This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in St. Louis, MO. 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.
Stray Rescue of St. Louis
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/659/2dcfe1459502-stray_rescue_logo.jpg2320 Pine StreetSt. Louis, MO 63103
st. louisMissouriUS
Stray Rescue in amazing shelter that believes every life is worth saving--even if (especially if!) that animal is a stray, has special needs, needs immediate and life-saving medical care, needs long-term care, or requires hospice. In addition to their many heroic acts to save animals from the streets, they offer free spay/neuter drives, training for any dog owner, puppy socialization play dates, and free pack walks for any dog owner. They work so hard to save every cat or dog that comes their way, and they also support their pups after they've been adopted.Annie Piasecki
Stray Rescue of St. Louis
What sets Stray Rescue of St. Louis apart in the animal welfare community near and far? We seek out and take in those who no other organization will help or would simply euthanize because they are too expensive to heal. We take the abandoned, beaten, bred, fought, injured, terrified, defeated and betrayed. We see beyond their brokenness and are here to pick up the pieces to make these special animals whole again. We see the individual and know that there's no one size fits all treatment plan. The minute they enter our doors, we look in their eyes and promise them ALL the second chance they deserve for health, home, commitment and love. Because these animals come in with a story that would give us all nightmares, it takes them longer to open up, trust and believe in humankind again. But with patience and time always on their unique schedule we see the light shine in their eyes again. Animals have an amazing ability to forgive which never ceases to amaze us.
"Stray Rescue in amazing shelter that believes every life is worth saving--even if (especially if!) that animal is a stray,..."
— annie p.
Adoptee, Supporter
"Stray Rescue provides foster care and rescue services for so many stray dogs that are found on the streets of..."
— sarah c.
Fan
Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/658/9f8dd4c6f6e7-Horiontal_Logo.jpg4107 White Tiger Lane, Columbia, MO 65203
st. louisMissouriUS
Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue is an incredible organization dedicated to the well-being and rehoming of dogs in need. Having volunteeted with them for a year, I've witnessed firsthand their unwavering commitment and love for every dog they encounter. It's been a rewarding experience, and I'm proud to be a part of such a compassionate and dedicated team.Bethany Spitzmiller
Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue
Unchained Melodies rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes chained, penned, and abused dogs that have no voice. We fight for stronger laws and have many programs that benefit our community.
"Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue is an incredible organization dedicated to the well-being and rehoming of dogs in need. Having volunteeted..."
— bethany s.
Volunteer / foster
"This organization started as a grass roots organization bringing awareness to the chained backyard dog. It has since educated the..."
— melody w.
Staff member
Center for Animal Rescue & Enrichment of St. Louis - CARE STL
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/660/949604ace70e-Border_Logo_with_roof_no_tag_JPG.jpg2700 Walnut Place, St. Louis, MO 63103
st. louisMissouriUS
My husband and I adopted our 2 pups from CARE STL in 2018. I'd been volunteering at CARE STL for awhile. We still had our little old man toy poodle and knew it was time to grow our pack again. I'm type A and went in with a list of my top 5 dogs at the shelter - dogs that I'd walked or played with at CARE. We met with a staff member who also knew me. And after talking for a bit, we met our first dog, Sawyer (shelter name: Saunter). I fell in love immediately. He was shut down and as with many of our friends in the shelter, was giving into shelter stress. He was a relatively knew intake, so he wasn't on my list lol. He is spunky and sweet. He's my early morning jogging buddy and my sous chef every morning for breakfast. He also LOVES water. A month later, we decided that we wanted to foster a dog. I had had my eye on a dog named Beefcake earlier (he was on my original top 5 list), but had been adopted so when we adopted Sawyer, Beefcake wasn't at the shelter. Well, he was returned to CARE a few days after being adopted. He was attacked by the resident dog, and the humans had given up on him and returned him back to the shelter. But, one man's trash is another man's treasure. And a treasure he is. Now his name is Bulleit (like the bourbon, yall!) - but usually answers to Boolinz. This dude doesn't do anything half ass, whether it's stealing the spatula off the kitchen counter and prancing around the backyard with it, running full speed zoomies, rocking a game of tuggies, or loving his humans (he's always the first to snuggle us and stay by our side when either of us is sick or sad), this dog and his brother are my whole heart. CARE STL encompasses a lot of good people who volunteer their time and money, staff that works tirelessly, and a fearless leader in Weng Horak, who care deeply and endlessly about the dogs in their care. They see the best and worst of humanity in our city, in the lives of the neglected animals. And to take a municipal shelter and turn it into a no-kill environment has taken (and still takes daily) a herculean effort of a group of people who are for the animals through and through. I know there are a lot of deserving rescues, but if it wasn't for CARE, we wouldn't have the absolute joy of having Sawyer & Bulleit in our lives. Sniffspots has also been a godsend for us, and its origin story all the more sweeter because both of our boys are dog-aggressive (towards other dogs, not each other!), and human/stranger-aggressive. There are thousands of rescue dog owners like us who can't do the traditional things with their dogs and are incredibly thankful for the people in our community who open up their yards to us via Sniffspots.Kavitha Muthukrishnan
Center for Animal Rescue & Enrichment of St. Louis - CARE STL
We accept the homeless, abused, neglected, injured, and surrendered animals of the City of St. Louis into our care so they will be safe and loved until they can be adopted into loving homes.
