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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters in the United States in 2025

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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
#1 in United States, #1 in California, #1 in San Diego
San Diego
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
"Love to see all the hard work and dedication Amanda and her team put into rescue."
— angie c.
Supporter
"Bunnies buddies rescued my Cairo - a small toy poodle from the streets of Korea - he was malnourished and..."
— naomi m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

Dalis To The Rescue
#2 in United States, #1 in Michigan, #1 in Lansing
Lansing
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.
"Dalis has a huge heart and works so hard to save all animals she is a blessing to our community..."
— rachel l.
Supporter, Fan
"I have heard such good this about this organization!"
— cameron g.
Supporter, Fan

Sky Sanctuary Rescue
#3 in United States, #1 in Arizona, #1 in Phoenix
Phoenix
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
"i love the passion they and the love they have for each animal"
— kerstin w.
Supporter
"I live in South Africa and am amazed at the wonderful work they do, saving those where there is no..."
— cheryl a.
Fan

Emotional Rescue LLC
#4 in United States, #1 in Minnesota, #1 in Minneapolis
Minneapolis
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.
"Endless love and care..often while sick herself and at times, single handed! Taking in the most needy with some staying..."
— virginia m.
Supporter, Fan
"Emotional Rescue (Shannon) is the most caring, empathetic and kind rescuer I’ve come across. She cares for the..."
— dana h.
Supporter, Fan

Doggie Protective Services (DPS)
#5 in United States, #2 in California, #1 in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach
"Every time DPS brings puppies to our school for a mental health day, I always have so much fun. Additionally,..."
— maggie p.
Supporter
"Volunteering at DPS has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Every time I step into the center, I'm greeted by wagging..."
— cecilia v.
Volunteer / foster

FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue
#6 in United States, #3 in California, #2 in Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach
We save dogs from high kill shelters & off the streets to find each of them their perfect #FurryTailEnding.
"I have seen their hard work rescuing as many animals from the kill shelter and I have pledged money for..."
— adilene g.
Supporter
"I have watched them save many dogs from death row, they are very quick to save any dog."
— alitari s.
Fan

Texas Husky Rescue
#7 in United States, #1 in Texas, #1 in Dallas
#1 in husky
Husky
Dallas
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.
"We have adopted two girls from Texas Husky Rescue. Our first girl was around 5 years old and was a..."
— christina g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"Texas Husky Rescue is amazing! I first came across them when I moved to Texas and adopted one of their..."
— anny t.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

American Brittany Rescue, Inc.
#8 in United States, #1 in Illinois
Illinois
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.
"I began transporting for American Brittany Rescue because I had a Brittany. What has impressed me so much is..."
— deb g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"American Brittany Rescue brought us three family members who changed our lives. ABR is committed to rescuing Brittany’s who, for..."
— robin e.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

South Coast Humane Society
#9 in United States, #1 in Oregon
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.
"When my beloved German Shepherd Lace was dying we adopted a younger German Shepherd from South coast Humane Society..."
— marie w.
Adoptee
"We adopted Calvin a Pomerian on Jan 21 - 2023 - I have always heard lots of positive stories..."
— gayle h.
Adoptee

The London Sanctuary
#10 in United States, #1 in Florida, #1 in Jacksonville
#1 in puppy
#1 in beagle
#1 in senior dog
Beagle, Puppy, Senior dog
Jacksonville
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.
"We have adopted two wonderful dogs from The London Sanctuary. They had the dog fully vetted, worked with them in..."
— stephanie c.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"i have been blessed over the years with 2 wonderful dogs. This has allowed me to be a foster mom..."
— jeanna p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc
#11 in United States, #2 in Florida, #1 in Miami
#1 in goldendoodle
#1 in golden Retriever
Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle
Miami
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.
"This group does incredible work with Goldens all over the world. We got our Golden from China and he has..."
— terri b.
Adoptee
"I have been blessed enough to have adopted not one but two Golden Retrievers from GRSF over the last 7..."
— tracey c.
Adoptee

MatchDog Rescue
#12 in United States, #1 in New Jersey, #1 in Trenton
Trenton
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.
"I have volunteered for 5 rescues and shelters in the past 20 years and Matchdog is by far my favorite...."
— sarah b.
Volunteer / foster
"Match dog is an amazing dog rescue adopting out 70-90 dogs a month. They have a fabulous staff, Keri..."
— cynthia b.
Volunteer / foster, Fan

Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
#13 in United States, #1 in Washington, #1 in Spokane
Spokane
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.
"My mother adopted a beautiful baby from them. They were amazing with her dog and her. They made it..."
— duana c.
Supporter, Fan
"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
#14 in United States, #4 in California, #1 in Santa Rosa
#2 in senior dog
Senior dog
Santa Rosa
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.
"Lily’s senior rescue really goes out of their way to take in senior large dogs which often are not adopted..."
— bob b.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
"Senior dogs are the reason I support Lily’s! They are overlooked and forgotten in the grand scheme of shelters, and..."
— eleanor a.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter

Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue
#15 in United States, #1 in District of Columbia, #1 in Washington
#1 in pit Bull
#1 in rottweiler
#1 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd, Pit Bull, Rottweiler
Washington
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 made my adoption process very simple and easy. You can tell that they really care about their animals!"
— nicole h.
Adoptee
"Laila’s Legacy is the rescue I had been wishing for! They save dogs regardless of bias or behavior and they..."
— priscilla r.
Volunteer / foster

Canine Humane Network
#16 in United States, #1 in Maryland, #1 in Baltimore
Baltimore
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.
"CHN provides such amazing support to the humans who have adopted their pups! Training classes are routinely available, and CHN..."
— whitney m.
Adoptee
"This is the kindest and best dog rescue I’ve ever seen."
— diane r.
Volunteer / foster

Paws New England
#17 in United States, #1 in Connecticut, #1 in Hartford
Hartford
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.
"I dealt with PAWS New England with the adoption of our Choco Lab Coco. From the get go I can't..."
— susan k.
Adoptee
"PAWS New England is fantastic. They give animals a great home and take wonderful care of them."
— dan b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
#18 in United States, #1 in Tennessee, #1 in Nashville
Nashville
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 always finds a way. No animal left behind."
— paula d.
Supporter, Fan
"Proverbs 12:10 is FABULOUS! My Roxy will celebrate her "gotcha" day on May 2nd. Proverbs worked with me..."
— maryjane c.
Adoptee

Bluegrass Bully Rescue
#19 in United States, #1 in Kentucky, #1 in Lexington
Lexington
Bluegrass Bully Rescue is a non profit all breed dog rescue founded in 2019. We are a volunteer run organization serving the Central Kentucky area primarily. We are a foster based organization who is committed to the health and safety of the dogs we rescue while looking for their adoptive homes. Our goal is to grow our volunteer and foster base in order to allow us to save as many dogs as possible.
"They gave us our current dog Layla! She is the best dog anyone could ask for! They do such good..."
— adam w.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"the spaces in your heart you never knew you had, now full of life, love and new adventures"
— denise.
Fan

Mary's Dogs Rescue & Adoption
#19 in United States, #1 in New Hampshire, #1 in Manchester
Manchester
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?
"We got our dog Scooter from here. When we received him, he was practically housebroken and was well socialized with..."
— kelli w.
Adoptee, Supporter
"We were lucky to find Mary’s Dogs Rescue and Adoption, they brought Scrappy into our lives. He’s a wonderful..."
— dave b.
Adoptee

The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Alabama

Sweet Home Doberman Rescue
Sweet Home Doberman Rescue (SHDR) is the only 501c3, not for profit Doberman rescue organization in Alabama. Founded in 2015, SHDR has committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and placement of abused, abandoned, and/or neglected Dobermans. It is SHDR's personal mission to assist these magnificent breeds in any way we can. We are dedicated to educating the public as well as future Doberman owners about these majestic, often misunderstood breeds. They are often portrayed as aggressive dogs who will attack at a moment's notice when in fact they are Velcro dogs who are loyal, protective, and want to please their family! A Doberman wants nothing more than to be by your side and on your couch. All SHDR rescues are up to date on their shots, HW tested, microchipped, and spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Some come into rescue injured or abused and it may take a little longer to ready them for a forever home.
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Island of Misfits
Our mission at Island of Misfits is to make a difference in the lives of shelter and unwanted animals we can bring into our lives. We also hope to make an impact on the pet overpopulation by offering a low cost option for spay and neuter.
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City of Mobile Animal Shelter
Thank you for visiting the City of Mobile Animal Services website! In August 2021, The City of Mobile began charting a new course to transform how we support people and animals in our City. The creation of a new Animal Services Department under the arm of Administrative Services signified a shift to a modern approach to shelter, control and programs. With a focus on community partnerships, this forward-facing approach works to ensure safe and healthy environments for people and pets. The department promotes responsible pet ownership, implements programs to reduce animal overpopulation, and has formed innovative partnerships and programs to increase the City's effectiveness in supporting animals and humans in Mobile. As part of this approach, a newly modernized Animal Services facility is currently in design and will be built in a new location central to all parts of the City, and many new positions are also being added to further our mission and programs. We look forward to serving your needs!
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Alaska

