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The Best Tennessee Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Tennessee. 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.

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1089/d359ad2cf08a-Proverbs1210_Logo_2Color_RedBG.jpg
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Have watched this group move mountains for stray and homeless animals for years. Simply the best.
  • Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue Logo

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue

    #18 in United States, #1 in Tennessee, #1 in Nashville

    Nashville

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, a 501c3 charitable organization based in Middle Tennessee, is run primarily by volunteers. Proverbs is totally dedicated to all animals they rescue. All medical care, regardless of cost, is provided as is training when necessary. A cradle to grave dedication is established by the care provided to neonates all the way to seniors who may need hospice care. Every animal rescued is cared for like a cherished family pet. Funds for medical care and food are raised by a variety of events, such as bake sales, golf scrambles, and participation in large media campaigns such as The Big Payback or through regular donations on our website.

    "Have watched this group move mountains for stray and homeless animals for years. Simply the best."

    randy r.

    Volunteer / foster

    "I adopted Peanut who recently passed away. I adopted him 13 years ago and Lavonne, the Director, and all of..."

    becky p.

    Adoptee


  • Lucky Farms Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1072/56799fa89277-IMG_5621.jpeg
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Great DaneEnglish Bulldog, French Bulldog, Great Dane
    While volunteering as the shelter manager at our local county pound for 4 years (Friends of Hartsville TN Animal Shelter) Lucky Farms Rescue has helped pull dogs, network dogs, transport dogs, and assist local dogs in need. Lucky Farms Rescue is a big asset in the community! 🐾
  • Lucky Farms Animal Rescue Logo

    Lucky Farms Animal Rescue

    English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Great Dane

    Nashville

    Lucky Farms Animal Rescue is a nonprofit dog rescue focusing on Giant breeds such as Great Danes and Saint Bernards. Giant breeds have a hard time in a shelter environment and are much harder to adopt out. We also have a squishy face division focusing on English bulldogs and French Bulldogs. We rescue, rehab and find amazing homes for these deserving dogs

    "While volunteering as the shelter manager at our local county pound for 4 years (Friends of Hartsville TN Animal Shelter)..."

    marcie s.

    Supporter, Fan

    "We adopted our Dottie Lou from this rescue, they specialize in giant breed dogs like Saint Bernards and Great Danes,..."

    stephani g.

    Adoptee


  • McKamey Animal Center
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1071/a7f0e46f656a-MAC_Logo___Transparent_Background.png
    4500 North Access Road Chattanooga, TN 37415
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    Adopted our precious Ringo, a husky, cattle dog mix with beautiful heterochromia. Mcamey we're great with meet and greets with our other dog, both in yard and meet and greet room to make sure our two dogs would get along, and Ringo has brought new life to our home
  • McKamey Animal Center Logo

    McKamey Animal Center

    #45 in United States, #3 in Tennessee, #1 in Chattanooga

    Chattanooga

    McKamey Animal Center (MAC) opened its doors in 2008 with the mission of Saving Animals, Helping People. MAC's vision is to eliminate animal overpopulation, cruelty, and neglect by creating a culture of compassionate care, community engagement, and advocacy for animals by providing programs and education that support people and companion animals.

    "Adopted our precious Ringo, a husky, cattle dog mix with beautiful heterochromia. Mcamey we're great with meet and greets with..."

    jonathan m.

    Adoptee

    "We adopted our dog, Briggs last January from McKamey. The staff & the environment are so welcoming and friendly. They..."

    lisa s.

    Adoptee


  • East TN Pit Bull Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1073/3a63a1466abb-Resized_Screenshot_20230105_191324.jpeg
    N/A
    knoxvilleTennesseeUS
    Pit BullPit Bull
    We adopted our wonderful Rosie from ETPBR and she is THE MOST amazing dog ever. We love her so very much. I believe she is the greatest in part because of the care and love she received from Terri. Terri is the president of ETPBR and was Rosie’s foster Mom. She pours her heart and soul into her dogs. She gets them whatever they need regardless of the financial burden it may place on her. She gives them a forever home if no one else steps up to adopt them. She advocates tirelessly for this incredibly misunderstood breed. I would imagine her job is often thankless and emotionally exhausting, yet she continues day in and day out. Her love for these dogs Is unconditional and boundless which is then reflected in their sweet personalities. We have adopted from rescues and shelters for decades and ETPBR is by far the most organized, well-run, effective rescue we have worked with. We have been so moved by her dedication to these dogs and breed that we contribute as much financial support as we can to her/them. She and her rescue truly deserve national recognition. Thank you!!
  • East TN Pit Bull Rescue Logo

    East TN Pit Bull Rescue

    #218 in United States, #4 in Tennessee, #1 in Knoxville
    #13 in pit Bull

    Pit Bull

    Knoxville

    East TN Pit Bull Rescue was started by our dear founder Wendy Martin Jackson. Wendy loved this breed and fought hard against BSL, misinformation, and ignorance about this breed. Since Wendy's passing, we are continuing her mission and legacy to stand up and fight for this breed.

    "We adopted our wonderful Rosie from ETPBR and she is THE MOST amazing dog ever. We love her so very..."

    paige &.

    Adoptee

    "We adopted Gus from the ETPBR 3 years ago. The rescue worked with him thru having heartworm and helped him..."

    rebecca y.

    Adoptee


  • Big Fluffy Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1074/2e7a97d29a19-Capture.PNG
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Over the years, have adopted four dogs from Big Fluffy. They are all remarkable. I’ve got them at various ages from three months to eight years. I have also fostered several dogs for the rescue. Every single dog I’ve had has been spectacular in their own special way. Big Fluffy does it right and they work hard to find excellent homes for dogs. I cannot say enough good things
  • Big Fluffy Dog Rescue Logo

    Big Fluffy Dog Rescue

    #235 in United States, #5 in Tennessee, #3 in Nashville

    Nashville

    Big Fluffy Dog Rescue is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping giant-breed, mixed-breed dogs in need. We value dogs of all breeds, but we specialize in what the name says: big, fluffy dogs. We have volunteers all across the eastern half of the United States who work to help homeless big fluffy dogs find a home to call their own. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue works to save Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands and their mixes from euthanasia. We also have a fair assortment of honorary fluffies who don't fall into the traditional fluffy mold but are with us anyway and we love their tiny/non-fluffy selves as much as the others. Our dogs come in to rescue for many different reasons. Many were abandoned at high kill shelters. Some were turned in by owners who could not properly care for them and still others are failed livestock guardian dogs. Regardless of their origins, our goal for every dog we have is the same: a safe, happy home where each dog is a well-loved member of the family. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue has its headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee.

    "Over the years, have adopted four dogs from Big Fluffy. They are all remarkable. I’ve got them at various ages..."

    sarah f.

    Volunteer / foster

    "Big Fluffy Dog Rescue (BFDR) is a fantastic rescue run by mostly volunteers who saves hundreds of dogs a year..."

    kristen h.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Nashville Humane Association
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1075/7affc3991fae-nha_logo_web2_400x79.png
    213 Oceola Avenue, Nashville, TN 37209
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    We adopted our young adult hound from the London Sanctuary in December 2022. The rescue carefully vetted us and the director also discussed the personalities and temperaments of the two hounds we were considering. Because of that care and attention, we got the perfect fit for our family. Mia has been the greatest dog and she is greatly loved by the entire family (even that cat!)
  • Nashville Humane Association Logo

    Nashville Humane Association

    #266 in United States, #6 in Tennessee, #4 in Nashville

    Nashville

    As an entirely gift-based not-for-profit, Nashville Humane relies on contributions from supporters like you to do the work necessary to protect homeless, adoptable, and at-risk pets in Nashville, throughout middle Tennessee and across the globe. Simply put, we've been doing this a very long time. None of the amazing work that we perform daily for pets and their people would be possible without your support. We're not a government agency; we don't have the support of a giant national umbrella organization. We're a small, local shelter that is dedicated to saving lives.

    "We adopted our young adult hound from the London Sanctuary in December 2022. The rescue carefully vetted us and the..."

    cara j.

    Adoptee

    "We are so thankful to Nashville Humane Association! We found our very Best friend, Barkley, there!! He changed our lives..."

    crystal b.

