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The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

169 dog rescues found

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Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue

#13 in United States, #1 in Washington, #1 in Spokane

Our mission to provide a safe haven for dogs in desperate circumstances within our community and surrounding area. We rehome these dogs with families that are a good fit for the dog. We seek to serve the humans that come to us ‚both our adoptive families and the people who need help rehoming dogs ‚but our priority is to act as advocates for our dogs at every stage of the rescue and adoption process. We commit to our dogs for life! We are a registered non-profit organization, headquartered in the Tri-Cities in south-central Washington State. We focus mainly on saving dogs that are at risk in our region and placing them with adopters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most of our dogs come from shelters in Washington & Idaho, where they are facing the threat of Euthanasia. Others are released to us by private individuals who need medical help with their own dogs. Other dogs are strays, either dumped or abandoned, that need a chance at a new life.

"This is an amazing organization specializing in parvo puppies/dog..." more

Spokane, WA

Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary

#35 in United States, #2 in Washington, #1 in 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.

"best shelter, best people, such an informative and welcoming envi..." more

Seattle, WA

Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

#56 in United States, #3 in Washington, #2 in 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.

"Motley Zoo is very dedicated to every single animal in their care..." more

Seattle, WA

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County

#63 in United States, #4 in Washington, #1 in Olympia

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County was founded by a handful of compassionate community members and has grown into one of the state's largest animal welfare agencies. Each year, we find loving homes for more than 6,000 pets, reunite over 1,100 animals with their overjoyed owners, and provide care for thousands more in our community. Additionally, we offer several comprehensive programs and resources, including Spay/Neuter & Wellness Vouchers, a monthly Vaccine & Wellness Clinic, a Pet Food & Supply Pantry, behavior advice, and private rehoming services.

"I adopted my baby Tilly from here about 10 years ago. She was the..." more

Olympia, WA

Auburn Valley Humane Society

#78 in United States, #5 in Washington, #3 in 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.

"We got our best buddy there 9 years ago. Completely vetted,chip..." more

Seattle, WA

Greyhound Pets, Inc.

#78 in United States, #5 in Washington, #3 in Seattle

John A. Hern Jr. founded Greyhound Pets, Inc. in 1985. John was a Coeur D'Alene, Idaho businessman who built a foundry business and owned Industrial Park real estate. Among John's many and varied interests, he held greyt admiration for ex-racing greyhounds and became committed to their care and welfare. As the greyhound racetrack opened in Coeur D'Alene John started a small side business providing feed and racing equipment to track kennels. He demonstrated his commitment to the dogs by being instrumental in building a track sponsored Greyhound Welfare Committee that reviewed track and kennel policies. John's first greyhounds were Roo and Babe, the two greyhounds featured in the GPI logo. John adopted several greyhounds after Roo and Babe. Ace was one of his favorites and was the subject of many of John's stories. John was the executive director of Greyhound Pets, Inc. for many years and oversaw expansion to include the Pacific Northwest and Southwestern Canada. John's generous bequest to the organization he founded has provided for GPI's continued prominence in the ex-racing greyhound rescue effort. The volunteers who continue in the efforts John began, honor his colorful leadership in finding homes for ex-racers. John is remembered and his love for ex-racing greyhounds honored in the Hern Greyt Works, GPI's kennel facility in Woodinville, WA.

Greyhound

"This is such an amazing organization. I have volunteered for 11 y..." more

Seattle, WA

Juno's Den

#79 in United States, #6 in Washington, #4 in Seattle

"Juno's Den really cares about finding a the best home for their d..." more

Seattle, WA

Caring Hearts 4 Paws

#81 in United States, #7 in Washington, #2 in Olympia

Founded 06/21 with a passion to help strays of the Yakima Valley and Yakama Reservation we take in pregnant or nursing strays with their puppies.

"When my mom passed away. We found this rescue. We were very pleas..." more

Olympia, WA

Misspits Rescue

#82 in United States, #8 in Washington, #3 in Olympia

I started Misspits Rescue in 2013 to help advocate for pit bull type dogs. After adopting Dexter, a big, happy, pit bull that almost died simply due to his looks, I knew I had to do something. After years working with a local pit bull rescue and volunteering at a shelter, Misspits Rescue was born. In the last ten years we have grown and moved to larger property. We adding additional breeds over the years and help those that need us the most. Now that we have the space, we offer sanctuary to farmed animals as well. This created a perfect place to help struggling herding breeds as well.