alaska animal rescue friends
AARF is a local 501c3 Non-profit dog rescue. We have been around for about 10 years. We help dogs find homes from rural villages, owner surrenders and even some high kill shelters in the lower 48. We are currently based out of Anchorage but sometimes hold clinics in Eagle River and the valley during the summer time. We are always looking at opportunities to show at new venues.
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Anchorage animal care & control
We are the open-admission animal shelter, for domestic animals, and the enforcement agency of 'Title 17 Animals' for the Municipality of Anchorage.
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HARK
Haines Animal Rescue Kennel was founded in 2001 by a group of local residents to promote the best interests of pets and wildlife in the community. It is a federally recognized, non-profit organization, funded primarily by private donations and memberships. The organization is governed by a nine member board of directors, and daily operations are overseen by Executive Director Staceylynn Clark Cureton, Shelter Manager CaSandra Nash, and Animal Care Assistant Emily McPheters. Additional support is provided by volunteers and foster families. -2019 HARK was the recipient of grant money from the Rasmuson Foundation, the Chilkat Valley Community Foundation, and ASPCA Northern Tier Initiative to expand and improve the shelter. -2023 HARK was again the recipient of grant money from the ASPCA Northern Tier Initiative to bolster our foster care program, and in conjunction with the Chilkat Valley Community Foundation, to train community first aid volunteers. HARK thanks the ASPCA for their continued generous support.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Arizona

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
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Almost There: A Mom + Pups Rescue
My name is Geri Hormel and I am the founder of Almost There Rescue. What do we do at ATR? We save bitches. No, we don't go around seeking out malicious, unpleasant women and try to convince them to change their ways (although someone should!). We save dogs. Specifically, homeless, pregnant, large-breed dogs. We scoop those gals up from less than ideal situations and give them a place to birth and raise their pups. We work our tails off to give our pups the medical help, enrichment, socialization, and love that they need on their journeys to finding forever homes.
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Southwest Oasis Labrador Rescue
SOLR is a rescue organization dedicated to helping Labrador Retrievers and Lab mixes who have been displaced from their home environment find new loving homes for the remainder of their lives. SOLR is non-profit and depends entirely on our volunteers and donations.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Arkansas

Union County Animal Protection Society
UCAPS provides temporary humane care, food, shelter and medical attentions for Union County, Arkansas stray, homeless, abandoned and abused animals.
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Rescue Road
Rescue Road is a 100% volunteer-run, foster-based, 501(c)3 nonprofit in Central Arkansas. Shelters across our state have high euthanasia rates, and we aim to relieve pressure on rural, high-intake areas to help lower those rates. We are dedicated to saving abandoned and neglected dogs from our core shelter partners: Pine Bluff, West Memphis, Hazen, Carlisle, Dewitt, and Stuttgart. We also assist law enforcement with special cases as needed. In 2023, Rescue Road sent 580 dogs to safety. Since the rescue's inception in 2012, we have saved more than 8,500 dogs and counting.
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Last chance Arkansas
In 2005 Last Chance Arkansas was founded as a 100% volunteer based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based out of Central Arkansas. Last Chance AR believes in advocating for the abused, abandoned, and neglected animals across the state that cannot speak for themselves. Working in conjunction with various clinics, Last Chance AR travels statewide to urban and rural communities to provide comfort, safety, and love to animals in need. Hundreds of lives have been saved through our efforts, which include a spay and neuter program for impoverished pet owners, frequent visits to rescue animals from shelters suffering from a desperate lack of funding, and the complete inability for any of our patient and dedicated volunteers to turn down a creature in need. We serve as a resource to our community and local pet owners by providing education and information on responsible pet ownership including the importance of spay/neuter, positive behavior training and good nutrition. We work with committed volunteers, veterinarians, fosters, and trainers to provide health care and temporary homes to animals deserving of another chance. Our number one priority is ensuring the health of all of our dogs and carefully screening and well matching ‚furever homes.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In California

Bunny's Buddies
Bunny's Buddies works tirelessly to save dogs from slaughterhouses, the streets and kill shelters in Asia and the USA.
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Doggie Protective Services (DPS)
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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.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Colorado

Summit Dog Rescue / Pod To The Rescue
We are a small volume rescue with a huge focus on humane education. We rescue dogs and cats and work with our adopters/fosters and the general public to educate about how to best support our companion animals so that their placements can be successful. Unwanted pets is at epidemic levels, and without education we won't make progress. Our rescue is unique in that we are run by multiple certified dog trainers and behavior professionals. We have a podcast called Pod To The Rescue, which is produced with the goal of providing evidence based behavioral support to adopters and fosters.
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Jailbreak husky rescue
Jailbreak Husky Rescue is a 501(C)(3) and PACFA licensed organization based out of Colorado that aims to rescue, rehabilitate, transport, rehome and advocate for Siberian Huskies and other northern breeds that are at risk of being euthanized, abandoned, or in neglectful or abusive situations. Our mission has a specialized focus on pregnant or nursing northern breeds, including pre-natal and postpartum care, whelping, bottle, syringe and tube feeding, and breed-focused litter care and development.
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Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue
Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue is a non-profit, all volunteer group in Colorado. We have been active and engaged in our community since 1972.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Connecticut

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.
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Lucky Dog Refuge
We are not just a rescue, we are a refuge; a safe haven for dogs from dire backgrounds. We focus on the dogs most in need of saving - those who have been abandoned by their families, the strays, the starving, the injured, the sick, and those in immediate need of help. We take them in, rehabilitate them, provide housing, vetting, training, and extra doses of love. Whether at our facility in Stamford, CT or placed with one of our rescue partners, every dog we commit to is guaranteed love and a beautiful life with the forever family they so deserve.
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Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates
Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates is a group of volunteer citizens who work together to better the lives of animals. We are committed to impacting animal welfare legislation. We do this by being a voice for the voiceless in the courts and at the Capitol. We seek to raise public awareness regarding the statistical connection between animal abuse and domestic and social violence.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Delaware

Brandywine Valley SPCA
We're the largest animal welfare organization in the region, helping 17,000+ animals per year.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In District of Columbia

Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue
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!
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City Dogs & City Kitties Rescue
City Dogs & City Kitties Rescue (CDCK) is a nonprofit organization that rescues animals in overcrowded, under-resourced shelters. We are often the last hope for animals, many of whom would otherwise not be rescued due to injuries or other medical problems. We rely exclusively on donations to provide critical veterinary care and on passionate volunteers to provide foster homes and operational support. We find loving adoptive homes for dogs and cats in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, thereby enriching the lives of both humans and animals.
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Rural Dog Rescue
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Florida

The London Sanctuary
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.
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Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc
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.
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Rescue Rebels by Cash 4 Canines
Cash 4 Canines, Inc. dba Rescue Rebels' sole mission is to provide a better and improved life, essentially a "second chance", for working dog breeds that have been left at shelters, surrendered by their owners, or that have been abused and neglected. Through Rescue Rebels, these companion animals are rescued, given the physical care necessary, spayed or neutered, and provided with behavioral guidance if necessary. Our TLC Transformation Project welcomes medically fragile companion animals, that have been left at shelters and provides funds for the medical care unique to each animal's needs, and then finds these animals foster homes or "fur" ever homes.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Georgia

Thomasville Humane
Thomasville Humane is a charitable organization committed to promoting the humane treatment of animals through a variety of means, including adoption programs, foster care programs, spay and neuter services, and community education projects with the long-term goal of eliminating unwarranted euthanasia.
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Adopt a Golden Atlanta
Adopt a Golden Atlanta [AGA] is a volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding warm, loving permanent homes for Golden Retrievers [both purebred and high golden mixes] in order to prevent them from becoming strays or adding to the shelter overpopulation. If a non-golden is best friends with a golden who is surrendered to us, non golden will not be left behind and will accompany the golden into our program and placed with the golden to live together in their new home. Golden Retrievers, regardless of medical needs or age, will receive comprehensive evaluation, spay/neutering services, veterinary care, behavioral training if required, and safe passage into a permanent loving home. In addition to providing those services, Adopt a Golden Atlanta is intent on treating dog owners who are faced with surrendering their dogs with the utmost respect, understanding and compassion. It is also our obligation to educate and assist the metropolitan Atlanta general public, and dog owners specifically, regarding issues such as responsible pet ownership, spay/neutering, obedience training, and veterinary/specialists referrals. Our goal is to reduce the number of Golden Retrievers sent to shelters. AGA will never allow a golden to die in a shelter. AGA relies solely on donations and has a 501(c)(3) classification with the IRS. Your donation is tax deductible. We also meet the requirements for corporate matching, employee giving and volunteer grant programs.
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South Georgia Equine Rescue Inc
We are a small rescue in South Ga taking in all animals from cats and dogs to horses and sheep. We try to spay and neuter community dogs as people will allow and educate to help prevent these issues from continuing for years to come.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Hawaii