"My husband and I adopted our 2 pups from CARE STL in 2018. I'd been volunteering at CARE STL for..."
— kavitha m.
Adoptee
MO Min Pin Rescue Corp.
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MO Min Pin Rescue Corp.
MO Min Pin Rescue Corp. is a non-profit 501c3, volunteer dog rescue serving the state of Missouri as well as many other states nationwide. Founded in January of 2017, we are dedicated to rescuing dogs left homeless for whatever reason – dogs in public shelters where they are at high risk of euthanasia due to pet overpopulation, dogs given up by their owners, and those in danger of abuse or neglect.
We strive to place all of our rescued dogs with loving families, following a comprehensive adoption process. This process includes a completed adoption application, reference and vet checks, and educating prospective adopters about the responsibilities and costs of bringing a dog into their lives.
We are a foster-based rescue, and we depend on volunteers to help us save dogs. All of our intakes are spayed or neutered and receive all appropriate veterinary care before going to their permanent homes. We assist dogs in need without regard to age, breed, or ease of placement, to the extent our finances allow.
We work with area veterinarians to try to keep our expenses low so that virtually every dollar taken in goes directly toward the care of the dogs. Our rescue remains interested in and committed to, the welfare of the dog beyond the adoption process.
Finally, we strive to work with area shelters, other rescues, and transporters to develop a network in order to create a better world for homeless pets.
We are a 501c3 non-profit dog rescue licensed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
Stray Paws Rescue
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngStray Paws Rescue
Stray Paws Rescue is a 501c3 nonprofit, foster based rescue. Our organization believes it is our moral responsibility to protect and improve the lives of rescued animals and place them in loving permanent homes in St. Louis Metro Area.
APA Adoption Center
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/664/db3d0ad8cf33-APA_Logo_300x115_1.png1705 South Hanley Rd.St. Louis, MO 63144
st. louisMissouriUS
APA Adoption Center
The APA is dedicated to bringing people and pets together, advancing humane education, and creating programs beneficial to the human/animal bond.
To support this vision, we've adopted the tenets of a socially conscious animal welfare organization. That means we balance our commitment to animals with the St. Louis community, and consider the impact of our programs on the lives of both humans and pets.
While we're proud that 6,000 animals found homes through the APA last year, we're also proud to continue supporting those families through spay and neuter operations, classroom initiatives, senior services, an on-site clinic, and many more programs. Each is designed to help people and pets bring out the best in each other for years to come.
Serendipity German Shepherd Dog Rescue
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Serendipity German Shepherd Dog Rescue is a state-licensed 501(c)3 non-profit rescue organization founded in 2004. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, we do our best to assist dogs in Missouri and surrounding areas.
All About Paws
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Nonprofit Providing a Safe Haven for Animals
All About Paws is a 501c3 group of volunteer animal lovers whose mission is to rescue, provide sanctuary, and ultimately re-home abandoned, stray, and neglected companion animals. All animals in our care are spayed or neutered and receive the necessary medical attention.
The All About Paws foster home system provides a safe haven for the animals until they can be placed in carefully screened forever homes.
Lucky Chance Rescue
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Lucky Chance Rescue is a foster based rescue located near Lake St. Louis, Wentzville, O’Fallon, MO. We help families in St. Charles, St. Louis, Missouri & surrounding areas find their furever best friend.
Great Pyrenees Rescue of Missouri
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngGreat Pyrenees Rescue of Missouri
Great Pyrenees Rescue of Missouri is a nonprofit organization supported fully by volunteers and donations. Without the help of generosity - be it time, support or monetary - we would not be able to rescue the dogs that we do.
We rescue, foster, and find new homes for dogs in Missouri and surrounding states - Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
our story
Rescue has always been a passion of ours. Being able to help animals in need is one of the most rewarding ways to give meaning to life. We are dedicated to rescuing as many Great Pyrenees as we can, providing them with love, safety and a second chance at finding happiness with a forever home.
In 2019, we started fundraising for a family that did not have the means to care for their sick Pyrenees and realized how much of a need there was for a Great Pyrenees Rescue in the Midwest.
What started out with 2 rescue dogs and one foster family has quickly turned into over 350 successful adoptions, at at any given time about 15 foster families, and between 20-40 dogs in rescue awaiting their forever homes.
