This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Wisconsin. 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.
Our Pack Animal Rescue Inc
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1356/1c5aef1b8ddf-png_20230324_090037_0000.pngI’m the owner of Doggie Daze Kennel, a dog boarding and daycare facility, and I have recently partnered with Our Pack Animal Rescue. As someone with many years of dog experience and owning a facility myself, I can’t tell you enough how AMAZING Our Pack is! I could go on and on about how they are the most deserving but you can tell that just by their social media and effort they put into each and every dog. All I can say about them is a huge THANK YOU for all their hard work and dedication!!!Aliyah Schmidt
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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.
"I’m the owner of Doggie Daze Kennel, a dog boarding and daycare facility, and I have recently partnered with Our..."
— aliyah s.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"This rescue has a dedicated team of volunteers and foster homes which is always growing. They take on..."
— jo k.
Supporter, Fan
Fetch Wisconsin Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1355/2fe8ba315755-Copy_of_fetch_wide_rescue_grey3__2_.pngFetch has been around for 10 years and rescued over 4,000 dogs! They are thorough and provide all the medical and behavioral care the dogs need.Carly P
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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.
"Fetch has been around for 10 years and rescued over 4,000 dogs! They are thorough and provide all the medical..."
— carly p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member
"Amazing organization! Invested in saving dogs from around our state and the country!"
— jenny h.
Volunteer / foster
The Hope Highway
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1357/082c4ef5dc7f-C2D8B05C_521C_4E4F_A4BD_84ABC666F11D.jpegI came on as a foster just a few months after this rescue opened. The passion and compassion surpasses every other rescue I’ve ever worked with. There’s many great rescues in our area. However the insurmountable passion for animals is unrivaled.Tori Atkinson
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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.
"I came on as a foster just a few months after this rescue opened. The passion and compassion surpasses every..."
— tori a.
Volunteer / foster
"This rescue has not only helped several thousand of dogs find homes from high kill shelters. But they help..."
— ana m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Wisconsin Humane Society
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1361/37be7d791ec1-Capture.PNG4500 West Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53208
milwaukeeWisconsinUS
Organization very helpful with new fosters and committed to helping solve the homeless dog crisis.Emma Snyder
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Wisconsin Humane Society
Founded in 1879, the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) has been saving the lives of animals in need for generations. WHS is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates animal shelters in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Door, and Brown Counties, as well as a spay/neuter clinic in West Allis. Our Federal Tax ID is: #39-0810533.
WHS annually serves more than 40,000 animals and their families. We receive no general government funding and we are not part of any national umbrella organization. As the largest shelter in the state of Wisconsin, WHS offers the following services:
An adoption program that matches 13,000+ animals with new families each year; we do not euthanize animals to make space in our shelters, and animals in our adoption program have as long as it takes to find a new home
Stray/lost animal and law enforcement holding services for municipalities in Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties, which reunite thousands of pets with their families each year
Intake support and services for surrendered animals from Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties
Affordable vaccines, microchips, and spay/neuter services open to the public
Pet food pantries that provide pet food, treats, and cat litter, etc. to bridge gaps in accessing these important resources
Community outreach programs that connect families with resources for their pets
A foster program for animals who need extra support or a break from the shelter
Dog training classes for dogs and puppies, as well as online pet support tips for behavior concerns
Youth programs to engage and inspire the next generation of animal lovers
Retail merchandise at our Animal Antics stores at each campus, and online
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which provides rescue, rehabilitation, and release for roughly 5,000 wild animals annually at our Milwaukee Campus.
"Organization very helpful with new fosters and committed to helping solve the homeless dog crisis."
— emma s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"I'm a volunteer, foster, adoptee with WDR. They show immense care for their dogs from HASRA in Alabama and do..."
— jared p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Underdog Pet Rescue of Wisconsin
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1358/e5919665b79b-6a0191_8345f37dc0974b92ade48336bbd348a7_mv2.jpg231 S. Fair Oaks Avenue
Madison, WI
madisonWisconsinUS
I love fostering for Underdog, they have so many resources available from supplies, training and vet services to support for adopters.Jennifer Geils
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Underdog Pet Rescue of Wisconsin
Underdog Pet Rescue is an all-breed companion animal rescue based out of Dane County, Wisconsin. Our mission is to find permanent homes for animals in need, and to enrich lives by strengthening the connection between animals and people through community services and outreach. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
"I love fostering for Underdog, they have so many resources available from supplies, training and vet services to support..."
