This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in the United States. 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.
Bunny's Buddies
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/61/30aea3371b69-MainSquare_2.pngI love Bunnies Buddies and hope they win!Jennifer McLaughlin
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Bunny's Buddies
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
"I love Bunnies Buddies and hope they win!"
— jennifer m.
Fan
"Bunny’s buddies does a lot of work to ensure their dogs get a good home."
— shyamala g.
Supporter, Fan
Dalis To The Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/587/b5aad2476029-IMG_4136.jpeg303 Valley Avenue, Alma, MI 48801
lansingMichiganUS
I love my sweet kitty baby I adopted from Dalis and I also have her as my groomer for my other animals she helps and does a lot for communityMercedes hayes
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Dalis To The Rescue
At our rescue, we are not only dedicated to matching our dogs with the perfect home, we are also dedicated to educating our community about the benefits of spaying and neutering as Dalis herself raised the funds to build a surgical room at our rescue where we host low cost spay and neuter clinics for the public. We are not exclusive to one area or county, in fact many people use our services from all over the state of Michigan and even some out of state including Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana.
Dalis heart belongs to the misunderstood, the old, and the disabled. She always says that her goal is to rescue, but that her dream is that one day she won't have to.
"I love my sweet kitty baby I adopted from Dalis and I also have her as my groomer for my..."
— mercedes h.
Adoptee
"She gives 100% of herself to the animals every single day. She is a great voice for them, and urges..."
— betsy r.
Fan
Sky Sanctuary Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/55/047eb8346180-LOGO_5.svg14861 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85032
phoenixArizonaUS
They purposefully support the sickest and most helpless animals in their community. It’s inspiring to see how much they care for each and every animal they bring to the sanctuary.Meagan Leonard
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Sky Sanctuary Rescue
Sky Sanctuary specialize in the humane capture and rescue of stray, fearful and injured animals from the streets of Phoenix, Arizona, the surrounding desert areas and local shelters. We often rescue the abandoned, lost and forgotten animals. Fiercely advocating for the animals in our care. Often our animals have extensive and complex medical needs that require a profound level of specialty medical care. Not only do we invest in our animal's physical health, we utilize a trusted group of trainers to build confidence, empower and improve our animal's mental well-being in order to live peaceful, happy lives in family homes. We are very different from other animal rescue organizations. We are "boots on the ground" in our community while passionately fight for the dogs and animals no one else has the courage to take on. We have a knack for finding ourselves in pretty breathtaking scenarios- some call it divine intervention, others call it luck. We live by the mantra "if not me then who?". We are funded solely by public donations through social media. We are grateful for the opportunity to help these animals. We would go to any length to #SAVETHESTREETDOGS
"They purposefully support the sickest and most helpless animals in their community. It’s inspiring to see how much they care..."
— meagan l.
Supporter
"Incredible rescue for sick and injured dogs."
— stephanie d.
Fan
Emotional Rescue LLC
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/615/60d4d90bd4f0-IMG_20230426_132455.pngWe are 100% foster based with no building
minneapolisMinnesotaUS
This is the most informative rescue I’ve ever seen. And Shannon really loves these pups and does everything she can to make sure they find their forever homes and take care of those that have special needs. Absolutely the best!! Love Emotional Rescue…the volunteers…James…and…of course…Shannon ❤️🥰❤️Jaynie Ruetz
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Emotional Rescue LLC
Emotional Rescue specializes in homeless dogs that need medical care. We rehabilitate the body, mind and soul of dogs that had no one to care for them.
"This is the most informative rescue I’ve ever seen. And Shannon really loves these pups and does everything she can..."
— jaynie r.
Fan
"The love that Shannon gives is unmatched.
She takes the sickest and most broken dogs and gives them a soft..."
— sharon p.
Fan
Doggie Protective Services (DPS)
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/63/DPS_Logo.jpeghuntington beachCaliforniaUS
We adopted our dog, Albie, from DPS about a year ago and the process was thorough and seamless. He is such a joy and we couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you, DPS!Shelley Knowlton
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Doggie Protective Services (DPS)
"We adopted our dog, Albie, from DPS about a year ago and the process was thorough and seamless. He is..."
— shelley k.
Adoptee
"DPS deserves to be the best dog rescue. When I adopted my baby Sunni in April 2016 I had recently..."
