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The Best Meridian, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Meridian, ID. 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.

Meridian Canine Rescue
#81 in United States, #1 in Idaho, #1 in Meridian
Meridian
Saving lives through storytelling and education. We promote behavioral wellness through a holistic care approach for every animal in our rescue. Our life skill training curricula teach both dogs and humans how to live ‚and thrive together. The best way for us to help more animals is by sharing our knowledge and skills. We have several program to support our community with resources to reduce the amount of dogs with behavioral issues entering shelters in the state of Idaho. We also have a prison program (EPIC) where we also work with the incarcerated community and provide life skills to humans and dogs.
"I volunteer with Meridian Canine Rescue since 2021 and love that they want to educate abour enrichment and the importance..."
— karinna l.
Volunteer / foster
"I love the furbabies in Idaho"
— scott f.
Fan

Fuzzy Pawz Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
Fuzzy Pawz Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to finding loving families for homeless dogs and cats in Idaho and Utah. We rescue “at risk” dogs/cats from shelters and animal control facilities. “At risk” animals are those who have run out of time at shelters, have medical conditions, are seniors or don’t stand out in the crowd (i.e. black animals). We work with many shelters and pounds throughout the 2 states but focus on rural areas that do not have the facilities to hold dogs for more than a few days and do not have holding facilities for cats at all. Our volunteers work to socialize our animals, work on minor behavioral and training issues and most of all provide them with loving care. Through our foster homes, we assess the dogs in a home setting, allowing us to better understand the kind of home and family the dog will need. All animals are screened by a veterinarian, vaccinated, neutered and given any other vet care they require. All applicants are thoroughly screened and a home check is preformed before an adoption can occur. We consider an applicant’s previous pet ownership history. We work hard to match the lifestyle and personality of the people to the temperament and energy level of the pet they are interested in. Our goal is for a pet to end up in the right home, not just the first home to come along. Our board of directors consists of 5 passionate women who between them have almost 75 years of animal rescue experience; these women saw a need in the Idaho/Utah area for an all breed rescue and stepped up. We have volunteers that are groomers, dog behaviorists, and animal nutritionists. We say “once a Fuzzy Pawz dog, always a Fuzzy Pawz dog.” Our volunteer base allows us to build lifelong relationships with our adopters so we can always be there for them to answer any questions and assist in any way we can to ensure their relationship with their adopted pet is always a great one.

Boxer Lovers Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
#6 in boxer
Boxer
Meridian

Lake Lowell Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
The Lake Lowell Animal Rescue began with one person—Melissa Blackmer—simply trying to rescue a couple cats that had been dumped at the refuge area in Nampa, Idaho. The first cat rescued (and the one Melissa says will forever be her favorite) is a young male she named Fergus. Fergus had been hit by a car and suffered from a fractured pelvis and femur. By posting the story on Facebook, Melissa was able to raise enough money to pay for surgery and follow-up care for Fergus. Today he is living a very happy life with three golden retrievers and the best owners a cat could want! After watching his incredible recovery and seeing him go from the tragic condition he was in when she found him to, literally, the best outcome that could be hoped for, Melissa resolved to do what she could to help other cats abandoned in the Lake Lowell area. The scope of the problem quickly began to sink in, however, as Melissa came to realize that abandoning all kinds of animals in this region is a common occurrence—and the animals generally don’t fare well. Amid cars, predators, and life-threatening frigid temperatures in the winter, “people don’t realize what the outcome for the animals will be when they ‘set them free in the wild,’” she says. She adds that most of the cats and dogs she rescues are friendly, and therefore at one time were likely someone’s pet. Melissa then decided to set up a Facebook page with pictures of the few cats she was rescuing, hoping to find good homes for them, but the outcome far exceeded her expectations. “Two days later I was contacted by local news station KTVB,” Melissa says. “Very reluctantly I agreed to do a ‘small’ story on the animal-abandonment problem at Lake Lowell. KTVB, though, ran it as the lead story that night, which launched the rescue efforts into a much larger program than I ever intended.” Click here to view the KTVB news report. As a result of the news story, a local family contacted Melissa and offered to help. The family is connected to a charitable giving foundation, and, obviously, huge animal lovers. “They helped move the rescue program into a facility that we can eventually expand and therefore rescue even more of these animals,” Melissa says. “Most of the animals we rescue are cats, so we’ve done some construction and now have three beautiful cat rescue rooms and the most amazing back porch that we screened in and turned into a catio. Walkways have also been built so the cats can move back and forth between the rooms and the outdoor patio.” Although a lot has been accomplished, Melissa says that much more needs to be done. “It’s a work in progress,” she says. To describe this journey as a dream come true is an “understatement,” says Melissa. “And we’re working hard to develop the rescue into something even better.” Melissa is not new to animal care. Her work for many years as a veterinary technician has helped prepare her for her additional role as an animal rescuer. Her network of other animal healthcare professionals and rescue workers has also proved to be an asset. Now an established animal program run by a seven-member board comprising local community leaders and animal healthcare professionals, Lake Lowell Animal Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Plans are also in place to renovate a separate building on the property to provide more living space for rescued animals and limited, on-site healthcare. “This has been an incredible blessing,” Melissa says. “It’s so rewarding to watch these guys come out of what are generally awful places and usually sick or injured from trying to fend for themselves, and then see them sleeping on fluffy cat beds, recovering at the rescue, and eventually getting adopted into wonderful forever homes. But I know all this wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of so many people—including the many vet clinics and other animal rescue organizations in the area that have provided healthcare and other assistance for no or very reduced cost. I’m very grateful to them!”

Pawsitivity Rescue Inc
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
Since 2018, Pawsitivity Rescue Inc. has been a beacon of hope for animals in Elmore County, ID , and its neighboring areas. As a locally owned and operated non-profit organization, we specialize in rescuing and nurturing both cats and kittens, providing fostering opportunities, accepting donations, and providing education - catering to animal enthusiasts. Our commitment to transparency and compassionate care has earned us the prestigious Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.org. Join us in our mission to support and protect animals in need.

West Valley Humane Society
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
West Valley Humane Society serves Canyon County, Idaho with a holistic array of services to people and animals that include: safe and secure temporary housing, medical care, food and nutritional support, enrichment, exercise, and behavioral modification for strayed, lost, and homeless pets. West Valley Humane Society also provides low-cost preventative care for its community such as: vaccine clinics, microchip clinics, spay/neuter services, and targeted humane education. West Valley Humane Society was founded in 2011 after Canyon County Animal Shelter became privatized as a charitable nonprofit entity. The organization serves thousands of animals in Canyon County and surrounding areas each year and continuously looks to provide support to network partners and the rescue community. West Valley Humane Society is a brick-and-mortar animal shelter that is a private, charitable, nonprofit Idaho 501(c)(3) Corporation.

Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
IDAWG (Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation based in Nampa, Idaho. We've been in existence since June 2000 and are staffed entirely by volunteers. IDAWG supports southern Idaho animals in need, assisting both shelters and private citizens. Sometimes this involves transporting or organizing transports for dogs or cats, or sometimes birds or bunnies, to rescues or permanent homes in adjoining cities and states. IDAWG also offers financial assistance to senior citizens and others who need help paying for spay/neuter services for their companion animals.

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 7 private dog parks in the Meridian 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 Meridian dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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

Boise, ID

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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

Sniffspot Meridian Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Meridian?

There are 7 in Meridian. Outside of Meridian, there are 10 located in Idaho.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Meridian, the top 3 on our list are: Meridian Canine Rescue, Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group, Boxer Lovers Rescue.

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Meridian is Boxer with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Meridian?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Meridian. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Adopter fills an online application, then we provide a consultation explaining all the information on the dog and if the adopter is still interested we schedule a meet and greet. We provide training to the adopters and follow up support as long as the pet is adopted.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Meridian, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, Boxer Lovers Rescue, Pug Pals Rescue

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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.

The Best Meridian, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Meridian Canine Rescue

Fuzzy Pawz Rescue

Boxer Lovers Rescue

Lake Lowell Animal Rescue

Pawsitivity Rescue Inc

West Valley Humane Society

Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot Meridian Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Meridian?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Meridian?

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

David Adams

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