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The Best Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Idaho. 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.

    Meridian Canine Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/408/e3b2bd52c713-MCR_final.jpg
    meridianIdahoUS
    They are a wonderful No-kill rescue that works tirelessly to save, train and find homes for abandoned and traumatized Dogs. Not only that, but they are part of the EPIC Program, allowing some of their Dogs to be used to rehabilitate and train people in the Correctional System. My Sister adopted a Dog from them named Lola and she’s still loved and a member of our family. She found her forever home because of MCR
  • Meridian Canine Rescue Logo

    Meridian Canine Rescue

    #137 in United States, #1 in Idaho

    Meridian

    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.

    "They are a wonderful No-kill rescue that works tirelessly to save, train and find homes for abandoned and traumatized Dogs...."

    elizabeth z.

    Adoptee

    "I volunteer with Meridian Canine Rescue since 2021 and love that they want to educate abour enrichment and the importance..."

    karinna l.

    Volunteer / foster


  • The Furry Farm Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/407/e646327ad3f3-FFR_logo.png
    NA - Foster based rescue in volunteers homes
    IdahoUS
    Focused on our local abandoned pets, Furry Farm specializes in medical rehabilitation.
  • The Furry Farm Rescue Logo

    The Furry Farm Rescue

    #157 in United States, #2 in Idaho

    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.

    "Focused on our local abandoned pets, Furry Farm specializes in medical rehabilitation."

    stephanie d.

    Volunteer / foster

    "I have adopted from The Furry Farm and fostered for them. They are a top notch group that..."

    dana r.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan


  • Idaho Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/409/8728dcf76398-Capture.JPG
    300 S Bird Street, Boise, Idaho 83709
    boiseIdahoUS
    ID Humane Society took my RTH kitties that someone dumped at our property and I couldn’t be more appreciative of the care they gave them and respect they showed towards me. I have since rehomed one of the kittens and am working on the other. The mom will stay and be a barn kitty for us.
  • Idaho Humane Society Logo

    Idaho Humane Society

    #266 in United States, #3 in Idaho

    Boise

    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.

    "ID Humane Society took my RTH kitties that someone dumped at our property and I couldn’t be more appreciative of..."

    laura c.

    Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

    "I adopted my Koda from the Idaho Humane Society in October 2023. He had the sweetest face and was listed..."

    morghan t.

    Adoptee, Fan


  • BnB Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2221/BNB_Logo.jpg
    boiseIdahoUS
  • BnB Rescue Logo

    BnB Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Boise

    BnB Rescue was founded by a small group of people in 2017 who collectively have many decades of experience in dog rescue, transport, evaluation, training, care and placement. Our rescue team is comprised of all volunteers.


  • Lake Lowell Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2204/Lake%2BLowell%2Bpng.png
    meridianIdahoUS
  • Lake Lowell Animal Rescue Logo

