57 dog rescues found

#98 in United States, #1 in Nebraska, #1 in Omaha
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.
"Their passion and commitment to save and rescue dogs is top tier."
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in Beatrice
For many years, BHS (Beatrice Humane Society) has been sheltering abandoned animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and working to build a caring, compassionate community here in Beatrice, Nebraska. Although we have lots of volunteers and members, we are really nothing more than a single entity saying “Yes, I want to help!” Help us to help you and a pet friend… check out what cats and dogs are available, or find out more about volunteering or donating to help the pets still awaiting families!
Beatrice, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in Crete
Epona Horse Rescue is located just outside Crete, Nebraska. We are located on roughly 10 acres of pasture land, with a 4 stall barn and plans to add an additional barn soon. "SAVING LIVES OTHERWISE LOST..." Epona Horse Rescue is an organization based on the premise that all equine and other animals should live freely from cruelty, neglect and abuse. Many horses simply end up in a rescue situation due to lack of training or being too young or too old to be of use to mankind. Epona is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of unbroken or unhandled horses and to the very young and the aged equine that are often rejected. We strive to educate the public on the fate of many of America's horses and ask for the support of the American public. Money is always a pressing need in the rescue. Feed, hay, shelter and veterinary care are the largest of expenses. We also need farrier care, office support and volunteers to continue the work. Your support can help the rescue continue to rescue and rehabilitate these wonderful animals. We are a non-profit organization under the IRS 501 (c)(3) regulations.
Crete, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in Hastings
Start Over Rover is the only no-kill, non-profit animal rescue and shelter located in Hastings, NE. Rover is operated primarily by volunteers and is beginning it’s 10th year of operation! We rely solely on donations from the general public and local/regional businesses and groups. Our first priority is finding good homes for unwanted companion animals, whether they are abandoned, neglected, abused, strays, puppy mill “cast offs”, or simply unwanted by their current owners. Another priority of Rover’s is reducing the pet overpopulation without euthanization. We pay for the spay or neuter, medical care, vaccinations, and daily care of each animal that enters Rover.
Hastings, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in Hastings
The Heartland Pet Connection has been serving the homeless animals of south central Nebraska since October 2004. Our facility provides a safe haven for lost and surrendered pets and an opportunity for many families to find the perfect companion. Animal control is provided by the Hastings Police Department and the Adams County Sheriff’s Department. At the shelter, animals are cared for with compassion and kindness. The safety and health of these animals is a priority for staff and the many volunteers that work at the shelter. Each animal receives veterinary care as well as necessary vaccinations and tests to ensure that it is in the best health before ever being put up for adoption. It is our goal to provide the best care possible for the homeless animals that need it the most. Our History The Heartland Pet Connection is owned and operated by the Hastings Animal Shelter Association, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2001. We are a non-profit organization, not managed by city or county government. The concepts of changing the community’s animal shelter was originally introduced to the community as the WAGS project – Wonderful Animals – Great Space. It was born out of the compassion felt by many of Hastings area residents who wanted to improve the lives of hundreds of animals that passed through the dilapidated city animal shelter. The original WAGS Project was a grassroots effort that has expanded into a variety of avenues all carefully designed to serve the needs of people and animals in this community.
Hastings, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in McCook
The McCook Humane Society was formed in 1983 by a group of citizens concerned by the housing that was being used by the City of McCook to house and care for stray animals. The first efforts focused on finding new homes for the strays and making their stay a bit more comfortable while impounded. Through a lot of diligent efforts, donations of money and many hours of volunteer labor the Animal Shelter was built on South Street and a lease agreement with the City of McCook was established. The shelter has been improved through the years and is a facility to be proud of. These improvements have been possible through donations and other fund raising projects throughout the years. The effort continues to insure that neglected and unwanted animals of the area are taken care of and new homes provided. MHS is a nonprofit organization supported by voluntary donations and remains an independent organization dedicated to finding permanent, loving homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals in Southwest Nebraska and Northwest Kansas. Three Memory Boards are on display at the shelter: • One has the names and or businesses that have been donors or volunteers that have been instrumental in the construction and continuing operation of the Animal Shelter. • Another is in memory of deceased animal lovers that have either left monies in their wills or instructed their loved ones to donate to the humane society. • A third has the names of beloved pets that the owners have given memorials in their name to be remembered. Visitors and volunteers are always welcome. The McCook Humane Society is located at 100 South Street. Please find our current open hours at the bottom of every page in the footer. If you need to surrender an animal, please call first during business hours to set up an appointment to bring the animal in.
McCook, NE

Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska
#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #1 in Norfolk
The Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska* (ASNN) was founded in 1995 in Northeast Nebraska by a group of dedicated volunteers. These volunteers created a network of foster homes and caring families to care for the abandoned animals in the area. All expenses are paid by the donations from the community and local businesses. There was a general lack of facilities in our five-county area (Madison, Pierce, Wayne, Stanton and Cuming counties) to respond to the issues of unwanted or abandoned dogs and cats. Because of the rural nature of our environment many of these animals were simply turned free near farms where they were not wanted. Farmers or people living in the country, for their part, and understandably, did not have a shelter near them and were forced to either take the animals to a shelter farther away or have them euthanized or even kill them themselves. As a response to this urgent need we began the foster/adoption program as a stopgap to meet the critical current need. We finally opened the doors to our shelter in March of 2016 and, for the most part, stopped our foster program and now house an average of 100 cats and dogs at a time with a few exotics on the side. We currently average 70 adoptions per month and, thanks to our community, can and will continue to grow. * The Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska is formerly known as Northeast Nebraska Humane Society - we have no affiliation with the Humane Society of the United States.
Norfolk, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Little White Dog Rescue (LWDR) is a non-profit dog rescue organization that consists entirely of foster homes rather than a shelter. Founded in 2007, LWDR originally began as a West Highland Terrier rescue group – thus the name! These days, we take in small dogs of all kinds. Like all rescue groups, our goal is to find loving, forever homes for small dogs who have been displaced through no fault of their own. Our dogs come to us from city shelters, commercial breeding facilities, and owners who can no longer care for them. We are an all-volunteer group deeply committed to offering a chance at a good life to the dogs in our care. We provide a loving foster home, medical care, and quality food to each of our little dogs and begin training them to become beloved house pets. As a final gift to each of our dogs, we work diligently to make the best match for them with a new family. Little White Dog Rescue is a 501c3 organization that relies solely on donations to fund our mission to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home small dogs. There are many other ways individuals and corporations can help us in our mission! Please see the Volunteer Page to find out how you can become involved with LWDR.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in Omaha, Nebraska. Adoption donations and donations made by generous individuals represent our sole source of funding. With these funds, our rescue dogs are brought up-to-date on vaccinations, are spayed or neutered, and are provided with ongoing veterinary care as needed. What sets us apart from other rescue organizations? Our "Sanctuary Sweethearts" - dogs that will stay in rescue for the remainder of their lives because of advanced age or serious health issues. Wag N Train provides all medications, supplements, dog food and required therapy for these dogs so that they may spend the rest of their lives in comfort. Private donations are the only source of funding for our "Sanctuary Sweethearts." We do adopt outside our state, but require the adopter to travel to Omaha, Nebraska to pick up their newly adopted dog. We do not transport or fly our rescue dogs. Our volunteers are available to help you from start to finish by offering: • Counseling before adoption • Training recommendations throughout your pet's lifetime • Grief counseling when that time does come
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
We are dedicated to the rescue and care of bulldogs (English and Olde English) until a loving, adoptive home can be found with a focus on breed education. We work paw in paw with rescues, vets and shelters throughout the Midwest and in cooperation with the Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network (BCARN).
Omaha, NE

SNAFU Rescue-Short Noses and Friends United Rescue
#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
SNAFU Rescue (Short Noses And Friends United Rescue) is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes all short-nosed breeds in need. SNAFU Rescue networks as much as possible with commercial and private breeders for breeder releases. We also take in many dogs from owner surrender situations and shelters, as needed. We strive to maintain a confidential and professional relationship with all of our breeder contacts. We will never name a breeder(s) or share breeder’s information. Please do not request any breeder information from us, as it will not be provided.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
In 2006, Debora Wilcox was the proud owner of two labrador retrievers: Elliott and Sam. While working in the yard, the pair escaped and were never found after months of searching. Finally she realized the heartbreaking reality that they were never coming back. In the process of calling veterinarians, area shelters, and pleas on social media she quickly found that the system in our county for stray dogs and cats could be better. She felt God was speaking to her heart to be the person to help these animals find new homes or be reunited with their families. Saunders County Lost Pets (SCLP) began in 2007 in Debora’s home garage. She developed relationships with the county sheriff and surrounding veterinarians to house the lost pets of Saunders County until they are either reunited with their owners or placed in a new home. Today, SCLP operates out of downtown Wahoo, NE with a board of directors and has grown to include many pet related activities such as boarding, grooming, and dog daycare. To date, SCLP has helped place over 4,000 dogs and cats into loving, forever homes.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Founded in 2009, our rescue is based on the belief that each dog deserves a chance. Every year, many Wheatens and mixed breed pups find themselves without a home. Our entire team is made up of volunteers who are committed to helping rescue and place these sweet pups. We do not operate a shelter. Instead, rescue dogs live with our foster families, until they are adopted. We are based in Omaha, Nebraska. We rescue and place dogs throughout the Midwest, and even farther, where possible. We take pride in completing due diligence, to make sure each dog is placed with a home that is the best fit, both for the dog and for the adopting family. We are proud to have received the Non-Profit 501(c)3 status from the IRS. Rescue is a labor of love -- it's all for the love of dogs.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
In 2005 Scatter Joy Acres (SJA) was founded by Joy Bartling as Soby Ranch Ministries in 2006 near Fort Calhoun, Nebraska to provide a new home, new life, and new meaning by rescuing abused or neglected animals. Bartling’s first loves were the animals who became her closest childhood friends and confidants when she felt she had no one else to turn to during a painful part of her journey to adulthood. Understanding that there are often deep pains in life and the many times that human beings were not able to touch them, she realized she was not alone in that aspect. At the ranch, the animals serve as an integral part of the on-going mission of providing therapeutic interaction for developmentally disabled and autistic children, seniors, veterans, and at-risk children. Many of us, like Joy, have found comfort, solace, peace and even joy in the company of animals. Joy embraced her passionate gift in life which also would be a significant way to “give back” to the community. Thus, “Scatter Joy Acres” was created to scatter God’s joy across all of his acres. On the ranch, each animal has a name, a story and a significance, which is demonstrated in warmth and love they share with every person they encounter. The interactions animals share as they meet with people are simply amazing. In 2013, SJA relocated to a sprawling, lush, 26-acre site within Omaha at 49th & Newport. Here it provides a surprisingly quiet inner-city sanctuary for both humans and animals. In 2022 SJA had the opportunity to move the ranch to a 15 acre country setting in Murray, NE . This has allowed to be able to grow our programs. In addition to the therapy and rescue, the ranch is available for birthday parties, corporate outings and other events. There is an ample parking, picnic areas, a playground, hayrack rides, bonfires, and plenty of room for fun and games. Our ranch in Murray serves as headquarters for the ever-expanding Scatter Joy Acres organization. The ranch is presently home to more than 65 animals like alpacas, sheep, rabbits, goats, horses, cows, and a camel, a variety of fowl, pigs, and peacocks. SJA provides animal therapy for the developmentally disabled, seniors and veterans both at the ranch at on-site at many other facilities in and around the metro Omaha area. Additionally, SJA is one of the regions only authorized education sites for the widely acclaimed Cowboy Ethics, curriculum, teaching young people to be responsible adults using the Code of the West. Scatter Joy Acres provides an experience unlike any other for those it serves. Animal rescue and therapy, an urban ranch, real life – hands on STEM education, and animal interaction makes. Scatter Joy Acres an incredible organization and place to visit.
Omaha, NE

Homeward Bound in the Heartland Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
We are a small group of rescuers in the Omaha area. Special people volunteer to show their love and dedication to helping these animals. Our animals find a temporary loving home with our foster parents while awaiting furever families. We rescue animals that have found themselves in difficult situations by no fault of their own. Health, age, or breed does not matter to us. We don’t discriminate. We raise public awareness through community education of the homeless animals and the benefits of adopting an animal in need. Our rescued animals are examined, vaccinated, and spayed/neutered before they are placed in carefully screened homes. Our short term Goals: As a licensed rescue, was formed in 2009. We are a small group of rescuers in the Omaha, Nebraska/Council Bluffs, IA area. Special people volunteer to show their love and dedication in helping these animals.Our animals find temporary loving home with our foster parents, while awaiting for furever families. We do not have a shelter, We rescue homeless/abused/neglected/abandoned animals from high stressed situations. as well as those animals that are in danger of being euthanized at a shelter. Health,age or breed does not matter to us. We don’t discriminate. Our rescued animals are examined, vaccinated and spayed/neutered before they are placed in carefully screened homes. We never discriminate. By involving and educating the community, HOMEWARD BOUND IN THE HEARTLAND ANIMAL RESCUE INC works to raise the public’s awareness of the plight of homeless animals as well as realizing the benefits of adopting an animal in need.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Pug Partners of Nebraska is a 501c3, non-profit organization comprised of dedicated volunteers who are committed to rescuing and re-homing pugs in need. We believe that all pugs deserve a chance to be loved and to love a human companion. The majority of our rescue pugs come from what is called a puppy mill (a mass breeding facility), and we are very dedicated to these special dogs and providing them with the life they deserve. Our main purpose is to provide all of our rescue pugs with a loving foster home, quality dog food, medical care, and any other need that they may have while in our care. Our ultimate goal is to place each pug into a forever family that will continue to show the pug love, attention, and provide the care that they each deserve. We strive to educate our adopters and the public about our wonderful pug breed. Although pugs are quite different from most breeds, we want to show people how amazing these small dogs can be, and how they are great companions. Vision Statement Pug Partners of Nebraska provides a service to the community for pugs in need, by rescuing purebred pugs that are in shelters, puppy mills, whose owners can no longer care for them, and for those who have become lost/abandoned and to place them in a loving and safe permanent home where they will be loved and cared for as companion pets. Goals of Pug Partners of Nebraska To accomplish our mission, Pug Partners of Nebraska strives to: • Rescue adoptable pugs from a variety of situations and place them into loving foster homes until their permanent home can be found • Treat all pugs like our own, by giving them behavioral and medical attention that they need • Act as advocates by protecting and advancing the pug breed by encouraging responsible pug ownership and by rescuing pugs from unsafe or abusive situations • Carefully screen all volunteers to ensure that the most knowledgeable pug experts in the community are on board with pug Partners’ mission • Help reduce the pet over-population crisis by ensuring that all pugs adopted through our rescue are spayed or neutered • Have useful information available to those interested in adding a pug to their family • Provide the community with superior knowledge of the pug breed • cooperate and network with other animal rescue organizations in the community and world-wide • Incorporate programs to help the rescue succeed and involved more volunteers Pug Partners History One random July evening in 2008, Jessica Kamish was surfing the web looking for a sister for her current 3 year old pug Rocky. She came across the website for Midwest Pug Rescue where a banner read, “Foster homes needed in Omaha, NE.” As Jessica was the president of the Omaha Pug Club, with membership of more than 150 pug lovers, she was sure that she could find a couple of fellow pug lovers who would open their homes and hearts to a pug in need and foster for the rescue. An email was sent out to the address listed on the website, and an email was quickly received back that there was a 6 year old female who was found in O’Neil, Nebraska who needed a foster home. At this point Jessica sent an email to the pug club asking for foster homes. One couple replied immediately, Megan and Josiah (Si) Hollibaugh. They had just adopted two pugs from another rescue and wanted to help out a pug in need. With much contemplation, Jessica and her fiancé Matt decided to go ahead and take on this 6 year old puppy mill pug and give fostering a try. They named their foster pug Lily. Lily changed Matt and Jessica’s life. As a puppy mill survivor she had never experienced life outside of a kennel. There were so many firsts, and they found glory in the small things. The experience touched them both and they wanted to become more involved. Shortly after deciding this, Lily became part of their family. Jessica soon began getting emails about all the pugs needing rescued in Nebraska and Iowa. At this time, the only pug rescue in the area was Midwest Pug Rescue in Kansas City, MO, and it was obvious that the rescue need was great in the Nebraska and Iowa area as well. Jessica continued to seek out additional foster homes to help with the influx of pugs that needed rescued in the area. Megan and Si were the first foster home to take in a foster pug after Jessica. Their first foster was Yoda, a three year old mostly blind male who was surrendered to the Council Bluffs Animal Shelter. They too were touched by their fostering experience and wanted to find a way to help the pugs in need even more. After finding it hard to stay in contact with the pug rescue in Kansas City, Jessica, Matt, Megan and Si decided that it would be best to start up their own rescue and run it the way that would work best for them. Pug Partners of Nebraska was created in December 2008, and the EIN number request was filed with the IRS. In January 2009, a generous Omaha lawyer agreed to help the group file their 501(c)(3) paperwork. On January 30, 2009 the state certified Pug Partners of Nebraska’s Articles of Incorporation. Since then, Pug Partners of Nebraska has rescued over 900 pugs. We have over 20 foster homes, many volunteers, and have countless happy-ever-after stories about the pugs PPN has rescued. As the rescue has increased in size, Pug Partners added new positions to better help them rescue more pugs in need. In July 2009, positions were added to include a foster qualifier, foster coordinator, adoption qualifier, and adoption coordinator. In January 2010, these roles were further condensed to include a foster director and an adoption director. In March 2010, the positions began evolving once again and will continue to evolve as the rescue continues to grow.
Omaha, NE

Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland
#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland (BBRH) is an approved 501(c)3 non-profit rescue group, all donations are tax-deductible. Our organization is devoted to rescuing and rehoming bassets and beagles in Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri and Iowa. BBRH also puts great emphasis on educational efforts regarding these breeds and responsible pet ownership.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Midwest Dog Rescue Network was founded in 2007 by four dedicated women who wanted to make a difference in our community. We all had experience volunteering with rescues and working at shelters and vet clinics. Midwest Dog Rescue Network is an acronym of our names, Monica, Dee, Rose and Nikki. We are an all-breed 501(c) non-profit rescue licensed in the state of Nebraska. We are based out of the Omaha metro area. We have no employees so all proceeds go directly to the care of the animals. We do not have a shelter but foster our rescued dogs in local homes. Fosters homes are an important part of our rescue group. Without foster homes, only a fraction of the animals would be saved. The Network part of our name is important because it really does take a Network of people to run a rescue and help save animals. We work with local shelters and other rescues to help save animals. Many of our dogs come from over-crowded shelters that are limited in space and ask for help. Some dogs in shelters are simply “out of time” or need additional veterinary care that the shelter can not provide. At Midwest Dog Rescue Network, we are dedicated to helping homeless and abandoned animals in the Midwest find their forever homes. We work hard to make sure the animals in our care get the best medical attention, nutrition and love. We are passionate about helping animals in need and making a difference in the lives of the animals that come into our rescue. At Midwest Dog Rescue Network, we believe that every dog deserves a second chance at a forever home.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
We are a non-profit dog rescue that is comprised entirely of dedicated and compassionate foster homes ready to provide a safe haven from life’s storms. We cannot stop the world from being cruel, but we can offer a safe, loving and restorative place where dogs are protected from the harshness of life and given a chance to recover and heal. We promise to provide them with complete vet care, nutritious food, enrichment and training opportunities, all while surrounding them with love and hope. When we look at their faces, we see endless possibilities. We offer them love to show them that life isn’t always about merely surviving. It is about thriving. We offer them time to let their guard down long enough to learn how to be loved.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
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!
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Haven Animal Rescue Nebraska is located in Omaha, NE with approved foster homes in surrounding areas. We do not have a physical facility, so potential adopters are able to meet our available animals through appointments after their applications are approved. Our organization is composed entirely of dedicated volunteers. We are always looking to add committed volunteers and fosters to the Haven family that are like minded in their passion for saving animals! We value honesty, integrity, and respect for all living creatures as well as transparency in throughout our entire organization. Please see our volunteer tab to join the Haven family!
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Dolly’s Legacy Animal Rescue is a foster-based rescue in Lincoln, NE. Our mission is to save orphaned and abandoned pets from overcrowded shelters and find them loving, forever homes. Dolly's Legacy Animal Rescue's mission is to save orphaned and abandoned pets from overcrowded shelters where they are out of time & out of hope to make it out alive. Far too many pets are facing a cruel death at high-intake, high-kill animal control facilities, some still using a gas chamber as a means of euthanasia. We rescue dogs, puppies, cats & kittens, and place them into loving foster homes while they receive all the vet care needed, including spay/neuter, heartworm testing & treatment, vaccinations, microchipping, treatment for parasites, surgical intervention, and hospitalization.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Great Plains Pointer Rescue was founded in 2008. Here at Great Plains Pointer Rescue, we take pride in helping German Shorthairs in many situations. All of our dogs receive full vet care in our program from minor to major medical issues. We provide all vetting records to adopters. Our main goal is to find loving and committed homes for our dogs. We take adoption seriously. Most of the dogs that enter our program have already been abandoned, bounced from home to home, or from different shelters. Our rescue program consists of foster homes where the dogs live indoors with families and receive training, social skills, and love. Adopters are able to ask questions and understand how a dog is in a home environment.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Second Chance Pups is a 501(c)3 corporation supported ENTIRELY by adoption fees and private donations. We select dogs from local shelters and rescues and match them to carefully selected volunteer inmate/handlers from the Nebraska State Penitentiary. Dogs then live at the penitentiary while handlers provide nine weeks of intense training and love. It is a great rehabilitative measure for the inmates, offering them an opportunity to give back to society in a positive manner and contribute to a solution for the growing problem of uncared-for and unwanted animals. Otherwise overlooked dogs get a second chance at a lifelong relationship with a loving family. The first rotation of dogs started in September of 2004 in an effort to help more homeless animals find their way into forever homes. To date, SCP has adopted out 349 dogs and 220 inmates have participated in the program. Inmate trainers work together with a professional trainer, prison staff and SCP volunteers to provide dogs with basic obedience training, socialization, behavior modification, grooming and daily 1 on 1 attention. The dogs involved in the program graduate with a wealth of valuable skills that help give them a paw up on finding a home. Prison training programs like ours dramatically increase the number of shelter dogs adopted by providing them with a little help. The impact of similar programs throughout the United States is universally positive. Inmates learn training skills that support their own successful rehabilitation and reentry into society. Morale of both inmates and prison staff is greatly enhanced. Adoptable dogs who would otherwise be left to languish or be at risk for an uncertain future due to lack of socialization or training receive a second chance for a good life.
Omaha, NE

#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
Nebraska Dachshund Rescue was formed in the fall of 2007 by several dachshund lovers who were part of a dachshund-only play group. The group would be informed about dachshunds in kill-shelters, dachshunds being surrendered by families, dachshunds that were 'free' on craigslist, dachshunds retiring from puppy mills, etc... There was not a dachshund breed-specific local rescue group to help find homes for some wonderful little dogs who deserved a second chance at life. Nebraska Dachshund Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit AVO (All Volunteer Organization) dedicated to saving dachshunds. The dachshunds in need can come from a variety of different situations, such as; animal shelters, owner surrenders, puppy mill throw-aways, strays, etc... NDR does not discriminate based on age, size, health, or any other reason. Our goal for each and every dachshund is to be placed in a safe, loving forever-family. Until that goal is reached, they live with a foster family, who will love them ‘as one of their own’. Any needed vet care is provided and paid for by NDR during the interim between surrender and adoption. Vet care can range from minor needs, such as shots...to special needs, such as ‘back surgery’....and every dog that is placed in a forever home will also be spayed or neutered before they leave our care. NDR does not have a shelter. We rely on a network of foster families to take in a new dog. While the new dog is with the foster family, they will receive their vetting. The foster family also assesses the new dog so that it can be placed properly. This assessment includes temperament, social skills with other pets, potty training progress, personality, etc... Without our wonderful foster families, NDR would not be able to ‘stay in business’! Foster families are ALWAYS needed! NDR is dedicated to: • Helping abandoned, surrendered, abused, neglected dachshunds and dachshund mixes. • Providing a safe loving foster home and providing necessary rehabilitation to be adopted to a forever home. • Educating owners and public on responsible pet ownership. • Finding a forever home to dachshunds and any animal in need. • Rescuing and socializing abandoned, neglected, abused, orphaned and/or surrendered dachshunds and dachshund mixes by providing temporary safe shelter and medical/dental treatments as needed. • Procuring temporary foster homes and permanent new homes for rescued dachshunds that will provide a safe and nurturing home environment. • Ensuring no dachshund shall be adopted for the purposes of breeding or scientific/medical experimentation. • Providing education to the public on the dachshund breed, puppy mills, and responsible pet guardianship including, but not limited to, humane animal care and spay/neuter practices. • Displaying courtesy, respect and fellowship toward all volunteers in appreciation of services and support rendered to dachshund rescue and to promoting enhanced teamwork among all rescuers.
Omaha, NE

The Phoenix Remix Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #2 in Nebraska, #2 in Omaha
The Phoenix Remix is a 501c3, state licensed volunteer rescue designed to protect and preserve the lives of jeopardized, neglected and at-risk domesticated animals. Where it all began Phoenix was found emaciated, dying from disease on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere, Tennessee, in the spring of 2002. She was somewhere around five months old. Local veterinarians suggested that she be euthanized, given the severity of her condition. That could have been the end of her story- a truncated life of misery, hunger and loneliness. But that was nowhere near the end. Phoenix healed. She spent a decade and a half reveling in extraordinary health, athleticism and compassion. She touched the lives of every person that met her with her gentle demeanor, her love of the outdoors and her loyalty to people- something she didn’t owe us, but humans certainly owed her. It is the mission of this rescue to give every lost soul the chance to be loved and honored beyond its lifetime, like Phoenix is. It is our goal to ensure these animals are placed in homes that will stay as dedicated to the animals as they are to us, and our wish to provide every animal we touch with the opportunity to change your life forever, the way Pheenie changed ours.
Omaha, NE

HUA, located in the beautiful rolling hills of Auburn, Nebraska, is a no-kill organization dedicated to relieving the suffering of domestic animals by providing quality shelter, sanctuary, and adoptions, and by promoting animal welfare issues. Our efforts have resulted in thousands of dog and cat adoptions since the year 1989.

For many years, BHS (Beatrice Humane Society) has been sheltering abandoned animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and working to build a caring, compassionate community here in Beatrice, Nebraska. Although we have lots of volunteers and members, we are really nothing more than a single entity saying “Yes, I want to help!” Help us to help you and a pet friend… check out what cats and dogs are available, or find out more about volunteering or donating to help the pets still awaiting families!


Epona Horse Rescue is located just outside Crete, Nebraska. We are located on roughly 10 acres of pasture land, with a 4 stall barn and plans to add an additional barn soon. "SAVING LIVES OTHERWISE LOST..." Epona Horse Rescue is an organization based on the premise that all equine and other animals should live freely from cruelty, neglect and abuse. Many horses simply end up in a rescue situation due to lack of training or being too young or too old to be of use to mankind. Epona is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of unbroken or unhandled horses and to the very young and the aged equine that are often rejected. We strive to educate the public on the fate of many of America's horses and ask for the support of the American public. Money is always a pressing need in the rescue. Feed, hay, shelter and veterinary care are the largest of expenses. We also need farrier care, office support and volunteers to continue the work. Your support can help the rescue continue to rescue and rehabilitate these wonderful animals. We are a non-profit organization under the IRS 501 (c)(3) regulations.

