rescue, Inc

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Kentucky offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Kentucky is German Shepherd with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Pit Bull with 2 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Kentucky?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Kentucky. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Adopters are required to complete an application. All animals in the adopters home must be fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered. We require a vet check and home check as well as a meet with all people and animals in the home prior to the dog starting a 2 week trial period. We do not finalize any adoption until the trail is up to confirm the home is a good fit for the dog. Our adoption contract requires that the dog be returned to us if the adopter can no longer take care of the dog for any reason.

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

Yes! Kentucky has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: German Shepherd Pit Bull

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

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Louisville is Tier Haven Rescue, Inc. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Kentucky is Lexington Pit Crew.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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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 Kentucky Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Bluegrass Bully Rescue

Lexington Pit Crew

Tier Haven Rescue, Inc

Stray Animal Adoption Program (SAAP)

Wichita Pug Rescue

Franklin County Humane Society, Kentucky

Mispits and Friends

Ariel Bully Rescue

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Kentucky

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Kentucky Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Kentucky?

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

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Kentucky offer?

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Kentucky?

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

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Kentucky 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 Kentucky?

David Adams

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