Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

The Best Fresno, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Fresno, CA. 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.

Valley Animal Center
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
In 1992, Valley Animal Center's predecessor, the California Feline Foundation, was founded in Downtown Fresno as a no-kill shelter for cats. Thanks to the generosity and support of the community, along with the dedication and hard work of countless volunteers and staff members, this humble, no-kill cat sanctuary grew to include a low-cost spay and neuter clinic and eventually became a no-kill shelter for dogs, also. The Greater Fresno Area has long had a need for no-kill humane efforts due to the unfortunate fact that the San Joaquin Valley has one of the highest euthanasia rates in the United States. Our high stray population contributes to this dilemma. For years, Fresno County's animal control agencies have been overburdened with stray and surrendered dogs and cats. A variety of factors have contributed to the severe overpopulation and under-adoption of dogs and cats. These factors include: • a historical lack of a progressive animal welfare presence • insufficient public awareness regarding the importance of spaying and neutering • a temperate Central Valley climate which has allowed for higher than average reproductive rates Valley Animal Center, along with numerous no-kill shelters in the area, are working together to try and stop the use of euthanasia by rescuing animals from animal control agencies. Valley Animal Center is taking the lead on reducing the use of euthanasia and to help decrease the stray population. There are many ways we go about accomplishing this. Our low cost clinic offers affordable spay/neuter services as well as other comprehensive veterinary care. We offer humane education to the public on how to be responsible pet owners. Finally, we rescue animals from animal control facilities whose time has run out and bring them to our facility for another chance at finding a forever home.

Friends of Madera Animal Shelter
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
Friends of Madera Animal Shelter is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, run by dedicated volunteers working tirelessly to support the education of responsible pet ownership. Through donations, we spay and neuter pets in our community reducing the number of animals being euthanized. We are sworn to saving animals in crisis, working with our rescue partners, finding qualified and loving forever homes through our adoption events. FMAS is a 501(c)3 Charity, EIN: 77-0553194 – Donate with Confidence. FMAS consists of a dedicated team of volunteers. FMAS rescues, rehabilitates, provides spay/neuter and veterinary care, and re-homes pets in Madera California. Located in Madera County, we are funded through tax-deductible donations from adopters and individuals like you who care about the fate of these magnificent companions. Unlike larger organizations and humane societies, FMAS has 4 paid or compensated volunteers or employees, allowing your donation dollars to go further in providing care for needy animals. We do not maintain an expensive facility, but instead are foster-based. FMAS Specializes in helping homeless cats and dogs in Madera County Animal Shelter and placing them in caring, loving forever homes. Together, we can envision a day when companion animals will no longer face inhumane treatment, abandonment or perish in shelters.

Sunshine Rescue Ranch
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
Since 2017, our amazing staff (of 2) has worked tirelessly as the lead volunteers at the City of Sanger Animal Shelter to save nearly 1,400 dogs and more than 100 cats from euthanasia. In addition to housing 15 dogs and farm animals at the future Sunshine Rescue Ranch, our staff will continue to serve the essential 12 kennel City of Sanger shelter. Help us build Sunshine Rescue Ranch and save more animals in Sanger, CA: Between 2017 and 2021, Sunshine Rescue Ranch founders, Morgan Shafer and Kim Reed have dedicated their lives to save abandoned, abused, injured and neglected animals in the City of Sanger. Their partnership with the Sanger Police Department and the City of Sanger have resulted in nearly 1,400 dogs and more than 100 cats saved from euthanasia. Nearly every day, Morgan and Kim take time away from their lives to walk, feed, and take general care of all dogs in the City shelter and work to get them into foster homes. They also coordinate the vet care, including spaying and neutering. The Sanger Animal Shelter Facebook page is also run by Morgan and Kim where they work to educate the public, network and adopt animals out, or return them to their owners. Additional volunteer service by the founders of Sunshine Rescue Ranch, include, but are not limited to: -Networking and transporting dogs across California as far as Oregon to rescues and new homes. -Hosting adoption events at area businesses. -Partnering with local shelters to provide affordable vaccination clinics. -Educating schools and the general public about the importance of spaying and neutering. -Participating in the Sanger Police Department Open Houses and the Sanger Christmas Parade.

Stonecliffe Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
Stonecliffe is a 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter that has saved the lives of over 7,000 dogs and puppies since 2003. Operated by volunteers and located in Lemoore, CA, we specialize in the rescue of both large and small breed puppies and dogs, whelping mothers and emergency cases. We are very proud of the work we do on behalf of abandoned animals. Before being placed with adoptive families our dogs are pack-socialized, vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and are given a clean bill of health.

Bambis Army – Rescue of K9’S (BARK)
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
One day seven people got together for lunch, They were City of Parlier Mayor Alma Beltran, City Councilman Trino Pimental, Michelle Lopez, Nick Prado, Brenda Prado, Joy Rothholz and Heather Rothholz. The seven of them began speaking about the overpopulation of cats and dogs in the community, the lack of low cost spay & neuter programs, how animals are treated poorly by those without resources. We discussed the need for a facility to help address these concerns, our idea of a no kill rescue would be one that could serve as a community resource, educating the youth and adults about the importance of proper care for animals and to spay & neuter their pets. We also discussed the needs of veterans, we need a program to assist active Military Veterans with the challenges they face when they get deployed. So, we came up with Bambi Army – Rescue of K9’S (BARK) a dream was developed, we decided it was time to make our dream come true. Eventually (BARK) received our 501 C3 non- profit status this has propelled us to work harder to make the dream a reality. (BARK) is a licensed non-profit no kill rescue, we aim to become a rescue where veterans will no longer have to give up their animals companions due to deployment. (BARK) will support our troops and will welcome their family pet into our boarding facility for the length of the veteran’s deployment. (BARK) aim to reduce the stray population and finding them homes, we also would like to keep our community pets safe by offering low cost vaccinations and micro-chipping services. To make our dream a reality we need community support and financial contributions to make our animal rescue in our area a long term reality. (BARK) meets a real need in our area that previously had no animal rescue or shelter of any type for abandoned animals and Military Vet Pets.

Fresno Humane Animal Services
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno

Animal Rescue of Fresno
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
ARF began its operations out of a small facility on Belmont Ave and Highway 99. ARF moved to its current location on Dakota Avenue in 2005. From its humble beginnings, ARF has grown quickly, so that more and more dogs each year can be rescued and adopted out to loving forever homes.

Miss Winkles Pet Adoption Center, Clovis
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
David McDonald adopted Miss Winkles and her brother, Rocky, in October of 2005 when they were ten weeks old. They both loved to run and play in David’s spacious, fenced yard. Miss Winkles was faster than Rocky, and enjoyed chasing him and tackling him from behind as they both would tumble across the grass.

Mell's Mutts
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
Mell's Mutts was given the non-profit 501c3 “Buy, Sell, Rescue Inc.” by a good friend; a real estate broker who wanted to infuse his real estate business with his passion for rescuing dogs. We do business as Mell’s Mutts.

Animal Compassion Team
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno
Each year thousands of adoptable pets will die in overcrowded shelters in the Central San Joaquin Valley, located in California. Animal Compassion Team is dedicated to saving as many of those lives as possible. We help many rural shelters that have no adoption programs and depend on rescues to help save unclaimed pets. We also take in owner surrenders when there are truly no other options for pet owners. With so many homeless pets in our community we encourage pet owners to make every effort to find a great home for their own pets or find a way to keep them. We are not an open intake shelter, and space is limited. We DO NOT take in stray pets. It's important that a good effort is made to find the owner of stray pets. Our goal is to provide wonderful families with wonderful pets and build bonds that will last for a lifetime. You can help us save lives by adopting your next best friend from ACT. There is really no better feeling than adopting a homeless pet and changing its life forever. Our adoption process is geared to assist you in picking the very best fit for your family. It's important that all family members are happy with their new arrival, this includes existing pets. It's wonderful when all pets in the home get along well and enjoy each other's company. Here at the Sofia center we can assist you with the initial introductions to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Madera County Animal Shelter & Services
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno

Innocent Angels Sanctuary
#100 in United States, #26 in California, #1 in Fresno
Fresno

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 12 private dog parks in the Fresno 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 Fresno 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 Fresno

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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

Sniffspot Fresno Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Fresno?

There are 12 in Fresno. Outside of Fresno, there are 688 located in California.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Fresno, the top 3 on our list are: Animal Compassion Team, Innocent Angels Sanctuary, Madera County Animal Shelter & Services.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Fresno?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Fresno. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Apply We appreciate you wanting to bring a animal into your home. In order for us to find the right pet for you, we need you to submit an adoption application. Review We will review your application upon receipt. If we have any questions or concerns, we will contact you for clarity. Finding Your Pet Once approved to adopt, the search for your animal begins. Volunteers will begin to evaluate pets currently in our foster care program who may be a good fit for you and your family. We would also be open to discussing animals in our care that you are specifically interested in.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Fresno, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, ShepHeroes, It's The Pits, Linda Blair Worldheart

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

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Fresno, but these are the closest cities with senior dog rescues and shelters: Huntington Beach, Los Angeles, Salinas

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.

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Explore the Dalmatian: Genuine Tips from Real-World Owners

Most recent articles

The Ultimate Guide to Airline Dog Policies in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners

Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners

Explore the Dachshund: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Get to Know the Greyhound: Real-World Tips from Owners

Explore the Belgian Malinois: Insider Tips From Real Dog Owners

The Ultimate Guide to Airline Dog Policies in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Get to Know the Vizsla: Real-World Tips from Owners

Explore the Rottweiler: Genuine Tips from Real Dog Owners

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
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.
Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
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.
How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?
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.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
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?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
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!

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.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)
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?
Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
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.
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Signs, Causes, and How to Handle It
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.
Dog Reactivity Chart: Understand and Fix Dog Reactivity
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.
How to Socialize Your Reactive Dog
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.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States
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.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States
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.
The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks
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.
The Best United States Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
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.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of 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 dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
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.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female 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 female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
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.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
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.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

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 Fresno, CA Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Valley Animal Center

Friends of Madera Animal Shelter

Sunshine Rescue Ranch

Stonecliffe Animal Rescue

Bambis Army – Rescue of K9’S (BARK)

Fresno Humane Animal Services

Animal Rescue of Fresno

Miss Winkles Pet Adoption Center, Clovis

Mell's Mutts

Animal Compassion Team

Madera County Animal Shelter & Services

Innocent Angels Sanctuary

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot Fresno Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Fresno?

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Fresno?

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

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

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware