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The Best Iowa Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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

Dogs Forever of Iowa (DBA DOGS FOREVER)
#109 in United States, #1 in Iowa
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.
"My son and I were involved in the rescue (containment) of a stray dog. Many of us involved were..."
— amanda e.
Adoptee, Supporter
"I have been a volunteer here for a little over a year. I am so impressed with the level of..."
— sara l.
Volunteer / foster

A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue
#184 in United States, #2 in Iowa
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
"A Purposeful Life is a relatively young, yet amazing rescue that readily takes in dogs with issues (medical, behavioral, seniors,..."
— susi n.
Supporter
"I have adopted and currently foster through APL. They have fully supported my passion of helping shelter dogs find homes..."
— alexa w.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport
#361 in United States, #3 in Iowa
Des Moines
AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport, Inc. is a 501(c)3, non-profit, foster-based animal rescue organization, headquartered in De Soto, IA. Our main purpose is to care for the homeless companion animals in our community and surrounding areas. We also provide much needed services to the pet owners in our area thru food assistance, low cost spay/neuter clinics, and TNR services. In addition to our own community, we strive to bridge the gap between traditional animal shelters and no-kill rescues throughout the central United States in 2 different ways: 1) By pulling dogs out of traditional shelters that are on death row and placing them in foster homes and forever homes through our organization; and 2) By providing free transportation for dogs from traditional shelters to other no-kill rescues all over the Midwest and Canada
"Wonderful rescue!"
— desiree s.
Supporter, Fan

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc
#361 in United States, #3 in Iowa
Des Moines
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.
"Love Sky Sanctuary!!"
— amy s.
Supporter

German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Iowa
#600 in United States, #5 in Iowa
German Shepherd
German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Iowa, Inc. is a no-kill, non-profit organization that, through education, training, and fundraising, is dedicated to caring for and finding good homes for all German Shepherd Dogs that are abandoned, neglected, or in need of assistance for any reason.

Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids
#600 in United States, #5 in Iowa
Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids is a 501c3, all volunteer non-profit organization that has been in operation since 2008 and is made up of a Board of Directors and volunteers. Critter Crusaders provides advanced medical and surgical treatment with life and limb saving procedures to restore health and adoptability for the local homeless animals. We also work with rescues and shelters to facilitate placements for homeless animals as an alternative to euthanasia.

Kiya Koda Humane Society
#600 in United States, #5 in Iowa
Des Moines
We are a state recognized non-profit 501(c)3 animal shelter. Our goal is to find loving, safe homes for these precious pets.

Safe Haven of Iowa County
#600 in United States, #5 in Iowa
The mission of Safe Haven is to rescue, protect, rehabilitate and find good homes for dogs and cats in Iowa County. Secondly, to significantly reduce the overpopulation of stray dogs and cats and improve the lives of humans and the lives of pets through public education and sponsoring low/no cost spay and neuter programs.

The Best Des Moines, IA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport
AHeinz57 Pet Rescue & Transport, Inc. is a 501(c)3, non-profit, foster-based animal rescue organization, headquartered in De Soto, IA. Our main purpose is to care for the homeless companion animals in our community and surrounding areas. We also provide much needed services to the pet owners in our area thru food assistance, low cost spay/neuter clinics, and TNR services. In addition to our own community, we strive to bridge the gap between traditional animal shelters and no-kill rescues throughout the central United States in 2 different ways: 1) By pulling dogs out of traditional shelters that are on death row and placing them in foster homes and forever homes through our organization; and 2) By providing free transportation for dogs from traditional shelters to other no-kill rescues all over the Midwest and Canada
View profile

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.
View profile

Kiya Koda Humane Society
We are a state recognized non-profit 501(c)3 animal shelter. Our goal is to find loving, safe homes for these precious pets.
View profile

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

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

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Iowa

Des Moines, IA

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Iowa Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Iowa?

There are 8 in Iowa. 3 are located in Des Moines with 5 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Iowa, the top 3 on our list are: Dogs Forever of Iowa (DBA DOGS FOREVER), A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue, AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Iowa is German Shepherd with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Iowa?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Iowa. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
As an Adoption Guarantee shelter, we are committed to finding a loving forever home for all healthy and treatable dogs in our care. We strive to find the best match for all our dogs (and their adopters) no matter how long it might take.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Iowa, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby states, including New Jersey, Utah, Illinois.

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

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Iowa, but these are the top senior dog rescues from nearby states: The London Sanctuary, Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, Reed's Rescue, Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue, Adopt a Golden Atlanta, Misspits Rescue, Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc., Animal Farm Foundation, Over the Hill Senior Dog Sanctuary, Frosted Faces Foundation, Laramie Animal Welfare Society, Old Dogs Go To Helen, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Muttville, Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, Young At Heart Senior Pet Adoptions, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, Home Free Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Hound Haven of Lone Pine, Living Grace Canine Ranch, Tails of Gray, Sunny Sky's Animal Rescue, Senior Pet And Animal Rescue, Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary, Leashes End Senior Pet Sanctuary, Sammie’s Senior Dog Sanctuary, The Golden Bark Foundation, Camp Golden Years, Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue, Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary, Charlie's Foundation, Daisy Senior Dog Foundation aka DaisyLu Ranch, Silver Linings Rescue Ranch, Lionel's Legacy, Rusty's Angels Sanctuary, Gray Muzzle Society, Colorado Senior Dog Rescue and Hospice, Grand-paws Senior Sanctuary, Angels For Sara Sanctuary

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

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Des Moines is AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Iowa is German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Iowa.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

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.

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The Best Iowa Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Dogs Forever of Iowa (DBA DOGS FOREVER)

A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue

AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc

German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Iowa

Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids

Kiya Koda Humane Society

Safe Haven of Iowa County

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Iowa

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Iowa Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Iowa?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Iowa?

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

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Iowa 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 Iowa?

David Adams

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