This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Arkansas. 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.
#64 in United States, #1 in Arkansas
UCAPS provides temporary humane care, food, shelter and medical attentions for Union County, Arkansas stray, homeless, abandoned and abused animals.
"UCAPS is always there for the pets and strays of Union County! They do so much to serve our community..."
— christy j.
Fan
"The staff at UCAPS are beyond amazing. The love and care they exibit every day is beyond words. I have..."
— gail t.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
#266 in United States, #2 in Arkansas
Rescue Road is a 100% volunteer-run, foster-based, 501(c)3 nonprofit in Central Arkansas. Shelters across our state have high euthanasia rates, and we aim to relieve pressure on rural, high-intake areas to help lower those rates. We are dedicated to saving abandoned and neglected dogs from our core shelter partners: Pine Bluff, West Memphis, Hazen, Carlisle, Dewitt, and Stuttgart. We also assist law enforcement with special cases as needed. In 2023, Rescue Road sent 580 dogs to safety. Since the rescue's inception in 2012, we have saved more than 8,500 dogs and counting.
"Rescue Road saves dogs from high kill shelters in Arkansas and sends them to our sister rescue Last Hope K9..."
— melinda w.
Volunteer / foster
"They pull dogs from kill shelters and give them a chance at life"
— judy b.
Supporter
#361 in United States, #3 in Arkansas
In 2005 Last Chance Arkansas was founded as a 100% volunteer based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based out of Central Arkansas. Last Chance AR believes in advocating for the abused, abandoned, and neglected animals across the state that cannot speak for themselves. Working in conjunction with various clinics, Last Chance AR travels statewide to urban and rural communities to provide comfort, safety, and love to animals in need. Hundreds of lives have been saved through our efforts, which include a spay and neuter program for impoverished pet owners, frequent visits to rescue animals from shelters suffering from a desperate lack of funding, and the complete inability for any of our patient and dedicated volunteers to turn down a creature in need. We serve as a resource to our community and local pet owners by providing education and information on responsible pet ownership including the importance of spay/neuter, positive behavior training and good nutrition. We work with committed volunteers, veterinarians, fosters, and trainers to provide health care and temporary homes to animals deserving of another chance. Our number one priority is ensuring the health of all of our dogs and carefully screening and well matching ‚furever homes.
"I just love, when everyone else has given up hope or just thrown these animals away. SKY SACTUARY GIVE THEM..."
— peggee m.
Fan
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
Arkansans Assisting Homeless Animals is a foster-based rescue out of Cabot, Arkansas. What began as a small group of animal lovers helping their local community has now grown into a larger network of foster homes that partners with rescues across the country to help our fur orphans find their furrrrever homes!
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
At the Humane Society of Garland County (HSGC), we cherish our animal companions for their unconditional affection and acceptance. We act out of a sense of social responsibility to nurture and find good homes for abandoned and abused animals, because, unfortunately, some pet owners mistreat their animals or leave them altogether. That's where our work is most valuable.
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
Southern Hearts Rescue is a small but mighty rescue that began with a girl and her dream. In 2018, Whitney, the founder and lifelong crusader for animals, saw a need for a rescue in a rural part of Central Arkansas that did not have an animal shelter but plenty if vulnerable animals. Through sheer determination, a little luck and a lot of hard work, she had a building added onto her property that would be the future home of the rescue. Today, the rescue is capable of housing lots of animals in need of rescue. Everyday we receive 100s of cries for help and are only able to help the ones we do through donations from people like you! We are not a rescue that makes passive income sitting back raking in donations! At ANY hour of the day or night we are ready to be the ones that face the danger, the weather, the heartache and the frustration; whether there is money in the account or not, frequently we absorb the cost up front. We do what we do for them and are grateful for your help!
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
The Humane Society of Faulkner County (HSFC) is an all-volunteer, 501c3 nonprofit animal advocacy and rescue organization. We are funded exclusively by local donations, fundraisers, and grants. HSFC's primary purpose is to supply the staff with volunteers and additional funds to help offer low cost spay/neuter surgeries to the public. Our mission is to help pet owners and their animals through spay/neuter assistance programs, affordable vaccination clinics, pet food donations, and financial aid for sick and injured animals.
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
A&B Animal Rescue of SW Arkansas is a facility base NO KILL rescue based in Ashdown, Ar., that takes in ALL breeds. Our primary focus is dogs. We are a group of animal loving volunteers that have opened up our hearts to the overwhelming dumped and abandoned dog population, in our area. The demand for a NO KILL facility in the region is paramount. Animals deserve the best life and unfortunately there are way too many that are abandoned, abused, suffering, and EUTHANIZED! This can be due to puppy mills, backyard breeders, and irresponsible owners. Our goal is to save these animals and put them into not just any home, but the RIGHT home because; THEIR LIVES MATTER! A&B Animal Rescue of SW Arkansas Inc's mission is to rescue, fully vet and re-home these worthy souls. We stress the benefits of Spay, Neutering and Microchipping Because animals are part of our environment, the relationship between people and animals is unique and special. Since humans have chosen to domesticate animals, we have a moral and legal responsibility to care for and protect them. Yet many have failed in this responsibility. Man has exploited and endangered these animals. Man has abandoned their companion animals, condemning them to suffering, starvation and disease. Man has allowed thousands of unwanted puppies and kittens to be born each day, thus perpetuating the cycle of neglect and abuse. To protect animals from this cruelty, our community needs A&B Animal Rescue of SW Arkansas. We seek to uplift the community by encouraging the humane treatment of animals, and to educate the community on the humane treatment of animals.
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
ARE FOR ANIMALS: RESCUE. REHOME. SPAY/NEUTER. Created in 1998, CARE has grown from an initial group of four volunteers into an organization with three employees and hundreds of volunteers who devote thousands of hours to its rescue/adoption and spay/neuter efforts and to recruit the necessary financial support. CARE is a 501(c)(3) Arkansas nonprofit corporation and a charitable organization fully funded by donations. All donations are tax-deductible. CARE's headquarters/gift shop is located at 5516 Kavanaugh Boulevard, Little Rock (in the Heights Business District). CARE does not have a physical animal shelter and operates out of our office in Little Rock's Heights neighborhood. We use this website as a virtual shelter, where you can view the available pets for adoption and submit your online Adoption Application. To date, CARE's rescue/adoption effort has saved over 4,700 animals---once homeless or unwanted, these pets have now been placed into loving homes. Also, because we have no shelter, CARE relies upon volunteers to "foster" adoptable pets until permanent homes are found. In December 2011, CARE found a way to expand its rescue/adoption effort by partnering with the Arkansas Department of Correction's Arkansas Paws in Prison program, which places adoptable CARE dogs temporarily into state prisons for housing, socialization, and training by professionally-supervised inmate trainers--- this remarkable program is a win-win for CARE, the Department, the dogs, and the inmates! Bottom-line: the number of adoptable pets that CARE can accept into its rescue/adoption program at any time is determined by the number of available spaces for them---either in volunteer foster homes or Paws in Prison. Our spay/neuter effort has helped nearly 14,000 pets! CARE's vouchers are available for use in obtaining discounted spay/neuter services at designated veterinary clinics across the state. CARE relies heavily upon volunteer assistance to operate. Volunteer support is essential to accomplishing CARE's mission. Many different volunteer jobs are available including fostering, case working, showing, transporting adoptable animals, staffing the CARE gift shop, assisting with office work, and planning/working each fundraising event.
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
Fayetteville
We're a grass roots rescue in Northwest Arkansas on a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving homes for dogs in need. We work with local shelters and good samaritans to help displaced dogs find new beginnings through our foster based program And we aren't just your average dog rescue, either! We partner with shelters, local businesses, and community members to strengthen our animal welfare community as a whole through a variety of unique programming. Oh, and did we mention? We're also pros at training. We have some of the best dog-trainers around who can help dogs (and their owners) reach their highest potential. And all the proceeds benefit our rescue efforts!