Kaua'i Humane Society
The Kaua`i Humane Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering respect, responsibility and compassion for all animals and enriching lives by nurturing healthy relationships between pets and people on the island of Kaua`i and beyond. KHS is a local, independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization. KHS has been serving the island of Kaua'i as its only open-intake animal shelter since 1952. KHS is a no-kill animal shelter with an annual live release rate of 96%.
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Humane Society of Vilas County
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Idaho

Meridian Canine Rescue
Saving lives through storytelling and education. We promote behavioral wellness through a holistic care approach for every animal in our rescue. Our life skill training curricula teach both dogs and humans how to live ‚and thrive together. The best way for us to help more animals is by sharing our knowledge and skills. We have several program to support our community with resources to reduce the amount of dogs with behavioral issues entering shelters in the state of Idaho. We also have a prison program (EPIC) where we also work with the incarcerated community and provide life skills to humans and dogs.
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The Furry Farm Rescue
Our promise to our animals: We will love and protect you, provide an enriching and nurturing foster home, care for all your medical needs, give you the structure and training needed for success, and above all treat you as our own while you are with us. Our promise to our community: We will work together, we will be kind and considerate, we will educate, we will advocate, we will serve. We are a small rescue established in North Idaho with 501(c)(3) status. Our team brings years of rescue and animal welfare together to form a family who is here to provide safety for forgotten animals and help find their forever family. We focus on those who need help the most, our abandoned local shelter dogs needing medical and more. Furry Farm is a foster based rescue; with an application, home check, and a meet and greet process before formalizing the adoption of your new furry friend. If you see an animal you would like to meet, head over to our website at thefurryfarmrescue.org to complete and application.
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Idaho Humane Society
The Idaho Humane Society is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization and veterinary charity in the state. We are a private 501(c)3 organization that relies on donations to provide programs and services that benefit animals in Idaho.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Illinois

Dark Horse Dogs, NFP
An all breed foster based rescue saving dogs from our local open access shelters.
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Chicago Canine Rescue
CCR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 2001 to help find permanent, loving homes for homeless dogs in our city. CCR has saved the lives of over 8,000 dogs while also finding their forever homes! Traditionally, these animals were automatically euthanized at area shelters. However, today, Chicago Canine Rescue exists to give many of these animals a second chance, too! CCR assists the animals that are the MOST vulnerable in our city ‚the dogs that are slated for euthanasia because they are too old, too young, too injured, have disabilities, or have simply been overlooked for too long by potential adopters at other shelters. We are committed to each dog who comes into our care and won't stop providing for them we find their perfect family! Though we are just one of many rescues in Chicago, our dogs are one in a million and we are committed to leaving no dog behind!
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Community Animal Rescue Effort
Since 1987, Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.‚Ñ¢) has been promoting adoptions and care for cats and dogs. C.A.R.E. is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. Our Adoption Center opened in the Summer of 2018 and is located north of Chicago at 4927 Main Street in Skokie, IL. C.A.R.E. offers a combined adoption center and foster home model to better serve the needs of homeless animals as well as potential adopters and the community. C.A.R.E. is licensed by the State of Illinois Department of Agriculture (License 14383). Our Philosophy
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Indiana

Homeward Bound Animal Welfare Group Inc.
We are a 501c3 organization specializing in forever placements of our amazing dogs into great homes! Spay & neuter is also at the top of our priority list as our major contribution to fighting pet overpopulation.
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Helping Paws, Inc.
Helping Paws is a foster-based rescue run 100% by volunteers. We do not have a facility, so all pets are fostered in loving homes until they find their forever families! We deal in all breeds and ages of pets, but we do have a soft spot for medical cases.
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The Humane Society of Hobart
The Humane Society of Hobart (HSH) is a nonprofit animal shelter on a mission to build and strengthen pet families and has been saving the lives of homeless pets since 1954. We are small , but mighty! In 2023 alone, HSH sheltered more than 2,500 homeless pets, provided services to more than 1,000 pet families in need of resources and supplies, and returned 253 lost pets to their owners. We work alongside law enforcement when there is an emergency or criminal situation and animals are present. After law enforcement has secured the scene, we proceed to rescue the animals. Sometimes we work with the Indiana State Veterinarian to methodically document all that is needed to care for the animals or prosecute if neglect and cruelty is suspected. The staff and volunteers are true warriors that lead with courage and compassion, daily meeting the challenge of many animals coming to our door in need of emergency medical care and shelter.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Iowa

Dogs Forever of Iowa (DBA DOGS FOREVER)
Dogs Forever is dedicated to rescuing homeless, abused, and neglected dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages with a special emphasis on those deemed ‚hard-to-place. As an Adoption Guarantee shelter, all dogs will stay in our care until we have found their forever homes.
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A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue
A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit volunteer-based animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing homeless dogs and cats directly within our community, overcrowded shelters and other unforeseen circumstances. We were founded in 2022 by a small group of animal advocates in Iowa, after recognizing the need to support not only strays and relinquished animals in our area, but areas all across the country. Our startup mission is to offer support to the many local animals in need of homes, by partnering with area shelters and rescues. In addition, we are committed to providing behavioral, medical and low cost resources to people who are considering surrender, in an effort to keep their pets in their homes and out of the shelter system
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The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc
The ARL serves people and pets from across the state of Iowa through its programs, which include pet adoption, humane education, pet behavior training, spay/neuter, animal cruelty intervention and much more. The Animal Rescue League is dependent on individual and corporate contributions to care for its animals.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Kansas

Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary
Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary (a.k.a. Always & Furever or A&F) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue network operating out of Spring Hill, Kansas. In our early days, Always & Furever was nothing more than a converted barn for senior dogs to live out the rest of their days surrounded by love, a true senior sanctuary. Over the past 4 years, we have transformed into a massive operation of amazing people and more than 5,000 lives saved.
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Valley Center Animal League
The Valley Center Animal League, Inc., was founded in 2009 when the local animal shelter was shut down. Our original goal was to prevent impounded animals from being transported to the Wichita Animal Shelter after 3 days. From there we evolved into a licensed “Group Home Shelter” in order to establish a network of individual foster homes.
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Kansas K-9 ResQ
Kansas K-9 ResQ was founded in 2001 by Shadow's foster mom and the couple that adopted him. Inspired by Shadow, this group formed their desire to help other unwanted dogs. The founders vowed that a dog in their rescue would never go without proper and timely veterinary care, as Shadow had. With a handful of members and a very tight budget, only four dogs were adopted into forever homes that first year. Since that time, our group and our budget have grown substantially. In addition to the generosity of donations, our group members work tirelessly to raise funds to help dogs in need. We hold raffles, microchip clinics and a vast variety of other fund raisers. Over the years we have saved the lives of many hundreds of dogs. The dogs in our program are typically unclaimed strays from the Wichita Animal Shelter. A vet promptly sees all dogs that are taken into our program and their medical needs are attended to immediately. The dogs in our care live in foster homes where they are crate and house trained and assessed as to what kind of permanent home would best suit them. They live with their foster families until their forever home is found. We are proud of scripting happy endings for many once-discarded animals. The original founders continue their work with the rescue, and over the years they have inspired many other people to join them in their efforts. We now have a nine-member Board of Directors and dozens of foster parents and volunteers. Our group includes members who come from all walks of life, and are united with a common love for dogs and the desire to help animals in need. Kansas K-9 ResQ volunteers are extremely dedicated and through their hard work funds have been raised to help many animals in need. No longer having to scrape by, we regularly help dogs with special needs, such as those who have been confiscated in hoarding cases, cruelty cases, and in puppy mill raids; dogs that have been hit by cars; dogs with severe skin issues; dogs with heartworms; and dogs that have had major leg and joint injuries. We take in dogs of all ages and all breeds. Kansas K-9 ResQ volunteers work hard to continue Shadow’s legacy. His memory inspires the members of this group to continue our mission of “Making the world a better place…one dog at a time.”
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Kentucky

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.
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Lexington Pit Crew
We are a Bully Breed rescue operating in Central Kentucky. We have been a nonprofit for over 10 years and work strictly with volunteers who have the same passion for pitbulls as well do.
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Tier Haven Rescue, Inc
At Tier Haven our hearts belong to the working dog breeds of Kentucky - German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois being our most common companions. The Tier Haven family is comprised of volunteers, adopters, and donors who have a passionate love for these working breeds and all of their quirks. We are brought together by the dogs that steal our hearts while chewing the shoe collection. Tier Haven Rescue, Inc was originally incorporated in 1996 under the name ARK Project, Inc and is a long standing member of the animal rescue community in Kentucky. Originally an all-breed rescue Tier Haven shifted to focus on working dogs with the rise of breed specific legislation which was leading to larger numbers of German Shepherds, and other working dogs, being euthanized. We are rooted in Kentucky with a strong passion for enacting change within the state which has a long journey towards building our animal welfare laws. Even as breed specific legislation has dwindled there are still large numbers of working dogs finding themselves at risk of euthanasia due to a lack of breed knowledge and/or training. Tier Haven is committed to giving these dogs a second chance and we are all honored to be part of their paths to a better life.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Louisiana

Villalobos Rescue Center
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.
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St. Tammany Parish Animal Services
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.
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Louisiana SPCA
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.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Maine

Blessed be the Bullies
Welcome to our page! We are a 501c3 nonprofit foster based dog rescue located in Maine. We strive to provide more than just a new family member. We provide links to other businesses that support our mission. We provide training tips and how-to on helping your new pet (or even a current one) live their best lives. We have testimonials from some of the wonderful families that we have impacted with our rescue.
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Rescue Charlie's Friends
Rescue Charlie's Friends was established in 2018 because we love dogs and want them to have the best life possible. Many dogs lost their homes due to fire, floods or hurricanes. Others have been abandoned, neglected or abused. Whatever the cause, our mission is to rescue them and match them with a loving forever family. Most of our dogs come from high-kill shelters. The shelters do the best they can but due to limited facilities, dogs can't stay long. Dogs must be moved out quickly or be put down. These are Charlie's Friends. These are the dogs that we focus on. We stay in touch with shelters and volunteers in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and elsewhere. We bring the dogs to Maine where Fosters care for them until they are adopted. We rescue as many dogs as we can but we always need more help.
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Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland nurtures the connection between people and pets to advance animal welfare and improve the quality of life in our community.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Maryland

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.
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Reed's Rescue
Reeds Rescue is a non-profit volunteer dog rescue organization serving Baltimore County and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs of senior age or deemed to be terminally ill from area shelters, dogs given up by their owners because of difficult circumstances, and those in danger of decompensating in the shelter environment. Reeds Rescue will provide nurturing foster homes while they await placement in their permanent homes. Reeds Rescue, the board, and the volunteers will strive to work with area shelters, the community, and other rescues to develop a network of supporters to create a better world for the elderly and terminal pets in need.
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Key to lions heart rescue
Key to Lion's Heart Rescue was founded in January 2018 in honor of Lion, a dog who made a tremendous impact on so many lives. Lion was dumped at a very high kill shelter where his time was up. Without knowing his past, he was pulled by a rescue and placed into a home. Lion was then moved nine times over the course of one year in an effort to find the right home. Unfortunately, the second to last move was that one that forever changed his soul. Just like people, dogs have a breaking point, and Lion had reached his. He had been through more in one year than any dog should ever have to go through in a lifetime. His last move was to a home where he was loved and cared for by a handful of people, his advocates for many months. Unfortunately, it was too late. The pain and suffering he had endured in some of his previous places was more than Lion could overcome. The light in his eyes was gone and he was suffering. In the arms of the people who loved him dearly, we whispered our goodbyes and told him how much we loved him. Humans had failed him. As we kissed him goodbye, we promised Lion that we would do our best to ensure no dog would ever have to endure what he had in his last year. At that moment, we dedicated ourselves to unlocking hope for all dogs by giving a little piece of our hearts to every single one that we can save.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Massachusetts

Gals Best Pal Inc.
Our goal at GBP is to make rescuing a dog stress free and interactive, while also setting our adopters up for success by thoughtfully placing the dogs we are adopting out. During the application process, our goal is to communicate and educate each person we talk to, so that when you find your perfect match and are ready to bring them home, you are prepared and ready for the next few weeks to come! We will continue to provide thoughtful advice and emotional assistance throughout the lifetime of each GBP adoption.
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Last Hope K9 Rescue
LHK9 is a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit all-breed dog rescue based in Massachusetts. We are dedicated to saving abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs from high-kill shelters in Central Arkansas and beyond. Though our rescue efforts are focused in the Central Arkansas area, we also serve as a resource for local dog surrenders, shelters, and special rescue efforts in other areas. We don't discriminate on the basis of age, pre-existing medical conditions, or breed, because every dog deserves to know love. As the literal ‚'last hope' of the dogs we serve, our southern fosters pull dogs and puppies from partner shelters in Arkansas. While in foster, each dog receives love, care, and medical treatment, then receives a health clearance and transports to New England. After a mandatory 48-hour quarantine stay and an additional health clearance, each dog is picked up and fostered by a northern foster family who serves as a gateway to his/her adoptive home, affectionately known as a FURever home.
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Buddy and Friends Animal Rescue
Buddy & Friends Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization based in Pembroke, MA. We are NOT a shelter facility and rely solely on the backbone of our rescue which is fosters and volunteers.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Michigan

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.
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A Rejoyceful Animal Rescue
Here at ARAR, we see our shelter as a safe transition point for many animals in need. Our goal is to keep animals in our shelter for the least amount of time possible. It is just a place for them to crash before their next step into a foster or adoptive home. Currently, we have about 30 cats and 10 dogs in our shelter. We do our best to make the animal's time here the best it can be. When they are in their kennels we play calming doggie music and they get enrichment actives. As we do not have a fenced in yard area outside, on nice days we schedule SniffSpots for our shelter residents! It is a great way that they can explore a new space and get some energy out.
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Heart of Michigan Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue
Rescues are frequent. Re-homings are more frequent. Re-homings differ from rescues in the fact that we will have a history of the dog and its need. Puppies don't normally need to be placed until they get bigger than the owner had intended and therefore are not as common in rescue. Please keep in mind that most ‚rescue/rehome dogs, are placed because of behavioral problems, most, but not all. Many of the dog's issues were due to lack of training and socialization. Most problems can be addressed and corrected in a stable and loving home. If you really want a Berner, do tons of research. Our advice is to attend shows, join a BMD club and research breeders. If you would like to be considered for a rescue or re-homing, please read our policy's on the Adopting page. The mission of the HMBMD Rescue program is to take in dogs of Bernese Mountain Dog parentage that are in shelters, surrendered by their owners, or that have become lost and abandoned, and to place them in permanent pet homes in order to help provide a safe harbor that they might otherwise be destroyed or abandoned.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Minnesota

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.
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Warrior Dog Rescue
Warrior Dog rescue is a non-profit organization based in Savage, MN that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding adoptive homes for dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. We are celebrating our 6th year in rescue and have saved over 3,400 dogs to date. When we reflect on that number we think that each one of those dogs had a foster hero that YES to saving them! We think about all the visits to the vet, the training, the full food bowls, walks, belly rubs, and all the healing that was given to each of them through the love and safety we were able to provide. Knowing that we were able to help them heal and be ready to love their forever family is a blessing beyond compare. Our storybook is filled with all the Warrior Dogs who have come into our lives and forever imprinted on our hearts. The Warrior Dog family continues to save these sweet souls because they all deserve to the know the gift of love and safety. There is still work to be done and by the grace and selflessness of our volunteer and foster teams, along with our generous donors we will continue. There are so many pups even as you read this that are alone and sick, abandoned in kill shelters and on roadsides, living a life filled with fear and abuse. We are steadfast in our commitment to continue to make a difference, one dog at a time.
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Winona Area Humane Society
Since 1992, the Winona Area Humane Society (WAHS) has been dedicated to improving the lives of our community's companion animals by providing humane care to adoptable shelter dogs and cats, and offering public services to pet owners in need of support. Our no-kill animal shelter does not receive municipal or federal funding to carry out our mission. Thanks to fundraising, grants, and generous donations, our passionate hands-on staff & volunteers are able to care for at least 14 dogs and 50 cats at a time, and place an average of 227 cats and dogs in loving forever homes every year.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Mississippi

Tunica Humane Society
This is the Tunica County Dog Pound, 6 cages where dogs were held for 5 days before they were disposed of. No pet of the week No vet No love No care Only a death sentence. Picture All of this changed August 2008 when the Tunica Humane Society was formed by a group of women determined to change the Tunica County Dog Pound from an ALL-KILL facility to a NO-KILL facility. Today the Tunica Humane Society has grown and moved to a new facility with room for many more dogs with the help of donors such as Caesars Entertainment and Sidewalk Angels. But the Tunica Humane Society still needs the help of generous donors, fosters, and volunteers.
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Leflore County Humane Society
Since 1970, LCHS has been an institution serving Greenwood and the Leflore County area. It is our humanitarian duty and mission to help cats and dogs that come to us in crisis. We provide protection, shelter, food, medical care, and most of all love. We change their future to a world of hope and a forever loving home. We are a non profit Shelter serving Leflore County, and we accept all donations small and large to help our babies find fur-ever homes. Come Visit Us! Our Hours of Operation are Monday - Friday from 1PM to 5PM. We are closed on the weekends.
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Humane Society of South Mississippi
The Humane Society of South Mississippi (HSSM) is the largest animal welfare organization in the state of Mississippi. In 2023, HSSM cared for nearly 5,000 homeless pets. Since our incorporation in 1952, HSSM has been committed to ending pet overpopulation on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. HSSM is an open-admissions shelter and turns no pet away based on health, age, or behavioral status. Oftentimes our open-admissions status in a community with a disproportionately high number of homeless pets leads to needless euthanasia of adoptable pets in our shelter HSSM has now vowed to change this. In January of 2012, HSSM's Board of Directors adopted the most progressive initiative ever undertaken by our organization. This initiative, entitled Countdown to Zero, aims to eliminate the euthanasia of all healthy and treatable pets in our community. Our dream is to make South Mississippi a truly humane community where every pet lives out his/her life in a loving home. When HSSM achieves this goal, we will be the first community in the Deep South to achieve this milestone.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Missouri

