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The Best Raleigh, NC Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Raleigh, NC. 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.

    Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/684/66a95fa213c1-434020165_944872343564997_8584486473835196385_n.jpg
    raleighNorth CarolinaUS
    I adopted my dog in 2020 from Pawfect Match. He had been rescued from an abusive home situation. Working with them was very easy in trying to find the "pawfect" match for me. Having cats made it a bit more challenging but they were very helpful in making sure I was comfortable. After spending a few years with my dog I decided to try fostering with them and have fostered 5 dogs over the last year. They love all the dogs they rescue and work to ensure they are well taken care of, even medically challenging cases, and do their very best to match each dog with their best forever home.
  • Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation Logo

    Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation

    #21 in United States, #1 in North Carolina, #1 in Raleigh

    Raleigh

    Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation is a dedicated non-profit rescue comprised of only volunteers. We are committed to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs that would otherwise face euthanasia due to illness, injury, age, breed, etc. Our shelterless rescue aims to address this critical issue by providing necessities including medical care, basic training and the opportunity to familiarize the dogs to safe loving homes. We strongly believe that every dog deserves a chance at a happy and fulfilling life.

    "I adopted my dog in 2020 from Pawfect Match. He had been rescued from an abusive home situation. ..."

    angie g.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

    "Pawfect Match Rescue is the best! We have adopted twice!! They make sure each animal meets what’s best..."

    brooke e.

    Adoptee, Fan


  • Freedom Ride Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/687/89cef234ef29-70324528_2466148937002467_3718402708567228416_n.png
    raleighNorth CarolinaUS
    We had an amazing experience adopting with FRR - the people really care so much about the animals and matching them with the RIGHT home. They don’t just unload dogs to anyone. We found our soul dog, Lacy through them and are forever grateful.
  • Freedom Ride Rescue Logo

    Freedom Ride Rescue

    #53 in United States, #5 in North Carolina, #2 in Raleigh

    Raleigh

    In the rescue world, a 'Freedom Ride' is that magical car ride out of an animal shelter for a dog. At first they are nervous, but there is a moment when they realize they are safe. tongue out, tail wagging, a new chapter for them. Freedom Ride Rescue is foster based in the Raleigh NC area. We have no facility and every one of our adoptable (and not quite ready to be adopted) animals are in homes where families are teaching trust, love, basic manners. preparing your future dog ready to be the best addition to your family that they can be!

    "We had an amazing experience adopting with FRR - the people really care so much about the animals and matching..."

    meg s.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

    "Freedom ride gave us our first dogs best friend and brother. They have many events and allow for 1:1 time..."

    taylor p.

    Adoptee


  • US Dog Coalition and Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/689/ff8eb7d89252-US_dog_coalition___rescue_LOGO.jpg
    raleighNorth CarolinaUS
    I can't express enough gratitude for the incredible work of US Dog Coalition and Rescue. I have personally witnessed their dedication to saving and removing dogs in need, and I can attest to their unwavering commitment and compassion. Not only do they provide a safe haven for dogs in dire situations, they also go above and beyond to ensure that every dog receives the love, care and attention they deserve. From rescuing dogs from overcrowded shelters to providing medical treatment and finding loving forever homes, US Dog Coalition and Rescue truly changes lives for the better. Their tireless efforts and selflessness inspire hope, and make a profound difference in many furry lives. I totally recommend US Dog Coalition and Rescue to anyone wanting to adopt, foster, volunteer and support a cause that is truly making a difference in the world of animal welfare. They are a beacon of hope for dogs in need, and I am so grateful for the incredible work that they do, and the inspiration they are for all of us who love dogs.
  • US Dog Coalition and Rescue Logo

    US Dog Coalition and Rescue

    #79 in United States, #7 in North Carolina, #3 in Raleigh

    Raleigh

    The US Dog Coalition and Rescue is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs facing various challenges. At US Dog Coalition and Rescue, our mission is simple yet profound: to make a positive impact on the lives of dogs and the communities they inhabit. Through our tireless efforts, we strive to provide sanctuary and support to dogs who have been abandoned, neglected, or abused, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve. With a network of dedicated volunteers, compassionate staff, and supportive donors, we work tirelessly to rescue dogs from shelters, streets, and harmful situations. Once in our care, each dog receives comprehensive veterinary care, training, and rehabilitation tailored to their individual needs, preparing them for a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life. Beyond rescue efforts, we are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership through education, outreach, and advocacy initiatives. By fostering a culture of compassion and understanding, we aim to create a world where every dog is valued, cherished, and treated with kindness and respect.

    "I can't express enough gratitude for the incredible work of US Dog Coalition and Rescue. I have personally..."

    cherry v.

    Supporter, Fan

    "Was so impressed with the how much care they took helping us adopt. Susan and Steven helped us navigate..."

    bobbie w.

    Adoptee


  • Perfectly Imperfect Pups (PIPs)
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/693/46da2886c71e-perfectly_imperfect_pups_logo_2.png
    raleighNorth CarolinaUS
    PIPs is one of the best rescues I’ve come across. They bring in the unwanted -special needs dogs- and they find them wonderful families. You’ll never find a rescue with more compassion and a better mission.
  • Perfectly Imperfect Pups (PIPs) Logo

    Perfectly Imperfect Pups (PIPs)

    #97 in United States, #12 in North Carolina, #4 in Raleigh

    Raleigh

    We had a vision of a rescue that takes in the most urgent pups dogs with special needs and medical cases in and around North Carolina. While our focus is special needs, we are inclusive of all dogs and our main purpose is to rescue as many dogs in need as we can. PIPs is a foster based rescue, this means that there is no brick and mortar location- all dogs are kept in someone's home. We depend on fosters that are willing to open their hearts and homes to help a dog transition on to a forever home. Foster homes are needed for special and medical needs but also for puppies, adult dogs and seniors that are not PIP-abled.

    "PIPs is one of the best rescues I’ve come across. They bring in the unwanted -special needs dogs- and they..."

    addison s.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

    "PIPs is a fantastic organization that goes above and beyond for all dogs including special needs and dogs with higher..."

    nicole k.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Second Chance NC
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/702/c3287e59bd70-SCPA_logo_300x158.png
    6003 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 125, Raleigh, NC 27607
    raleighNorth CarolinaUS
    Second Chance Pet Adoptions is amazing, I started as a volunteer years ago and loved them so much when a position came available I jumped on the opportunity. They take time to work with each family to ensure the very best match, they hand assess and select dogs from small rural shelters locally to them which ensures all funds raised stay in their communities. Animals are cared for from start to finish and adopters become family!
  • Second Chance NC Logo

    Second Chance NC

    #99 in United States, #14 in North Carolina, #5 in Raleigh

    Raleigh

    Second Chance Pet Adoptions is a non-profit animal rescue organization that has rescued stray or abandoned cats and dogs in the Triangle Area of North Carolina since 1987.

    "Second Chance Pet Adoptions is amazing, I started as a volunteer years ago and loved them so much when a..."

    susan r.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan


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

Welcome to the 2024 Raleigh, NC Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Raleigh, NC chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 5 private dog parks in the Raleigh 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 Raleigh dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Raleigh


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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


Sniffspot Raleigh Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Raleigh?

There are 5 in Raleigh. Outside of Raleigh, there are 38 located in North Carolina.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Raleigh, the top 3 on our list are: Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation, Freedom Ride Rescue, US Dog Coalition and Rescue.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Raleigh?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Raleigh. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
The first step is to fill out our adoption application. All applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Once we receive your application, the second step will be for our volunteers to check your vet reference and talk with your personal references. The third step, if your application is approved, is for our volunteers to contact you about scheduling a home check. This is not to see what kind of house you live in or how clean or dirty it is. It is simply to see if the yard size, fencing, etc. is compatible with your dog of interest. It also allows other animals in your household as well as children to meet your potential new dog to see if everyone will get along and to make sure this is truly a 'pawfect' match! After all three of these steps are completed, the final step is to sign the adoption contract and make the adoption donation fee. Your new pet will be up to date on the necessary vaccinations required by the age of the dog at time of adoption, spayed or neutered, on heartworm preventative and flea and tick meds, micro-chipped, groomed, and well on his or her way with basic obedience and house training. All our dogs will be adopted out with a microchip, collar and leash, and a PMR&R tag.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Raleigh, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, Charley's K-9 Rescue, Boxer Butts & Other Mutts Rescue, Kreitzer's Critter Corral Puppy Rescue

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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