    Adoptee


  • Humane Society of Dickson County
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1081/23b882d75613-hsdclogo2.png
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Tennessee Humane Society of Dickson provides accommodations in a clean, friendly environment. The veterinary care for the dogs and cats plus spay neuter, shots and any healthcare needed is available. While waiting for their foster or family, there is training, re-training. Everyone is responsive, intuitive, and professional. The staff all very organized and went out of their way when we adopted our beautiful hound dog.
  • Humane Society of Dickson County Logo

    Humane Society of Dickson County

    #361 in United States, #7 in Tennessee, #5 in Nashville

    Nashville

    The Humane Society of Dickson County was founded 30 years ago during a time of desperate need. In shelters across the country, millions of animals were dying, and in rural communities with no local solution for unwanted pets, the situation was dire. A grassroots movement in Dickson County, Tennessee, quickly grew with the mission to educate the public about spay/neuter and ensure every dog and cat has a safe home. HSDC is now an active and visible part of Dickson and the surrounding counties, providing a safe haven for homeless animals and adopting out more than 1000 pets annually. The HSDC is a no-kill shelter, with a large network of foster families and close partnerships with area animal rescue groups. The generosity of community and corporate donors provides 99.75% of funding for shelter operations, including veterinarian costs, utilities and pet food and supplies. The HSDC has become the local leader and advocate for homeless pets in Dickson County, but the future will depend on the strong support of caring individuals and businesses who believe all pets deserve a forever home.

    "Tennessee Humane Society of Dickson provides accommodations in a clean, friendly environment. The veterinary care for the dogs and cats..."

    lori m.

    Adoptee, Supporter, Fan


  • Whiskers Fund
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1077/b24308198887-Untitled_design.png
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    Whiskers Fund is an amazing, small, foster based rescue. The founder is a young woman named Heather Raco who genuinely cares about animals and wants the best for them. She and her amazing team work day and night to rescue animals in need off the streets and from high kill shelters in the GA/TN area. Not only that but they also help local pet owners in need of vaccines or spay/neuter or resources to help. This rescue is absolutely amazing. I have fostered many dogs and even adopted from them last year. They are so very deserving of being recognized for their work and for some help.
  • Whiskers Fund Logo

    Whiskers Fund

    #361 in United States, #7 in Tennessee, #2 in Chattanooga

    Chattanooga

    Founded by Heather Raco, Whiskers Fund works to help animals in desperate situations and match them with the perfect home. Our rescue is 100% foster based and facilitates adoptions across the entire United States.

    "Whiskers Fund is an amazing, small, foster based rescue. The founder is a young woman named Heather Raco who genuinely..."

    crystal f.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan


  • Rural Animal Rescue Effort
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1090/f90b7b64bcc7-8d442c_7ea6e62dc5dd425e802037f6f518dbb9_mv2.jpg
    TennesseeUS
    RARE makes my heart smile. We adopted our sweet little Betty from them just over a year ago. I am so thankful they saved her and her siblings from such harsh conditions. I doubt they would have survived if RARE had not stepped in. They work so incredibly hard to give these pups so much love and the chance for an amazing life. I can’t imagine my life without Betty and am so grateful for everything RARE does to help so many animals like her find loving homes!
  • Rural Animal Rescue Effort Logo

    Rural Animal Rescue Effort

    #361 in United States, #7 in Tennessee

    Rural Animal Rescue Effort (RARE) is a 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit Organization based in middle Tennessee with a mission to rescue neglected and abandoned animals in rural areas with extreme overpopulation of companion animals.

    "RARE makes my heart smile. We adopted our sweet little Betty from them just over a year ago. I am..."

    tracy s.

    Adoptee, Supporter, Fan


  • East Community Action Network (East C.A.N.)
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1076/7a32c39c83a4-Square_withwebsite.jpg
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    I've been working with this rescue as a volunteer and have seen amazing things happen because of the enormous support from the community and all of the volunteers.
  • East Community Action Network (East C.A.N.) Logo

    East Community Action Network (East C.A.N.)

    #361 in United States, #7 in Tennessee, #5 in Nashville

    Nashville

    We are an all-volunteer, grassroots organization serving the East Nashville area of 37206, 37216 and 37216 (up to Dickerson Pike and Briley Pkwy). We fund-raise to facilitate healing and hope for the stray and forgotten dogs on the streets of East Nashville. We depend on our fellow neighbors to provide a safe haven while these dogs recuperate and search for their forever homes. We provide full veterinary care to the dogs we accept into our program. We do not have a shelter or facility.

