This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Louisiana. 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.
#98 in United States, #1 in Louisiana
The Animal Shelter provides a safe and clean facility for stray animals or unwanted pets. We offer a wide array of animals for adoption throughout the year. Please come by the shelter, or call to inquire about the types of animals that are available to adopt.
"This group brings dogs from kill shelters in North Carolina and brings them to Washington DC. This gives them a..."
— jane a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"I have adopted 2 wonderful dogs from this shelter. The staff and volunteers spend so much time with the..."
— karen h.
Adoptee
#98 in United States, #1 in Louisiana, #1 in Baton Rouge
#16 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
Baton Rouge
VRC works ceaselessly to give Pit Bulls (and other types of dogs) another chance in life. Each and EVERY dog is taken in and received any and all medical treatment necessary. We work patiently to re-acclimatize fearful dogs to the loving care of a human, so that they may eventually be adopted. In some cases, these dogs have never had a kind word or touch, and it is a slow process. After determining temperaments and compatibility factors, we begin that long search for the perfect home.
"I see this rescue constantly promoting healthy dogs/cats & they support & promote the spay/neuter program. They keep the facility..."
— carol t.
Fan
"Donna's Love Rescue will go to the enth degree to help a dog. I have been with them on a..."
— nancy f.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#99 in United States, #2 in Louisiana, #1 in New Orleans
New Orleans
The Louisiana SPCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promote, protect and advance the well-being of Louisiana's companion animals. As the oldest and most comprehensive animal welfare organization in the state, we impact more than 73,000 homeless and companion animals each year. For more than 130 years we have been committed to service the needs of the people and animals in the Greater New Orleans community and across the region as a 4-star Charity Navigator rated nonprofit ranking in the top 1% nationally.
"The LASPCA has been helping animals for over 130 years. The facility is not only esthetically pleasing but the staff..."
— wendy a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Lafayette
Lafayette
The Iberia Parish Rabies and Animal Control facility operates the Animal Shelter at 2017 Seaway Access Road, focusing on public health and safety. Its primary goal is to ensure that all dogs and cats in Iberia Parish are vaccinated against rabies and registered. This program also includes enforcing rabies and leash law ordinances, as well as handling animal quarantine and observation for bite cases. The shelter takes in unwanted or stray animals, either picked up by animal control officers or dropped off by residents.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Monroe
Monroe
PAWS of NE Louisiana, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that has been serving the Northeast Louisiana area since 2003. It was founded by local residents who realized the problems that our community faced regarding animal welfare would not go away without intervention and education. We are an all-volunteer organization that is guided by a volunteer board of directors. We do not have a physical location, we do not have paid employees, and we are not a shelter. PAWS is not a branch or division of any national agency. We do not receive tax funding. Our sources of funding are fundraisers and donations and grants from individuals and organizations. Since its inception, PAWS has grown and flourished thanks to our volunteers, members, and supporters. PAWS provides services to our community through our many Programs: Spay/Neuter Assistance, Shelter Animal Rescue, Tag Your Pet, and Pet Therapy/Humane Education. Please click on the specific pages for each Program to learn more.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Monroe
Monroe
The Heart of Louisiana Humane Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that was founded in 2008 by Rae McManus. Our organization operates out of the Central Louisiana area with headquarters in Winnfield, Louisiana. HLHS is completely volunteer ran and operated, we are also foster based, meaning All companions in our organization are in homes of our fosters. The Heart of Louisiana Humane Society (HLHS) Is a non-profit 501c3 group who operates solely on donations and is completley foster based. 100% of your donation goes towards the rescue of our companions. There are no salaries and no administration costs.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Monroe
Monroe
Saving Paws of Caldwell was started in April 2011 by Deborah Wilson and Donna Pardue. They began under the Louisiana Humane Society. By summer 2012 they incorporated and became Saving Paws of Caldwell. They set out to rescue animals in the parish that were being abandoned and abused. It took them a year to get the funds together to build a shelter at the Caldwell Correctional Center. At the end of 2015 SPC finally got their 501(c)3 status. That shelter was quickly too small and additional kennels had to be built. The facility at the prison was shut down in January 2021. SPC is now located at 106 Tranquility Lane, Columbia, LA. 2022 brought a lot of changes to SPC. With funds left to us we were able to purchase a transport van. With the van we take dogs to states up north. We continually grow and change as needed to keep our organization alive.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #2 in New Orleans
New Orleans
It is the mission, duty, and purpose of Zeus' Rescues to eradicate pet homelessness and euthanasia within the New Orleans metro area. The organization is further committed to community-building and pet education with a focus on children and the elderly. We find forever homes for animals that are pulled from high kill metro shelters. We are not an in-take shelter. We are an all-volunteer group funded by private donations and grants. We receive no local or state public funding.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
Shreveport
Pet Savers, Inc. in Shreveport, Louisiana. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. We have provided a safe, no-kill alternative to animal control for almost two decades.However, our space is limited and if pets are not being adopted quickly enough, we will not have room to take in more. By adopting a pet, you will change the life of a homeless animal. Above all, you will save the life of the pet you adopt, and you will create space for another life to be saved. Many of the pets we save are strays. Honestly, we cannot guarantee that they are house-trained, good with children, good with other pets, friendly or unfriendly. Though the history of many are unknown, we do know all animals are deserving of a safe and loving home.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
#8 in puppy
Puppy
Shreveport
Louisiana (LA) Baby Mommas Rescue is a non-profit 501c3 organization that started out as a division of Texas Star Rescue (TSR) and decided to branch out due to the high demand for a rescue dedicated to saving the lives of puppies & pregnant dogs. We rescue these puppies and momma dogs from various situations, nurse and love them back to health, and adopt them out to qualified families when they are ready. LA Baby Mommas specialize in rescuing puppies that often require around the clock monitoring and bottle feeding, as well as medical special needs. Rescue animals often have horrible beginnings, but it is our goal to help them with their journey to a happily ever after.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
Shreveport
We are a local no-kill shelter located in Shreveport, Louisiana. We are a 501-C3 organization! We survive solely on donations and volunteers. The Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana was established in August of 1997 by volunteers to address the concerns and needs of animals in our area. We are here to help dogs in need through sheltering, adoption, spay/neuter, education and community outreach. HUMANE SOCIETY OF NORTHWEST LOUISIANA INC EIN #72-1396136 Our Goals: • Promote early spay/neuter programs so we have no more unwanted litters. • Lower the number of animals unnecessarily euthanized in local shelters. • Promote adoption from local shelters and animal groups.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
Shreveport
All animals in the care of Bossier City Animal Services (BCAS) will be appropriately housed, fed, watered and cared for, provided veterinary care as appropriate, given the best chance for reunification or adoption; and if necessary, humanely euthanized according to guidelines set forth by the Louisiana Board of Veterinary Medicine. In order to satisfy Bossier City Ordinance Sec. 14-104 - Records: All transactions with BCAS will require a valid ID to be presented. Whether an animal is being left with us as a stray or owner surrender, an animal is being adopted, or you are involved in an animal incident or providing a witness statement, you will be expected to provide a legal, valid Identification upon request. All animals without a microchip will be microchipped upon leaving BCAS with a previous owner or new adopter, in order to improve reunification of animals with their family in our city. The owner of any animal being reclaimed will be responsible for the cost of the microchip. The adoption fee includes the microchip. Rescues may request the animal receive a microchip at a reduced fee.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
Shreveport
Rockers Rescue is located around Shreveport, Louisiana. The non profit was founded in November of 2015 by Megan DeMoss. Rockers Rescue is dedicated to providing exemplary vetting care, loving foster homes, and finding amazing forever homes for both dogs and cats in need! We focus passionately on saving animals at our local shelters, helping with severe cases and educating the public when possible. Our animals are TREASURED as our own and receive the best of care! We're here to be a stepping stone from unwanted and in need, to forever loved and treasured. We are a 501c3 non profit rescuing both dogs and kitties in need and we have no breed restrictions. We love them all. We function with volunteers so donations FULLY benefit the rescue! We fall in love with dogs and kitties that are in need. Dirty, scared, malnourished, mange, heartworms, embedded collars, elderly, bottle feeders, etc. When we pull a dog or cat under our rescue …. they are treated as if they are our own personal pets. They receive ALL vet care. We get them fixed, microchipped, and up to date. We nurture them back to health and we get attached to them. From kittens without a mom, to senior dogs without a hope. We see lots of them evolve from scared and discarded pets to beautiful happy ones. Most go from a high kill shelter with no hope… to a lovely AMAZING pet.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana, #1 in Shreveport
Shreveport
Founded in March, 2012, Ninna's Road to Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. We are located in BENTON, LA. We do not publicize our address to protect our dogs and our volunteers. Adoptions are scheduled by appointment only with approved adopters. Continue reading for instructions to apply. Our mission is to rescue and re-home primarily small-breed dogs. Most of our dogs come from kill-shelters and in and around Northwest Louisiana. We also take in many retiring breeder dogs. We provide vetting, socialization, and via over 50 EXPERIENCED volunteers, we provide healing of mind, body and soul. Our goal is to find each dog the "right" home, not just "a" home. We rescue and rehome approximately 400 dogs each year!
