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The Best Detroit, MI Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

9 dog rescues found

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A Rejoyceful Animal Rescue

#32 in United States, #2 in Michigan, #1 in Detroit

Here at ARAR, we see our shelter as a safe transition point for many animals in need. Our goal is to keep animals in our shelter for the least amount of time possible. It is just a place for them to crash before their next step into a foster or adoptive home. Currently, we have about 30 cats and 10 dogs in our shelter. We do our best to make the animal's time here the best it can be. When they are in their kennels we play calming doggie music and they get enrichment actives. As we do not have a fenced in yard area outside, on nice days we schedule SniffSpots for our shelter residents! It is a great way that they can explore a new space and get some energy out.

"This rescue is amazing. My own two dogs were adopted from them. I..." more

Detroit, MI

Heart of Michigan Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue

#47 in United States, #3 in Michigan, #2 in Detroit

Rescues are frequent. Re-homings are more frequent. Re-homings differ from rescues in the fact that we will have a history of the dog and its need. Puppies don't normally need to be placed until they get bigger than the owner had intended and therefore are not as common in rescue. Please keep in mind that most ‚rescue/rehome dogs, are placed because of behavioral problems, most, but not all. Many of the dog's issues were due to lack of training and socialization. Most problems can be addressed and corrected in a stable and loving home. If you really want a Berner, do tons of research. Our advice is to attend shows, join a BMD club and research breeders. If you would like to be considered for a rescue or re-homing, please read our policy's on the Adopting page. The mission of the HMBMD Rescue program is to take in dogs of Bernese Mountain Dog parentage that are in shelters, surrendered by their owners, or that have become lost and abandoned, and to place them in permanent pet homes in order to help provide a safe harbor that they might otherwise be destroyed or abandoned.

"My husband and I live right beside Amish country in Ohio. Sadly, ..." more

Detroit, MI

I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven

#82 in United States, #6 in Michigan, #3 in Detroit

Dianne Reeves and Andrea Sesi met in 2012 while volunteering at a local rescue. They bonded over their love for the underdog and dog training, and they decided to use their energy, passion, and resources to create their own brick and mortar shelter focused on continuing the needed and important life saving work. I Heart Dogs Rescue became an IRS approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity in February 2013, and officially opened its shelter doors on November 13, 2015.

"The work this place does, is incredible. There are so many moving..." more

Detroit, MI

District 5 Animal Alliance Detroit

#88 in United States, #7 in Michigan, #4 in Detroit

We are solely operated by Volunteers and empowered by Community. We are Foster based, meaning we are everywhere our Fosters are and are not rooted in one location. Last year in 2023, we rescued over 200 Dogs, our biggest year yet. We have big dreams and big hearts, believing individual people CAN make a difference.

"The most wonderful people with the biggest heart. Always step up ..." more

Detroit, MI

Detroit Dog Rescue

#95 in United States, #9 in Michigan, #5 in Detroit

Our nonprofit organization focuses on raising awareness of the mounting homeless and stray dog epidemic in Detroit, along with advocating for humane rescue alternatives such as no-kill sheltering, foster care and adoptions, pet identification and healthy pet population control through spay and neutering. Detroit Dog Rescue also specializes in community outreach, and we work closely with local, city and statewide organizations in order to educate and involve people in this cause. We also respond to calls to assist the Detroit Police Department, Highland Park Police Department, Hamtramck Police Department, Fire Departments, the City Administration, as well as hundreds of residents who have asked for our help.

"The entire rescue, from top to bottom is the most incredible resc..." more

Detroit, MI

Bottle Babies Rescue

#98 in United States, #11 in Michigan, #6 in Detroit

Bottle Babies Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit foster based animal rescue that covers most of Southeast Michigan. We have fosters, adopters and supporters across Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe, Livingston, Oakland, Lenawee counties and many more. We have a continued special interest in neonate care, bottle feeding and providing critical care for the smallest of paws.

"Fabulous place that helps animals we love"

Detroit, MI

Great Lakes Dog Rescue

#99 in United States, #12 in Michigan, #7 in Detroit

Great Lakes Dog Rescue was founded in 2022 by those dedicated to helping dogs find their forever homes. There are so many dogs in need, and we work closely with adopters to help find them the best fit for their family. It's an honor to help unite dogs with families while also allowing us to save another dog in its place.

"I see the work they do on the news"

Detroit, MI

P.O.E.T. Animal Rescue

#99 in United States, #12 in Michigan, #7 in Detroit

We are primarily a foster based rescue with a small kennel to house animals awaiting foster, medical treatment and/or temperament testing. We have around 100 foster homes all over the Metro-Detroit/Tri-County area for dogs and puppies. Our foster homes allow the animals to learn being with a family, in a home and for us to find out what type of forever home environment is best for each animal. Our animals receive medical care, love and training while until they can find their forever homes. Our address for mail is: POET Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 606, Garden City, MI 48136

"My sister volunteers for Rescue Rebels so I know they do excellen..." more

Detroit, MI

Friends of Detroit Animal Control

#99 in United States, #12 in Michigan, #7 in Detroit

Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control (FoDACC) is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization that supports the daily operations of Detroit Animal Care & Control (DACC), which is Detroit's municipal shelter for stray pets. FoDACC is active in the areas of volunteer management, fundraising, donations, community outreach, foster programs, adoptions, in-shelter enrichment, and medical care for the animals.

"We adopted our sweet boy from here in 2022! He’s the best dog we ..." more

Detroit, MI

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 rescues

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

Welcome to the 2025 Detroit, MI Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Detroit, MI chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 9 private dog parks in the Detroit 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 Detroit dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Detroit, MI. 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.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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

Sniffspot Detroit Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Detroit?

There are 9 in Detroit. Outside of Detroit, there are 15 located in Michigan.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Detroit, the top 3 on our list are: A Rejoyceful Animal Rescue, Heart of Michigan Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue, I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Detroit?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Detroit. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
We start our adoptions with an adoption application. The foster will review the application to make sure that placement is successful. The foster will do a vet check to make sure that any resident animals are fixed, UTD on vaccines, and on preventions. The foster will also complete a home check with any potential adopter. This is to make sure that the environment will be a safe one for any animals. The last step for approval is to do a meet and greet. This is where the potential family will meet the foster pet. If everything goes well then we fill out our contact.In our contract, we have many requirements for adopters to agree to. For example, one of our policies is that should they need to rehome the pet, they need to contact us. And for any of our animal s, only positive reinforcement training should be done and all animals should live indoors. For all cat contracts, we have a section that states that they should never be declawed.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

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Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
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Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
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.
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Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
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Dog reactivity guides

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What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
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The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
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Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
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Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

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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 Detroit, MI Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot Detroit Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Detroit?

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Detroit?

Most recent articles

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