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The Best Minneapolis, MN Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Minneapolis, MN. 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.

Emotional Rescue LLC
#4 in United States, #1 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Emotional Rescue specializes in homeless dogs that need medical care. We rehabilitate the body, mind and soul of dogs that had no one to care for them.
"I follow Emotinal Res. Every day. Shannon does amazing things with medical & special needs animals. She also educates the..."
— charlene f.
Supporter, Fan
"Amazing work, critical in the value chain addressing reservation animal control and supporting tough cases that otherwise would not have..."
— shannon d.
Supporter

Warrior Dog Rescue
#26 in United States, #2 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Warrior Dog rescue is a non-profit organization based in Savage, MN that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding adoptive homes for dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. We are celebrating our 6th year in rescue and have saved over 3,400 dogs to date. When we reflect on that number we think that each one of those dogs had a foster hero that YES to saving them! We think about all the visits to the vet, the training, the full food bowls, walks, belly rubs, and all the healing that was given to each of them through the love and safety we were able to provide. Knowing that we were able to help them heal and be ready to love their forever family is a blessing beyond compare. Our storybook is filled with all the Warrior Dogs who have come into our lives and forever imprinted on our hearts. The Warrior Dog family continues to save these sweet souls because they all deserve to the know the gift of love and safety. There is still work to be done and by the grace and selflessness of our volunteer and foster teams, along with our generous donors we will continue. There are so many pups even as you read this that are alone and sick, abandoned in kill shelters and on roadsides, living a life filled with fear and abuse. We are steadfast in our commitment to continue to make a difference, one dog at a time.
"We rescued a pup from warrior rescue and she is the best dog ever! Part of the family for..."
— lindsay d.
Adoptee
"I've volunteered at Warrior Dog several times. They have an excellent fenced-in area for the dogs in their care..."
— jacob j.
Volunteer / foster, Fan

Northern Lakes Rescue
#66 in United States, #4 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Our Vision is to be a voice for those who are voiceless. We hear them with our hearts and give them a voice. Looking into the eyes of a rescued animal will speak volumes; watching those eyes light up will have an everlasting impact on you and the rescued animals. We aren't a typical rescue as we don't take in dogs and put them in kennels until they're adopted. All dogs we rescue are placed in loving foster homes that teach them to be the best dog they can be. Our journey doesn't end with adoption, either. We are here for you to support you in integrating your new member into your home, cheer new triumphs, and help with struggles. You don't adopt a dog from us. You adopt a family.
"Northern Lakes Rescue is RELENTLESS in their quest to save and give AMAZING lives to dogs. Their support of their..."
— judith y.
Volunteer / foster
"In April 2021 I suddenly and unexpectedly had to say a final goodbye to my dog. I was still..."
— ginger j.
Adoptee

Rescued Pets Are Wonderful
#137 in United States, #5 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
Rescued Pets Are Wonderful is a non-profit, no-kill, volunteer animal rescue organization serving the Twin Cities metro area. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats left homeless for whatever reason ‚focusing on the ones with major medical issues or of senior age. These are the ones that are usually overlooked because they are not ‚highly adoptable. They are also the ones that cost the most to the organizations. We believe they are the most in need of help!
"RPAW takes on the most difficult cases that other rescues will often not even consider. Every animal gets a chance..."
— peggy f.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"Rescued Pets Are Wonderful has been in Minnesota since 2004. As it evolved, it became a "medical" rescue for dogs..."
— kathryn g.
Supporter

The Rescue Crew
#146 in United States, #6 in Minnesota
Minneapolis
The Rescue Crew is a Minnesota-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization that is 100% volunteer operated and foster-based. The Rescue Crew strives to prevent the unnecessary euthanasia of companion animals by finding them loving forever homes.
"My daughter started fostering with The Rescue Crew first, because her friend’s mom was very involved with the rescue. With..."
— dana g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"The Rescue Crew brought our wonderful Angela Lansfurry into our lives. With grace, compassion, integrity, and a shoestring budget they..."
— gradylee s.
Adoptee

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 35 private dog parks in the Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis 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 Minnesota

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Minneapolis

Sniffspot Minneapolis Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Minneapolis?

There are 35 in Minneapolis. Outside of Minneapolis, there are 0 located in Minnesota.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Minneapolis, the top 3 on our list are: Emotional Rescue LLC, Warrior Dog Rescue, Northern Lakes Rescue.

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Minneapolis is Border Collie with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Boxer with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Minneapolis?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Minneapolis. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Adopters go through a rigorous pre-screening before meeting a dog and its caregiver. The foster and the dog must also approve the family.

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

Yes! Minneapolis has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Border Collie Boxer Corgi German Shepherd Golden Retriever Great Dane Pit Bull

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.

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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 Minneapolis, MN Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Emotional Rescue LLC

Warrior Dog Rescue

Northern Lakes Rescue

Rescued Pets Are Wonderful

The Rescue Crew

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In Minneapolis

Sniffspot Minneapolis Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Minneapolis?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Minneapolis?

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

David Adams

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