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana
At Lost Ball Canine Rescue, we strive to rescue GSDs and other breeds who are abandoned, abused, or unwanted. We provide the medical care and training needed to find a loving forever family. Our organization is committed to keeping pets safe, happy, and healthy while they wait to be placed in a forever home. Ways to Help: • Financial Donations: Help us cover medical expenses, food, and shelter for the dogs in our care. • Donate Items: From food and toys to blankets and cleaning supplies, every item makes a difference. • Volunteer Your Time: Whether it's fostering, helping with transports, or offering support at events, your time is invaluable to us. • Every bit of help goes a long way in giving these dogs the second chance they deserve.
#100 in United States, #3 in Louisiana
Pineville Animal Control was established in 1984. As a part of Pineville's Department of Public Works we serve the area within the City limits of Pineville, protecting the citizens and animals of Pineville.
VRC works ceaselessly to give Pit Bulls (and other types of dogs) another chance in life. Each and EVERY dog is taken in and received any and all medical treatment necessary. We work patiently to re-acclimatize fearful dogs to the loving care of a human, so that they may eventually be adopted. In some cases, these dogs have never had a kind word or touch, and it is a slow process. After determining temperaments and compatibility factors, we begin that long search for the perfect home.
Dante's Hope-Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 charity dedicated to helping animals in need in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and surrounding areas.
A no-kill rescue is an animal rescue that does not kill healthy or treatable animals even when the shelter is full, reserving euthanasia for terminally ill animals or those considered dangerous to public safety. We do not have a physical location just yet, but we are working towards opening up one if that’s God‘s will! We are currently a Foster-based Rescue. We are doing our part in helping West and East Feliciana in decreasing the stray dog population, and owner surrenders. If you are in need of assistance, just give us a call, send an email or message us through social media! We are actively looking for fosters and/or volunteers- please fill out an application! We would love to have you! Our goal is creating "Happy Tails"
PAWS of NE Louisiana, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that has been serving the Northeast Louisiana area since 2003. It was founded by local residents who realized the problems that our community faced regarding animal welfare would not go away without intervention and education. We are an all-volunteer organization that is guided by a volunteer board of directors. We do not have a physical location, we do not have paid employees, and we are not a shelter. PAWS is not a branch or division of any national agency. We do not receive tax funding. Our sources of funding are fundraisers and donations and grants from individuals and organizations. Since its inception, PAWS has grown and flourished thanks to our volunteers, members, and supporters. PAWS provides services to our community through our many Programs: Spay/Neuter Assistance, Shelter Animal Rescue, Tag Your Pet, and Pet Therapy/Humane Education. Please click on the specific pages for each Program to learn more.
The Heart of Louisiana Humane Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that was founded in 2008 by Rae McManus. Our organization operates out of the Central Louisiana area with headquarters in Winnfield, Louisiana. HLHS is completely volunteer ran and operated, we are also foster based, meaning All companions in our organization are in homes of our fosters. The Heart of Louisiana Humane Society (HLHS) Is a non-profit 501c3 group who operates solely on donations and is completley foster based. 100% of your donation goes towards the rescue of our companions. There are no salaries and no administration costs.
The Louisiana SPCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promote, protect and advance the well-being of Louisiana's companion animals. As the oldest and most comprehensive animal welfare organization in the state, we impact more than 73,000 homeless and companion animals each year. For more than 130 years we have been committed to service the needs of the people and animals in the Greater New Orleans community and across the region as a 4-star Charity Navigator rated nonprofit ranking in the top 1% nationally.
It is the mission, duty, and purpose of Zeus' Rescues to eradicate pet homelessness and euthanasia within the New Orleans metro area. The organization is further committed to community-building and pet education with a focus on children and the elderly. We find forever homes for animals that are pulled from high kill metro shelters. We are not an in-take shelter. We are an all-volunteer group funded by private donations and grants. We receive no local or state public funding.
Welcome to the 2024 Louisiana Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Louisiana 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 Louisiana dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
If you currently have an existing small breed dog in your home, we will not adopt out a larger breed dog (this includes our Pit Bulls) into your home. From time to time, we do have some non-Pit Bull medium to smaller breed dogs that may work out. We do this for the safety of your dog. You may be asked to bring your dog to Louisiana to do an preliminary introduction with the dogs but that can be discussed with our adoption counselor especially if it is a long distance adoption. Blind dates not always successful. Depending on your dog experience, we may be able to adjust the guidelines for this type of adoption.If you have an existing non-Pit Bull in your home and you want to adopt one of our non-Pit Bulls.we may ask you to make the drive to have the dogs meet first. ‚Blind dates‚ aren't always successful so this will depend on what you and our adoption counselor discuss about making the adoption work out, especially if it is a long distance adoption. Depending on your dog experience, we may be able to adjust the guidelines for this type of adoption.If you have an existing Pit Bull in your home and you want to adopt one of our Pit Bull type dogs, you must be within an 8 hour drive from our facility and it will be on a case by case basis. The reason for this should be obvious but I will explain. The bully breeds can be somewhat tenacious when it comes to other dogs. It is not uncommon for them to get along with a dog one minute and then what seems like all of a sudden they are no longer friends. For this reason, we need to be within a close driving distance just in case things should not work out. If you are one of our former adopters and have a successful past track record with us, then of course, the distance factor may not be an issue. Depending on your dog experience, we may be able to adjust the guidelines for this type of adoption.If you have an existing non-Pit Bull in your home and you want to adopt one of our Pit Bull type dogs, you must be within an 8 hour drive from our facility and it will be on a case by case basis. The reason for this should be obvious but I will explain. The bully breeds can be somewhat tenacious when it comes to other dogs. It is not uncommon for them to get along with a dog one minute and then what seems like all of a sudden they are no longer friends. For this reason, we need to be within a close driving distance just in case things should not work out. If you are one of our former adopters and have a successful past track record with us, then of course, the distance factor may not be an issue. Depending on your dog experience, we may be able to adjust the guidelines for this type of adoption.WE DO NOT ADOPT TO:Homes with cats. We do not have the means to properly cat test our dogs. We will not take a chance on the safety of your cat and put one of our dogs into this situation. This is not to say that cats and dogs won't get along. Of course they can but again, we do not have the proper set up to test our dogs with cats in in a responsible scenario.We do not adopt to homes with children under 5 years old. We do not have the proper set up to temperament test ourdogs for this scenario.We do not adopt to homes that are under HOA guidelines unless we are able to receive in writing that you are allowed to have the dog you are interested in adopting from us.Although we do not require a fenced in yard, if you do have one, it has to be at least 5 to 6 feet tall (depending on which dog you are interested in.We do not adopt our dogs out for the purposed of making them into service dogs. With too many people/trainers fraudulently obtaining fake service dog vests and unscrupulous trainers claiming that they are credentialed we do not want to have our dog put into a situation that they are not qualified for.We do not adopt out of the country.We do not fly our dogs. Each dog is driven by our staff, to your home.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
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.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
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.