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.
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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.
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Center for Animal Rescue & Enrichment of St. Louis - CARE STL

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2700 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.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Montana

Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter
Heart of the Valley, Inc. (HOV) is a private 501(c)(3) non-profit animal shelter located in Bozeman and serving the Gallatin and Madison Valleys. Our primary service area includes Bozeman, Belgrade, Manhattan, Three Forks, Big Sky, West Yellowstone. HOV also has contracts to serve as a stray holding facility for Gallatin County, City of Bozeman, City of Belgrade and the Town of Manhattan. HOV is an open admission shelter which means we accept any dog or cat brought to the shelter regardless of condition or circumstance. In addition to reuniting lost pets with their families and finding new homes for homeless animals, HOV serves as a resource for the community by providing programs and services designed to help bring people and pets together. We offer humane education programming, canine training classes and behavioral consultations, special adoption programs for senior adults and military veterans, low cost micro-chipping, ID tags, pet licensing and a no cost Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP).
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Humane Society of Western Montana
The Humane Society of Western Montana was incorporated in 1963 as the Missoula Humane Society. At that time, our community had a considerable overpopulation of pets. So much so that thousands came through our doors and difficult decisions were made. Fast forward to the present and there is much to celebrate. Our community embraced spay/neuter programs and as a result, the sheer volume of pets coming through our doors for rehoming dropped from over 8,000 to approximately 1,400. HSWM is grateful for the work of all our volunteers and staff over the years. We wish our work was done. However, in many ways it is just beginning. When we consider pet welfare across the state, there are many areas where spay/neuter has simply been an unavailable and unaffordable service. There are communities where pet populations are at unsustainable levels and dogs and cats go hungry. People and pets in those areas need our help. And, as costs rise, many here in Missoula are now finding they cannot afford care. This is why we offer free vaccine clinics, low cost spay neuter services and travel long distances to provide care to underserved clients and pets. Through our programs, which include a robust foster care system, food pantry, behavior hotline and veterinary care, we serve more animals outside the shelter than within our walls. And we are growing.
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Freckles and Tomcat Rescue
We are Freckles and Tomcat Rescue A non profit animal rescue that treats unwanted animals like family. Since 2016 we have dedicated ourselves to rescuing, rehabilitating and homing as many needy animals as possible. Our Initiatives Rescue With our mission always in mind, we strive to rescue and rehabilitate as many animals as possible. Contact us to learn more about our teams hard work and commitment to this cause. Advocacy We support responsible spay and neutering and host several free clinics yearly. This is by no means an easy feat, but through cooperation and community involvement, we believe we can facilitate progress in this area. Rehabilitation On this point, we will not waiver. We believe every life has value. Our goal is to support the welfare of animals in need. With the support of our dedicated volunteers we do everything we can to help every animal. Learn more about this initiative and how you can help.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Nebraska

Nebraska Humane Society
The Nebraska Humane Society was founded in 1875. It is the fifth oldest humane society in the nation, and, today, is also one of the largest. We offer shelter to animals who have no place to call home and provide vital services to them and to the people who love them. Every year, more than 24,000 animals, including wildlife, find their way to our doors. Through our programs, we touch the lives of more than 200,000 people annually with our message of compassion and humane treatment for all living creatures. We are housed on a 13-acre campus with four buildings, 170 dedicated staff members and 500 volunteers.
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MidAmerica Rottweiler Rescue
MidAmerica Rottweiler Rescue (MARR) was founded in March 1999. This rescue organization was formed because we saw a need for a rescue network in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. While some of these states have strong and successful rescue groups, there are gaps in area coverage and some states have no rescues at all. MARR is supported solely through charitable donations and the fundraising efforts of its members and is a nonprofit corporation, recognized as a public charity with federal nonprofit 501(c)(3) status. All donations are fully tax-deductible allowable by federal income tax code. We are always looking for Rottweiler enthusiasts of all experience levels who are interested in breed and a desire to help. There is something for everyone to do!
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Rescue Theory
Rescue Theory is a new kind of rescue based in Lincoln, Nebraska. We were founded on the mission to make helping animals easy no matter who you are. We use top rated animal welfare research to drive the rescue and the life saving decisions we make. As an organization, we strive to be inclusive of all people by using open and honest communication with adopters and volunteers. If you have a heart for animals, we will work to find a way to say ‘yes!’ in pairing you with a wonderful pet or finding ways to help us save more animals!
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Nevada

Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas
Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas (RRLV) was founded in Las Vegas, NV. by Danielle Roth-Lapolla and Jon Lapolla in 2019 and focuses on International Rescue Retrievers (and other breeds). RRLV's goal is to save dogs in terrible situations overseas. RRLV is a 100% volunteer based, non-profit organization. We believe in making a difference one dog at a time and being the voice for the voiceless. Retriever Rescue Las Vegas Dog RescueWe started this Rescue because we are aware of outrageous abuse happening in some overseas countries and cases we saw crushed our hearts. It made us think hard of what we can do to make a difference, even if it's one dog at a time. After volunteering throughout Las Vegas we wanted to not have to say no to non-purebred dogs and we didn't want to base our rescue on votes. We just want to save as many of the loving fury faces as we can and make a difference in the furbabies life furever.
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SPCA of Northern Nevada
We are, and will continue to be, a strong advocate for animal welfare in our community and beyond. We believe that maintaining the highest standards and best practices in managing our clinic and Adoption Center are critically important, and we strive to achieve that goal every day. We are a wholly independent organization. We are not directly affiliated with any other SPCA, the national ASPCA, nor any other animal welfare organizations. Please explore our website for more information on our adoptions and community programs. You can also learn more about us on Guidestar.com.
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Dog Town Canine Rescue
Since 2003. Dog Town Rescue has focused on saving dogs from the absolute worst situations. Dogs abandoned by humans, dogs coming from survival situations fending for themselves in the desert, and feral dogs living on the fringes of civilization. Many of the dogs we have saved needed to be caught in a humane trap in order to safely bring them to our shelter. The dogs we rescue are not vaccinated. We have taken in dozens of dying puppies with Parvo. They are not fixed, which is a huge contributor to unwanted and neglected dogs. They are not fed properly, so most are full of tapeworms from eating rabbits and roadkill. Loose dogs get into fights, hit by cars, have untreated injuries with infections. We've rescued dogs with buckshot and/or .22 bullets in them that our vet removed while they were being spayed/neutered. We also serve our local Indigenous communities by providing free of charge dog spay/neuters for Tribal members. Most of our neighboring Colonies and Reservations are located in remote areas, and have little to no animal services. City and County animal control are jurisdictionally limited as to what they can provide, but as a non-governmental organization, Dog Town goes where the need is.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In New Hampshire

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?
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Second Chance Ranch Rescue
Second Chance Ranch Rescue is dedicated to rehabilitating and providing second chances to dogs who are misunderstood and would otherwise be lost in traditional shelter systems.
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Over the Hill Senior Dog Sanctuary
We are an in-home rescue for senior and special need dogs. Most of our pack is made up of retired sled dogs, but you'll find a few misfit mutts in the mix. Over the Hill Senior Dog Sanctuary Inc is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization. We are dedicated to providing a safe, loving home to senior dogs in need, no matter how short their time is.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In New Jersey

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.
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Save the Satos - jefferson, NJ
There are an estimated 500,000 stray dogs in Puerto Rico, a US Commonwealth about the size of Connecticut. Back in October of 2018 four team members went to the island to see if they could help. Throughout the week, the team saved over 30 dogs. Within the next 8 months, the team visited the island 3 more times and continued to save another 50 Satos and placed them in loving homes. They volunteered at The Spayathon for Puerto Rico, doing everything they could to make a difference, but it still was not enough. This is when Save the Satos was formed. We have made it our life's mission to not stop until we make a difference in the stray population on this beautiful little island.
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Sammy's Hope
Placing homeless animals in loving, forever homes while providing shelter, socialization, medical care and enrichment, since 2010
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In New Mexico