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
Puppy
We Are A 501c3 Non Profit Rescue We Pull Endangered Dogs And Puppies From Shelters And Rescue Surrendered Or Abandoned Dogs And Puppies. We Then Get These Dogs And Puppies Fully Vetted And Spayed Or Neutered , We Then Find Them Their Loving Forever Homes . I Firmly Believe All Animals Deserve A Loving Caring Home .We Do Our Best To Match The Dogs And Puppies To The Best Home For Them And Their Families.We Have A Wonderful Veternarian Clinic That Takes Care Of All Our Dogs And Puppies And They Make Sure They Get Everything They Need To Be Healthy And Happy'. One Of The Biggest Things Angels Heart Advocates For Is Spay And Neuter And Vaccines To Keep Them Healthy. We AlwaysTry To Stand Behind Better Laws For Protecting The Dogs And Puppies And Push To Get These Passed
#600 in United States, #4 in Arkansas
Friends of the Animal Village (FAV), is a nonprofit organization in Little Rock, Arkansas. We provide supplemental support to our city's shelter, the Little Rock Animal Village. FAV accepts donations and hosts fundraisers throughout the year, and we are dedicated to raising awareness about the Village, increasing adoptions, and improving the quality of life for the animals in LRAV's loving care.
We're a grass roots rescue in Northwest Arkansas on a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving homes for dogs in need. We work with local shelters and good samaritans to help displaced dogs find new beginnings through our foster based program And we aren't just your average dog rescue, either! We partner with shelters, local businesses, and community members to strengthen our animal welfare community as a whole through a variety of unique programming. Oh, and did we mention? We're also pros at training. We have some of the best dog-trainers around who can help dogs (and their owners) reach their highest potential. And all the proceeds benefit our rescue efforts!
Welcome to the 2024 Arkansas Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Arkansas 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 Arkansas dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
I/We agree to provide a safe, loving, indoor home environment to the adopted pet(s). I/We understand that should the adoption not work out, for any reason, the dog will not be given away, sold or put in a shelter but will be returned to Big Paws of the Ozarks. I/We agree to provide food, clean water, bowls, and other supplies for my adopted pet. I/We authorized through submission of my application any veterinarian named to release any information and records concerning my past or present care of animals to Big Paws of the Ozarks. I agree to hold harmless and indemnify said veterinarian for providing such information. I/We understand that Big Paws of the Ozarks and its authorized agents and volunteers assume no liability for damages or injuries caused by the pet(s) adopted and BPOZ and its authorized agents and volunteers cannot guarantee the temperament or other personal characteristics of pet(s). I/We certify that the adoption application information is correct to the best of my knowledge and that my application, whether electronic or hand written, is legally binding. I/We also agree to follow all the rules, regulations and policies of BPOZ. I/We certify that no person residing in the household has ever been convicted of animal cruelty, neglect or abandonment. I/We understand that Big Paws of the Ozarks is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization ran by volunteers. I understand an adoption donation is necessary to help offset the costs incurred to the rescue and care for each pet. Due to the care and veterinary expenses incurred in foster care, most pets cost us more than the adoption donation we ask, we welcome you to make a larger donation if you are able. I/We understand that owning a dog is a commitment for the dog’s lifetime and if I adopt a dog from BPOZ, I am willing to make that commitment.
Discover the Bernese Mountain Dog, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and playful nature. Recognized as a large dog, Bernese Mountain Dogs have their origins in Switzerland, where they were initially bred for guarding livestock and droving work starting in the 1st century.
Discover the Pomeranian, a breed celebrated for its friendly, intelligent, and loyal nature. Recognized as a small toy dog, Pomeranians have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for herding starting in the 18th century.
Discover the Boston Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and intelligent nature. Recognized as a small dog, Boston Terriers are originally from the United States, where they were bred for fighting starting in the late 19th century. Today, Boston Terriers are popular companion dogs, beloved by their owners for their compact appearance and playful personalities.
Discover the Shih Tzu, a breed celebrated for its friendly, playful, and loyal nature. Recognized as a small dog, Shih Tzus have their origins in China, where they were initially bred for bred as companions for royalty starting in ancient times dating all the way back to 1,000 years ago.
Discover the Miniature Poodle, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, intelligent, and friendly nature. Recognized as a small dog, Miniature Poodles have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for retrieving game from water starting in the 15th century.
Discover the Bull Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and alert nature. Recognized as a medium dog, Bull Terriers have their origins in England, where they were initially bred for fighting and bull-baiting starting in the early 19th century.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.