    Lake Lowell Animal Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Meridian

    The Lake Lowell Animal Rescue began with one person—Melissa Blackmer—simply trying to rescue a couple cats that had been dumped at the refuge area in Nampa, Idaho. The first cat rescued (and the one Melissa says will forever be her favorite) is a young male she named Fergus. Fergus had been hit by a car and suffered from a fractured pelvis and femur. By posting the story on Facebook, Melissa was able to raise enough money to pay for surgery and follow-up care for Fergus. Today he is living a very happy life with three golden retrievers and the best owners a cat could want! After watching his incredible recovery and seeing him go from the tragic condition he was in when she found him to, literally, the best outcome that could be hoped for, Melissa resolved to do what she could to help other cats abandoned in the Lake Lowell area. The scope of the problem quickly began to sink in, however, as Melissa came to realize that abandoning all kinds of animals in this region is a common occurrence—and the animals generally don’t fare well. Amid cars, predators, and life-threatening frigid temperatures in the winter, “people don’t realize what the outcome for the animals will be when they ‘set them free in the wild,’” she says. She adds that most of the cats and dogs she rescues are friendly, and therefore at one time were likely someone’s pet. Melissa then decided to set up a Facebook page with pictures of the few cats she was rescuing, hoping to find good homes for them, but the outcome far exceeded her expectations. “Two days later I was contacted by local news station KTVB,” Melissa says. “Very reluctantly I agreed to do a ‘small’ story on the animal-abandonment problem at Lake Lowell. KTVB, though, ran it as the lead story that night, which launched the rescue efforts into a much larger program than I ever intended.” Click here to view the KTVB news report. As a result of the news story, a local family contacted Melissa and offered to help. The family is connected to a charitable giving foundation, and, obviously, huge animal lovers. “They helped move the rescue program into a facility that we can eventually expand and therefore rescue even more of these animals,” Melissa says. “Most of the animals we rescue are cats, so we’ve done some construction and now have three beautiful cat rescue rooms and the most amazing back porch that we screened in and turned into a catio. Walkways have also been built so the cats can move back and forth between the rooms and the outdoor patio.” Although a lot has been accomplished, Melissa says that much more needs to be done. “It’s a work in progress,” she says. To describe this journey as a dream come true is an “understatement,” says Melissa. “And we’re working hard to develop the rescue into something even better.” Melissa is not new to animal care. Her work for many years as a veterinary technician has helped prepare her for her additional role as an animal rescuer. Her network of other animal healthcare professionals and rescue workers has also proved to be an asset. Now an established animal program run by a seven-member board comprising local community leaders and animal healthcare professionals, Lake Lowell Animal Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Plans are also in place to renovate a separate building on the property to provide more living space for rescued animals and limited, on-site healthcare. “This has been an incredible blessing,” Melissa says. “It’s so rewarding to watch these guys come out of what are generally awful places and usually sick or injured from trying to fend for themselves, and then see them sleeping on fluffy cat beds, recovering at the rescue, and eventually getting adopted into wonderful forever homes. But I know all this wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of so many people—including the many vet clinics and other animal rescue organizations in the area that have provided healthcare and other assistance for no or very reduced cost. I’m very grateful to them!”


  • West Valley Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2210/cropped-WVHS-Full-Logo.png
    5801 Graye Ln., Caldwell, ID. 83607
    meridianIdahoUS
  • West Valley Humane Society Logo

    West Valley Humane Society

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Meridian

    West Valley Humane Society serves Canyon County, Idaho with a holistic array of services to people and animals that include: safe and secure temporary housing, medical care, food and nutritional support, enrichment, exercise, and behavioral modification for strayed, lost, and homeless pets. West Valley Humane Society also provides low-cost preventative care for its community such as: vaccine clinics, microchip clinics, spay/neuter services, and targeted humane education. West Valley Humane Society was founded in 2011 after Canyon County Animal Shelter became privatized as a charitable nonprofit entity. The organization serves thousands of animals in Canyon County and surrounding areas each year and continuously looks to provide support to network partners and the rescue community. West Valley Humane Society is a brick-and-mortar animal shelter that is a private, charitable, nonprofit Idaho 501(c)(3) Corporation.


  • Pawsitivity Rescue Inc
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2214/bluelogo-156w.png
    meridianIdahoUS
  • Pawsitivity Rescue Inc Logo

    Pawsitivity Rescue Inc

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Meridian

    Since 2018, Pawsitivity Rescue Inc. has been a beacon of hope for animals in Elmore County, ID , and its neighboring areas. As a locally owned and operated non-profit organization, we specialize in rescuing and nurturing both cats and kittens, providing fostering opportunities, accepting donations, and providing education - catering to animal enthusiasts. Our commitment to transparency and compassionate care has earned us the prestigious Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.org. Join us in our mission to support and protect animals in need.