NMDOG
NMDOG is an in-the-trenches rescue serving the chained, the abused, the abandoned dogs of New Mexico. Headquartered out of Albuquerque, this small, 501(c)3 non profit, all volunteer, foster based rescue was established in 2010, touching the lives of thousands of dogs ever since
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Animal Humane New Mexico
Founded in 1965, Animal Humane New Mexico is the state's leading private 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization serving more than 10,000 homeless and at-risk dogs & cats each year. We never euthanize based on age or length of stay and since 2010, have re-homed 100% of healthy pets in our care. We support every companion animal at Animal Humane with outstanding veterinary, social and emotional care, and love. As a private nonprofit shelter, we receive no city, state or federal funding; each dollar judiciously spent is earned or raised. We are nationally recognized as a top U.S. charity based on financial accountability, transparency, and administrative-to-program cost ratios. Animal Humane is among only 9 percent of nationwide charities to have received five consecutive annual four-star evaluations, the highest possible, from Charity Navigator, including a top score of 100 for accountability and transparency.
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German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Central New Mexico
German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Central New Mexico is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) volunteer-based animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing homeless German Shepherd Dogs. By working with a small network of volunteer advocates, foster caregivers, local veterinarians and shelters, German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Central New Mexico is able to rescue several German Shepherd Dogs every year. We focus primarily on shelter dogs, evaluating them, addressing any medical needs, and providing them with temporary homes. We ensure all dogs are spayed/neutered and we use our extensive experience with the breed to find matching homes for each one. German Shepherds are wonderful – intelligent, athletic, loyal – and we want every dog in our care to go to a loving permanent home!
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In New York

A Good Dog Rescue, Inc
I started this rescue in 2018 to save really good family dogs at risk in high kill shelters. We are community based and have hundreds of volunteers. We use a common sense approach to rescue and always, always take our dogs back.
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Operation Freedom Ride
Operation Freedom Ride is a 100% foster based non-profit dog and cat rescue located in Rochester, NY. All of our animals are being cared for in foster homes until they find their forever homes. We rescue dogs and cats locally from our local shelters, strays and owner surrenders. We also rescue dogs from overcrowded kill shelters in the south.
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Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF Beacon)
Animal Rescue Foundation, also commonly known as ARF, is a Federal 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill, 100% volunteer animal rescue located in Beacon, NY. Our dedicated volunteers are driven by their love for animals and their desire to improve the lives of the cats and dogs at ARF. Since 1986, we've rescued, rehabilitated, sheltered, and found loving homes for thousands of cats and dogs. Every step is taken to assure that animals go to good and appropriate adoptive homes. Even those who aren't chosen by a family experience unwavering love and care from our devoted volunteers, creating a forever home right here at ARF.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In North Carolina

Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation
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.
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Charley's K-9 Rescue
Charley's K-9 Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit dog rescue focused on helping bully breeds in our NC shelters at risk of euthanasia.
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Colonial Capital Humane Society
Established in 1978, Colonial Capital Humane Society (CCHS) is the only no-kill shelter in Craven County. We are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for abandoned, abused and neglected animals while they wait for their forever homes. CCHS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, volunteer and donation driven organization.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In North Dakota

Turtle Mountain Animal Rescue
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Miles of Love
We are a 501c3 dog rescue located in Mandan, ND. Our mission is to fight the overpopulation of dog shelters around the United States. We plan to save them one by one, until there are none. We can't do it without you! It all started when... We were two young girls taking in strays and keeping them until we could find their homes. In early 2015, our lives changed... Kalli saved a dog from a high kill shelter. In the months that followed, we realized how many dogs needed a voice. We decided to be their voice. Our first step was to rescue 30 dogs from Texas, all within one month. We then went on to Shawnee, OK where we saved another six dogs. We also took in a few owner surrenders from our own state of North Dakota. In 2016, we rescued an additional 25 dogs from Texas. Our goal is to rescue from more states, including our own. Miles of Love is going to continue doing what we can to prevent overpopulation of dogs in the United States. We plan to save them one by one, until there are none.
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Furry Friends Rockin' Rescue
Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue is a non-profit animal rescue started in 2014 and officially incorporated in 2015 by a group of Bismarck, North Dakota Animal Impound volunteers. We are a volunteer run organization. The rescue was founded to alleviate overcrowding and unnecessary euthanization within the impound. We have branched out to take in owner surrenders and other animals found in dangerous situations. We rely on the support of the community to help us provide services to animals. We strive to match the animal with the right home. We also seek to educate the community regarding the importance of providing proper veterinary care to animals and having all their pets spayed or neutered.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Ohio

One of A Kind Pet Rescue
One of A Kind Pet Rescue is a non-profit organization founded in November 2005 and is funded by private donations. The organization is dedicated to saving animal lives, rescuing pets in imminent danger of euthanasia, spaying/neutering and adoption of homeless animals into appropriate, loving homes. We are a no-time-limit shelter, and no adoptable animal is euthanized. Many of our animals come from Animal Control Facilities (the pound) just prior to their scheduled euthanasia. Sick or injured animals brought to us by Good Samaritans are often given priority. Owner surrenders and strays are accepted when space is available.
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Cabin Critters Rescue
Cabin Critters Rescue is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in Scioto County, Ohio, that is focused on animal rescue and education. Started in February of 2019, we have rescued over 1000 dogs and cats (plus many other types of animals). Our primary focus is to find loving homes for our animal friends where they will thrive and be loved for the rest of their lives. We also care much about the humans behind the animals, therefore we are also really big in educating and providing awareness, as well as help to those who seek it.
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CHA Animal Shelter
CHA Animal Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter in northeast Columbus, Ohio. CHA is funded solely from adoption fees, donations from the public, and our own fundraising efforts.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Oklahoma

Husky Halfway House Foundation
H3 rescues, rehabs and re-homes huskies in puppy mills, shelters and abusive situations. With a current focus on raising awareness about spaying and neutering your pets. And creating a low cost spay and neuter clinic at our rescue.
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405 Animal Rescue
405 Animal Rescue is an Oklahoma City, Oklahoma-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization specializing in major medical cases and adoptions for Dogs and Cats.
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Kanoa Rescue Foundation
Kanoa Rescue Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit animal rescue based out of the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. We were founded in 2019 in an effort to save and improve lives of animals in our community. Initially starting out our focus was on medical cases, geriatrics, and differently-abled animals. Our program has grown to include animals facing displacement, neonates, funding service dog training for rescue dogs, spay/neuter programs, and behavioral cases.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Oregon

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.
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Oregon Dog Rescue
After 13 years in Tualatin, We recently re-located to Portland in the John's Landing neighborhood! We always have 50+ adorable pups waiting for homes so please come visit us 7-days a week!
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Street Savvy Dog Rescue
Street Savvy Dog Rescue is a superlative, foster-based dog rescue active in rescuing dogs from underserved areas such as rural Texas, Mexico, CA and the PNW where we are based. Our amazing ALL-VOLUNTEER team cares for dogs in their homes until they are matched to applicants. Started in 2014, we are now entering our 10th year and have surpassed the 3000 saved mark! We are notably THE FIRST non-profit dog rescue in Oregon to resolutely ONLY use force-free training methods and we are dedicated to educating the public all about using force-free training and mental enrichment to help their dogs be happy and psychologically healthy!
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Pennsylvania

Abby's Angels Animal Haven
Abby's Angels is a 501(c)(3) non profit, all volunteer, foster based rescue out of Somerset and Bedford Counties in PA. We focus on medical rehabilitation, recovery and successful rehoming as well as helping any dog we can who is in need of a second chance at the life they deserve.
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National Brittany Rescue and Adoption Network
National Brittany Rescue & Adoption Network (NBRAN) is an alliance of dedicated Brittany rescue volunteers who share a deep love for the breed and who will work to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home Brittanys in need, whether abandoned, lost, stray or surrendered to rescue for placement. As volunteers united in a common cause, we are committed to the care of these dogs in foster homes, and providing for their physical and emotional needs. We are committed in our endeavor to help them with all the resources we have available. We pledge to maintain a community of volunteers who treat each other, and the dogs they rescue, with respect, courtesy, kindness and love. We will seek always to lend encouragement and to support one another, and to facilitate friendly collaboration and cooperation between our volunteers. We believe that by building a supportive, dog-centered organization founded on respect, honesty and integrity, we will always remain focused on the welfare of the Brittanys entrusted to our care and hold their interests uppermost in our hearts and minds. Our mission is to place these dogs in safe, loving and permanent homes with approved applicants, and to provide a supportive network for our volunteers, who after all, make our goals possible.
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Champions Crusaiders Rescue
Established in 2020 to help as many local animals as possibly. We firmly believe in our logo "No Species Left Behind". We have helped everything from domestics cats and dogs to exotics like alligators. We treat and care for every animal in our no kill for space as they are our very own.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Rhode Island

Great Dane Rescue of New England
Great Dane Rescue of New England, Incorporated is a diverse, volunteer group of experienced Great Dane owners who united in March 2013 to more effectively assist Great Danes in need, as well as the families who surrender, foster and adopt them. GDRNE is tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) charitable organization under of the Internal Revenue Code.
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The Hotel for Homeless Dogs
The Hotel is an unparalleled animal care facility and adoption center situated in Cumberland, Rhode Island. Complementing our central facility, we maintain foster homes across New England. We constitute a devoted collective of animal enthusiasts dedicated to rescuing creatures facing euthanasia in overcrowded county shelters, as well as abandoned animals, litters discovered in fields, those enduring inhumane conditions, and other homeless animals in distress. Our primary objective is to provide unwavering care to these rescues until they secure their forever homes. In tandem with our rescue efforts, we are resolute in our commitment to public education on responsible pet care. Every animal under our guardianship undergoes comprehensive vetting and is spayed or neutered, without regard for age, breed, or medical expenses. Notably, The Hotel operates independently, receiving no state funding or government assistance. Our existence is sustained through the generosity of compassionate individuals, fundraising initiatives, and adoption fees. Your support is vital in our collective mission to make a lasting impact in the lives of these deserving animals.
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Rhode Home Rescue
Rhode Home Rescue is an all volunteer, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization whose volunteers have many years of rescue experience. Our mission is to identify and rescue all types of dogs from overwhelmed euthanasia shelters and abusive situations and place them in secure, loving homes. We are a foster-based program, consisting of all volunteers, and have decided to branch out on our own in order to fulfill our mission. Prior to a Rhode Home Rescue dog being adopted, each dog undergoes an examination by a veterinarian, is updated on all age appropriate vaccinations, spayed or neutered, and micro chipped. At Rhode Home Rescue we firmly believe that a healthy, well trained dog is the key to the successful integration of a rescued dog and ensures a wonderful, loving companion for years to come.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In South Carolina

Dog Squad
Dog Squad is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit shelter-less animal rescue organization established in 2022. We rescue many of our dogs from euthanasia at overcrowded shelters. We also take in sick, injured, abused, and abandoned stray dogs who may not have been given a second chance otherwise. We work with dogs of all breeds, all ages, all sizes, and all medical issues. Dog Squad focuses on rehabilitating these dogs by providing them with proper veterinary care, unconditional love, basic training, and socialization as fosters until they are ready to be adopted into their furever home. Each rescue dog is fully vetted prior to adoption, which includes spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccinations.
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Lucky Pup Rescue SC
Lucky Pup Rescue is a 501c3 non profit, foster based dog rescue in Greenville, SC. We are committed to saving as many homeless dogs as we can through community outreach and matching dogs to the perfect adopter.
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The Paw Project
Rescue & rehome
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In South Dakota

Almost Home Canine Rescue
Almost Home Canine Rescue (AHCR) was founded in Madison, SD. In Early 2018, the group was reestablished in the Sioux Falls, SD area by a group of passionate animal lovers. While we will now be based in Sioux Falls, we will continue to have a large presence in Madison through community events and assisting the Madison Animal Shelter. Our continued presence will not only fulfill our mission, but also assist in reducing the overpopulation of animals in our area and the surrounding communities. Controlling overpopulation is the foundation in which our organization was established on. AHCR is a 501c3 non-profit organization that is 100% volunteer-run and serves to help abandoned animals find new homes. Any of our board members would be glad to answer any questions at info@almosthomecaninerescue.com. Almost Home Canine Rescue recognizes the need for diversity and inclusion so that we may carry out our mission to serve unwanted, homeless, abused or neglected pets in South Dakota and the surrounding area. Just as every dog and cat has needs that our mission works to fulfill so do our donors, volunteers, fosters and adopters. All involved play a vital role in the success of our mission no matter their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability. All are valued and respected and we work to ensure all voices are heard.
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B-squad Dog Rescue
Our first transport was in November of 2014 after the death of Jayla Rodriguez. Dogs were being rounded up with a horse trailer to be disposed of, so many rescue groups got involved to help save as many of the gentle dogs as possible. We loaded our suburban to head to Hot Springs, SD to pick up a load of puppies from KC Willis of LightShine Canine. When we arrived we were nothing short of a hot mess, missing many of the necessary supplies, not quite sure how best to assemble kennels, and fumbling around with the dogs as we loaded them for their ride to safety. I remember feeling discouraged like I had no business in the rescue transport world. I apologized to KC saying that they sent the B-Squad to work with her today. She turned to us and said that the dogs didn't care that we weren't the most organized transport in the world. What mattered was that we were there, doing what we could to help get them to safety. The name B-Squad stuck, and we've transported well over 9,000 dogs to safety since that time. B-Squad Dog Rescue is 100% volunteer-driven. All of our volunteers have full-time jobs, we are hockey moms, photographers, dance moms, professionals, students, etc. We all have busy schedules, but find time to do what we can to help make a difference in the lives of others. B-Squad's motto is you don't have to be perfect to start making a difference today! We aren't professionals‚ we aren't the A-Squad‚ we are just ordinary people doing what we can to help make a difference. We are B-Squad Dog Rescue!
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Dakota Dachshund Rescue
Dakota Dachshund Rescue is a private all volunteer non-profit 501(c)3 organization. We are a small group of foster homes and volunteers who really love those short legged dachshunds that are called by so many names.....dachsies, doxies,wiener dogs, sausage dogs, lowriders. We also have foster homes that love other smaller breeds. We work together to bring in dachshunds, dachshund mixes and a few other small breeds that aren't doing well at the HS or need more vetting than the HS can provide, smaller dogs that need rehoming because their owners just can't keep them anymore, abandoned, abused, and unwanted smaller dogs. Dachsies are intelligent, lively, comical, confident and courageous dogs. They are hunters and most have a high prey drive. They can be difficult to housebreak, and they have a tendency to be barkers. Dachsies are also faithful, versatile, stubborn, adorable, and we think irresistible! We provide medical and behavioral care for each dachsie and other breeds coming into our rescue. We do our very best to help them put their best paw forward as they prepare for the forever homes in their future. Dakota Dachshund Rescue takes every opportunity to educate those we come in contact with on the responsibilities of pet ownership, the prevention of cruelty to animals, and the need for pet owners to spay and neuter their pets. One day at a time. One dog at a time. Friends Forever!
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Tennessee

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.
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Lucky Farms Animal Rescue
Lucky Farms Animal Rescue is a nonprofit dog rescue focusing on Giant breeds such as Great Danes and Saint Bernards. Giant breeds have a hard time in a shelter environment and are much harder to adopt out. We also have a squishy face division focusing on English bulldogs and French Bulldogs. We rescue, rehab and find amazing homes for these deserving dogs
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McKamey Animal Center
McKamey Animal Center (MAC) opened its doors in 2008 with the mission of Saving Animals, Helping People. MAC's vision is to eliminate animal overpopulation, cruelty, and neglect by creating a culture of compassionate care, community engagement, and advocacy for animals by providing programs and education that support people and companion animals.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Texas

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.
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Friends For Life Animal Shelter
We're here for the undercat and underdog, regardless of their breed, age or condition. Houston-grown, we're here to help our neighbors care for the pets they love. We're not done until every animal has a safe home. Until then, we'll be innovating, improving and tracking results to find the most effective ways to save lives.
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Fort Worth Animal Care and Control
We are a full-service animal shelter, which includes adoptions, reclaims, rescue, foster/volunteer opportunities, out-of-state transports, low-cost vaccine clinics, animal ordinance enforcement and public education.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Utah

Arctic Rescue
Arctic Breeds Rescue has been rescuing animals in Utah and the surrounding states for over 20 years. We specialize in rescuing Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes. Many of the dogs we take into rescue are deemed "unadoptable" by shelters or local government and have no other options other than to come to a breed specific rescue who can find them a home where they can be set up to succeed. The purpose of the Organization shall be: To rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome arctic breed dogs in need, including but not limited to breeds such as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds and mixed breeds of the aforementioned. To provide basic medical care, spaying/neutering, and vaccinations to rescued dogs. To educate the public about responsible dog ownership, including breed-specific needs, training, and the importance of spaying/neutering. To positively impact the community through community and/or youth outreach by sharing the inspiring stories of rescued canines.
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Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
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Humane Society of Utah
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Vermont

Vermont English Bulldog Rescue
The Vermont English Bulldog Rescue is dedicated to the physical and mental rehabilitation of former puppy mills and disadvantaged dogs through education, fostering, and rehabilitation.
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Passion 4 Paws
Robin has invested many years learning best practices to rescue dogs primarily from death row at high kill shelters through working with other rescues where Robin met fellow dog rescue advocate and friend, Tamara, and decided the most effective way to save even more dogs was to establish a new entity in Chittenden County and surrounding areas. Many people who personally know Robin and Tamara recognize their passion and dedication to the dogs. Today, we have an amazing team of professional, highly-dedicated volunteers who help us rescue from high kill shelters, provide safe environments with foster families/adopters, educate the community and advocate for animal rights. Our group is staffed entirely by volunteers and served by a board of directors. Our efforts are supported through donations, charity events, corporate/employee benefit tax deductible donation programs, and the generosity of animal lovers from within the community. Our rescue focus is exclusive to dogs. 100% of all funds received go directly towards saving dogs and are used strictly for this purpose to include shelter fees, boarding fees, medical bills, transport fees, food, supplies, all in support of our mission.
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Humane Society of Chittenden County
HSCC is an independent, 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that receives no city, state or federal funding. We are not affiliated with any national organizations, such as the Humane Society of the United States. We rely solely on the limited revenue generated by our programs and fees, and on the tremendous generosity of our community. In fact, the majority of our annual revenue comes from charitable giving! We serve Vermont's most populated county, Chittenden, as well as Grand Isle County.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Virginia

Lu's labs
Lu's Labs is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit, foster-based rescue for labrador retrievers and lab mixes. Our mission is to assist dogs who are in need of shelter, food, and medical care with the ultimate goal of finding them permanent, loving homes. We primarily intake from high-kill shelters throughout the southeast and rehome within 300 miles of Alexandria, Virginia. Since our founding in 2015, Lu's Labs has matched more than 1,600 dogs with their forever families.
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Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
To inspire compassion for all, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare and responsible animal guardianship in our community.
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Vindicated Pit Bull Rescue
Vindicate Pit Bull Rescue was founded in 2014 by a group of volunteers with one goal in mind: restore the reputation of the misrepresented and misunderstood "pit bull". VPBR pulls pit bull type dogs from the shelter which are often ill from an unforgiving environment. From freedom ride to adoption, our dogs are in a foster home where they receive full vet care, nutrition, basic training and sometimes even care from a veterinary behaviorist. Our Animal Placement team matches each dog to a home where they will thrive.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Washington

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.
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Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary
Resilient Hearts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit rescue that rescues animals from high risk situations and unites them with their forever families in the Puget Sound area. As a queer led organization, we are committed to accessible and inclusive programs for our entire community, and maintain a community safe space for anyone to share our animals.
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Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
Motley Zoo Animal Rescue is the revolution of rescue. As a rock and roll-themed, foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue, we take in animals that have no one else. "Animals" primarily means dogs and cats, but as the name "zoo" implies, we take all kinds (as long as we have a foster home/ resources for that species). We work with shelters and owners who cannot keep their pets and through extensive veterinary care and training, we rehabilitate them and place them in loving, forever homes where the animals will never again be abandoned. More than 30% of the animals we take in are special or medically needy and require more extensive and expensive care. In all we work with all ages, breeds, many species and all different types of humans too- treating each as an individual so they can find the life and love they deserve.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In West Virginia

Humane Society of Harrison County, Inc of WV
Our mission is to pull animals that were strays or owner surrenders from the Harrison County Animal Control and make them adoptable to the public. We provide veterinary services for these animals such as vaccinations as well as spaying or neutering, and then try to pair them with the best potential adopters. We are not county funded, and so rely on our generous supporters and donors to help provide the care and basic necessities of our furry friends.
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Berkeley county animal shelter
Maintain a Shelter for Stray and Owner-Relinquish Animals Make Every Reasonable Effort to Find Caring Homes for Animals Entrusted to Its Care and Consistent With the Society's Resources Provide Humane Euthanization for animals when medically necessary. Accept donations of money, supplies, and services From individuals and organizations that support the Society's work Cooperate With other organizations, including the State and Local Government, with interest in the Humane Care of Animals Undertake Community Services Activities, Including Education Programs
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Marshall County Animal Shelter
Together, the Marshall County Animal Rescue League and the Marshall County Commission Work to provide a haven for stray cats and dogs. The rescue league manages the shelter and all costs for the care of cats and kittens are provided by the rescue league.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Wisconsin

Our Pack Animal Rescue Inc
We are a 501c3 non profit rescue group Founded in New London Wi. License #487823 Our rescue is open to all breeds and ages. Focusing on providing better futures for dogs in high population/neglect areas, as well as local cases.
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Fetch Wisconsin Rescue
Fetch Wisconsin Rescue is an entirely volunteer run organization dedicated to finding homes for dogs in need. We spend time getting to know each dog to make the best possible match for their forever home. Since the group's founding in April 2013, we have rescued more than 3,500 dogs. We aim to help our dogs become happy and balanced, and for our volunteers to be confident pack leaders.
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The Hope Highway
The Hope Highway is completely foster based. We pride ourselves on helping dogs and their people. We do what we can to help people keep their dogs in their home and not surrender. We also have a spay and neuter program that we also offer to the community at an affordable cost.
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The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Wyoming

Laramie Animal Welfare Society
We are the same 501(c)(3) corporation, and we continue our support of the Laramie Animal Shelter in the same ways as before, including paying for spays/neuters, major medical expenses, and behavioral training for the animals at the Laramie Animal Shelter. We have also expanded what we do to include: Foster & Adoption programs; a Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) Program; and providing support for Albany county people and their pets.
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Cheyenne Animal Shelter
Welcome to the Cheyenne Animal Shelter! Founded more than 50 years ago, CAS has been proudly serving Cheyenne and Laramie County as the largest community- centered animal shelter and resource center in the state of Wyoming. For the last half century we have made it our work to ensure that every homeless or displaced pet has a safe place to go for housing, care, and second chances. Knowing too that attached to each one of those animals is a person, we view ourselves as part of the local fabric of critical social services enhancing the dignity of people in our community. Together, we are working to help pets and people get access to the resources they need in order to preserve the human-animal bond which, as we all know, is one of the greatest gifts life has to offer.
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Black Dog Animal Rescue
It‚s not just about saving black dogs. In fact, Black Dog Animal Rescue (BDAR) welcomes dogs of all colors‚nd ages, sizes, and breeds, and cats too! It‚s not just about finding loving forever homes for the hundreds of animals that come through the doors of BDAR every year, either. At BDAR, we're working to change the way that companion animals‚as well as their dedicated families‚are recognized and supported by their communities. We believe in creating Socially Conscious Animal Communities. Read about what it means to be a Socially Conscious Shelter.
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What's the Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

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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Top Rescues & Shelters By State

Note: we only include states where we have enough data to compile a solid list

Top Rescues & Shelters By City

Note: we only include the top 10 cities where we have enough data to compile a solid list

Dog Rescue & Shelter Types

Sniffspot Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

What are the criteria for being considered a top dog rescue or shelter in the United States?

Rescues and shelters are ranked based on the number of testimonials they received from their adoptees, volunteers, staff, supporters and fans.

How can I find the top dog rescues and shelters in my area?

You can see the top dog rescues and shelters in the United States on this Sniffspot list. We also have lists of top dog rescues by state, city and specialization.

What services do top dog rescues and shelters offer?

Top rescues and shelters typically offer a range of services including animal adoption, fostering programs, veterinary care, spaying/neutering, behavior training, and community education initiatives to promote responsible pet ownership.

Do top dog rescues and shelters have specific breed preferences or restrictions?

While some rescues and shelters may specialize in certain breeds, many top organizations prioritize saving dogs regardless of breed. However, certain shelters may have restrictions or requirements based on factors such as the dog's behavior, health, or compatibility with potential adopters.

How can I support the efforts of top dog rescues and shelters?

There are several ways to support these organizations, including volunteering your time, donating funds or supplies, fostering animals, advocating for adoption and spaying/neutering, and spreading awareness about their work through social media and word of mouth.

What should I consider before adopting a dog from a top rescue or shelter?

Before adopting, consider factors such as your lifestyle, living situation, activity level, and the specific needs of the dog you're interested in. It's also important to inquire about the dog's history, temperament, medical history, and any special requirements for care.

Are the dogs available for adoption from top rescues and shelters vaccinated and spayed/neutered?

Yes, reputable rescues and shelters typically ensure that all dogs available for adoption are up-to-date on vaccinations and spayed/neutered to help reduce pet overpopulation and promote responsible ownership.

What should I do if I suspect animal abuse or neglect at a rescue or shelter?

If you suspect animal abuse or neglect at a rescue or shelter, it's crucial to report your concerns to local authorities or animal welfare organizations immediately. You can also reach out to national hotlines like the ASPCA or Humane Society for guidance on how to proceed.

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

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

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Most recent articles

What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity

How to Train a Rescue Dog: Shelter Dog Training

Comprehensive Guide to Enrichment Activities for Dogs

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity

How to Train a Rescue Dog: Shelter Dog Training

Comprehensive Guide to Enrichment Activities for Dogs

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

My Dog Is Food Aggressive With Other Dogs: What To Do
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.
Scent Training for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
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.
Service Dog Training Costs: DIY vs. Pro
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.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
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?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
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!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
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.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ultimate Guide: Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
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?
Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Truth vs. Myth
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.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
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.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
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.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
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.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Best Dog Parks Near Me in Las Vegas
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for off-leash public spaces or private, fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
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.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters in the United States in 2025

Bunny's Buddies

Dalis To The Rescue

Sky Sanctuary Rescue

Emotional Rescue LLC

Doggie Protective Services (DPS)

FurryTail Endings Animal Rescue

Texas Husky Rescue

American Brittany Rescue, Inc.

South Coast Humane Society

The London Sanctuary

Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc

MatchDog Rescue

Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary

Laila's Legacy Animal Rescue

Canine Humane Network

Paws New England

Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue

Bluegrass Bully Rescue

Mary's Dogs Rescue & Adoption