Start Over Rover is the only no-kill, non-profit animal rescue and shelter located in Hastings, NE. Rover is operated primarily by volunteers and is beginning it’s 10th year of operation! We rely solely on donations from the general public and local/regional businesses and groups. Our first priority is finding good homes for unwanted companion animals, whether they are abandoned, neglected, abused, strays, puppy mill “cast offs”, or simply unwanted by their current owners. Another priority of Rover’s is reducing the pet overpopulation without euthanization. We pay for the spay or neuter, medical care, vaccinations, and daily care of each animal that enters Rover.

The Heartland Pet Connection has been serving the homeless animals of south central Nebraska since October 2004. Our facility provides a safe haven for lost and surrendered pets and an opportunity for many families to find the perfect companion. Animal control is provided by the Hastings Police Department and the Adams County Sheriff’s Department. At the shelter, animals are cared for with compassion and kindness. The safety and health of these animals is a priority for staff and the many volunteers that work at the shelter. Each animal receives veterinary care as well as necessary vaccinations and tests to ensure that it is in the best health before ever being put up for adoption. It is our goal to provide the best care possible for the homeless animals that need it the most. Our History The Heartland Pet Connection is owned and operated by the Hastings Animal Shelter Association, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2001. We are a non-profit organization, not managed by city or county government. The concepts of changing the community’s animal shelter was originally introduced to the community as the WAGS project – Wonderful Animals – Great Space. It was born out of the compassion felt by many of Hastings area residents who wanted to improve the lives of hundreds of animals that passed through the dilapidated city animal shelter. The original WAGS Project was a grassroots effort that has expanded into a variety of avenues all carefully designed to serve the needs of people and animals in this community.

The McCook Humane Society was formed in 1983 by a group of citizens concerned by the housing that was being used by the City of McCook to house and care for stray animals. The first efforts focused on finding new homes for the strays and making their stay a bit more comfortable while impounded. Through a lot of diligent efforts, donations of money and many hours of volunteer labor the Animal Shelter was built on South Street and a lease agreement with the City of McCook was established. The shelter has been improved through the years and is a facility to be proud of. These improvements have been possible through donations and other fund raising projects throughout the years. The effort continues to insure that neglected and unwanted animals of the area are taken care of and new homes provided. MHS is a nonprofit organization supported by voluntary donations and remains an independent organization dedicated to finding permanent, loving homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals in Southwest Nebraska and Northwest Kansas. Three Memory Boards are on display at the shelter: • One has the names and or businesses that have been donors or volunteers that have been instrumental in the construction and continuing operation of the Animal Shelter. • Another is in memory of deceased animal lovers that have either left monies in their wills or instructed their loved ones to donate to the humane society. • A third has the names of beloved pets that the owners have given memorials in their name to be remembered. Visitors and volunteers are always welcome. The McCook Humane Society is located at 100 South Street. Please find our current open hours at the bottom of every page in the footer. If you need to surrender an animal, please call first during business hours to set up an appointment to bring the animal in.

The Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska* (ASNN) was founded in 1995 in Northeast Nebraska by a group of dedicated volunteers. These volunteers created a network of foster homes and caring families to care for the abandoned animals in the area. All expenses are paid by the donations from the community and local businesses. There was a general lack of facilities in our five-county area (Madison, Pierce, Wayne, Stanton and Cuming counties) to respond to the issues of unwanted or abandoned dogs and cats. Because of the rural nature of our environment many of these animals were simply turned free near farms where they were not wanted. Farmers or people living in the country, for their part, and understandably, did not have a shelter near them and were forced to either take the animals to a shelter farther away or have them euthanized or even kill them themselves. As a response to this urgent need we began the foster/adoption program as a stopgap to meet the critical current need. We finally opened the doors to our shelter in March of 2016 and, for the most part, stopped our foster program and now house an average of 100 cats and dogs at a time with a few exotics on the side. We currently average 70 adoptions per month and, thanks to our community, can and will continue to grow. * The Animal Shelter of Northeast Nebraska is formerly known as Northeast Nebraska Humane Society - we have no affiliation with the Humane Society of the United States.

Holt County Animal Shelter is a small non-profit dog shelter located in rural Nebraska. We are dedicated to providing a safe and caring environment for stray and abandoned dogs. Our shelter aims to find loving forever homes for our furry residents, and we rely on the support of our community to continue our important work. At Holt County Animal Shelter, we believe that every dog deserves a second chance at happiness. Our team is committed to making a difference in the lives of these animals, and we strive to create a positive impact on our local community. We strive to be a no kill animal shelter. We uphold that philosophy by only euthanizing a dog when it is a matter of quality of life, or a public safety issue. Thanks to our communities support we are able to provide at risk dogs a safe place to live out their lives.

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.

We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in Omaha, Nebraska. Adoption donations and donations made by generous individuals represent our sole source of funding. With these funds, our rescue dogs are brought up-to-date on vaccinations, are spayed or neutered, and are provided with ongoing veterinary care as needed. What sets us apart from other rescue organizations? Our "Sanctuary Sweethearts" - dogs that will stay in rescue for the remainder of their lives because of advanced age or serious health issues. Wag N Train provides all medications, supplements, dog food and required therapy for these dogs so that they may spend the rest of their lives in comfort. Private donations are the only source of funding for our "Sanctuary Sweethearts." We do adopt outside our state, but require the adopter to travel to Omaha, Nebraska to pick up their newly adopted dog. We do not transport or fly our rescue dogs. Our volunteers are available to help you from start to finish by offering: • Counseling before adoption • Training recommendations throughout your pet's lifetime • Grief counseling when that time does come

We are dedicated to the rescue and care of bulldogs (English and Olde English) until a loving, adoptive home can be found with a focus on breed education. We work paw in paw with rescues, vets and shelters throughout the Midwest and in cooperation with the Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network (BCARN).

SNAFU Rescue (Short Noses And Friends United Rescue) is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes all short-nosed breeds in need. SNAFU Rescue networks as much as possible with commercial and private breeders for breeder releases. We also take in many dogs from owner surrender situations and shelters, as needed. We strive to maintain a confidential and professional relationship with all of our breeder contacts. We will never name a breeder(s) or share breeder’s information. Please do not request any breeder information from us, as it will not be provided.

Little White Dog Rescue (LWDR) is a non-profit dog rescue organization that consists entirely of foster homes rather than a shelter. Founded in 2007, LWDR originally began as a West Highland Terrier rescue group – thus the name! These days, we take in small dogs of all kinds. Like all rescue groups, our goal is to find loving, forever homes for small dogs who have been displaced through no fault of their own. Our dogs come to us from city shelters, commercial breeding facilities, and owners who can no longer care for them. We are an all-volunteer group deeply committed to offering a chance at a good life to the dogs in our care. We provide a loving foster home, medical care, and quality food to each of our little dogs and begin training them to become beloved house pets. As a final gift to each of our dogs, we work diligently to make the best match for them with a new family. Little White Dog Rescue is a 501c3 organization that relies solely on donations to fund our mission to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home small dogs. There are many other ways individuals and corporations can help us in our mission! Please see the Volunteer Page to find out how you can become involved with LWDR.


York Adopt-A-Pet is a 501(c)3 non-profit animal sanctuary located in York Nebraska. We serve as the primary care givers to the abused, lost and abandoned dogs and cats for our area. Rescue is Hard It is hard to see them arrive, whether they are battered, abandoned, or starving. Sometimes it is just as hard to see them leave, even to the best of homes. A rescuers most selfless quality is to make room for another, regardless of how it hurts to say goodbye. • Together we make a difference. • Together we save Lives York Adopt-A-Pet is located in York, NE. We provide shelter for lost and abandoned cats and dogs in York County. The mission of York Adopt-A-Pet is to provide a safe sanctuary for the dogs and cats that have no home. We provide medical care, nutrition and love until we can find a home for them. Our Goals: • To provide a safe haven to the dogs and cats placed in our custody. • To find the best homes for the dogs and cats that are our guests. • To educate the public on the need to treat our pets with dignity and love. • To reduce the pet overpopulation. Strategic Plans: • Maintain financially stable and sustainable operations where revenues and expenditures are balanced. • Work with the community to actively reduce pet overpopulation and improve treatment of pets in York County. • Educate and be a resource to the public regarding animal welfare and pet ownership. • Actively educate on and enforce animal cruelty laws
Welcome to the 2026 Nebraska Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Nebraska chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
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This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Nebraska. 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.
Once approved, you will receive an email. That can take about 24 hours, but we'll expedite that process if you come in person!You must physically be at the shelter to adopt. We are located at 8929 Fort Street in Omaha, Nebraska.Nebraska's legal age to sign a contract is 19, we ask that all adopters are at least 19 years old. Please bring a valid form of ID.You need landlord approval for a pet. Please come prepared to show your pet policy, have a signed notification that your landlord approves, or the phone number to call and verify your landlord's requirements.We do our best to be as transparent as possible. Please read the animal bios on the website, which will list any restrictions (such as kids, backyards, apartments, other animals, etc.). These restrictions are put in place for the benefit of both the adopters and the animals. We do our best to ensure successful adoptions!


















