Great Dane

Pit Bull

Senior dog

"I adopted a puppy from misspits rescue. The momma dog was pregnan..." more

Olympia, WA

Path of Hope Rescue

#83 in United States, #9 in Washington, #2 in Spokane

At Path of Hope Rescue we strive to decrease the euthanasia rate of high risk dogs in the southern United States by transporting pregnant dogs and puppies to the Pacific Northwest to find adoptive homes. We are 100% foster based and rely on volunteers and fosters to help in our mission. The overpopulation of dogs in Texas is extreme. Because of a culture that does not value spay and neuter, there are simply too many dogs. And because of this, dogs are being euthanized merely for their existence. Shelters are forced to choose which dog to kill and which to save on a daily basis. There are an estimated 700,000 stray dogs just in the city of Houston alone. Dogs on the streets, dogs in shelters, dogs living on chains, dogs everywhere. Pregnant dogs and puppies are often euthanized because of the amount of resources they require or even more often, pregnant moms are spayed, aborting the puppies. Path of Hope Rescue believes that these dogs deserve a chance at life.

"They focus on helping the mama’s in Texas that would likely be pu..." more

Spokane, WA

Hope 4 huskies

#84 in United States, #10 in Washington

We are a small but determined rescue. We are all in to save even 1 husky/malmute at a time. We are dedicated to quality care not quality. Every H4H dog is family.

Husky

"Hope 4 Huskies is an amazing foster group for a breed that is ove..." more

Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG)

#87 in United States, #11 in Washington, #5 in 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 does exceptional work for our community and deeply care for t..." more

Seattle, WA

CHEW Dog Rescue

#91 in United States, #12 in Washington, #6 in 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.

"I have volunteered with Chew Dog Rescue for about 5 years now, fo..." more

Seattle, WA

Adams County Pet Rescue

#96 in United States, #13 in Washington

"This place continues to go above and beyond every single day. The..." more

The Pit Bull Pen

#96 in United States, #13 in Washington, #7 in Seattle

We are an all volunteer rescue specializing in bully breeds. We are facility based and prefer our dogs experience the home environment with their foster homes because the care they receive is superior to a shelter environment. Spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations, training, socialization and lots of love are critical for producing well balanced and well behaved dogs.

Pit Bull

"The endless effort to place these dogs with families who will lov..." more

Seattle, WA

Forgotten Dogs Rescue

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington, #4 in Olympia

Forgotten Dogs Rescue is a volunteer and foster home based rescue organization focused on saving Pit Bull type dogs. Located in Washington State, we are a 501c3 non-profit and have been saving animals since 2011. We are dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned dogs who are in Washington's shelters, surrendered by their owners due to difficult circumstances or are in danger of abuse or neglect. We save the dogs that need help the most, the dogs whose time has run out, the dogs who have lost all hope the forgotten dogs.

Pit Bull

"All the hard work they put into the rescue animals they save!"

Olympia, WA

Pet OverPopulation Prevention Tri-Cities

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington

"I’ve worked with rescues/humane societies to adopt before, but th..." more

Old Dog Haven

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington, #8 in Seattle

Old Dog Haven is a small nonprofit group using a large network of foster homes to provide loving, safe homes for unadoptable senior dogs in need in western Washington. When we have room and the means, we take these dogs into our homes. We care for them as members of the family in permanent foster homes (what we call ‚Final Refuge‚) and provide all needed veterinary care for as long as they have a good quality of life. In addition, we assist rescues, shelters and owners in finding new homes for senior adoptable dogs through our website, social media and referrals.

"Our neighbor adopted a senior dog from Animal Haven and gave it g..." more

Seattle, WA

Seattle Humane

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington, #8 in Seattle

Founded in 1897, Seattle Humane proudly promotes the human-animal bond by saving and serving pets in need. We are one of the region's leaders in animal adoption, education and welfare. Seattle Humane is more than a shelter we are a community resource center, providing adoption services, a pet food bank and support for pet owners, low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and wellness exams, humane education for all ages and more. Our work is made possible by the support of a generous community, and through our outreach, advocacy and services we strive to ensure that animal companionship is accessible to all.