— jennifer g.
Volunteer / foster
"Underdog is an exceptional rescue because of its outstanding volunteer network, supportive veterinary team, and community outreach efforts. From the..."
— holly s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Coco's Heart Dog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1359/11c897ff2fd9-CHDR_round_01.png449 County Road VV Somerset WI 54025
WisconsinUS
Coco's Heart consistently goes above and beyond to rescue dogs in horrifying and life threatening conditions. They do everything necessary to bring these dogs to a healthy spot in their life and get them ready for adoption. They are thorough in their screening with potential adopters and the dogs ALWAYS come firstSandra B
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Coco's Heart Dog Rescue
CHDR rescues animals in need without discriminating against breeds or ages. The rescue operates with the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, all working toward the common goal of saving the lives of animals in need, and giving them the love they deserve. We are foster based out of the Twin Cities, and we hold events in the surrounding areas. Every animal that comes to Coco's Heart receives the highest quality veterinary care and a loving temporary home from dedicated foster families. CHDR's adoption process ensures that every animal goes to the most loving forever home.
"Coco's Heart consistently goes above and beyond to rescue dogs in horrifying and life threatening conditions. They do everything..."
— sandra b.
Adoptee
"I have volunteered and fostered from Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. After fostering a puppy for a little while, I completely..."
— marissa j.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Lucky 7 Dog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1364/c09464e4ef8c-L7_Black_Logo__2_.png239 N. Broadway Green Bay, WI 54302
WisconsinUS
Lucky 7 has been very grateful for every donation, supports communityMichelle Goska
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Lucky 7 Dog Rescue
Lucky 7 Dog Rescue was founded in 2015 and has been operating as a nonprofit, volunteer run and foster based animal rescue ever since. We work to support dogs in need both locally and nationally and believe that teamwork and collaboration with fellow rescues as well as people make a positive difference for animals and the people who love them.
"Lucky 7 has been very grateful for every donation, supports community"
— michelle g.
Supporter
"I have quite a few friends who adopted through this organization and have had wonderful experiences"
— kasie t.
Supporter
Shelter From The Storm
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1366/ca7ee59424d1-fb87ea_059bf16c3d464351a8e137f88fbb8b68_mv2.jpg1602 Blossom LaneMadison, WI 53716
madisonWisconsinUS
I have adopted five companions over the years from NBRAN and all of them came to me without surprises. They were well cared for, vetted for issues and were healthy. Before I adopted, NBRAN also vetted me and the home they were entrusting these pups to. They took the time to ensure we were the right match for each other. They have a wonderful network of volunteers across the continent who rescue, foster, transport and support adopters through any issues that arise. There are times that rescues have severe medical complications but this doesn't phase NBRAN. The volunteers love on them while obtaining medical care no matter how extensive to bring them back to health so they can experience a comforting life with a sense of security. It is so rewarding to fill a link in the transportation chain moving them from fosters to their perfect forever home.Al Vogan
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Shelter From The Storm
Shelter From the Storm Animal Rescue was formed in 2005 by Allison Davies in response to the overwhelming amount of animals being euthanized in local shelters. SFTS is an all-breed dog and cat rescue that focuses on alleviating overcrowding in shelters and helping adoptable/treatable animals. Since its inception, we've helped The Humane Society of The United States during Hurricane Katrina by transporting over 100 animals to safety in Wisconsin where they were vetted, placed in foster care, and ultimately found their forever homes. We also worked with them to deal with a major hoarding/neglect situation at the Thyme and Sage Ranch which was operating as an animal rescue/animal control agency but was housing in excess of 300 animals.
"I have adopted five companions over the years from NBRAN and all of them came to me without surprises. They..."
— al v.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"They take such sweet care of their pets, making sure to find safe homes for all their animals"
— colleen c.