If you would like to join our growing Great Pyrenees Rescue Team, please fill out a volunteer or foster application.
PALS Animal Shelter
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png4287 Hwy 47 Wet
Hawk Point, MO 63349
st. louisMissouriUS
PALS Animal Shelter
PALS is essentially a “no-kill” shelter. The only time an animal is euthanized is if it is too sick to be treated or too aggressive to be suitable for adoption. Even in these circumstances, the decision to euthanize is not taken lightly and must be approved by our Board of Directors. Other than for those reasons, a pet will have a caring home with PALS until adopted.
Even Chance Pitbull Rescue
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Hootie's Rescue Haven
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngHootie's Rescue Haven
Hootie’s Rescue Haven is a not for profit no kill animal shelter. We care for unwanted and seriously ill pets. Our goal is to rehabilitate and adopt out the animals we take in to our shelter. We will leave a solid foundation for this rescue to be built on by future generations. With your support we placed 38 dogs and 10 cats in loving homes in 2019. We provide emergency medical care, medication and food supplies to animals in need.
St. Louis Senior Dog Project
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Humane Society of Missouri - Longmeadow Rescue Ranch
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngLongmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union, MO
480 Josephs Road
Union, MO 63084
st. louisMissouriUS
Humane Society of Missouri - Longmeadow Rescue Ranch
Nestled among 165 acres of woodland near Union, MO, the Humane Society of Missouri’s Longmeadow Rescue Ranch is haven for hundreds of abused and neglected horses, cows, goats, pigs, ducks and other farm animals. The ranch is one of the most comprehensive horse and farm animal care and rehabilitation centers in the country. In addition to animal care, ranch staff provide hands-on humane education experiences for both children and adults.
Our History
Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, once known as Packwood Longmeadow Farm, was purchased in 1988, made possible by a generous bequest from George Packwood, Jr. Mr Packwood’s commitment to the Humane Society of Missouri began as an active supporter of the organization and continues today through his generous donation of land to be used specifically for the care of ranch animals.
The same bold spirit that colored his philanthropic life marked Mr. Packwood’s career. He began his career as an engineer and applied his expertise as a signal construction foreman for the Frisco Railroad. He often found himself washing his dirty hands until they were practically raw. So, working in a rented loft, he created a milder industrial soap along with a special soap dispenser. He liked the idea of marketing his product instead of sitting behind a desk as a consulting engineer. In 1926 he was ready to launch his own business, which in the 1950s was sold to the Calgon Corporation.
Mr. Packwood is quoted as saying, “In the world of business, if you perfect something good, you can get up on the housetop and flap your wings and crow about it.” Well, Mr. Packwood, through your generous donation of land we created something good – Longmeadow Rescue Ranch. And we promise we will get up on the housetop and flap our wings and crow about it as we make this safe haven for horses and ranch animals even greater.
Stray and Orphaned Animal Rescue
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngStray and Orphaned Animal Rescue
Stray and Orphaned Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit group committed to helping the most needy, as well as the readily adoptable, canines looking for new homes in our community. We are a 100 % volunteer operated organization dedicated to restoring the dogs under our care to physical and emotional health as they await placement in loving, responsible homes. We are a small foster based organization with one location in O'fallon, Missouri and another small chapter in Denver, Colorado.
Heartland Humane Society of Missouri
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Heartland Humane Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit group of dedicated foster homes that gives abandoned, abused, and unwanted animals another chance for loving, permanent homes through our adoption program.
OUR OPERATING COSTS ARE $260k annually, not including what our amazing fosters pay for out of their own pockets for supplies and other expenses.
We are 100% volunteer-based so the majority of funds received go towards veterinary fees, which comprises about 75% of our overall budget. This includes spays/neuters, vaccines, surgeries, dental procedures, emergency hospital visits and other necessary medical treatments. The remaining funds are used for medical supplies and food.
Only 20% comes from adoption fees. The remaining 80% is derived from donations, fundraisers and grants.
Heartland was founded in 1998 and has been saving animals for over 25 years! We currently rescue and find homes for about 400 pets each year through adoptions at the O’Fallon and Wentzville PetSmart stores and the Whisker Station Cat Café in Kirkwood.
Dirk's Fund
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png526 Indian Warpath Drive
Pacific, MO. 63069
st. louisMissouriUS
Dirk's Fund
History of Dirk’s Fund
Our story begins in the 1980s, when the founder and his wife started rescuing dogs. Through the popularity of their own Golden Retrievers, Sadie and Hannah, they were contacted by animal control regarding a Golden Retriever that was going to be euthanized. Her name was Jenny. They were able to find her a home and then replaced her with another homeless dog. This is the cycle that started Dirk’s Fund. They rescued rehabilitated and found loving homes for eleven dogs in the first year. The director and his wife used their own home, resources and personal time to make sure each and every dog’s life had a happy ending.
Warrenton Animal Control Shelter
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png314 Coleman Drive, Warrenton, MO 63383
st. louisMissouriUS
St. Louis Samoyed Rescue
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Stepping Stone Bully Rescue
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Is Today My Day Rescue
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Is Today My Day Rescue
Is Today My Day Rescue (ITMD) was formed by a group of dog-loving individuals in July of 2017. ITMD is a licenced, 501c3, non-profit dog rescue that strives to help homeless dogs find permanent placement in adoptive homes. We are a foster-based rescue with most of our fosters within an hour of St. Louis, MO.
Our primary service area is rural south central Missouri. After two major animal shelters/rescues in the area permanently shut their doors, resources for dogs in need in this area were few and far between. It is an area with significant canine overpopulation and few resources. We work with individuals from this area to rehome personal dogs and help place stray dogs. Our community outreach includes altering family pets to reduce the overall dog population in the area as well as providing preventative care and dog food for families in need.
While our focus is rural south central Missouri, we will help any dog we can. Our dogs come from a variety of circumstances, including strays, owner relinquishes, breeder releases, animal control facilities, and dogs at risk of euthanasia.
Home 2 Home Canine Orphanage
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Home 2 Home is a non-profit canine orphanage revolutionizing the way dogs find their perfect homes.
With a high standard of care, a premium facility, screened foster homes, and a more personalized matchmaking system, the truths about their personalities are able to be communicated more accurately. Our goal is to give our dogs a better life before you adopt them and to make sure that we are pairing people appropriately to minimize the risk of return.
Being a reputable rescue should look like ensuring the dogs we agree to take are always welcomed back in the rare occasions when they need to be returned. We understand that situations can arise out of an owners control but part of our job is making sure our dogs always have a safe spot to land.
With the opportunity for affordable training, access to preventive vet care, and a team of people ready to assist, our dogs quality of life and safety always remain our top priorities.
St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png4850 Mid Rivers Mall Dr.
St. Peters, MO 63376
st. louisMissouriUS
St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center
The St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center opened in November 1999 as the home to the Division of Humane Services. Since that opening, the division has been dedicated toward improving the lives of animals in our community by:
o Sheltering and adopting animals into loving, forever homes.
o Working with prospective owners to enhance animal welfare.
o Reuniting lost pets with their owners.
o Enforcing St. Charles County's Animal Control Ordinance.
o Fostering community engagement with the Pet Adoption Center.
Open Admissions Shelter
The St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center is an Open Admissions Shelter, which means that we accept authorized stray animals regardless of their adoptability. Owner-relinquished pets are individually assessed based on current shelter resources at the time of surrender. All stray dogs and cats are required by law to be held for a minimum of five business days, and 10 business days if the animal has identification. Once that legal hold time has been satisfied, we make all healthy, behaviorally sound animals available for adoption.
Time Limit
We do not give adoptable animals a time limit. We make them available for as long as we have space, and as long as they remain physically and mentally healthy. We also work with other area shelters and rescue groups, and have a very active foster parent program, which helps us to place more animals - including those with special needs.
Fourche Valley Rescue
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The Feral Companion
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We are a no-kill organization. Our group is very unique. We cater to all of those pups that take a long time to rehabilitate. In many shelters, there is no time for lengthy rehabilitation and sometimes workers lack experience with these shy dogs.
We specialize in feral, shy, and special needs dogs. We want to help as many as we can that sometimes get overlooked in kill shelters.
We assist the public, animal controls, other shelters and rescues with support for their feral dogs they want to work with.
Lucky K9 Rescue - St. Charles, MO
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngLucky K9 Rescue - St. Charles, MO
Lucky K9 Rescue is a non-profit, volunteer dog rescue organization serving local communities of St. Louis/St. Charles, Missouri. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs left homeless for whatever reason – dogs in public shelters where they are at high risk of euthanasia due to pet overpopulation, dogs given up by their owners because of difficult circumstances, and those in danger of abuse or neglect.
We place dogs in loving, responsible, committed permanent homes, following a comprehensive adoption process which includes taking considerable care in finding good matches and educating prospective adopters about the responsibilities and costs of bringing a dog into their homes and lives.
Animals in our care are spayed or neutered, receive all appropriate veterinary care and treatment, and placed in nurturing foster homes while they await placement in their permanent homes. We assist dogs in distress without regard to age, breed or ease of placement. To the extent our finances allow, dogs in the greatest need take priority.
We are determined to keep administrative expenses extremely low so that virtually every dollar taken in goes directly to the care of the animals. Our group remains interested in and committed to the welfare of the dog beyond the adoption process.
Finally, we strive to work with area shelters and other rescue and humane organizations to develop a network of supporters and volunteers in order to create a better world for homeless pets.