    "I've been working with this rescue as a volunteer and have seen amazing things happen because of the enormous support..."

    krista c.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1086/b800fdee6669-Capture.JPG
    765 Nonaville RoadMount Juliet, TN 37122
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Senior dogSenior dog
    Old Friends has changed my lens on the animal rescue world. What they have built is truly special. Senior dogs deserve the world and I’m honored to volunteer for an organization that lives that out every day.
  • Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary Logo

    Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary

    #361 in United States, #7 in Tennessee, #5 in Nashville
    #16 in senior dog

    Senior dog

    Nashville

    Providing Lifetime Homes & Care to Senior Dogs Senior dogs, especially those with medical problems or disabilities, face a much greater chance of euthanasia at shelters than younger dogs because it is difficult to find adopters for them due to their shorter additional life expectancy and unknown veterinary costs. Most of these wonderful senior dogs are able to live happily with a good quality of life if given a chance. They make wonderful companions because they are mature, calm, and loving. It can be more difficult for them to settle in and, once they do, it is difficult for them to move again. For this reason we strive to find them forever foster homes where they can live out their retirement years as a beloved family member. Even once they've found their forever homes, we commit to providing them high-quality vet care for life.

    "Old Friends has changed my lens on the animal rescue world. What they have built is truly special. Senior dogs..."

    candice s.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Friends of Gibson County Animals
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1080/61805559d6b3-Capture.PNG
    TennesseeUS
  • Friends of Gibson County Animals Logo

  • Misfit Hounds
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1083/f2a027794173-MH_logo.jpg
    TennesseeUS
  • Misfit Hounds Logo

    Misfit Hounds

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee

    In December 2014, I went to one of our local shelters to walk the hounds on our Christmas break from work. There I met an old, skinny Bluetick with horrible teeth, lumps all over and seizure prone. Harriet was left in the overnight box with two other hounds. Fast forward and Harriet was in my home with my other 4 hounds. After being dropped by a large rescue who didn't think she was worth the trouble, I decided to start my own. That's how Misfit Hounds was born. Harriet was my girl for 18 months but her impact will be with me to the grave. Misfit Hounds is a safe haven for the throwaways. We pull hounds in danger of euthanasia, rehabilitate them, vet them, spay/neuter and put them in a home environment until we can find their forever. We educate the public on what great family members Coonhounds, Foxhounds, Bloodhounds, and Beagles can be.


  • Pet Community Center
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1088/05b8edb9c25f-PCC_logo_transp.jpg
    5233 Harding Place #5247Nashville, TN 37217
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
  • Pet Community Center Logo

    Pet Community Center

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee, #8 in Nashville

    Nashville

    We want every pet to receive the high-quality veterinary care they deserve. Providing affordable and accessible veterinary care services is the key to our success. Pet Community Center (PCC) operates The Phran Galante Center for Pet Wellness a high-volume, low-cost spay/neuter and vaccine clinic in Nashville, TN run by highly skilled veterinarians, clinicians, and nonprofit professionals. As of the end of 2023, we have served over 125,000 animals. Additionally, PCC is tackling barriers to veterinary care and provides outreach and support to pet owners who live in veterinary care deserts. The results of PCC's work include lower pet homelessness rates, lower shelter euthanasia rates, and improved public health and quality of life in neighborhoods across Davidson County.


  • SOS Beagle Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1091/709320bd9e7a-sosgrass_small.gif
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    BeagleBeagle
  • SOS Beagle Rescue Logo

    SOS Beagle Rescue

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee, #3 in Chattanooga
    #3 in beagle

    Beagle

    Chattanooga

    The SOS (Save Our Snoopies) Beagle Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of beagles by sheltering homeless or abandoned dogs and adopting them to loving homes. Our chapters are located in New Jersey and Tennessee. We do not, however, have an actual shelter or public facility for you to visit. All of our beagles are in foster care or with their owners.


  • Operation Education
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1087/6c1b1d178186-untitled_design_1.png
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
  • Operation Education Logo

  • Nashville Metro Animal Care and Control
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1085/cba44c090ca8-MACC_logo.png
    5125 Harding Pl Nashville, TN 37211
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
  • Nashville Metro Animal Care and Control Logo

  • True Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1092/926ebe158989-rs_w_521_h_500_cg_true.jpg
    12110 Lebanon Road, Mount Juliet, Tennessee 37122, United States
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
  • True Rescue Logo

    True Rescue

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee, #8 in Nashville

    Nashville

    The foundation of True Rescue stands firm on helping voiceless animals find love & support from their human companions. Our mission works to support and collaborate with other rescue organizations, so we formed our 501(c)3 organization to provide sensible solutions. This animal rescue and others like us could not continue our important work without the support of our network of rescues, volunteers, and donors like you!


  • Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1082/d0c8979d4f20-MAR_Logo_Brown_Text_300x131.png
    memphisTennesseeUS
  • Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary Logo

    Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee, #1 in Memphis

    Memphis

    Mercer Animal Rescue purpose is to rescue, socialize, rehabilitate, and find forever homes for abused, neglected, abandoned and unwanted dogs, cats and horses. We rescue dogs from high kill shelters and the streets in the over-populated south. We transport them to the northeast states or the Chicago area where we hold adoption and fundraising events. All our potential adopters are pre-approved by submitting an adoption application and home checks are sometimes required. We want to make sure our dogs go to the best possible homes since they have not always had the best life. But it's all about the future‚ right?


  • Warren County Tn Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1093/7b3000fc27a4-logo.png
    169 Paws Trail, McMinnville, TN 37110
    TennesseeUS
  • Warren County Tn Animal Shelter Logo

    Warren County Tn Animal Shelter

    #600 in United States, #12 in Tennessee

    Our department has a wide variety of duties, including handling and containing aggressive, abused, or unfriendly animals that pose a danger to the citizens of Warren County. We also try to address the problem of unwanted or abandoned animals. We do our best to achieve this through adoption, rescue, or relocation of the animals picked up. However, some animals are euthanized due to the nature and temperament, or physical condition, of those animals.


The Best Chattanooga, TN Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    McKamey Animal Center
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1071/a7f0e46f656a-MAC_Logo___Transparent_Background.png
    4500 North Access Road Chattanooga, TN 37415
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    Adopted our precious Ringo, a husky, cattle dog mix with beautiful heterochromia. Mcamey we're great with meet and greets with our other dog, both in yard and meet and greet room to make sure our two dogs would get along, and Ringo has brought new life to our home
  • McKamey Animal Center Logo

    McKamey Animal Center

    McKamey Animal Center (MAC) opened its doors in 2008 with the mission of Saving Animals, Helping People. MAC's vision is to eliminate animal overpopulation, cruelty, and neglect by creating a culture of compassionate care, community engagement, and advocacy for animals by providing programs and education that support people and companion animals.

    View profile

  • Whiskers Fund
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1077/b24308198887-Untitled_design.png
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    Whiskers Fund is an amazing, small, foster based rescue. The founder is a young woman named Heather Raco who genuinely cares about animals and wants the best for them. She and her amazing team work day and night to rescue animals in need off the streets and from high kill shelters in the GA/TN area. Not only that but they also help local pet owners in need of vaccines or spay/neuter or resources to help. This rescue is absolutely amazing. I have fostered many dogs and even adopted from them last year. They are so very deserving of being recognized for their work and for some help.
  • Whiskers Fund Logo

    Whiskers Fund

    Founded by Heather Raco, Whiskers Fund works to help animals in desperate situations and match them with the perfect home. Our rescue is 100% foster based and facilitates adoptions across the entire United States.

    View profile

  • SOS Beagle Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1091/709320bd9e7a-sosgrass_small.gif
    chattanoogaTennesseeUS
    BeagleBeagle
  • SOS Beagle Rescue Logo

    SOS Beagle Rescue

    The SOS (Save Our Snoopies) Beagle Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving the lives of beagles by sheltering homeless or abandoned dogs and adopting them to loving homes. Our chapters are located in New Jersey and Tennessee. We do not, however, have an actual shelter or public facility for you to visit. All of our beagles are in foster care or with their owners.

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The Best Knoxville, TN Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    East TN Pit Bull Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1073/3a63a1466abb-Resized_Screenshot_20230105_191324.jpeg
    N/A
    knoxvilleTennesseeUS
    Pit BullPit Bull
    We adopted our wonderful Rosie from ETPBR and she is THE MOST amazing dog ever. We love her so very much. I believe she is the greatest in part because of the care and love she received from Terri. Terri is the president of ETPBR and was Rosie’s foster Mom. She pours her heart and soul into her dogs. She gets them whatever they need regardless of the financial burden it may place on her. She gives them a forever home if no one else steps up to adopt them. She advocates tirelessly for this incredibly misunderstood breed. I would imagine her job is often thankless and emotionally exhausting, yet she continues day in and day out. Her love for these dogs Is unconditional and boundless which is then reflected in their sweet personalities. We have adopted from rescues and shelters for decades and ETPBR is by far the most organized, well-run, effective rescue we have worked with. We have been so moved by her dedication to these dogs and breed that we contribute as much financial support as we can to her/them. She and her rescue truly deserve national recognition. Thank you!!
  • East TN Pit Bull Rescue Logo

    East TN Pit Bull Rescue

    East TN Pit Bull Rescue was started by our dear founder Wendy Martin Jackson. Wendy loved this breed and fought hard against BSL, misinformation, and ignorance about this breed. Since Wendy's passing, we are continuing her mission and legacy to stand up and fight for this breed.

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The Best Memphis, TN Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1082/d0c8979d4f20-MAR_Logo_Brown_Text_300x131.png
    memphisTennesseeUS
  • Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary Logo

    Mercer Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

    Mercer Animal Rescue purpose is to rescue, socialize, rehabilitate, and find forever homes for abused, neglected, abandoned and unwanted dogs, cats and horses. We rescue dogs from high kill shelters and the streets in the over-populated south. We transport them to the northeast states or the Chicago area where we hold adoption and fundraising events. All our potential adopters are pre-approved by submitting an adoption application and home checks are sometimes required. We want to make sure our dogs go to the best possible homes since they have not always had the best life. But it's all about the future‚ right?

    View profile

The Best Nashville, TN Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1089/d359ad2cf08a-Proverbs1210_Logo_2Color_RedBG.jpg
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Have watched this group move mountains for stray and homeless animals for years. Simply the best.
  • Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue Logo

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue

    Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, a 501c3 charitable organization based in Middle Tennessee, is run primarily by volunteers. Proverbs is totally dedicated to all animals they rescue. All medical care, regardless of cost, is provided as is training when necessary. A cradle to grave dedication is established by the care provided to neonates all the way to seniors who may need hospice care. Every animal rescued is cared for like a cherished family pet. Funds for medical care and food are raised by a variety of events, such as bake sales, golf scrambles, and participation in large media campaigns such as The Big Payback or through regular donations on our website.

    View profile

  • Lucky Farms Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1072/56799fa89277-IMG_5621.jpeg
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Great DaneEnglish Bulldog, French Bulldog, Great Dane
    While volunteering as the shelter manager at our local county pound for 4 years (Friends of Hartsville TN Animal Shelter) Lucky Farms Rescue has helped pull dogs, network dogs, transport dogs, and assist local dogs in need. Lucky Farms Rescue is a big asset in the community! 🐾
  • Lucky Farms Animal Rescue Logo

    Lucky Farms Animal Rescue

    Lucky Farms Animal Rescue is a nonprofit dog rescue focusing on Giant breeds such as Great Danes and Saint Bernards. Giant breeds have a hard time in a shelter environment and are much harder to adopt out. We also have a squishy face division focusing on English bulldogs and French Bulldogs. We rescue, rehab and find amazing homes for these deserving dogs

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  • Big Fluffy Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1074/2e7a97d29a19-Capture.PNG
    nashvilleTennesseeUS
    Over the years, have adopted four dogs from Big Fluffy. They are all remarkable. I’ve got them at various ages from three months to eight years. I have also fostered several dogs for the rescue. Every single dog I’ve had has been spectacular in their own special way. Big Fluffy does it right and they work hard to find excellent homes for dogs. I cannot say enough good things
  • Big Fluffy Dog Rescue Logo

    Big Fluffy Dog Rescue

    Big Fluffy Dog Rescue is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping giant-breed, mixed-breed dogs in need. We value dogs of all breeds, but we specialize in what the name says: big, fluffy dogs. We have volunteers all across the eastern half of the United States who work to help homeless big fluffy dogs find a home to call their own. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue works to save Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands and their mixes from euthanasia. We also have a fair assortment of honorary fluffies who don't fall into the traditional fluffy mold but are with us anyway and we love their tiny/non-fluffy selves as much as the others. Our dogs come in to rescue for many different reasons. Many were abandoned at high kill shelters. Some were turned in by owners who could not properly care for them and still others are failed livestock guardian dogs. Regardless of their origins, our goal for every dog we have is the same: a safe, happy home where each dog is a well-loved member of the family. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue has its headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee.

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

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

Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Tennessee dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Tennessee


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization


Sniffspot Tennessee Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Tennessee?

There are 23 in Tennessee. 10 are located in Nashville with 13 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Tennessee, the top 3 on our list are: Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, Lucky Farms Animal Rescue, McKamey Animal Center

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Tennessee is Beagle with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is English Bulldog with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Tennessee?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Tennessee. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
We require online application be submitted at www.proverbs1210rescue.org

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

Yes! Tennessee has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Beagle English Bulldog French Bulldog Great Dane Pit Bull

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Tennessee that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Tennessee?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Nashville is Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Tennessee is Lucky Farms Animal Rescue.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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