Volunteer / foster
Brown Paws Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1370/feb78ffceea7-Logo_Color.pngI am writing to nominate Brown Paws Rescue in Wisconsin. We adopted our beloved dog from them almost 4 years ago. It was in the peak of the COVID pandemic when it seemed like everyone suddenly wanted a dog. After losing our dear Bernese Mountain Dog to cancer several years earlier, we decided we were ready to take the plunge again. Much to our surprise and disappointment, many of the area rescues would not consider our applications because we had returned a rescue dog more than a decade earlier. That dog lived in our home for a month. We loved him, sought training and behavioral evaluations, and with heavy hearts returned him because he had fear aggression and we had small children. This was known to the rescue, but not disclosed to us at the time.( That rescue (no longer in existence) also tried and failed to rehabilitate him and he ended up being euthanized, even though they were a "no kill" rescue. They were extremely apologetic and offered to waive the fee if we wanted to adopt a different dog. We declined, having lost trust in that organization. We subsequently adopted our Bernese and raised him as a beloved member of the family. None of that history, successful dog raising experience, or testimonial from our vet and neighbors was enough to sway several local rescues from their policy of eliminating adopters if they had previously returned a dog. I am forever grateful to Brown Paws for giving us a chance. They carefully vetted us (I know because our references were interviewed.) and deemed us to be the fit dog parents that we know we are. It will be 4 years since our Tazzy joined our family. In that time, I have watched from a distance and a Facebook group as Brown Paws and their volunteer partners continue to rescue hundreds, if not thousands of dogs and match them with loving families. They rescue medically complex dogs and fundraise to cover their expenses. They do courtesy postings for local groups, and also help with cats looking for forever homes. I can't think of a group of people more deserving of the recognition from Sniff Spot. They are heroes in every sense of the word.Barbara Fibich
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Brown Paws Rescue
Brown Paws is a foster-based rescue and is 100% volunteer-run.
We do not have a facility. Our dogs are located in foster homes throughout Madison, WI and the surrounding area.
"I am writing to nominate Brown Paws Rescue in Wisconsin. We adopted our beloved dog from them almost..."
— barbara f.
Adoptee
"They were so helpful in the adoption process!! We adopted2 pups a month apart."
— corinne b.
Adoptee
Sandi Paws Rescue Inc
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1360/4edb15875a02-1289f1_5477b5e08eb84a5db4ff8d95fd08a42c_mv2.jpgThe APCSM has been an amazing asset to our community. They have helped so many animals in need. I adopted my cat, Luna from them. They did an excellent job of making sure she was a good fit for our family.
Recently I had 4 kittens that were born in my backyard and the APCSM took them in even though they already had their hands pretty full. The staff and volunteers are always helpful and kind and you can tell they truly care about the animals!Courtney Myles
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Sandi Paws Rescue Inc
We are committed to protecting the quality of life and improving the well-being of abused, neglected and unwanted dogs and cats through prevention, education, intervention, placement, and lifelong care.
"The APCSM has been an amazing asset to our community. They have helped so many animals in need. I..."
— courtney m.
Adoptee, Supporter
"I’ve worked with this organization in many capacities. I’ve adopted from Sandi Paws, volunteered, fostered, and received their help in..."
— tessa s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
Chippewa Humane Association
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1374/cf4b7c0b102d-logo_transparent.png10501 CTY HWY S SOUTH
CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI 54729
WisconsinUS
They do amazing work with the most broken dogs!Janet Myers
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Chippewa Humane Association
The Chippewa Humane Association, also known as the Howard Gibbs Memorial Animal Shelter, seeks to relieve the suffering of homeless companion animals. By setting an example of excellence in animal care and placement, humane education, and community leadership, we can successfully emphasize their importance.
"They do amazing work with the most broken dogs!"
— janet m.
