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The Best Raleigh, NC Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Raleigh, NC. 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.

Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation
#21 in United States, #1 in North Carolina, #1 in Raleigh
Raleigh
Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation is a dedicated non-profit rescue comprised of only volunteers. We are committed to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs that would otherwise face euthanasia due to illness, injury, age, breed, etc. Our shelterless rescue aims to address this critical issue by providing necessities including medical care, basic training and the opportunity to familiarize the dogs to safe loving homes. We strongly believe that every dog deserves a chance at a happy and fulfilling life.
"I can’t imagine my life without my sweet husky (Luna) that I received through Pawfect Match. As a first..."
— allison b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"I first came to know about Pawfect Match as a "being in the right place at the right time" situation...."
— deborah s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

Freedom Ride Rescue
#53 in United States, #5 in North Carolina, #2 in Raleigh
Raleigh
In the rescue world, a 'Freedom Ride' is that magical car ride out of an animal shelter for a dog. At first they are nervous, but there is a moment when they realize they are safe. tongue out, tail wagging, a new chapter for them. Freedom Ride Rescue is foster based in the Raleigh NC area. We have no facility and every one of our adoptable (and not quite ready to be adopted) animals are in homes where families are teaching trust, love, basic manners. preparing your future dog ready to be the best addition to your family that they can be!
"Atticus was brought into Freedomride as a 4 month old puppy that was found as a stray. He had cuts..."
— alexis y.
Adoptee
"I’ve been volunteering and fostering with Freedom Ride since it began in 2019. In fact, I followed the rescue founder..."
— jessica h.
Volunteer / foster

US Dog Coalition and Rescue
#79 in United States, #7 in North Carolina, #3 in Raleigh
Raleigh
The US Dog Coalition and Rescue is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs facing various challenges. At US Dog Coalition and Rescue, our mission is simple yet profound: to make a positive impact on the lives of dogs and the communities they inhabit. Through our tireless efforts, we strive to provide sanctuary and support to dogs who have been abandoned, neglected, or abused, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve. With a network of dedicated volunteers, compassionate staff, and supportive donors, we work tirelessly to rescue dogs from shelters, streets, and harmful situations. Once in our care, each dog receives comprehensive veterinary care, training, and rehabilitation tailored to their individual needs, preparing them for a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life. Beyond rescue efforts, we are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership through education, outreach, and advocacy initiatives. By fostering a culture of compassion and understanding, we aim to create a world where every dog is valued, cherished, and treated with kindness and respect.
"What they do here at the Us Dog Coalition is much needed. They've done so much and will do so..."
— diana w.
Fan
"We are fosters from US dog Coalition & Rescue and it is an incredible experience. Their staff is super friendly..."
— federico i.
Volunteer / foster

Perfectly Imperfect Pups (PIPs)
#97 in United States, #12 in North Carolina, #4 in Raleigh
Raleigh
We had a vision of a rescue that takes in the most urgent pups dogs with special needs and medical cases in and around North Carolina. While our focus is special needs, we are inclusive of all dogs and our main purpose is to rescue as many dogs in need as we can. PIPs is a foster based rescue, this means that there is no brick and mortar location- all dogs are kept in someone's home. We depend on fosters that are willing to open their hearts and homes to help a dog transition on to a forever home. Foster homes are needed for special and medical needs but also for puppies, adult dogs and seniors that are not PIP-abled.
"I am a fan/follower of both of these rescues. They both work tirelessly for dogs that no one else wants..."
— betsi k.
Fan
"PIPs is one of the best rescues I’ve come across. They bring in the unwanted -special needs dogs- and they..."
— addison s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

Second Chance NC
#99 in United States, #14 in North Carolina, #5 in Raleigh
Raleigh
Second Chance Pet Adoptions is a non-profit animal rescue organization that has rescued stray or abandoned cats and dogs in the Triangle Area of North Carolina since 1987.
"Second Chance Pet Adoptions is amazing, I started as a volunteer years ago and loved them so much when a..."
— susan r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 5 private dog parks in the Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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

Sniffspot Raleigh Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Raleigh?

There are 5 in Raleigh. Outside of Raleigh, there are 38 located in North Carolina.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Raleigh, the top 3 on our list are: Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation, Freedom Ride Rescue, US Dog Coalition and Rescue.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Raleigh?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Raleigh. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
The first step is to fill out our adoption application. All applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Once we receive your application, the second step will be for our volunteers to check your vet reference and talk with your personal references. The third step, if your application is approved, is for our volunteers to contact you about scheduling a home check. This is not to see what kind of house you live in or how clean or dirty it is. It is simply to see if the yard size, fencing, etc. is compatible with your dog of interest. It also allows other animals in your household as well as children to meet your potential new dog to see if everyone will get along and to make sure this is truly a 'pawfect' match! After all three of these steps are completed, the final step is to sign the adoption contract and make the adoption donation fee. Your new pet will be up to date on the necessary vaccinations required by the age of the dog at time of adoption, spayed or neutered, on heartworm preventative and flea and tick meds, micro-chipped, groomed, and well on his or her way with basic obedience and house training. All our dogs will be adopted out with a microchip, collar and leash, and a PMR&R tag.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Raleigh, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, Charley's K-9 Rescue, Boxer Butts & Other Mutts Rescue, Kreitzer's Critter Corral Puppy Rescue

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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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 Raleigh, NC Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Pawfect Match Rescue and Rehabilitation

Freedom Ride Rescue

US Dog Coalition and Rescue

Perfectly Imperfect Pups (PIPs)

Second Chance NC

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot Raleigh Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Raleigh?

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Raleigh?

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

David Adams

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Top dog guides per area

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