This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Reno, NV. 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.
#99 in United States, #1 in Nevada, #1 in Reno
Reno
We are, and will continue to be, a strong advocate for animal welfare in our community and beyond. We believe that maintaining the highest standards and best practices in managing our clinic and Adoption Center are critically important, and we strive to achieve that goal every day. We are a wholly independent organization. We are not directly affiliated with any other SPCA, the national ASPCA, nor any other animal welfare organizations. Please explore our website for more information on our adoptions and community programs. You can also learn more about us on Guidestar.com.
"This organization does wonderful things for the animals in Northern Nevada."
— debbi b.
Supporter
#99 in United States, #1 in Nevada, #1 in Reno
Reno
Since 2003. Dog Town Rescue has focused on saving dogs from the absolute worst situations. Dogs abandoned by humans, dogs coming from survival situations fending for themselves in the desert, and feral dogs living on the fringes of civilization. Many of the dogs we have saved needed to be caught in a humane trap in order to safely bring them to our shelter. The dogs we rescue are not vaccinated. We have taken in dozens of dying puppies with Parvo. They are not fixed, which is a huge contributor to unwanted and neglected dogs. They are not fed properly, so most are full of tapeworms from eating rabbits and roadkill. Loose dogs get into fights, hit by cars, have untreated injuries with infections. We've rescued dogs with buckshot and/or .22 bullets in them that our vet removed while they were being spayed/neutered. We also serve our local Indigenous communities by providing free of charge dog spay/neuters for Tribal members. Most of our neighboring Colonies and Reservations are located in remote areas, and have little to no animal services. City and County animal control are jurisdictionally limited as to what they can provide, but as a non-governmental organization, Dog Town goes where the need is.
"Taking care of those most vulnerable among us is a service to God!"
— amy p.
Supporter
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Located 25 miles North of Reno Nevada, Saints Of The West was started in 1997. Summer Hours: Due to the heat, we cannot have visitors between the hours of 9 AM to 7 PM. All visitors must call to make an appointment. We are partners with Petfinder. We use the Petfinder website service to list the Saints we have available for adoption.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
DAWG is a non-profit group of dedicated volunteers and members who rely entirely on donations, membership dues, grants, fund-raising events and recycling programs to fund the goals of its Mission Statement. DAWG supports Douglas County animals. For shelter animals at DCACS, we offer assistance for some spay and neuter, medical emergencies and health problems. In addition, we pay for training, special diets, treats and canned pet foods, vaccines and microchip the shelter dogs and cats. We also use funds to improve the shelter’s kennels, bedding, exercise areas, and have provided separate housing for cats and kittens. DAWG Active Volunteers visit the dogs and cats at the shelter 365 days a year, including holidays when the shelter is closed to the public. We exercise and walk them, give affection, grooming, training, and praise. The time we spend with them gives us information about their behavior which we share with potential adopters. DAWG facilitates the adoption of the dogs and cats through special adoption events, our website, Facebook, and through newspaper advertising. DAWG assists Douglas County residents through our Community Outreach programs such as Fix-A-Family Pet (low-cost spay and neuter), Fix a Pit Bull, Foster, Found Cat, TnR - Trap/Neuter/Spay/Return (helps to control the population of "Community Cats" also known as feral cats), Community Assistance (provides medical help for the pets of Douglas residents in need), and Veterans Adoption Assistance. DAWG also educates the community about responsible pet ownership. We provide speakers to community groups and events as well as printed educational materials. DAWG supports the Douglas County animal community in so many ways that, often, the public mistakenly thinks we are the animal shelter.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Palomino Valley Pet Rescue is a non-profit 501c3 organization that was formed with one mission in mind: find pets good homes, permanently. This mission has two parts. The first is to rescue dogs and cats from our over crowded shelters. We try to focus on the harder to place and special needs animals. Animals that are at risk (to be euthanized.) We give them the time and care needed to find them loving, permanent homes. The second part is to educate the public and provide services that will reduce the numbers of unwanted dogs and cats. We believe in PETS FOR LIFE. Founded in 2006 the Palomino Valley Pet Rescue has placed hundreds of dogs and cats into loving homes. The cost to feed, care, and rehabilitate these animals is extremely high. To help with the expenses, Palomino Valley Pet Rescue has begun low cost vaccination clinics in Sparks and Reno which 100% of the proceeds go directly to helping save more animals. We have additional fundraisers planned for the coming months so please watch for them. Financially, the Palomino Valley Pet Rescue cannot save them all. We need your help. We are looking for anyone who shares a great love for the animals the way we do. Our goal is to raise enough money to help us build our rescue/rehabilitation center. This will enable us to save many more innocent, homeless dogs and cats that would otherwise never be given a second chance. We can't do this alone. All donations are tax deductible and any amount would be greatly appreciated. Please help us meet our goal and help us help the ones who can't speak for themselves, the animals. With your help, we can save the lives of many more of these animals. In return we improve the lives of people in our community with these wonderful companion animals. Together you can help us help the animals and make this a true "no kill" community. Please come out to one of our pet adoptions events in Sparks or Reno to meet the wonderful animals available to adoption.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
#6 in boxer
Boxer
Reno
Boxers and Buddies is a nonprofit organization founded in 2005. We provide a safe, humane sanctuary for abandoned Boxers who are waiting to be adopted. Our available dogs come from local shelters, the streets or owners who turn them in. We are always filled to capacity with scared, confused and very stressed out dogs. They are with us because Boxers and Buddies is their last hope of finding a new life. We are their temporary haven until they are adopted into a loving permanent home. Before they can be adopted, each dog is evaluated for temperament, must be sterilized, microchipped and their shots are updated. Boxers and Buddies has a training program for those dogs who need rehabilitation or have behaviors which need to be modified.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Incorporated in 1932, our organization was originally created to address the suffering of local stray animals. In 2007, our Board of Directors changed the mission of our organization to one of life-saving; promoting animal welfare while finding homes, and providing care, for homeless pets in Northern Nevada and beyond. In 2014, our organization expanded to include Carson City. In October 2016, we moved into a brand new shelter in Carson City, which has significantly increased the number of pet lives saved in Northern Nevada. It's an exciting time for homeless pets and animal lovers, as more than 140,000 animals have been placed into loving homes since our life-saving mission began in 2007, and we are only continuing to grow.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
The Dog House Rescue is the pet project of two dog lovers that wandered into a municipal animal shelter to pick up one new family member and left with seven. Like much of the public, we had mistakenly believed that most shelters are able to provide a no-kill haven for homeless animals. Due to overcrowding, the euthanasia rate at that facility alone is 80%. With the average dog having less than one week to find an adopter, it is easy to find great dogs who were simply born in an unfortunate geographic area. We exist to help bridge the gap between loving homes seeking good citizen companions and good natured dogs looking for an opportunity to show their stuff. Those that have found themselves in a shelter (through no fault of their own) and would otherwise be euthanized for space are given medical treatment, spayed/neutered, and trained so that they can continue to be good citizens in their forever families. All residents at The Dog House are considered family for life. We understand that personal tragedies happen. If a Dog House member is ever unable to continue in their adopted home, they are welcomed back with open arms. Having already survived the shelter once, our promise to them is to never be homeless again.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Res-Que is located in Reno Nevada, we have foster homes throughout the Reno and Carson City area. Our goal is to take dogs from our local and surrounding area shelters and owner surrenders when we are able. Many of the dogs we pull from the shelters are at risk for euthanasia. We are proud to help keep our euthanasia rate low in Northern Nevada and to work with our shelters as often as possible. We do not have a facility, our dogs go into foster homes until they are ready for adoption. Res-Que does not receive large grants like bigger shelters and we depend on smaller donations, fund raisers, and adoption fees to run our rescue.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Lyon County Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Lyon County Codes and Nevada Revised Statutes regarding animal related issues. We also facilitate dog adoptions and issue animal licenses for residents in Lyon County.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Canine Rehabilitation Center and Cat Sanctuary was founded by Kristen Ivey in March of 2011. Kristen became involved in animal welfare many years prior as a volunteer for a high-volume shelter and had rescued and/or placed a few special needs dogs on her own. She ran another business during those years, but loved her time working with shelter dogs, volunteering, running play groups, and teaching classes with other volunteers. The primary focus of CRCCS is the rescue, recovery, and placement of at-risk dogs in our community. We do not discriminate against age, breed, or medical condition. We provide refuge and a second chance for dogs desperately needing a new start. The dogs who come into our care have amazing stories of strength, love, triumph, and survival to tell. Some have given much of their lives to science and laboratory research. Others have suffered from neglect, abuse, hoarding, or puppy mills, or have endured long-term confinement or isolation. In addition, we are a support for rescues and shelters, taking in dogs who have been waiting for extended periods to find a home, dogs who have been returned multiple times, and dogs who are struggling in the shelter environment due to fear and lack of socialization.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
WARF focuses on saving the animals that fall through the cracks in shelters and other facilities and find themselves truly out of time. We don't discriminate due to age, disability, breed, behavior, size, color, etc. We take in those that others will not, and we never give up on our animals. We are completely volunteer-run, so every penny donated goes directly to the animals. Our sanctuary has been a true lifesaver, as it offers a safe place for animals to decompress and recover at their own speed and with their own space, contrary to a traditional shelter environment.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
SCOOT TO THE STARS RESCUE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for animals with special needs. Through the care of these animals, as well as community resources and education, it is our goal to show the world that pets with disabilities can live happy and fulfilling lives.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Halo is a small group of volunteers dedicated to rescuing dogs. The dogs we rescue are in imminent danger of euthanasia due to medical or behavioral issues and sometimes it's just because the shelter they are in, says they are out of time. We bring them to private homes provided by our amazing foster volunteers and do whatever is necessary for them until permanent find them loving homes or give them hospice for the time they have left. Halo is a registered 501 (c) (3) charity.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
The Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation is a private charitable foundation based in Incline Village, Nevada. The Duffields are the founders of Maddie's Fund, a leading animal welfare foundation dedicated to revolutionizing the status and well-being of companion animals. While the Duffields are long-time benefactors of companion animal causes, the Foundation also allows them to focus their philanthropic efforts in other areas they are passionate about, including supporting military veterans and giving back to their local community.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
High Sierra Animal Rescue is a no-kill rescue that opened in May of 1999. We have 17 rescue kennels, 21 boarding kennels, and have placed over 4,500 animals into loving, permanent homes. Animals that are taken into our care receive love and attention from our trained personnel, medical help as required based on their previous environment or living conditions, behavioral assessment, socialization and obedience skills if needed, and a safe temporary home. We work with 16-20 dogs at a time and do a complete assessment as part of our screening process. We focus on how the animals react to their environment, children, other animals, and life style. After the assessment is complete, we develop a plan and begin training. Our animals are not released for adoption until they have successfully completed this process. Everyone associated with the facility is an animal lover and experienced animal professional or trained volunteer. Most of our crew and board members have adopted animals from the rescue. Some of our volunteers become Foster Parents and take animals home on a temporary basis as part of the re-integration program for neglected or abused animals. We provide responsible adoption services to those seeking pets to insure compatibility between animal and owner. As a non-profit organization, we pride ourselves in providing exemplary care that is balanced with fiduciary responsibility. The kindness and generosity of our volunteers, members, adopters, and donors is the key to our success. Our goal is to increase our ability to help more animals so DONATIONS from animal loving, caring people are always needed and appreciated. When animals find a loving permanent home, we know we have made a difference. Our gratitude goes to all our Donors. They make it possible.
#100 in United States, #2 in Nevada, #2 in Reno
Reno
Cold Nose Rescue & Sanctuary became a 501(c)(3) non-profit in 2014, but the key person behind its creation, Gordon Hutting, has been carrying on rescue and sanctuary work in Northern Nevada for decades. Although we focus on German Shepherds and Jack Russell Terriers, the rescue has taken in a wide variety of breeds and mixed breeds over the years. Our current residents include a Border Collie and Aussie/Border Collie mix, a dachshund/Jack Russell Terrier mix and several GSDs. Many of the dogs who come to Cold Nose Rescue & Sanctuary have health issues or behavioral issues arising out of past neglect or abuse. Those with chronic ailments will always have a home with us, but would love a home of their own. Many, including our latest additions, however, are healthy and ready for a new home. Cold Nose Rescue & Sanctuary provides neutering/spaying, vaccinations, and full vet care to all rescues before adopting out. We also work on teaching each rescue basic commands, and lifetime free training is available to all who have adopted from us.
Welcome to the 2024 Reno, NV Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Reno, NV chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 16 private dog parks in the Reno 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 Reno dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list
Please plan on allowing adequate time to be matched with a pet, have relevant conversations with our adoption counselors, and complete all necessary paperwork. This can take 1-2 hours.You must be at least 18 years of age.You must complete an adoption application and meet with an adoption counselor.You must show a picture ID with a current address. If this isn't available, a picture ID with a current utility bill will be accepted.A staff supervised meet-and-greet with current household dogs and children is required for most adoptable dogs.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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!
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.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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?
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.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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.
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.
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.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
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.
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.
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.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
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.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.