Supporter
Oshkosh Humane Society
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1365/8331ddab97b2-cropped_logo.jpg1925 Shelter Ct.Oshkosh, WI 54901
WisconsinUS
I volunteer with A WAY HOME FOR DOGS because it strives to do the best for the underdog. By that I mean the dogs who have been trapped after living on sides of freeways, in canyons, in the desert, or even in neighborhoods. Babs Fry the founder of this rescue is truly gifted. Not only does she trap and rescue dogs that even the local humane society cannot...she returns calls 24/7 to owners who's pets have escaped and are lost. She walks them through what to do and what not to do. She loans traps and sets up trail cams. All at no cost !!! She truly is a blessing to the animal community.Patricia J
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Oshkosh Humane Society
At Oshkosh Area Humane Society, we are guided by compassion in all we do, from saving the lives of homeless pets by providing the highest quality medical care, nutrition, exercise and socialization in a safe shelter environment, to connecting adopters with their best possible pet match, to reuniting lost pets with their families, to providing behavioral counseling for pet retention, low-cost vaccine and microchip clinics, emergency services and a pet food pantry to keep pets and people happy and healthy together.
"I volunteer with A WAY HOME FOR DOGS because it strives to do the best for the underdog. By that..."
— patricia j.
Volunteer / foster
Dunn County Humane Society
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1363/ba4fcf5c6ca6-Capture.PNG302 Brickyard Road
Menomonie, WI 54751
WisconsinUS
They really care about the animals there.Gabby Gossett
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Dunn County Humane Society
At the Dunn County Humane Society, our mission is to enhance the well-being of companion pets and secure permanent, loving homes for those in our care. As first responders for lost, abandoned, and stray pets, we provide compassionate care and work closely with law enforcement agencies throughout Dunn County.
Additionally, we offer community services such as City of Menomonie licensing, free rehoming support, and Trap/Neuter/Return services for registered Community Cat colonies. We are extremely proud that in 2023 we cared for 1,032 pets from our community. However, our work extends beyond numbers; it's about ensuring every pet receives the care, love, and second chance they deserve.
"They really care about the animals there."
— gabby g.
Supporter, Fan
Lucky Mutts Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1384/22368ef803fc-3aea22_c97f484987504f22bd4a72763cd7b3c9_mv2.jpg9225 W Beloit RdMilwaukee, WI 53227
milwaukeeWisconsinUS
I have watched my daughter, the founder, save many dogs under Very tough circumstances. She takes time to match the dogs to the right place, and follows up. I have two friends who say the dog saved them, not the other way around.Judith Ferree
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Lucky Mutts Rescue
We operate on a foster and volunteer based, not-for-profit model, and focus of dogs facing euthanasia due to placement in high kill shelters, overpopulation, abuse & neglect, or owner surrender.
We take pride in carefully screening every potential foster and adoptive home through a comprehensive approval process. We educate every potential adopter on the dogs' needs, requirements and expectations involved with adding a new dog to their home. LMR provides a community of support for all of our adopters.
All dogs we rescue receive full medical care, including spay or neuter, microchip, and vaccinations, treatments, or medications they may need, thanks to our team and network of veterinarians.
While awaiting adoption, our dogs are able to decompress, build confidence, and socialize in one of our many nurturing, well supported foster homes.
"I have watched my daughter, the founder, save many dogs under Very tough circumstances. She takes time to match the..."
— judith f.
Supporter, Fan
Chequamegon Humane Association
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1362/45989edbb3aa-logo_for_website_2.pngI have adopted several animals from them. One very special thing they did was introduce dogs and cats to each other in a controlled environment. When we brought our cat home, he tried to rub himself against the face of our 110-lb black lab mix. Both animals were supposed from CHS but had not met before.Carole LaGrange
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Chequamegon Humane Association
CHA serves as a temporary safe haven for homeless animals from Ashland and Bayfield Counties and outlying areas as capacity allows.
"I have adopted several animals from them. One very special thing they did was introduce dogs and cats to each..."
— carole l.
Adoptee, Fan
Waupun Area Animal Shelter
https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png901 N. Madison Street
Waupun, WI 53963
madisonWisconsinUS
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Waupun Area Animal Shelter
The Waupun Area Animal Shelter, Inc. was established to serve the City of Waupun and the surrounding areas through responsible, legal and humane handling of strays and unwanted pets and to raise the consciousness in the Waupun area in order to promote responsible pet ownership. The Shelter will provide humane care and treatment for cats and dogs needing protection in our area. We will seek to return lost cats and dogs to their owners, seek suitable homes for cats and dogs without owners, and attempt to assist with care and placement of unmentioned species.