  • Fuzzy Pawz Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2218/300-300Logo.jpeg
    meridianIdahoUS
  • Fuzzy Pawz Rescue Logo

    Fuzzy Pawz Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Meridian

    Fuzzy Pawz Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to finding loving families for homeless dogs and cats in Idaho and Utah. We rescue “at risk” dogs/cats from shelters and animal control facilities. “At risk” animals are those who have run out of time at shelters, have medical conditions, are seniors or don’t stand out in the crowd (i.e. black animals). We work with many shelters and pounds throughout the 2 states but focus on rural areas that do not have the facilities to hold dogs for more than a few days and do not have holding facilities for cats at all. Our volunteers work to socialize our animals, work on minor behavioral and training issues and most of all provide them with loving care. Through our foster homes, we assess the dogs in a home setting, allowing us to better understand the kind of home and family the dog will need. All animals are screened by a veterinarian, vaccinated, neutered and given any other vet care they require. All applicants are thoroughly screened and a home check is preformed before an adoption can occur. We consider an applicant’s previous pet ownership history. We work hard to match the lifestyle and personality of the people to the temperament and energy level of the pet they are interested in. Our goal is for a pet to end up in the right home, not just the first home to come along. Our board of directors consists of 5 passionate women who between them have almost 75 years of animal rescue experience; these women saw a need in the Idaho/Utah area for an all breed rescue and stepped up. We have volunteers that are groomers, dog behaviorists, and animal nutritionists. We say “once a Fuzzy Pawz dog, always a Fuzzy Pawz dog.” Our volunteer base allows us to build lifelong relationships with our adopters so we can always be there for them to answer any questions and assist in any way we can to ensure their relationship with their adopted pet is always a great one.


  • Bannock Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2338/BHS_Logo_Website_Banner_5.png
    IdahoUS
  • Bannock Humane Society Logo

    Bannock Humane Society

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    The Bannock Humane Society is a non-profit organization funded by private donations plus fund raising by its members. There are no paid employees and all funds go to help the animals. The BHS receives no money from any Government agency and is not a part of the Pocatello Animal Shelter. The BHS does work closely with the shelter on many projects to benefit the animals.


  • Idaho Saint Bernard Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2219/images.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Idaho Saint Bernard Rescue Logo

  • Shoshone Pet Rescue (SPR)
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2518/76965657_713197252535139_638384394628759.jpg
    IdahoUS
  • Shoshone Pet Rescue (SPR) Logo

    Shoshone Pet Rescue (SPR)

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Shoshone Pet Rescue (SPR) is a non-profit organization that started its roots in the early 1990's. Volunteers began adopting dogs out of the Kellogg Pound to save them from euthanasia. They started working with the local police department, and by doing this they were able to keep dogs in the pound for a longer period of time. This gave them the chance to find them suitable homes. Once the volunteers established a good relationship with the city, and a way to keep the dogs from being euthanized; they began having every dog spayed or neutered, and they started charging an adoption fee to cover the costs. Initially, they were working solely to save the animals who were to be euthanized, and it has since evolved into the rescue it is today. In the years that Shoshone Pet Rescue has operated in Shoshone County, Idaho, we have successfully placed over 1400 (and counting) pets into permanent, loving homes. Today the dedicated members of the Shoshone Pet Rescue continue the work begun by the original group. Every animal brought into the Kellogg Pound is cared for by volunteers who clean the kennels, feed and water, and walk the dogs 2 times a day, 7 days a week, rain or shine. We proudly continue to save the pets in our area, and we will continue to do so for as long as they need us.


  • Pug Pals Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2223/PugPals-Favicon.png
    boiseIdahoUS
    PugPug
  • Pug Pals Rescue Logo

    Pug Pals Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Pug

    Boise

    We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and placing Pugs in “forever homes.” At this time, we are a completely volunteer run organization and all Pugs are placed in foster homes until loving forever homes can be found. We rescue all Pugs regardless of medical needs and do our best to provide for them with our limited resources.


  • City of Jerome Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2227/Document.png
    815 N Ironwood Jerome, ID 83338
    IdahoUS
  • City of Jerome Animal Shelter Logo

    City of Jerome Animal Shelter

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    The City of Jerome Animal Shelter is a small facility that acts as a safe haven for lost/found, abandoned, and unwanted dogs within the city and county of Jerome. Our facility operates with one Animal Control Officer, one full time, and one part time Shelter Attendant. We have a 14-kennel facility and operate on a fixed budget. On average, our facility takes in roughly five hundred dogs a year. We cannot take in dogs from outside the city and county of Jerome. We also do not have the ability to facilitate any cats or exotic pets. We take pride in our facility, keeping it clean and fresh for our dogs and the public. We work extremely hard to reunite lost dogs to their owners, find loving homes for those abandoned, and find the right facilities for dogs with special needs and/or behavioral issues. We also try to help our community solve problems with their dogs by providing solutions such as referrals to expert trainers. We provide a pet food pantry for the community who struggle with feeding their pets. We work closely with our volunteers, rescues, and community to make sure every dog that comes into our care finds their way to their “forever home.” We believe every dog deserves a second chance. We operate heavily through Social media and word of mouth. With the combined efforts of our staff, volunteers, community and rescue/shelters we save many and find loving homes for dogs in our community. Through our efforts we strive to fight against over-population and disease outbreak in our area.


  • Boxer Lovers Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2208/Image28.png
    meridianIdahoUS
    BoxerBoxer
  • Boxer Lovers Rescue Logo

  • Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2209/IDAWG_logo_final_blkoninvisible.png
    meridianIdahoUS
  • Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group Logo

    Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Meridian

    IDAWG (Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation based in Nampa, Idaho. We've been in existence since June 2000 and are staffed entirely by volunteers. IDAWG supports southern Idaho animals in need, assisting both shelters and private citizens. Sometimes this involves transporting or organizing transports for dogs or cats, or sometimes birds or bunnies, to rescues or permanent homes in adjoining cities and states. IDAWG also offers financial assistance to senior citizens and others who need help paying for spay/neuter services for their companion animals.


  • Freedom Bound Hounds
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2217/Logo-White-FBH-1536x1329.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Freedom Bound Hounds Logo

    Freedom Bound Hounds

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Boise

    Freedom Bound Hounds is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to saving dogs from the streets and high-kill shelters and helping them find their forever homes in the Pacific Northwest. Although we work in Idaho, our dogs actually come from volunteers and shelters in the South Texas area. Volunteers find abandoned, hurt, and neglected dogs, and from there, we get the dog to safety in foster care or boarding to be vetted and await their ride to Idaho. Once they arrive in Idaho, they typically go into foster care, and we screen applicants thoroughly to find the best fit.


  • Moonsong Malamute Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2215/MRR-001_BLK_lettering_ROUND-01_resized.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Moonsong Malamute Rescue Logo

    Moonsong Malamute Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Boise

    We foster our dogs from our homes. We are growing, and we need foster homes and volunteers to help care for our charges. All too often we do end up assisting senior dogs that have been “dumped” in shelters or abandoned by their owners. Many of these older dogs don’t find their forever homes, but spend the rest of their lives in loving foster homes and become “Forever Fosters“. If you would like to help with MMR’s efforts, please see our Foster and Volunteer sections. Moonsong Malamute Rescue, Inc. is organized exclusively for the purpose of rescuing, rehabilitating and permanently re-homing purebred Northern breed dogs and Northern mixed breed dogs. MMR is not a shelter or humane society. We are affiliated with the Alaskan Malamute Assistance League (AMAL), which is the national rescue organization recognized by the Alaskan Malamute Club of America. As an affiliate to AMAL, MMR operates under AMAL’s code of ethics.


  • Boise Bully Breed Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2222/BBBR_Logo_for_homepage.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Boise Bully Breed Rescue Logo

    Boise Bully Breed Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Boise

    Founded in 2009, determined to make a change. The core of our efforts is to bring awareness, educating the public regarding bully breeds, promote responsible pet ownership, promote spay and neuter programs, advocate against breed specific legislation and the inhumane activity of dog fighting. Through all of our endeavors we hope to display the conviction behind our beliefs and continue to save lives. Boise Bully Breed Rescue is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which means the rescue is dependent on generous tax deductible donations. The rescue relies on donations for funding medical, training and operational expenses at the rescue's Animal Care Facility. We rely solely on donations, volunteers, foster homes and community efforts to help the abandoned and neglected dogs that have run out of time in shelters. All tax deductible donations assist with medical, the Animal Care Facility and training for the rescue dogs. We are a group of volunteers devoted to re-homing unwanted bully breed dogs from shelters. We strive to place the best representatives of the breed into foster and adoptive homes that are capable of providing adequate care and training. We encourage BULLY BREED owners and lovers to unite to present a positive image of the breed and to clarify the controversy of negative press and stereotyping.


  • Take Me Home Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2220/Logo-01.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Take Me Home Dog Rescue Logo

    Take Me Home Dog Rescue

    #600 in United States, #4 in Idaho

    Boise

    Founded in 2017, we are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization that partners with high-kill dog shelters in Idaho and around the United States. We are solely volunteer-based, and rely on ongoing volunteers and fundraising to sustain our work. We utilize our foster homes located throughout the Treasure Valley to secure safe placement for adoptable dogs while they are in transition. We do not have a facility. We value being an inclusive organization and do not discriminate against the breed, age, or medical condition of any dog.


  • Pet Adoption League of Gem County, ID
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2226/file.PNG
    1526 North Washington Avenue, Emmett, Idaho 83617, United States
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Pet Adoption League of Gem County, ID Logo

The Best Boise, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Idaho Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/409/8728dcf76398-Capture.JPG
    300 S Bird Street, Boise, Idaho 83709
    boiseIdahoUS
    ID Humane Society took my RTH kitties that someone dumped at our property and I couldn’t be more appreciative of the care they gave them and respect they showed towards me. I have since rehomed one of the kittens and am working on the other. The mom will stay and be a barn kitty for us.
  • Idaho Humane Society Logo

    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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  • Idaho Saint Bernard Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2219/images.png
    boiseIdahoUS
  • Idaho Saint Bernard Rescue Logo

    Idaho Saint Bernard Rescue

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  • BnB Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2221/BNB_Logo.jpg
    boiseIdahoUS
  • BnB Rescue Logo

    BnB Rescue

    BnB Rescue was founded by a small group of people in 2017 who collectively have many decades of experience in dog rescue, transport, evaluation, training, care and placement. Our rescue team is comprised of all volunteers.

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The Best Meridian, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Meridian Canine Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/408/e3b2bd52c713-MCR_final.jpg
    meridianIdahoUS
    They are a wonderful No-kill rescue that works tirelessly to save, train and find homes for abandoned and traumatized Dogs. Not only that, but they are part of the EPIC Program, allowing some of their Dogs to be used to rehabilitate and train people in the Correctional System. My Sister adopted a Dog from them named Lola and she’s still loved and a member of our family. She found her forever home because of MCR
  • Meridian Canine Rescue Logo

    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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  • West Valley Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2210/cropped-WVHS-Full-Logo.png
    5801 Graye Ln., Caldwell, ID. 83607
    meridianIdahoUS
  • West Valley Humane Society Logo

    West Valley Humane Society

    West Valley Humane Society serves Canyon County, Idaho with a holistic array of services to people and animals that include: safe and secure temporary housing, medical care, food and nutritional support, enrichment, exercise, and behavioral modification for strayed, lost, and homeless pets. West Valley Humane Society also provides low-cost preventative care for its community such as: vaccine clinics, microchip clinics, spay/neuter services, and targeted humane education. West Valley Humane Society was founded in 2011 after Canyon County Animal Shelter became privatized as a charitable nonprofit entity. The organization serves thousands of animals in Canyon County and surrounding areas each year and continuously looks to provide support to network partners and the rescue community. West Valley Humane Society is a brick-and-mortar animal shelter that is a private, charitable, nonprofit Idaho 501(c)(3) Corporation.

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  • Lake Lowell Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/2204/Lake%2BLowell%2Bpng.png
    meridianIdahoUS
  • Lake Lowell Animal Rescue Logo

    Lake Lowell Animal Rescue

    The Lake Lowell Animal Rescue began with one person—Melissa Blackmer—simply trying to rescue a couple cats that had been dumped at the refuge area in Nampa, Idaho. The first cat rescued (and the one Melissa says will forever be her favorite) is a young male she named Fergus. Fergus had been hit by a car and suffered from a fractured pelvis and femur. By posting the story on Facebook, Melissa was able to raise enough money to pay for surgery and follow-up care for Fergus. Today he is living a very happy life with three golden retrievers and the best owners a cat could want! After watching his incredible recovery and seeing him go from the tragic condition he was in when she found him to, literally, the best outcome that could be hoped for, Melissa resolved to do what she could to help other cats abandoned in the Lake Lowell area. The scope of the problem quickly began to sink in, however, as Melissa came to realize that abandoning all kinds of animals in this region is a common occurrence—and the animals generally don’t fare well. Amid cars, predators, and life-threatening frigid temperatures in the winter, “people don’t realize what the outcome for the animals will be when they ‘set them free in the wild,’” she says. She adds that most of the cats and dogs she rescues are friendly, and therefore at one time were likely someone’s pet. Melissa then decided to set up a Facebook page with pictures of the few cats she was rescuing, hoping to find good homes for them, but the outcome far exceeded her expectations. “Two days later I was contacted by local news station KTVB,” Melissa says. “Very reluctantly I agreed to do a ‘small’ story on the animal-abandonment problem at Lake Lowell. KTVB, though, ran it as the lead story that night, which launched the rescue efforts into a much larger program than I ever intended.” Click here to view the KTVB news report. As a result of the news story, a local family contacted Melissa and offered to help. The family is connected to a charitable giving foundation, and, obviously, huge animal lovers. “They helped move the rescue program into a facility that we can eventually expand and therefore rescue even more of these animals,” Melissa says. “Most of the animals we rescue are cats, so we’ve done some construction and now have three beautiful cat rescue rooms and the most amazing back porch that we screened in and turned into a catio. Walkways have also been built so the cats can move back and forth between the rooms and the outdoor patio.” Although a lot has been accomplished, Melissa says that much more needs to be done. “It’s a work in progress,” she says. To describe this journey as a dream come true is an “understatement,” says Melissa. “And we’re working hard to develop the rescue into something even better.” Melissa is not new to animal care. Her work for many years as a veterinary technician has helped prepare her for her additional role as an animal rescuer. Her network of other animal healthcare professionals and rescue workers has also proved to be an asset. Now an established animal program run by a seven-member board comprising local community leaders and animal healthcare professionals, Lake Lowell Animal Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Plans are also in place to renovate a separate building on the property to provide more living space for rescued animals and limited, on-site healthcare. “This has been an incredible blessing,” Melissa says. “It’s so rewarding to watch these guys come out of what are generally awful places and usually sick or injured from trying to fend for themselves, and then see them sleeping on fluffy cat beds, recovering at the rescue, and eventually getting adopted into wonderful forever homes. But I know all this wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of so many people—including the many vet clinics and other animal rescue organizations in the area that have provided healthcare and other assistance for no or very reduced cost. I’m very grateful to them!”

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

Welcome to the 2024 Idaho Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Idaho 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 Idaho dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Idaho


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States Near Idaho


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization


Sniffspot Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Idaho?

There are 39 in Idaho. 10 are located in Boise with 29 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Idaho, the top 3 on our list are: Meridian Canine Rescue, The Furry Farm Rescue, Idaho Humane Society

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Idaho offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Idaho is Boxer with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Pug with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Idaho?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Idaho. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Adopter fills an online application, then we provide a consultation explaining all the information on the dog and if the adopter is still interested we schedule a meet and greet. We provide training to the adopters and follow up support as long as the pet is adopted.

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

Yes! Idaho has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Boxer Pug

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Idaho that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Idaho?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Boise is Idaho Humane Society. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Idaho is Boxer Lovers Rescue.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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