Saint Louis Scottish Terrier Rescue
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St. Louis Scottish Terrier Rescue is dedicated to the rescuing, vetting & re-homing of purebred Scottish Terriers.
Our adoptable Scotties come from animal shelters, commercial breeders, and owner releases. We completely vet every dog to the best of our abilities.
Each dog is spayed/neutered, tested for heartworms and given all applicable vaccinations. A Scottie in our rescue lives in a foster home where he will receive one on one attention and evaluation along with a lot of love. Scotties ready for adoption can be found via the Available Dogs button above.
Wonder Weims Rescue
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Open Door Animal Sanctuary
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Open Door Animal Sanctuary
The vision of Open Door Animal Sanctuary is to offer a loving environment and eventual home for every cat and dog in need of our help. We take in and adopt out nearly 1,400 dogs and cats per year!
Open Door Animal Sanctuary is one of the area's largest no-kill animal shelters. Since our founding in 1975, we have provided hope, help and healing to tens of thousands of animals. We serve the community by taking in stray, homeless and otherwise unwanted cats and dogs. Each day, we provide shelter, food, medical care and most of all LOVE to 350 animals. Many of the precious angels who arrive at Open Door recognize for the first time in their lives that there can be love and trust in the world. Every animal that comes to us has a home and a second chance at life. We have a lifetime return policy which means if a family can no longer care for a cat or dog that was adopted from us, it must be returned to our sanctuary.
Judy's Forgotten Jewells
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png6400 Chippewa St, St Louis, MO 63109
st. louisMissouriUS
Judy's Forgotten Jewells
Our amazing team of employees and volunteers are committed to helping our animals find forever homes. Our veterinarian has dedicated her life to animal rescue. We take our convictions and turn them into action to help better our community and provide our animals with the best.
Our History
Judy's Forgotten Jewells is a licensed Non-Profit Animal Rescue Group. It was founded by our veterinarian Patricia L. Smith DVM in 2009 in honor of her mother's childhood dog "Judy Dog" and Jewell Animal Hospital. Dr. Smith believes that ALL animals deserve quality pet care and a caring home. The rescue is supported by volunteers, the Jewell Animal Hospital staff, and pet-passionate people in our community who donate money and supplies. The rescue does not receive any funding from large corporations or private foundations. We do charge an adoption fee which helps cover only a fraction of what it costs to spay/neuter, vaccinate, blood test, implant a microchip, provide routine flea/tick/heartworm prevention, feed our animals, and also provide any medical treatment prior to adoption.
Pet's Second Chance, Inc.
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngCorgiCorgiPet's Second Chance, Inc.
Pet's Second Chance, Inc., founded in St. Louis, Missouri in 2000 by Linda Moore as a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization, rehabilitates and re-homes abandoned Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis, as well as Corgi mixes. Linda is a member of the The St. Louis Herding Club, The Gaitway Agility Club, The Greater St. Louis Agility Club, and she serves on the Board of Metro Animal Resources. Pet’s Second Chance is a member of the Nestle-Purina Pet Lovers Coalition, which works to end euthanasia in the Greater St. Louis Area.
PSC accepts Corgis from Missouri, Northern Arkansas, and Southern Illinois. Our dogs range in age from puppies to seniors. We rescue Corgis abandoned by their owners due to divorce, relocation, financial difficulties, the birth of a child, and any number of reasons for which a family may no longer be able to keep their Corgi. Many come to us from shelters. We accept all Corgis regardless of their age or physical condition, and many Corgis who come to us suffer from the following medical issues: heartworms, dental carries, internal parasites, urinary tract infections, fleas and ticks, and even lice. Some have broken bones or cancer. Nearly all suffer from broken hearts and broken spirits.
We don’t have a shelter affiliated with our rescue. Our Corgis receive proper medical care and rehabilitation in loving foster homes with other Corgis or Corgi mixes. Adoption requires an application, an interview, and a contract. We make home visits before and after placing our dogs and continue to provide support post adoption; you’ll not only acquire a Corgi but also a Corgi family. Basic obedience with an approved trainer is also required for adoption.
Corgis, a highly intelligent breed, want to learn and to work. Easily bored, Corgis will find their own job if one’s not provided for them, which can lead to trouble. No matter what breed you are looking to adopt, research the breed’s temperament. The right dog placed in the right home leads to a happy dog and a happy family. We don’t pride ourselves on the number of dogs adopted; instead, we focus on matching each Corgi with a family who will provide the dog a forever home. Not all rescues have the same philosophy. Before you adopt, contact the Missouri Department of Agriculture, 573-751-3076 to ask questions about a specific rescue organization. Rescues in Missouri must be licensed and inspected at least once a year.
We strongly encourage anyone planning to adopt to consider the true cost of dog ownership. It’s not a one-time adoption fee. Routine physicals, monthly heartworm, periodic dentals, and unplanned veterinary care or medical emergencies cost money. High quality food and training are also an investment. A pet savings account or pet insurance can help.
Unleashed Potential Animal Rescue
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Unleashed Potential is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, foster based rescue. Our goal is to save as many dogs as possible and help them find foster and forever homes.
We serve the St. Charles County/ O'Fallon MO area
Needy Paws Rescue - St. Louis
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Needy Paws Rescue - St. Louis
Needy Paws Rescue is located in St. Louis, MO and exists through donations from the community.
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit, volunteer, 100% foster-based organization saving dogs from high-kill shelters, strays, abandoned and surrendered in St. Louis and surrounding rural Missouri areas, regardless of breed or size.
St. Louis Pet Rescue
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St. Louis Pet Rescue is a non-profit rescue group focusing on saving pets from local animal control facilities and neglect situations. STLPR strives to end pet overpopulation and abandonment of unwanted pets through education about spay/neuter, pet behavior and training and other aspects of responsible pet ownership.
All of the pets STLPR rescues are in loving foster homes. Foster homes provide love, care and training needs of the pets. To learn more about becoming a foster for pets in need, see our foster page.
STLPR does not have a facility, nor any paid staff. STLPR relies on the generosity of others to donate funds and volunteer their time to help pets in need.
City of Crystal City Animal Control
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Animal Control is available to help you with a variety of both domestic and wildlife related problems or questions. Crystal City Animal Control is conveniently located at Hugs Landing Road in Crystal City Mo.
Upon request, city owned traps will be set as needed, however traps will be picked up before holidays and weekends. Disposal of animals that are caught in traps that are not the city's will be the residents responsibility. The Animal Control Officer is not available on Wednesdays or Saturdays.
Five Acres Animal Shelter
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1099 Pralle Lane
St. Charles, MO 63303
st. louisMissouriUS
Five Acres Animal Shelter
Five Acres believes in the power of pets and seeks to enrich the lives of pets and their owners. Our values include:
Community – Five Acres exists to serve its community. This includes not only reducing the number of pets in need by finding them homes, but also supporting the pet owners in our community.
Lasting Relationships – Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, donate, attend an event, or spread the word about our mission, you are a part of the Five Acres Family! We love creating relationships with our community, and we especially love to witness the new and strengthening bonds between humans and their pets.
Safe & Thriving Environments for our Animals – The safety and well-being of our animals is of the highest importance to our organization. We want the spaces in which our animals live to not just be safe and clean, but enriching and relaxing as well. Providing this for our animals is the top priority of our team.
Enriching the Lives of Pets & People – We believe that pets are better off with people, and people are better off with pets! Everything we do is to improve and foster the connection between humans and animals, but it doesn’t end with just adoption. It includes a robust foster program, impactful volunteer opportunities, community events, our AniMeals Food Pantry, and so much more.
In 2022 our values led Five Acres Animal Shelter to the strategic decision to move toward the Human Animal Support Services model (often referred to as HASS), focused on not only finding homes for pets in need in our community, but also promoting a lasting and healthy relationship between pets and their owners.
Our History
Five Acres Animal Shelter formed in 1973 as the St. Charles County Humane Society, by a small group of individuals dedicated to animal welfare. Five Acres utilized volunteer foster homes for animals in need of adoption until the first shelter opened in 1988. In 1996, Five Acres acquired the current property on Pralle, operating the only no-kill feline house and canine shelter in St. Charles County. We added the Ruth Anne Scheidegger Canine Adoption Building in 2012, and the Kathryn Favre Kitty Cottage was completed in 2016. Five Acres remains free and clear of debt, and in 2021, we took in 1,691 animals. We adopted out 1,435 and reunited 270 animals with their families in that same year.
The Goode Life Rescue
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Love A Golden Rescue
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Love a Golden Rescue began in January 2001; at its foundation, it was a small group of volunteers who saw a need to help golden retrievers and golden retriever mixes in Central and Eastern Missouri and Central and Southern Illinois.
That first year 50 dogs found forever homes. That was more than was anticipated, but we soon found that the "need" was larger than we initially thought. With everyone working together, the dogs received the necessary veterinary care, and lived in caring homes before moving into their forever homes. Adoption applications and home visits ensured that the forever families and the dogs were the right "fit."
Now we are 22 years old, and have rescued more than 1400 dogs, all due to the concerted effort of our volunteers.
Love a Golden has rescued dogs with a wide variety of needs. We have taken in pregnant dogs who delivered a litter soon after intake. We have saved goldens who required major surgery immediately after we took them in. We find great homes for golden retrievers who have spent all their lives in a breeding facility; they quickly become beloved family members. Seeing the photos from the new families---as the dogs snuggle on the couch with their two-legged and four-legged brothers and sisters or as they romp on the beach during a vacation--- is why rescue is so important to us.
Not only do we strive to rescue goldens who have special needs but we also reach out to save seniors (dogs who are 9 years or older). Seniors have such a special place in Love a Golden's heart, and our Senior Life program recognizes the incredible families who adopt senior goldens. As foster homes are available we have taken labs, labs mixes and other dogs with no alternative.
Country Acres Rescue
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Founded in 2000, Country Acres Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, St. Louis based organization whose primary concern lies with the over population and unnecessary suffering of domestic animals in our community. We are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, socialization and placement of homeless, abandoned and abused/neglected cats, dogs, kittens, and puppies.
Jefferson County Animal Control
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png4848 State Hwy 30
House Springs, MO 63051
st. louisMissouriUS
Jefferson County Animal Control
The Animal Control Division is committed to the enhancement of responsible pet ownership for all animals. We respond to requests for service regarding dogs and cats running at large, animal neglect and abuse, injured animals and wild animals inside the living areas of a home.
Roles
We investigate neglect and abuse allegations, investigate and quarantine animals for potential rabies exposure, while also providing adoption services in our shelter. We inspect and license dog and cat boarding and breeding facilities, as well as animal rescue facilities and foster-care homes.
We maintain a "lost and found" canine and feline list of animals reported to us. We also operate the Animal Resource Center as a rabies quarantine facility and temporary housing facility for dogs and cats available for rescue and adoption.
Enforcement
The Animal Control Division enforces Chapter 215: Animal Control Order to protect public health and safety.
Awards
Jefferson County Animal Control has been awarded the No-Kill award from the Best Friends Animal Society for 2022 and 2023 due to having a live release rate of 90% or greater. This means that animals are only euthanized if medically necessary or due to severe behavioral issues. Jefferson County Animal Control is proud to say that we have not euthanized an adoptable animal in over seven years.
On My Way to Furever Rescue Inc.
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On My Way To Furever Rescue Inc is a 501c3 non-profit, fully foster based rescue, licensed through the Department of Agriculture. We are based in St. Louis County, Missouri.
On My Way to Furever Rescue Inc. is a nonprofit animal rescue dedicated to finding homes for pets in need. We are a foster based rescue that works to prepare the pets in our care for life in a forever home. We provide needed medical care, socialization, and love while looking for a home that matches their needs. We work with adoptive families to help them find the perfect fit for their family.
We also work to reunite lost pets with their families and educate owners on care, training and keeping their pets secure and safe in their own homes.
Missouri K9 Friends
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Missouri K9 Friends is a 501(c)3 non-profit volunteer led organization. We rescue dogs in need, advocate for animal welfare, and promote ending breed discrimination
Camp Chaos Puppy Rescue
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Camp Chaos Puppy Rescue is a small foster based puppy rescue that saves animals from rural areas and local high kill shelters. We specialize in the care and rescue of pregnant mothers and litters of puppies. We are not equipped to take in or care for adult dogs, especially large breeds, other than the pregnant females and mothers of the puppies in our care. On rare occasion our organization will take in other puppies and dogs in need based on foster home availability.
Our goal is to place homeless pets in the best home possible and to see to it that they are spayed/neutered to eliminate their ability to add to the over population of unwanted and homeless pets. Our rescue is "Foster Based," meaning all of our dogs live in the homes of our foster families throughout the week, we do not have a shelter/institution.
Advocates 4 Animals
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Mastino Rescue, Inc.
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngMastino Rescue, Inc.
MASTINO RESCUE, INC. is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization formed in 2017. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome the growing number of Neapolitan Mastiffs in need within the United States, and to educate the public about the realities of owning this magnificent and unique breed. We are the only breed-specific rescue in the country for the Neapolitan Mastiff, and the only officially endorsed rescue of the United States Neapolitan Mastiff Club. To date, we have placed over 200 dogs into their adoptive homes in 38 states.
Over the last decade, the Neapolitan Mastiff (or Mastino Napoletano in Italian) has become more popular in the United States, and consequently, an increasing number are being surrendered or dumped in kill shelters. The Mastino is an amazing breed, but it is not a good fit for the inexperienced dog owner, and often ends up with the wrong family or in the wrong environment. It is our goal to help displaced Neapolitan Mastiffs find the very best home for their individual needs while providing advocacy and education about this breed.
Our success is largely attributable to our foster program. When we bring a Neapolitan Mastiff into our rescue, we affectionately refer to them as "Mastino Royalty," and attempt to place the Mastino Royalty dog directly into an experienced foster home. This breed bonds strongly with its humans and takes a long time to adjust moving from home to home. The dog remains with a foster until an appropriate adopter is found.
We are 100% volunteer based, and as a nonprofit, we are ineligible to receive any government funding. Due to the growing number of Neapolitan Mastiffs in need, we are always looking for dedicated volunteers for fostering, transport, fundraising, home visits and much more.
Harter's Hospice & PUPPY Rescue
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Harter's Hospice and Puppy Rescue is a foster home based organization. All of our dogs have been living in homes, some with other dogs, cats and other types of pets. Some are in homes with children. Our dogs are socialized, we know their temperament and their quirks. With us, they learn to be a companion, they learn love and trust, again. They are potty trained, they learn to play nicely, some are crate trained, some are trained further in skills.
All of the dogs are up to date on vaccinations, they are altered and micro chipped.
Our rescue was founded on the senior and sick canines. We provide them top notch veterinary care to get them to their optimum health. The dogs that can obtain a healthy status are able to be adopted. The dogs that are sick and/or dying continue to receive the vet care in order to give them quality of life. They remain in our care until their quality of life cannot be sustained.
We, also, have a puppy division. All of our puppies are appropriately dewormed, vaccinated and altered according to veterinary protocol. The puppies are.....PUPPIES! They are fun and playful. Some are shy and loving. They are taken care of and loved until they are ready for a home of their own.
Harter's Hospice rescue is licensed with the Missouri Department of Agriculture and a recognized 501c3. We operate, solely, on the kind donations of the public that support our mission. Those donations help to provide veterinary care, medications, advanced surgeries, food, treats, toys and in some cases, training by a professional trainer.
Midwest Doberman Rescue of St. Louis
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.pngMidwest Doberman Rescue of St. Louis
Midwest Doberman Rescue of St. Louis is a not-for-profit (501(c)3) operating under Purebred Dog Rescue of S t. Louis, an all volunteer organization. We do not have a shelter or kennels, rather we take dogs into "foster care".
Our first priority are the Dobermans who are in pounds, shelters or humane societies who have no other options and will be euthanized if we don't take them. Our second priority is helping people who have inherited a dog from a relative who has passed away or who because of circumstances beyond their control are no longer able to care for their Dobermans. Our last priority are owner surrenders. Our preference is to help you place your own dog. We will list your dog on our web site and prescreen all applicants prior to giving them your phone number. The transition from your home to a new home will be easier on the dog if they don't have to go into foster care first.
We want every Doberman to be able to live out his/her natural life in a loving home. We want every adoption to be a happy, permanent placement. Each Doberman available for adoption is screened as carefully as possible. The simple fact is that not all dogs are appropriate for certain environments. Some dogs have specific temperaments and needs that not everyone can provide. You are asked to fill out an application before you meet our Dobermans so we can fit the right dog with your family.
City of Saint Charles Animal Welfare Services
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png2835 West Randolph Street
Saint Charles, MO 63301
st. louisMissouriUS
City of Saint Charles Animal Welfare Services
The City of Saint Charles Animal Welfare Services focuses on the care of all animals in our City, through our Animal Control Division.
The City of Saint Charles Animal Control Department is responsible for:
1. Enforcing pet ordinances
2. Investigating animal abuse/neglect cases
3. Issuing commercial permits for animal-related businesses
4. Managing animal capture and/or impound
5. Performing bite investigations
Pet Rescue Network
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Pet Rescue Network, is a 501(c)(3) all volunteer organization licensed in the state of Missouri. It is comprised of dedicated and experienced volunteers determined to positively impact the lives of animals in need. We serve St. Louis and surrounding rural communities. Many PRN volunteers have 10 to 15 years experience in animal rescue activities. PRN strives to meet both the medical and psychological needs of animals who have suffered abuse, neglect, or abandonment through no fault of their own.
What We Do
Pet Rescue Network places unwanted and neglected pets in loving forever adoptive homes. While awaiting their permanent home, pets reside in loving foster homes and are treated as cherished family members. In order to secure the most permanent placements possible, PRN is committed to public education and thoughtful selection of potential families. Every rescued animal receives appropriate veterinarian care.
PRN stresses the importance of spaying and neutering. We are strongly committed to promoting this throughout our community in an effort to reduce the number of unwanted pets. PRN participates in community outreach programs assisting citizens in finding low cost spay/neuter services when needed. PRN provides education to families regarding ways to provide structured, consistent, safe, and loving environments for all pets. We also provide education on the benefits of ongoing socialization and training for the family pet.
By adopting from PRN, you can be assured that your new pet has been given the best of care. All animals reside in foster homes while awaiting adoption. They are socialized and assessed for behaviors, quirks and special needs PRIOR to being listed as “available” on our site. Since our adoptees are in homes, we usually know quite a bit about each pet’s individual personality. We can introduce each pet with information such as who does or does not interact well with other cats, dogs and children.
Welcome to the 2025 St. Louis, MO Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in St. Louis, MO chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 7 private dog parks in the St. Louis 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 St. Louis dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
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Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list
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