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The Best Chicago, IL Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Chicago, IL. 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.

Dark Horse Dogs, NFP
#47 in United States, #1 in Illinois
Chicago
An all breed foster based rescue saving dogs from our local open access shelters.
"We have always been partial to bully breeds (and german shepherds, sorry) and Dark Horse Dogs does the most for..."
— brandon r.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
"Dark Horse is simply the best. They save more dogs than anyone around and the sense of humor they bring..."
— amanda r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter

Chicago Canine Rescue
#74 in United States, #2 in Illinois
Chicago
CCR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 2001 to help find permanent, loving homes for homeless dogs in our city. CCR has saved the lives of over 8,000 dogs while also finding their forever homes! Traditionally, these animals were automatically euthanized at area shelters. However, today, Chicago Canine Rescue exists to give many of these animals a second chance, too! CCR assists the animals that are the MOST vulnerable in our city ‚the dogs that are slated for euthanasia because they are too old, too young, too injured, have disabilities, or have simply been overlooked for too long by potential adopters at other shelters. We are committed to each dog who comes into our care and won't stop providing for them we find their perfect family! Though we are just one of many rescues in Chicago, our dogs are one in a million and we are committed to leaving no dog behind!
"Chicago Canine Rescue does amazing work saving the most vulnerable! They have such a strong following because they truly have..."
— nancy m.
Supporter
"They need more places to have their dogs run around and stretch their legs. They are a wonderful shelter."
— caroline b.
Adoptee

Community Animal Rescue Effort
#121 in United States, #3 in Illinois
Chicago
Since 1987, Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.‚Ñ¢) has been promoting adoptions and care for cats and dogs. C.A.R.E. is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. Our Adoption Center opened in the Summer of 2018 and is located north of Chicago at 4927 Main Street in Skokie, IL. C.A.R.E. offers a combined adoption center and foster home model to better serve the needs of homeless animals as well as potential adopters and the community. C.A.R.E. is licensed by the State of Illinois Department of Agriculture (License 14383). Our Philosophy
"We adopted our pup from CARE and feel so lucky. He was found on the streets of Chicago weighing in..."
— gerald b.
Adoptee
"Community Animal Rescue Effort is an excellent shelter. We got our dog from them 2 years ago and I..."
— dee t.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

One Tail at a Time
#130 in United States, #4 in Illinois
Chicago
One Tail at a Time began in 2008 as a small grassroots effort and has since evolved into a pillar of Chicago's animal welfare community. As of 2024, One Tail at a Time has rescued more than 11,300 animals, hosts a bustling pet adoption and foster program, community outreach initiatives in partnership with top human service organizations in our city, and leads the Chicagoland Rescue Intervention & Support Program, a local rescue coalition that is the only operating shelter diversion program at Chicago's largest intake shelter.
"I was interested but hesitant to foster after losing my 15 year old pup. However, One Tail at a Time..."
— maggie b.
Volunteer / foster
"One tail at a time is such an amazing rescue. The community they have built is nothing short of phenomenal...."
— alejandra m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member

Felines & Canines
#218 in United States, #8 in Illinois
Chicago
Felines & Canines is located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. Our focus at F&C is to place safe, social and loving dogs and cats into permanent loving homes. We are best known for our exceptional care for both our animals and adopters, ground breaking program for FIV-positive cats, and creation of our nation's very first rescue and relocation facility - Felines & Canines Rescue Center.
"OMG Felines and Canines is the best rescue! Their personnel attention to matching the right pet to their family is..."
— sheri j.
Adoptee
"F&C is the most incredible rescue helping here in Northern AL. Their Hunter Stephenson Rescue center in Owen's Cross Roads..."
— karl z.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 13 private dog parks in the Chicago 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 Chicago 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 States Near Illinois

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Chicago

Sniffspot Chicago Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Chicago?

There are 13 in Chicago. Outside of Chicago, there are 0 located in Illinois.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Chicago, the top 3 on our list are: Chicago Canine Rescue, Community Animal Rescue Effort, One Tail at a Time.

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Chicago is Pit Bull with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Rottweiler with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Chicago?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Chicago. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
After we receive the application, an adoption counselor will contact you via email within 48 hours to set up an appointment for your family to meet the dog(s) here at the shelter. The entire household including existing dogs must meet the new dog before an adoption can take place. Application approval and adoption After your application has been screen and your family has met the dog, you will be approved for adoption and can take the dog home! You should plan to take the dog home either the day of the meet or within 48 hours. Puppies under 6 months have an adoption fee of $400, and dogs 6 months and older have an adoption fee of $350. If the dog you are adopting is too young to be spayed/neutered, there will be a $50 deposit required at the time of adoption. CCR reserves the right deny any application at the discretion of the organization. CCR further reserves the right to request a home visit or other additional application steps at the discretion of the organization.

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

Yes! Chicago has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Pit Bull Rottweiler

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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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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.

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Dark Horse Dogs, NFP

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Community Animal Rescue Effort

One Tail at a Time

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Chicago

Sniffspot Chicago Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Chicago?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Chicago?

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

David Adams

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