"Seattle humane is so kind to their animals and put them first. I ..." more

Seattle, WA

The Humane Society of Mason County

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington, #8 in Seattle

The Humane Society of Mason County (HSMC) is a private 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves the Mason County area of Washington State. Our organization adheres to a philosophy of a no-kill shelter and animal rescue. We believe in providing second chances for companion animals whether they are abandoned, abused, neglected or homeless. We believe that all animals deserve the chance to live, thrive and be loved in "forever homes!" It is our sincere desire to provide aid when needed and to create opportunities for these needy animals to have a second chance at life.

"The humane society of mason county has been hugely helpful to me ..." more

Seattle, WA

Homeward Pet Adoption Center

#97 in United States, #14 in Washington, #8 in Seattle

Homeward Pet's mission is to transform the lives of cats and dogs in need through compassionate medical care, positive behavior training, and successful adoption while building a more humane community.

"Homeward Pet in Woodinville, WA is the best pet shelter in the wo..." more

Seattle, WA

Kitsap Humane Society

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington, #5 in Olympia

Kitsap Humane Society is a nonprofit, charitable organization that depends upon the kindness and generosity of its community to find homes for homeless pets. We spay/neuter thousands of animals each year to prevent animal overpopulation and reduce the number of future homeless pets. Sheltering animals since 1908, Kitsap Humane Society envisions a time when all adoptable pets have loving homes.

"I have adopted multiple pets from this shelter. The staff there l..." more

Olympia, WA

Save A Mutt

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington, #9 in Seattle

"Great rescue that works hard to get dogs into homes. Foster only...." more

Seattle, WA

Red Rose Animal Rescue

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington, #5 in Olympia

Every year hundreds of animals such as dogs, cats become homeless for many reasons. Our mission is to find the homeless animals around the country and give them a better life. As like humans, they need love, care and also need home. We founded our organization to give them a chance for a loving home and family. Our successes are going forward and every year we give a better life to hundreds of homeless animals.

"Red Rose is a wonderful animal rescue local to my area. We adopte..." more

Olympia, WA

Pawd It Forward

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington, #1 in Vancouver

We provide a multitude of services to our community to include, but are not limited to: Tracking and Trapping Services for lost and feral dogs Lost and Found Social Media Deployment Services Transport Services for finders of lost pets Chip Scanning Clark County Pet Licensing Searchable Lost/Found Pet Database Pet Registration Database (FREE!) Impound Jail Break Support

"Always there when needed! Had great respect in the community. Lov..." more

Vancouver, WA

Murci's Mission Animal Rescue

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington

Murci's Mission is a 501c3 animal rescue, located in Mead, WA that takes animals with limited options, places them into foster care, vets them and adopts them into loving homes. From the day we could talk we told our pets more than we ever told our parents. We took the long route to see the kitty in the window down the street. We stopped even when we were late to pet the dog. We grew up and we saw what the world does to those who can't defend themselves. We are here to change that.

"Best rescue in WA!"

Spokane Humane Society

#98 in United States, #15 in Washington

"I used to walk dogs there, and adopted cats from them."

Lucky Paws Rescue

#99 in United States, #16 in Washington

Lucky Paws Rescue is a non-profit 501c3 organization in Western Washington State. We are small but mighty! We will try to help any animal in need, but we are especially passionate about the underdogs that are overlooked because of their breed or health issues. We give 100% to any animal we commit to. Funding and foster homes are always needed, and they are our biggest hurdles we face when saving lives. We have raised money to give dogs a second chance who were going to be euthanized due to broken legs or training challenges. These are dogs that are truly down on their luck and looking for their last chance. We have rescued and saved many cats as well that had no place to go. We are foster home-based, so we cannot do this without their amazing support. We also work with many shelters to help get dogs out and adopted. We have close relationships with many great veterinarians in the Western Washington area. Even if we cannot take an animal due to space or funding, we will always try to help find other alternatives by utilizing our rescue partners and other resources. Our own adoption process includes an application, vet reference checks, as well as a home visit. We want to ensure that once we have rescued an animal, that animal will never need to be rescued again. We ALWAYS have the animal's best interest at heart.

"I have been an active volunteer with Lucky Paws Rescue since 2014..." more

Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education

#99 in United States, #16 in Washington

Kitsap Animal Rescue & Education (KARE) is a volunteer-powered, non-profit organization, based out of Kitsap County, whose mission is to provide animal welfare education as well as animal rescue/shelter support for the community. We provide classes and workshops revolving around dog behavior, communication and training, in the effort of reducing the number of homeless and relinquished pets in the area. Our goal is to help pets find and stay in their forever homes. We hope to share our mission while continuing to build our network of community partnerships.

"I adopted my dog Ella from them after they helped rescue her from..." more

Shayne's Fosters

#99 in United States, #16 in Washington

"This is a great organization rescuing animals from the San Antoni..." more

Showing 1 - 30 of 100+ rescues

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Washington

The Best Olympia, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County
The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County was founded by a handful of compassionate community members and has grown into one of the state's largest animal welfare agencies. Each year, we find loving homes for more than 6,000 pets, reunite over 1,100 animals with their overjoyed owners, and provide care for thousands more in our community. Additionally, we offer several comprehensive programs and resources, including Spay/Neuter & Wellness Vouchers, a monthly Vaccine & Wellness Clinic, a Pet Food & Supply Pantry, behavior advice, and private rehoming services.
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Caring Hearts 4 Paws
Founded 06/21 with a passion to help strays of the Yakima Valley and Yakama Reservation we take in pregnant or nursing strays with their puppies.
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Misspits Rescue

https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1287/65acd9dd036c-IMG_0273.jpeg

olympiaWashingtonUS

Great Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dogGreat Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dog

Misspits Rescue is amazing! I learned of Misspits from a holiday donation drive at my local pet store. My partner and I have a love of pitbulls and we were immediately drawn to the love and compassion this rescue has for misunderstood breeds. I became a fan and follower on social media, which led to becoming a monthly patreon supporter. Melissa's concern is for the well-being of the animals, always. To adopt from Misspits there is an application, reference checks, and virtual home checks. When it came time to add to our family, our first and only stop was Misspits. We filled out the very thorough application and went through the checks before we were able to meet the litter. There was still a month between meeting the puppies and when they would be old enough to go home (weaned, spayed/neutered, vaccinated). She stayed in contact with us for that month, sending us photos and updates. The puppy that picked us showed signs of fearfulness. She explained how he was very hesitant with new situations, how that could impact him going forward, and checked if we still were prepared to adopt him (without judgment). Melissa is dedicated to making sure the dogs she adopts are going into the best situation possible, knowing it is only good if it is good for everybody. She set us and our dog up for success. We weren’t caught off guard when our dog came home and the least threatening things made him very nervous; we were prepared to give him time and let him decide things for himself. We became regular volunteers at Misspits after bringing our dog home. We have mucked stalls, assembled pens, moved hay, and cleaned equipment (because, yes, she rescues farm animals too!). To date we have fostered five dogs for her before they found their forever homes. We adopted a second Misspits alum a year and a half after our first. I conduct many of the virtual home visits in the application process, occasionally checking references too. One of her pastures is set up as a Sniffspot because she believes in creating safe and fun spaces for dogs. The amenities for dogs and their humans show the thoughtfulness put into the creation of the location. Misspits Rescue has given so many animals the opportunity to live their best lives. Melissa is an endless inspiration for the good we can create for the world.Lesley Bell

Misspits Rescue
I started Misspits Rescue in 2013 to help advocate for pit bull type dogs. After adopting Dexter, a big, happy, pit bull that almost died simply due to his looks, I knew I had to do something. After years working with a local pit bull rescue and volunteering at a shelter, Misspits Rescue was born. In the last ten years we have grown and moved to larger property. We adding additional breeds over the years and help those that need us the most. Now that we have the space, we offer sanctuary to farmed animals as well. This created a perfect place to help struggling herding breeds as well.
View profile

Forgotten Dogs Rescue
Forgotten Dogs Rescue is a volunteer and foster home based rescue organization focused on saving Pit Bull type dogs. Located in Washington State, we are a 501c3 non-profit and have been saving animals since 2011. We are dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned dogs who are in Washington's shelters, surrendered by their owners due to difficult circumstances or are in danger of abuse or neglect. We save the dogs that need help the most, the dogs whose time has run out, the dogs who have lost all hope the forgotten dogs.
View profile

Kitsap Humane Society
Kitsap Humane Society is a nonprofit, charitable organization that depends upon the kindness and generosity of its community to find homes for homeless pets. We spay/neuter thousands of animals each year to prevent animal overpopulation and reduce the number of future homeless pets. Sheltering animals since 1908, Kitsap Humane Society envisions a time when all adoptable pets have loving homes.
View profile

The Best Seattle, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary
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.
View profile

Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
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.
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Auburn Valley Humane Society
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.
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Greyhound Pets, Inc.
John A. Hern Jr. founded Greyhound Pets, Inc. in 1985. John was a Coeur D'Alene, Idaho businessman who built a foundry business and owned Industrial Park real estate. Among John's many and varied interests, he held greyt admiration for ex-racing greyhounds and became committed to their care and welfare. As the greyhound racetrack opened in Coeur D'Alene John started a small side business providing feed and racing equipment to track kennels. He demonstrated his commitment to the dogs by being instrumental in building a track sponsored Greyhound Welfare Committee that reviewed track and kennel policies. John's first greyhounds were Roo and Babe, the two greyhounds featured in the GPI logo. John adopted several greyhounds after Roo and Babe. Ace was one of his favorites and was the subject of many of John's stories. John was the executive director of Greyhound Pets, Inc. for many years and oversaw expansion to include the Pacific Northwest and Southwestern Canada. John's generous bequest to the organization he founded has provided for GPI's continued prominence in the ex-racing greyhound rescue effort. The volunteers who continue in the efforts John began, honor his colorful leadership in finding homes for ex-racers. John is remembered and his love for ex-racing greyhounds honored in the Hern Greyt Works, GPI's kennel facility in Woodinville, WA.
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Juno's Den
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The Best Spokane, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
Our mission to provide a safe haven for dogs in desperate circumstances within our community and surrounding area. We rehome these dogs with families that are a good fit for the dog. We seek to serve the humans that come to us ‚both our adoptive families and the people who need help rehoming dogs ‚but our priority is to act as advocates for our dogs at every stage of the rescue and adoption process. We commit to our dogs for life! We are a registered non-profit organization, headquartered in the Tri-Cities in south-central Washington State. We focus mainly on saving dogs that are at risk in our region and placing them with adopters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most of our dogs come from shelters in Washington & Idaho, where they are facing the threat of Euthanasia. Others are released to us by private individuals who need medical help with their own dogs. Other dogs are strays, either dumped or abandoned, that need a chance at a new life.
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Path of Hope Rescue
At Path of Hope Rescue we strive to decrease the euthanasia rate of high risk dogs in the southern United States by transporting pregnant dogs and puppies to the Pacific Northwest to find adoptive homes. We are 100% foster based and rely on volunteers and fosters to help in our mission. The overpopulation of dogs in Texas is extreme. Because of a culture that does not value spay and neuter, there are simply too many dogs. And because of this, dogs are being euthanized merely for their existence. Shelters are forced to choose which dog to kill and which to save on a daily basis. There are an estimated 700,000 stray dogs just in the city of Houston alone. Dogs on the streets, dogs in shelters, dogs living on chains, dogs everywhere. Pregnant dogs and puppies are often euthanized because of the amount of resources they require or even more often, pregnant moms are spayed, aborting the puppies. Path of Hope Rescue believes that these dogs deserve a chance at life.
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SpokAnimal
SpokAnimal will save lives by caring for and finding loving homes for homeless pets in our community and beyond Our strong community presence and relationships help identify the need for innovative programs that are designed to strengthen the human-companion animal bond by providing resources for pets and their people. From our food bank to our clinical programs, our vision will always be to help those who are not able to fully provide for their pets.
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NW Snowdog Rescue
practically all the Siberian Husky rescues in the NW either closed down or scaled back (due to age) or went on hiatus (due to family situations). So some longtime volunteers felt that something needed to be done to fill the gap. NWSR is 100% volunteer operated. The non-profit registration with the State of Washington has been done and we have also received the federal Determination Letter approving the organizations 501(c)(3) status. Consequently, all donations to our rescue are tax deductible. NWSR does not have a shelter location, we are entirely dependent on foster homes, hence our fosters are spread all over the NW – WA/OR/ID. This unfortunately limits us in the number of dogs we have in rescue at a given time. All of our rescues are fully vetted: spayed/neutered, vaccinated (incl. rabies) and microchipped. It is not unusual that dogs will need additional medical care. GENERAL INFORMATION Since our rescues come from a multitude of backgrounds (most of them bad or very bad) we make sure that their new homes will offer the best possible situation. HOW WE OPERATE • All dogs are microchipped and spayed/neutered while in the care of our rescue. All immediate medical needs are addressed before a dog goes to its forever home. • All adoptive homes must undergo a yard check. This ensures that all of our little escape artists are safely contained in their new homes. • All parts of our organization are volunteers - from our foster homes, to those that help with transporting pups, and even our Board of Directors – every single person involved with our organization does it for the love of the dogs. Without our community, we would not exist.
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Claws and Paws Rescue
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The Best Vancouver, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Pawd It Forward
We provide a multitude of services to our community to include, but are not limited to: Tracking and Trapping Services for lost and feral dogs Lost and Found Social Media Deployment Services Transport Services for finders of lost pets Chip Scanning Clark County Pet Licensing Searchable Lost/Found Pet Database Pet Registration Database (FREE!) Impound Jail Break Support
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Woof Project Rescue
Woof Project is a 501c3 non-profit group comprised of dedicated volunteers who specialize in rescuing the Belgian Shepherd Malinois on the West Coast. The dogs we acquire in rescue are often from private or public shelters. They may have originally been picked up as strays or turned in by their owners. Through no fault of their own, all of our rescues are without a secure, loving home. Our goal at Woof Project is to save the Belgian Malinois and match them up with loving, forever families.
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Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue
Mostly Mutts we believe that a person's best friend is loyal, sweet, and loving. Luckily our dogs are all of those things and more! We encourage you to browse our website to learn about our dogs, our local rescue, and our founders! We are located in Camas, WA and we serve all of Clark County and the Portland Metropolitan Area. Mostly Mutts, we rescue dogs domestically from the Portland, Vancouver, Clark County, Riverside, CA and from Mexico. We are often asked, "Why Mexico?" For us, the answer is simple. There are so many mistreated dogs there and very little resources to care for them. Most vets in Mexico are overloaded and don't have the funding, supplies, or staff to provide proper animal care. In Mexico, dogs are often badly mistreated, neglected, and diseased to the point of death. In addition, diseases in the hot humid climate are often more aggressive and cause greater harm to these poor dogs. We simply love dogs no matter where they come from. We don't do what we do for fame, glory, or money. We do what we do because we believe in saving lives that are in dire need of help.
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Humane Society of Cowlitz County
The Humane Society of Cowlitz County is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit animal shelter governed by a Board of Directors, who are volunteers. The Humane Society is an open admission shelter – taking in both stray and owner-released animals of all kinds, including dogs, cats, birds, ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits and other common domestic pets. Founded in 1973, the Humane Society of Cowlitz County has a long tradition of caring for the animals of Cowlitz County. By working in collaboration with nearby shelters, local veterinarians, animal rescue groups and compassionate members of the community, the Humane Society is dedicated to seeking loving homes for thousands of homeless, neglected and abused animals every year. Through the work of around 25 full and part-time staff, along with the assistance of compassionate volunteers, the Humane Society offers an array of services to our community, including animal sheltering, pet adoptions, cat spay neuter assistance, community education, and outreach. Through the generous support from our community members and local partners, the Humane Society works to provide quality services for our community while working to decrease euthanasia rates, increase awareness, and promote responsible pet ownership.
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Wahkiakum Animal Advocates Group
WAAG was founded in 2019 and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization operated solely by animal loving volunteers. We are devoted to giving a voice to the abandoned, neglected or abused animals in Wahkiakum County located in southwest Washington and neighboring communities. We also strive to be a resource for those who are seeking a little extra support or guidance in caring for their furry family members.
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What's the Sniffspot Washington Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

Welcome to the 2025 Washington Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Washington 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 Washington dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Washington

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Sniffspot Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Washington?

There are 169 in Washington. 46 are located in Seattle with 123 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Washington, the top 3 on our list are: Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue, Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary, Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Washington is Boxer with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Shih Tzu with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Washington?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Washington. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Our adoption process is detailed and comprehensive, because we want to ensure that the dog we entrust to you is a good fit for your lifestyle, home environment, needs and expectations. Our goal is not simply to place dogs in homes, but to create lasting, rewarding, happy relationships between our dogs and their humans. We will process your application as quickly as we can, but we ask you to be patient if it takes longer than you'd like. You are welcome to contact us at any time to ask about our progress.

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

Yes! Washington has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Boxer Shih Tzu Small dog Beagle Australian Shepherd Greyhound Great Dane Dachshund Husky German Shepherd Pit Bull

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

Yes! The top senior dog rescues and shelters in Washington are: Misspits Rescue, Sunny Sky's Animal Rescue, Angels For Sara Sanctuary

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

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Seattle is Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Washington is Greyhound Pets, Inc..

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Washington

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Washington

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Washington?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Washington?

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

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Washington 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 Washington?

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