We do not support the movement by some national humane groups to abolish the raising of animals for food or clothing, etc., or the raising of companion animals to serve or accompany man. Nor do we support any movement to abolish the responsible hunting of un-endangered species of wild game animals. But rather we feel that because domestic animals do serve man in a variety of ways, they are entitled to humane and responsible lifetime care from their human friends.
HISTORY
The Waupun Area Animal Shelter was incorporated on May 23, 2005.
THE PLAN
The Waupun Area Animal Shelter, Inc. is contracted with the City of Waupun to care for stray cats and dogs. Surrenders are accepted on a case-by-case basis. This care will include but not be limited to, veterinary care, food, shelter, training, emotional support, humane euthanasia. This care will continue until the animal can be placed with a loving family or until euthanasia is deemed necessary. We will set in place educational opportunities for caring for animals. This activity will begin as soon as a building is either purchased or constructed that can be used to shelter homeless animals. The founding members of the Shelter, and any and all volunteers will be responsible for the care of the animals. The Waupun Area Animal Shelter, Inc. will rely solely on donations and volunteers.
Little Orphans Animal Rescue
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Ma, Paws, & Me, Pet Rescue
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Ma, Paws, & Me, Pet Rescue
Ma, Paws, & Me, Pet Rescue, Inc. is a family run pet rescue. Our mission is to the commitment of rescuing while reducing the number of homeless animals in need, regardless of breed, age, or disability, and responsibly placing them in permanent and loving homes. Ma, Paws, & Me Pet Rescue, Inc. will partner with our in state shelters needing assistance. We will also help the highly over pet populated states throughout the U.S. and when possible aid in re-homing pets so they don't have to be surrendered to a shelter.
Puppers To Love Rescue
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Puppers To Love Rescue
Puppers To Love Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)3 nonprofit foster-based dog rescue located in southern Wisconsin. Please note, we do not have a shelter or other facility open to the public. All dogs are in foster homes.
Albert's Dog Lounge
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Albert's Dog Lounge
Our founders' lives changed forever when a little senior dachshund named Albert arrived in Wisconsin in 2016 and found himself homeless. Inadvertently put on a transport with no secure foster destination, Albert had nowhere to go. It was quickly decided that this tiny guy, who was suffering from congestive heart failure and years of neglect, absolutely had to find a home and a loving family....and find one he did. Not only did he find himself a home, but by charming the pants off everyone he met and stealing hearts with his Facebook shenanigans, he inspired Mandy and Darren to help hundreds of other old dogs find homes as well.
Over the first seven months in his new home, Albert's spirit and little antics won him a plethora of Facebook followers. When Mandy and Darren initiated a fundraiser to expand their footprint in rescue, Albert's story inspired many to help. The dream was to convert a two-car garage into a retreat for dogs needing space and time to decompress and adjust to new lives. It would be called Albert's Dog Lounge.
Unfortunately, shortly after the fundraiser kicked off, Albert passed suddenly. Devastated, Mandy and Darren's mission became clear: In Albert's memory, they would do even more to help senior and hospice dogs like the little one who had so greatly enriched their lives. In late 2017, Albert's Dog Lounge went from being a foster space in a converted garage to a 501c(3) non-profit rescue. This small team began rescuing seniors with the goal of helping fifty (50) seniors, special needs, and hospice dogs in their first year.
At the end of 2018, the lives of 139 very special canines (and countless humans) were impacted thanks to the support received from Albert's friends, family and followers. In 2020, 586 lives were impacted. Albert's Dog Lounge has grown from a couple of friends with a mutual passion to a group of more than 150 dedicated volunteers and foster families.
Featured on a news segment on several stations in Wisconsin, in several papers, and on a local radio station, we have been able to share and grow our mission and goals. We were able to purchase a transport van to rescue seniors and special needs dogs from Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas, with our list of rescue partnerships growing daily.
Because of one little dog's inspiring spirit, we have been able to accomplish far more than we ever hoped and, in his honor, we will continue to show that old dogs really do make great new friends!
Welcome to the 2025 Wisconsin Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Wisconsin chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Wisconsin dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot