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The Best Seattle, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Seattle, WA. 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.

Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary
#42 in United States, #2 in Washington
Seattle
Resilient Hearts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit rescue that rescues animals from high risk situations and unites them with their forever families in the Puget Sound area. As a queer led organization, we are committed to accessible and inclusive programs for our entire community, and maintain a community safe space for anyone to share our animals.
"Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. Since October 2023, my family and I have had..."
— felie h.
Volunteer / foster
"To me, dogs are about family. They aren't just members of the family but they improve the quality of our..."
— rob f.
Volunteer / foster

Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
#76 in United States, #3 in Washington
Seattle
Motley Zoo Animal Rescue is the revolution of rescue. As a rock and roll-themed, foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue, we take in animals that have no one else. "Animals" primarily means dogs and cats, but as the name "zoo" implies, we take all kinds (as long as we have a foster home/ resources for that species). We work with shelters and owners who cannot keep their pets and through extensive veterinary care and training, we rehabilitate them and place them in loving, forever homes where the animals will never again be abandoned. More than 30% of the animals we take in are special or medically needy and require more extensive and expensive care. In all we work with all ages, breeds, many species and all different types of humans too- treating each as an individual so they can find the life and love they deserve.
"Great care and supporr of good homes for pets"
— sue b.
Adoptee
"I've been a follower and supporter of Motley Zoo for many years. I've continually been impressed by their efforts..."
— kerma j.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

Auburn Valley Humane Society
#121 in United States, #5 in Washington
Seattle
AVHS is a local, independent 501(c)3 non-profit, which relies on pet licensing fees, vulnerable pet housing agreements with the City of Auburn, shelter services, spay and neuter services, Thrift Store sales, Cat Cafe Sales, and generous donations from the community to fund the shelter, clinic, and educational programs.
"AVHS is an amazing non-profit which provides a much needed service to our community. The care and compassion they provide..."
— regina h.
Volunteer / foster
"Ethics and care of people and animals is top notch"
— mer m.
Supporter, Fan

Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG)
#162 in United States, #12 in Washington
Seattle
Since 2001, WAG has placed dogs into new, loving homes. Our rescues come to us in many ways: owner surrenders due to unplanned life changes, over-populated shelters, and strays found wandering streets and fields. Prior to adoption, all of our rescues are spayed/neutered, receive all vaccines, are micro-chipped, and all other medical needs are addressed.
"WAG is a special haven on the Olympic Peninsula that provides a safe and loving home for rescued and surrendered..."
— julie s.
Adoptee
"The entire crew at WAG work tirelessly 24/7 to help the dogs that are fortunate enough to come there. They..."
— susan h.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

CHEW Dog Rescue
#184 in United States, #13 in Washington
Seattle
CHEW Dog Rescue is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned dogs, dogs scheduled for euthanasia due to shelter space limitations, and other dogs who need us. We are always looking to find additional foster homes and acquire funding for other essential elements of dog rescue to allow us to help more dogs in need. We strive to place our dogs in safe and loving forever homes. Additionally, we promote responsible dog ownership through the facilitation of educational and recreational activities and events. CHEW (Canine Health Education and Welfare) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.
"We were looking for an older dog to be a companion to our 12 year old, Waldo. CHEW holds regular..."
— judy m.
Adoptee
"CHEW does a fantastic job in finding the best home for its dogs."
— marybeth h.
Volunteer / foster

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

Welcome to the 2024 Seattle, WA Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Seattle, WA chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 46 private dog parks in the Seattle area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Seattle 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 In Other Cities Near Seattle

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

Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Seattle

Sniffspot Seattle Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Seattle?

There are 46 in Seattle. Outside of Seattle, there are 31 located in Washington.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Seattle, the top 3 on our list are: Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary, Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, Auburn Valley Humane Society.

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Seattle?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Seattle. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Please contact RHAS.Adopions for more info.

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

Yes! Seattle has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Beagle Boxer Dachshund German Shepherd Greyhound Pit Bull Small dog

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Seattle that specialize in senior dogs?

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Seattle, but these are the closest cities with senior dog rescues and shelters: Olympia, Seattle, Vancouver

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 Seattle, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary

Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

Auburn Valley Humane Society

Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG)

CHEW Dog Rescue

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Seattle

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Seattle

Sniffspot Seattle Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Seattle?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Seattle?

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

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Seattle that specialize in senior dogs?

David Adams

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