— sue z.
Adoptee
FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/62/060dd9a27690-IMG_4011.jpeghuntington beachCaliforniaUS
Great rescue!Lauren B
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FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue
We save dogs from high kill shelters & off the streets to find each of them their perfect #FurryTailEnding.
"Great rescue!"
— lauren b.
Supporter
"Share their reel and post on my account Instagram. They are most active for save every dog and kind with..."
— valentina d.
Supporter
Texas Husky Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1094/24c503c18145-TXHR_logo.jpgHuskyHuskyHave adopted six dogs from TXHR and love every one! Currently we have four dogs from TXHR that we love. Honestly wish we could take more but four is our limit.Barbara R
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Texas Husky Rescue
Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. was created in May 2009 as a non-profit 501(c)3 animal rescue organization that is run entirely by volunteers and does not have a paid staff or a shelter. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc relies solely on volunteer foster families to take huskies into their homes until permanent, qualified, and loving homes can be found. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is a responsible animal adoption agency and ensures that none of our dogs will ever contribute to the overpopulation of dogs in our community. The work of Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is supported by tax-deductible contributions by individuals, corporations, and grants.
Our initial goal when we began in 2009 was to save 30 huskies from area shelters. We have rescued over 2,500 and counting.
"Have adopted six dogs from TXHR and love every one! Currently we have four dogs from TXHR that we..."
— barbara r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"We were first introduced to Texas Husky Rescue 10 years ago when we adopted our first. Since then, we have..."
— michelle a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
American Brittany Rescue, Inc.
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/413/7de509c818c4-Logo.pngABR is amazing!Britt Osborn
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American Brittany Rescue, Inc.
American Brittany Rescue, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in 1991 as a cooperative effort of Brittany owners, breeders, trainers, and fanciers who ABR believes have a responsibility not only for their own dogs and the dogs they produce, but for the breed as a whole. For 30 years, the organization of volunteers has worked to rescue Brittanys and place them in loving homes. Over the years, thousands of dogs have found hope and a forever home, thanks to our placement efforts. Nearly 9,000 dogs have been rescued and lovingly adopted into carefully selected households. Included in this number are dogs from nearly every state, Canada as well as Greece and Spain.
This work is accomplished by an army of dedicated ABR volunteers. There are over 1,500 amazing, active volunteers located within all 50 states and across Canada. From the President and Board members to the volunteers and the all-important foster families, each one plays an important role.
"ABR is amazing!"
— britt o.
Volunteer / foster
"American Brittany Rescues is an all volunteer organization and takes in Brittanys of all ages. The Brittanys are..."
— nancy v.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
South Coast Humane Society
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/931/cef8bbb17769-South_Coast_Humane_Society.png828 Railroad Avenue Brookings Oregon 97415
OregonUS
After adopting Luna my 19mo old Aussie mix the SCHS has been there step by step through all of her care. If I ever need anything they’re right there to help. I follow them on Facebook and am inspired and full of joy to see all the help they provide for our community and support they give to other shelters.Kimberly B
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South Coast Humane Society
South Coast Humane Society Believes in the UNDERDOG!! We are a progressive rescue organization that serves not only our community but animals from all over the world. We give the second chance that an animal needs!! We help our community with low cost spay/neuter and medical wellness that would otherwise not be available.
"After adopting Luna my 19mo old Aussie mix the SCHS has been there step by step through all of her..."
— kimberly b.
Adoptee
"Went there to find a friend/ dog with the right temperament for my son who had a disability. We decided..."
— angel t.
Adoptee, Fan
The London Sanctuary
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/298/1000035238.jpgWe are foster based.
jacksonvilleFloridaUS
Beagle, Puppy, Senior dogBeagle, Puppy, Senior dogAdopted my 2 precious gifts from this rescue Murphy saved by them from a rural shelter in Baker county and Bella abandoned hunting dog caught in a bear trap lost a paw and heartworm positive
The support and friendship we received from this group was amazing.Tracey B
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The London Sanctuary
Beagle, Puppy, Senior dog
The London Sanctuary is a nonprofit exclusive hound rescue and sanctuary. TLS provides long-term care for dogs who are unable to be placed due to their advanced age or medical needs. We also work to place adoptable hounds in their forever homes who have been rescued from government-run shelters around the Southeastern U.S. or were abandoned forest hounds in more rural areas in
NE Florida.
"Adopted my 2 precious gifts from this rescue Murphy saved by them from a rural shelter in Baker county and..."
— tracey b.
Adoptee
"I have known the Director of The London Sanctuary for a few years now and can attest to her devotion,..."
— laurie m.
Supporter
Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/297/77078e911ef7-GRSF_Blue.pngFoster based rescue, no physical location.
miamiFloridaUS
Golden Retriever, GoldendoodleGolden Retriever, Goldendoodle"As an adopter through Golden Rescue South Florida, I can't express enough gratitude for the life-changing experience they provided me. From the moment I walked through their doors, I knew I was in the presence of true dedication and compassion.
The adoption process was smooth and personalized, with the team taking the time to understand my lifestyle, preferences, and what I was looking for in a furry companion. Their commitment to finding the perfect match was evident, and it wasn't long before I found myself face to face with my new best friend.
Bringing my golden retriever home was a moment filled with joy and excitement, and I am endlessly grateful to Golden Rescue South Florida for making it possible. The support didn't stop there; they provided valuable resources, guidance, and support as my new furry family member settled into their forever home.
What sets Golden Rescue South Florida apart is not only their dedication to finding loving homes for golden retrievers but also their ongoing commitment to the well-being of their adopters. Their door is always open, and their support is unwavering, creating a true sense of community among adopters.
My life has been forever changed by the love and companionship of my golden retriever, and I have Golden Rescue South Florida to thank for that. I highly recommend them to anyone considering adoption, as they truly go above and beyond to make dreams of forever homes a reality."Billy Morrison
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Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc
Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle
Since 2005, Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc. ‚'GRSF' a 501c3 non-profit registered charitable organization has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming displaced Golden Retrievers and Golden at Heart Retrievers. We are all-volunteer and foster-based organization who place abandoned, unwanted, displaced, or abused, Golden Retrievers and "Golden At Heart" dogs with safe, loving forever families in South Florida where each dog will receive the second chance they so richly deserve.
""As an adopter through Golden Rescue South Florida, I can't express enough gratitude for the life-changing experience they provided me...."
— billy m.
Adoptee
"I have been a volunteer of the Golden Rescue for over a year. I started as a foster mom and..."
— jessica n.
Volunteer / foster
MatchDog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/765/48c6e06c13c5-20240408_183709_0000.pngThe MatchPad, 822 White Horse Pike, Atco, Waterford, NJ 08004
trentonNew JerseyUS
A wonderful group of people who are dedicated to doing their absolute best for dogs in need.Sarah Woakes
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MatchDog Rescue
MatchDog Rescue MatchDog is a personal foster-based canine rescue community in South Jersey with a vision to save abandoned dogs of all ages from unwarranted euthanasia. We rescue, match, and rehome these loving souls as companion animals in an effort to end overpopulation and abuse.
"A wonderful group of people who are dedicated to doing their absolute best for dogs in need."
— sarah w.
Volunteer / foster
"I joined MatchDog Rescue as a volunteer after having gone with a friend to adopt a dog from them. I..."
— sharon s.
Volunteer / foster
Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1282/178507e67e44-MC_logo_square.jpgMikeys chance is amazing! The love and care they have for these animals is astronomical. Not only do they have love for animals, they take in the medically needy animals who wouldn’t have a chance of survival elsewhere. They have faith in the animals and never give up on them! I am proud to say I volunteer and have adopted from Mikeys Chance.Stacey Haun
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Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
Our mission to provide a safe haven for dogs in desperate circumstances within our community and surrounding area. We rehome these dogs with families that are a good fit for the dog. We seek to serve the humans that come to us ‚both our adoptive families and the people who need help rehoming dogs ‚but our priority is to act as advocates for our dogs at every stage of the rescue and adoption process. We commit to our dogs for life! We are a registered non-profit organization, headquartered in the Tri-Cities in south-central Washington State. We focus mainly on saving dogs that are at risk in our region and placing them with adopters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most of our dogs come from shelters in Washington & Idaho, where they are facing the threat of Euthanasia. Others are released to us by private individuals who need medical help with their own dogs. Other dogs are strays, either dumped or abandoned, that need a chance at a new life.
"Mikeys chance is amazing! The love and care they have for these animals is astronomical. Not only do they have..."
— stacey h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Mikey’s is 100% non-profit & completely reliant on volunteers & community support. Andrea (the Director) does all she can to..."
— danielle m.
Volunteer / foster
Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/64/edc0ff8408aa-Lily_s_Logo_With_Lily_and_Tagline_Large.jpgSenior dogSenior dogThey highlight senior dogs!Jennifer Williams
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Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary is a primarily volunteer run nonprofit organization based in Petaluma, CA. Our mission is to provide a safe and loving home for large breed senior dogs (50+ pounds, 7 years or older) who have been displaced from their homes and/or abandoned for any reason, until they are adopted or to remain at the sanctuary until they pass on.
"They highlight senior dogs!"
— jennifer w.
Fan
"This rescue helps a popular of animals that easily get overlooked and sadly euthanized because they are seniors. Lily’s..."
— sharon c.
Fan
Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/292/ff633db3010e-Laila_s__1_.pngNone
washingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUS
German Shepherd, Pit Bull, RottweilerGerman Shepherd, Pit Bull, RottweilerLaila’s Legacy focuses on dog with behavioral or other issues that make them difficult to place in another rescue. They offer a chance to dogs who might otherwise not have one.Denise T
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Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue
German Shepherd, Pit Bull, Rottweiler
Laila's Legacy was founded with a mission to ensure dogs impacted by breed bias and behavioral or physical challenges have a chance at a better life.
Laila, our name sake, was an incredible dog who had a behavioral challenge that caused aggression towards dogs. Laila loved her humans, and especially our Co-Founder, Ashe. She was a large bully breed so her size combined with local breed bias meant sometimes people were afraid of her. But that didn't stop her from winning people over with her goofy energy.
The rescue she was with did not have the resources to support Laila and couldn't find a suitable partner to take on her care because of her size and breed. As a result she was euthanized.
Laila's Legacy was founded to save dogs like Laila. We never want a dog to be euthanized because an owner, a volunteer, or an organization didn't have the resources or because breed bias stopped them from getting the help they deserved. Dogs like Laila deserve a chance at life and that's what we're here to do!
"Laila’s Legacy focuses on dog with behavioral or other issues that make them difficult to place in another rescue. They..."
— denise t.
Volunteer / foster
"Laila’s Legacy transferred my foster dog in to their organization after another local rescue gave up on him (told us..."
— ilona p.
Volunteer / foster
Canine Humane Network
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/534/b864fe526d99-Screenshot_2024_03_25_at_10.09.24_AM.png13454 Clarksville Pike, Highland, MD 20777
baltimoreMarylandUS
I've adopted 2 dogs from them. When I say I have the best dogs, I mean it. From the start, you could tell they came from a loving shelter. My dog, Millie, came to me, skinny, and had been missing lots of fur. My foster mom kept in contact with me every day. Now she's healthy and glowing. Anytime she sees her foster mom, she happy pees. I can't express how thankful I am for the way they treat these precious babies.Allyson danielle douthit
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Canine Humane Network
Established in 2016, Canine Humane Network is a non-profit dog rescue, shelter, adoption and training organization here in Highland, Howard County, Maryland. We are substantially operated by volunteer staff and many big-hearted volunteer foster families.
Here at Canine Humane Network, we are dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs and providing a safe haven, humane care, and adoption programs for rescued dogs. We are deeply invested in the lifelong happiness of the dogs and owners we serve.
We strive to build a humane environment for animals and people by providing excellent resources and training including humane education and therapy dog programs.
"I've adopted 2 dogs from them. When I say I have the best dogs, I mean it. From the start,..."
— allyson d.
Adoptee
"Everyone at the foster shares a true passion for caring for the animals. Every person puts in so much love..."
— will h.
Volunteer / foster
Paws New England
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/509/59959915d60e-paws_logo_tall_green.pngIt’s been almost seven years since I joined Paws New England. Rescue has become my passion. I find the organization's infrastructure supportive, and enabling.
I am a Foster, Adoption Coordinator, and transporter. I am proud of the work, my fellow volunteers, and I do.Paula Valentine
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Paws New England
We rescue abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs from high-kill shelters and desperate situations, provide them with veterinary care and much needed TLC, and bring them to New England where we place them in safe, loving homes.
"It’s been almost seven years since I joined Paws New England. Rescue has become my passion. I find the..."
— paula v.
Volunteer / foster
"They care deeply on placing dogs in he right home. They always take dogs back if something happens to adopter...."
— joann d.
Volunteer / foster
Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1089/d359ad2cf08a-Proverbs1210_Logo_2Color_RedBG.jpgProverbs 12:10 does such a wonderful service to animals in need not only in Nashville but all the surrounding areas. They are constantly pulling animals from shelters and other situations and finding loving fosters and eventually homes. We adopted our sweet dog from them after she had been found with her puppies living in a barrel. They spent time and money to get her fixed and help her recover from bite wounds in her face. Because of their hard work and dedication, our sweet Lucy is now a beloved member of our family and living her best life.Kimberly V
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Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, a 501c3 charitable organization based in Middle Tennessee, is run primarily by volunteers. Proverbs is totally dedicated to all animals they rescue. All medical care, regardless of cost, is provided as is training when necessary.
A cradle to grave dedication is established by the care provided to neonates all the way to seniors who may need hospice care. Every animal rescued is cared for like a cherished family pet. Funds for medical care and food are raised by a variety of events, such as bake sales, golf scrambles, and participation in large media campaigns such as The Big Payback or through regular donations on our website.
"Proverbs 12:10 does such a wonderful service to animals in need not only in Nashville but all the surrounding areas...."
— kimberly v.
Adoptee
"I cannot speak more highly of proverbs! I rescued my first dog from them nine years ago. I’ve known about..."
— brenna g.
Adoptee
Bluegrass Bully Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/496/392768ac3eee-IMG_3999.jpegThis is an awesome rescue! The volunteers treat the dogs like royalty and provide such a needed service in the community.Traci Willis
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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.
"This is an awesome rescue! The volunteers treat the dogs like royalty and provide such a needed service in..."
— traci w.
Supporter
"They vet potential adopters closely and they need to provide references. They have a transit network of getting pugs to..."
— jeffrey z.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Mary's Dogs Rescue & Adoption
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/748/0426a4a6d3fe-MarysDogs_LOGO_COLOR_2018_IN_HOUSE_2.png984 1st New HampshireTurnpike, Northwood, NH 02261
manchesterNew HampshireUS
Wonderful, caring volunteers and staff!Lauren Marinis
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Mary's Dogs Rescue & Adoption
Mary's Dogs - Rescue & Adoption
Through every step of the rescue and adoption, connections are made between people, cultures, and dogs. Our community is extremely grateful for the supportive network that embraces us.
Thank you to our partners in the south, our team, and all our adoptive families for being‚ the Hero in a dog's life.
Why adopt a Mary's Dog? All dogs deserve a chance to find a loving and caring home. Many are abandoned or neglected or never given the chance of a good life. As soon as our dogs are in the care of our southern partners, they are treated as family members while awaiting transport to New Hampshire. Our professional team begins caring for the dogs as soon as they arrive at our state-licensed facility to ensure the dogs successfully transition into forever homes. We provide specialty collars and leashes, yummy treats, toys and even homemade chicken stew. The dogs are examined by our veterinarian and then microchipped.
Once they are granted a NH Health Certificate and observed by our dog savvy rescue team, they are ready to be loved by you! We know our dogs. It's important you find the right dog for you and your family. We want all our adoptions to be successful and are available to answer your questions before and after you've brought your dog home. Please keep in touch! Join our growing community of dog parents and best friends. Come to one of our events, ‚learn about dogs, buy a dog a gift ,share photos!
We love every dog we rescue. Good dogs make best friends. Will you be the Hero in a Mary's Dog's life?
"Wonderful, caring volunteers and staff!"
— lauren m.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"The team at Mary’s Dogs cares about the dogs when they arrive, their time at the rescue before placement and..."
— kathy s.
Volunteer / foster
Welcome to the 2025 United States Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, showcasing the
most recommended rescues nationwide, as voted by the Sniffspot community and the public. The Sniffspot
Best Dog Rescue and Shelter Contest, an annual event, aims to support shelters and rescues in their
mission to find homes for dogs in need.
This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest network of private dog parks globally. Each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, catering to various needs including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a popular destination for rescue dogs, Sniffspot's sponsorship of this list reflects our commitment to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore local dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
Note: we only include the top 10 cities where we have enough data to compile a solid list
Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot