This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Texas. 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.
#7 in United States, #1 in Texas, #1 in Dallas
#1 in husky
Husky
Dallas
Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. was created in May 2009 as a non-profit 501(c)3 animal rescue organization that is run entirely by volunteers and does not have a paid staff or a shelter. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc relies solely on volunteer foster families to take huskies into their homes until permanent, qualified, and loving homes can be found. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is a responsible animal adoption agency and ensures that none of our dogs will ever contribute to the overpopulation of dogs in our community. The work of Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is supported by tax-deductible contributions by individuals, corporations, and grants. Our initial goal when we began in 2009 was to save 30 huskies from area shelters. We have rescued over 2,500 and counting.
"8 years ago, Texas Husky Rescue saved my soul dog, Inti. I lost him shortly after and was..."
— amy f.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Lots of dedicated leadership, careful planning, and communication to volunteers like me. Robust responses made to assist the huskies across..."
— elizabeth m.
Volunteer / foster
#26 in United States, #2 in Texas, #1 in Houston
Houston
We're here for the undercat and underdog, regardless of their breed, age or condition. Houston-grown, we're here to help our neighbors care for the pets they love. We're not done until every animal has a safe home. Until then, we'll be innovating, improving and tracking results to find the most effective ways to save lives.
"This place is amazing they truly care about the animals"
— trudy w.
Staff member
"I love what they do."
— joe a.
Fan
#27 in United States, #3 in Texas, #2 in Dallas
Dallas
We are a full-service animal shelter, which includes adoptions, reclaims, rescue, foster/volunteer opportunities, out-of-state transports, low-cost vaccine clinics, animal ordinance enforcement and public education.
"When we went to adopt our precious Lucy, it was obvious how much the staff love the animals. The facility..."
— judy m.
Adoptee
"I joined the FWACC team back in 2012. At the time, I had no idea how much this organization was..."
— nia h.
Staff member
#28 in United States, #4 in Texas, #2 in Houston
Houston
Three Little Pitties Rescue is a non-profit, 501c3 all-breed dog and cat rescue dedicated to saving animals out of desperate situations, primarily in the Houston, Texas area. From 2018 to 2024 the rescue has saved 13,000+ animals and delivered them to better lives up north.
"Adopted my beauty from them. Owned a restaurant and did a fundraiser for them. Working on opening a Sniff Spot..."
— merilee s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Caring and diligent in their placement and activities with rescue dogs and cats"
— wendy m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#36 in United States, #5 in Texas, #3 in Houston
Houston
Our charitable, tax-exempt mission is to save as many lives as possible by giving homeless and lost animals a warm and special touch to show them that they are loved so they can trust again and return that love. I served in the military (Navy) from 1989 till 1993. My passion in life has always been to work with and care for animals. I have 7 dogs of my own (Palen, Rocsco, BK, Chico, Beau, Star and Annie). All of my dogs, except Palen, were found and taken in by my facility, The Dog House Pet Salon. If I could take every rescue home with me, I would. We have taken in over 290 homeless and lost animals since we opened our doors for business at The Dog house Pet Salon in 2009. We have re-homed 289 of them. Dash has been with us for one year. Dash needs a little more training to become confident and trust humans again. If I cannot re-home one of my loved ones, they will stay with me and live a good life. We believe that every lost animal with a microchip, rabies id/vet tag number or a name tag should be able to be identified and the parents contacted in a matter of seconds. We created the innovative My Pet Credentials mobile app for that very reason ‚an easy to use digital platform to empower the parents of lost pets with a means to find their lost pet quickly and efficiently without the need of calling, faxing or emailing. Pet owners, pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians can download the MPC app or register at www.mypetcredentials.com. The cost to pet owners is $16.99 annually. The platform is free for pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians. I am most proud of the lost and found function that is part of the MPC pet service platform. Pet owners enter the microchip number or rabies id/vet tag number in their pet's profile. If someone finds the pet, they can use the MPC mobile app or go to www.mpclost.com to identify the lost pet by entering any one of three tracking numbers. The MPC platform will immediately display: A picture of the pet (front, left and right Image) The pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and markings The pet's most current vaccinations A button to contact the owner who will receive a text, email and mobile app notification with the good Samaritan‚ name, phone number, email and message When someone finds a pet, MPC‚ lost and found function assists in reuniting the lost pet with their family, quickly and efficiently, by giving the Samaritan the ability to enter the lost pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and any markings along with any microchip, rabies id or vet tag number (tracking numbers) and upload an image of the lost pet. Once the tracking information has been entered by the Samaritan the family of the lost pet will be able to go to our universal lost and found website, www.mpclost.com, to input their pet's tracking information and our platform will display to the family an image of their pet, the pet's name as reported by the good Samaritan, age, gender, breed, color and any markings and the name, address and phone number where the pet can be reunited with their family. This innovative process reunites lost pets found with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number with their families quickly and efficiently by eliminating the need to post lost and found flyers or waste time calling animal shelters, city pounds or veterinarians to locate their lost pet. I could go on about all the features of the MPC platform such as transfer of ownership, vaccination records storage, vaccination reminders and scheduling appointments with your pet salon. We created Donna's Love Pet Rescue for people who want to help end homelessness for animals and provide an easy to use digital platform to help identify pets, contact owners of lost pets quickly and efficiently and allow owners of lost pets with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number to be registered with MPC for a quick and joyous reunion! The donation we receive from you helps with. Vetting Food Training Fostering Transportation Spay and neuter Our goal is also to educate the community on the importance of spay and neutering, having dogs vetted and properly trained and provided with appropriate identification markers. Animals are family too. To make a tax-deductible donation by mail: Donna's Love Pet Rescue 5917 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77057
"Teresa Worley and her amazing team are truly an inspiration. Their dedication and commitment to saving the lives of abandoned,..."
— bernadette m.
Supporter
"The adoption process was very easy and having the opportunity to visit with our fur-baby at the foster home was..."
— lynn l.
Adoptee
#57 in United States, #6 in Texas, #4 in Houston
#4 in husky
Husky
Houston
Texas Sled Dog Rescue is a small rescue focusing on finding fur-ever homes for sled dog types (Siberian huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, and mixes). While in rescue, we will place them in foster homes, provide basic training as needed, and vetting which includes vaccinations, spay or neuter, microchip and other medical services as needed. Our volunteers are involved in all facets of rescue including but not limited to fundraising, transporting, evaluating dogs, respresenting the rescue at local dog events, fostering, etc.
"Our family adopted a three-legged stray husky from TX Sled Dog Rescue many years ago. The support we received has..."
— denise d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"I signed up to foster a dog for another rescue. The dog needed a medical foster but once I left..."
— dionne s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#61 in United States, #7 in Texas, #3 in Dallas
Dallas
The Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT) provides services such as pet adoptions, free or low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations, returning lost pets to their owners and cruelty investigations. HSNT is much more than an animal shelter, we're a resource to our entire community, offering various innovative, affordable and lifesaving programs and services.
"My first two dogs were from the Humane Society of North Texas and were the best dogs! The Humane Society..."
— cristina m.
Adoptee, Supporter
"We love HSNT! We have fostered for them for several years and then foster failed twice! The staff is so..."
— tava m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#62 in United States, #8 in Texas
DRRU 501(c)(3) nonprofit org. mission is to decrease the homeless population of displaced dogs in West Texas. We do this by sending them to our adoption facility in Illinois and transporting them to other rescues throughout the United States.
"Dog Rescue R Us is an amazing organization that has saved over 12000 animals in 5 years with hard work..."
— shawn b.
Staff member
"They are t a blessing at what they do! I got to see hands on how amazing this rescue..."
— maryann o.
Volunteer / foster
#64 in United States, #9 in Texas, #4 in Dallas
#1 in australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd
Dallas
SAVING AUSSIES IN THE DFW & SURROUNDING AREAS Two young women were helping out with two separate rescues when they crossed paths trying to help a dog for one another. They quickly became close friends. After they agreed that they each had a conflict of interest with the rescue they were helping they decided to work together to start their very own rescue and that was the day NTASR was born. While the president has amazing experience in the breed, the vice president has great experience in animal welfare administration so together they made the perfect pair. NTASR helps Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, and mixes of the two. They are open to working with other working or herding dogs as well depending on the circumstances. Don't think for a second these two women won't jump to help a dog in emergent need. Thus far, several other breeds have made their way through the rescue because of their kind and caring hearts including a doodle, a dachshund, a frenchie, and a shar pei. NTASR takes behavioral and medical dogs and gets them the appropriate rehab to be able to find them the perfect forever home. Aussies are such special breeds and deserve very particular and experienced homes.
"We adoopted our Corgi Morris from NTASR. Samantha was so great working with us. We are out of state so..."
— beth p.
Adoptee
"I wouldn’t have two of my fur babies without this rescue! So thankful and grateful for everything that they do!..."
— olivia l.
Adoptee
#70 in United States, #10 in Texas
#2 in great Dane
Great Dane
Save Rocky the Great Dane Rescue and Rehab is a federal 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and re-homing of Great Danes, Great Dane mixes, and other giant breeds that have been abused, neglected and/or abandoned. We are nationwide, which means that we operate within each state in the United States. However, we are based in Texas. Our group is completely lead by volunteers whom we are grateful for.
"I started off fostering a female stray for Save Rocky which turned out to be pregnant and I was not..."
— stephanie b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"We found Save Rocky through PetFinder when we were looking to adopt a Great Dane. From the first day,..."
— crystal c.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#77 in United States, #11 in Texas
We assist individuals and rescue groups in Texas to save dogs. We support Save A Heeler -Texas to Germany. Save A Heeler-Texas to Germany started in April 2023. In our first 4 months, we have saved 100 dogs on death row in Texas Shelters. That's 24 dogs per month! More than most big rescues save in a year! On our Facebook page, we post pictures of Australian Cattle Dogs, commonly known as Heelers (and sometimes other breeds), on death row in Texas Shelters. People in Europe, Canada, and parts of the U.S. (where Heelers are adored) see the pictures and pick a dog they'd like to have.Then we RUSH to the shelter to get the dog,sometimes only hours away from euthanasia. We treat any illnesses or injuries, spay/neuter and vaccinate. We keep the dog for 2-8 weeks to make sure the dog is healthy and behaves well, if not we train. Then we ship the dog to the new home. We have a team member in Germany, that has previously checked out the home, who receives the dog from the plane. We are a small, dynamic group with no fat! We have no administration expenses. Every dime goes toward picking up, housing, training, and shipping the dogs to their new homes! It costs $1,000 per dog to do this. Every $1,000 equals one dog that won't be killed and will live a long, happy life, making room for another dog at a shelter. Over the next 4 months (September to December 2023), with your help, we can save 100 dogs by the end of the year. Thursday, September 21, 2023, is North Texas Giving Day, our area's largest fundraising day of the year. Our goal is to raise $25,00 by then, to save and send 25 dogs on death row in Texas shelters to wonderful new homes in Europe. Please help us save these dogs by donating now!
"Very nice people, great dogs"
— angela n.
Adoptee
"Really trustful organization with so much heart."
— sonja f.
Supporter
#79 in United States, #12 in Texas
Aggieland Humane Society is a non-profit animal shelter serving the people and pets of the City of College Station and Brazos County and beyond. We offer adoptions, low-cost spay-neuter services, TNR services, pet licenses, microchipping, and more to the community. We are proud to say that last year, over 2,400 pets found forever families at Aggieland Humane Society!
"Aggieland Humane Society goes above and beyond for the animals! Everyone here truly pours their heart and soul into every..."
— katie g.
Staff member
"Aggieland Humane is the best! I’ve adopted so many fur babies from them over the years. All of the staff..."
— ruth b.
Staff member
#80 in United States, #13 in Texas, #5 in Dallas
Dallas
Doodle Rock Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dog rescue located in Dallas, Texas. Our team is entirely volunteer-based and we are funded solely on donations from our generous Doodle Rock community and supporters. We rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome abused, neglected, and abandoned poodle mixes from all over the United States. Many of our dogs come from the streets or shelters and are often in critical condition and/or on the euthanasia list. Our dogs are placed in loving foster homes where they receive all required medical care and/or behavioral modification until they are placed into their perfect forever homes.
"Doodle Rock Rescue in Dallas, Texas, is an extraordinary group of people dedicated to saving and improving lives of doodles..."
— elizabeth l.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Doodle Rock Rescue is an all volunteer organization that strives to help as many dogs as possible. I have been..."
— kathy. s.
Volunteer / foster
#81 in United States, #14 in Texas, #6 in Dallas
Dallas
Dallas Pets Alive is on a mission to promote and provide the resources, education and programs needed to eliminate the killing of companion animals in North Texas.
"Dallas Pets Alive is an incredible organization that does incredible work above and beyond to help dogs and cats have..."
— erin l.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Dallas Pets Alive is changing the way animal rescue is done! Such an innovative way to save life’s of companion..."
— lauren s.
Volunteer / foster
#92 in United States, #15 in Texas, #7 in Dallas
Dallas
Dallas Street Dog Advocates (DSDA) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that was formed by volunteers who care about the loose and stray street dog problem in Dallas. What we have learned from our experience in rescuing dogs off the street is that many of them are highly adoptable. They yearn to love and be loved and deserve to be healthy, happy and have a home of their own. We have also learned that the people that live in the areas, where the stray dog problems are the worst, want our help. They are instrumental in helping us catch the strays by establishing feeding schedules and routines. They also tell us about the dog's history. Some are left when their owners move out. Some are tossed from moving cars. Some are born on the street to dogs that have been abandoned. The list goes on and on. If you can think of it, it has happened. The people have watched these dogs die of starvation, dehydration and heat stroke. They have watched them suffer after being hit by a car and left lying on the street. The dogs and the people living in these conditions need our help. These dogs are typically socialized and do very well once they are rescued off the streets and given time to decompress. Dallas Street Dog Advocates goal is to rescue as many adoptable dogs off the streets as we can find foster homes for and have the funds to care for. After they are healthy and have lived in a foster home, then we find them forever homes. We see ourselves as a "bridge" between the homeless street dogs and their forever families. We also want to serve the people who live amongst this problem by offering them dog food, flea and tick prevention, education on caring for their dogs and connecting them with available resources to have their dog spayed or neutered. Together with the help of our volunteers and supporters, coupled with our passion and love for dogs, we will make a difference in Dallas one dog, one home, and one community at a time.
"I have volunteered for this rescue, fostered and adopted. Texas is overwhelmed with dumped and stray dogs. Rescues are exhausted..."
— carolyn d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Fan
"DSDA does an amazing job saving so many animals."
— l s.
Adoptee, Fan
#93 in United States, #16 in Texas, #8 in Dallas
Dallas
The Pawerful Rescue was established in 2019 as a 501c3 nonprofit animal rescue, but our founder, Stephanie, had already been rescuing strays for years. We all have a friend like that‚ don't we? No matter where she went, Stephanie would find an animal in need. It wasn't until Stephanie moved to South Los Angeles, though, that she experienced an overwhelming number of animals in need. From that point, The Pawerful Rescue grew organically. What was once just a person picking up strays and trying to reunite, vet, or rehome these little souls, morphed into an organization that is made up of like-minded individuals making a difference. Duke Hemstreet joined the rescue in 2020 and has been an instrumental part in the rescue flourishing. Our rescue has expanded into Texas, where we dream of building a sanctuary for those fur babies that need a place to call home. Our goal has always been to find the perfect home for our rescues, but if that perfect home never comes, they get to live out their days with us! We Rescue the Ones That Need the Most Rescuing! Every rescue is different. Some are breed specific or even age specific. We've rescued everyone from a five-pound miniature Poodle, to a 100-pound paralyzed Great Dane. We gravitate toward animals with extreme medical, behavioral, and other special needs as well as senior dogs. They aren't the easiest cases, but certainly the most fulfilling to watch transform. As The Pawerful Rescue continues to grow, we look forward to sharing every part of the journey with you.
"I have followed the lady who started this rescue well before her rescue was a thing. She dreamed and hoped..."
— madison s.
Supporter, Fan
"This team takes severely neglected and abused animals and transforms their lives. They rehabilitate and love every one of the..."
— alysha s.
Fan
#95 in United States, #17 in Texas, #9 in Dallas
#1 in border Collie
Border Collie
Dallas
Border Collie Save and Rescue, Inc. is an all volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable dog rescue dedicated to helping border collies throughout Central and North Texas.
"Dalis is the most loving human being towards animals. She can take the most sickest animal and thru her love..."
— shalene o.
Supporter
"We LOVE BC save. I did a few transports for them when I lived in Houston and they are just..."
— brittany b.
Supporter, Fan
#96 in United States, #18 in Texas, #5 in Houston
Houston
Founded in May 2021, we are a non-profit 501(c)3 rescue made up of animal-loving individuals. Our team consists of animal rescuers who have been making a difference in the lives of homeless pets for over a decade. We each started as volunteers and fosters, specializing in medical needs cases. Because of the high demand for more medical fosters and rescuers, we decided to join together and start our own non-profit rescue. We are an entirely foster-based organization, so we do not have a physical shelter. All animals are kept in loving foster homes. Our founder, Caitie, has been fostering medical cases in the Houston area for over ten years.
"Love this organization"
— alexandra s.
Supporter
"She deserves it"
— g. a.
Fan
#96 in United States, #18 in Texas, #1 in Austin
Austin
Austin Pets Alive! is a unique 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter pioneering comprehensive, innovative programs designed to save the animals most at risk for euthanasia. We provide public adoption services for companion animals which includes lifetime behavior support, as well as community support in re-homing or obtaining resources for companion animals through our Human and Animal Support Services program.
"Austin pets alive is in desperate need to rebuild their shelter. No animal should be on concrete much less in..."
— blanca g.
Supporter
"Austin Pets Alive! is a wonderful facility that saves many dogs and cats that would be euthanized at other shelters..."
— mindy m.
Adoptee
#97 in United States, #19 in Texas
"They allowed me to adopt my beautiful Bella. She was from a hoarding situation and was slow to warm up,..."
— misty p.
Adoptee
"I want these rescues to be recognized for their hard work"
— shannon h.
Fan
My name is Wendy Patterson. I am the founder of Scout’s Street Smart Rescue, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization, in Amarillo, TX. When I moved to Amarillo in 2018, I was absolutely shocked at the amount of homeless, abandoned, owner-surrendered, and injured dogs and puppies. The numbers were, and still are, staggering. My mission is two-fold. One, to rescue and to get these animals’ immediate needs met. Their needs range anywhere from immediate medical intervention to getting fosters lined up. So, when they’re ready, they can be placed in their approved adoptive homes. Secondly, my mission is to go into our community to provide basic health care needs. I will provide Parvo Distemper shots, Bordetella shots, and microchips and I will try to educate the community as much as possible, by providing educational pet health and welfare materials. My goal is to continue recruiting volunteers and team leaders in all areas, based on statistical needs. Scout’s Street Smart Rescue will be one of the leading, progressive rescues in the Panhandle. I have no doubts. We aren’t just moving dogs; we are truly committed to assisting the community by helping to address the needs of its residents. I am determined and designed to be part of the solution. Together, we will continue making a difference.
Top of Texas Corgi Rescue was officially launched and formally organized in 2013. However, we've been helping corgis long before then.
We are a small volunteer based animal rescue. We do not have a facility. All of our animals are in a foster home. Because of this, we have several adoption events each month and schedule meet and greets based on our foster's availability. Our dogs are posted on Petfinder and on our Facebook pages. Our fosters work hard on basic manners such as crate training, potty training, and socialization. Many of our animals are fostered with other animals in the home, however we always require a meet and greet before finalizing any adoption. If there is a certain animal you are interested in meeting and adopting, please fill out our preliminary adoption application and we will have the foster get in touch with you to discuss a possible meet and greet.
Austin Pets Alive! is a unique 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter pioneering comprehensive, innovative programs designed to save the animals most at risk for euthanasia. We provide public adoption services for companion animals which includes lifetime behavior support, as well as community support in re-homing or obtaining resources for companion animals through our Human and Animal Support Services program.
ABR is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing of unwanted English Bulldogs, education of owners on responsible dog ownership, and education of the public on the English Bulldog breed. ABR takes in adoptable English Bulldogs from animal shelters, other rescue groups, and owners who can no longer properly care for their English Bulldogs. We provide for their medical and behavioral needs. Considering the Bulldog's background and your family's needs, we intend to make the best match. Every Rescue Bulldog is different: personality, temperament, energy, comfort with kids and other animals, medical needs, and more. We take all of these factors into consideration when making a furever-home match. We take our responsibility of finding forever homes for Rescue Bulldogs very seriously. All our rescued dogs live with families in foster homes in Austin, Texas. We often operate statewide and occasionally take in dogs from other areas of Texas, but we primarily service the Austin/NW San Antonio area. We do not run a shelter that you can visit.
Austin Animal Center is the municipal shelter for the City of Austin and unincorporated Travis County, providing shelter to thousands of animals annually as well as providing animal protection and pet resource services. We accept stray and owned animals regardless of age, health, species or breed. Our goal is to place all adoptable animals in forever homes through adoption, foster care, or rescue partner groups. Animal Services has numerous programs and partnerships designed to help pets in the shelter, in the community, and in your home.
Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. was created in May 2009 as a non-profit 501(c)3 animal rescue organization that is run entirely by volunteers and does not have a paid staff or a shelter. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc relies solely on volunteer foster families to take huskies into their homes until permanent, qualified, and loving homes can be found. Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is a responsible animal adoption agency and ensures that none of our dogs will ever contribute to the overpopulation of dogs in our community. The work of Texas Husky Rescue, Inc. is supported by tax-deductible contributions by individuals, corporations, and grants. Our initial goal when we began in 2009 was to save 30 huskies from area shelters. We have rescued over 2,500 and counting.
We are a full-service animal shelter, which includes adoptions, reclaims, rescue, foster/volunteer opportunities, out-of-state transports, low-cost vaccine clinics, animal ordinance enforcement and public education.
The Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT) provides services such as pet adoptions, free or low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations, returning lost pets to their owners and cruelty investigations. HSNT is much more than an animal shelter, we're a resource to our entire community, offering various innovative, affordable and lifesaving programs and services.
The Humane Society of El Paso is a private, non-profit animal shelter that does not receive any city, state, or federal funding. We rely on grants, adoption fees, private donations, and fundraising events for all of our operating expenses.
While trying to rescue a neighborhood stray that had been picked up by animal services, Loretta Hyde accidentally came across a storage freezer containing hundreds of animals that had been recently euthanized. To add to her horror, she was informed that the euthanizing process often occurred twice a day. Loretta knew then that she had to do something to make a change in the community and in 1995 she started Animal Rescue League of El Paso, a nonprofit, no-kill shelter. In the time since, ARLEP has rescued an estimated 1,200 animals each year and extended their reach from Las Cruces, NM to Fabens, TX, sometimes going further in the event of natural disasters such as hurricanes. ARLEP community programs include pet vaccination clinics, annual adoption events, ARLEP Play for Paws (formerly known as Rescue Runners) and the PAWS Program — a program for low-risk inmates at the county jail that results in trained, adoptable dogs and inmates with job skills and newfound confidence. ARLEP’s profound community impact and commitment to its mission has sparked national notice from organizations like National Geographic, which filmed an episode of Dog Town, USA at the shelter, and a visit from renowned dog trainer, César Millan. Animal rescue is a full-time, year-round effort that’s made possible by the generosity of the community. ARLEP is governed by a volunteer board and managed by a small group of full-time staff. The operations are sustained by volunteers, grants and donations. Contact ARLEP to find out how you can join the lifesaving work and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.
There are many rescues and shelters which take readily adoptable pets; but so many times, animals are rejected because they may need extra care before they become adoptable, they are disabled, or they are seniors. That’s where From The Heart comes in … Founded in 2004, From the Heart Rescue is a rehabilitative, life-enhancing rescue dedicated to caring for the hurt and frightened victims of accident, disease, cruelty and neglect. We provide life-saving surgeries, medications and special care which other organizations are unable or unwilling to give. In fact, over 80% of the dogs entering our rescue are medically or physically challenged, disabled and senior -- all of which are considered by other rescues to be "unadoptable." From the Heart focuses on dogs, no matter the breed or species, giving each individual attention in a loving foster home while recovering physically or emotionally from their previous lives. Every day, our animals — those once abandoned, left to die on the streets, abused, neglected, sick or injured — learn the lessons of kindness and care. Our volunteers and fosters work diligently to make sure each one is given the respect and love it so richly deserves. While we may not place hundreds or thousands of animals a year, each one of the animals with which From the Heart Rescue works is ensured of a loving, thoroughly screened forever home, where they will get the second chance they deserve. It does not come cheaply to us — either to our hearts or our wallets. Each animal tugs at our heartstrings each minute of every day, as we nurse the scared, shy, injured or sick animals, working toward the day they will be wonderful, healthy creatures. While From the Heart Rescue has won many local and national awards for its work, there is nothing more rewarding to us than watching that once abused, injured or senior dog we have fought so hard to save, go off to its new loving home. These second-hand dogs are so grateful for the chance they have been given, they wish to repay that kindness with their love — given freely and unconditionally to their new family.
We're here for the undercat and underdog, regardless of their breed, age or condition. Houston-grown, we're here to help our neighbors care for the pets they love. We're not done until every animal has a safe home. Until then, we'll be innovating, improving and tracking results to find the most effective ways to save lives.
Three Little Pitties Rescue is a non-profit, 501c3 all-breed dog and cat rescue dedicated to saving animals out of desperate situations, primarily in the Houston, Texas area. From 2018 to 2024 the rescue has saved 13,000+ animals and delivered them to better lives up north.
Our charitable, tax-exempt mission is to save as many lives as possible by giving homeless and lost animals a warm and special touch to show them that they are loved so they can trust again and return that love. I served in the military (Navy) from 1989 till 1993. My passion in life has always been to work with and care for animals. I have 7 dogs of my own (Palen, Rocsco, BK, Chico, Beau, Star and Annie). All of my dogs, except Palen, were found and taken in by my facility, The Dog House Pet Salon. If I could take every rescue home with me, I would. We have taken in over 290 homeless and lost animals since we opened our doors for business at The Dog house Pet Salon in 2009. We have re-homed 289 of them. Dash has been with us for one year. Dash needs a little more training to become confident and trust humans again. If I cannot re-home one of my loved ones, they will stay with me and live a good life. We believe that every lost animal with a microchip, rabies id/vet tag number or a name tag should be able to be identified and the parents contacted in a matter of seconds. We created the innovative My Pet Credentials mobile app for that very reason ‚an easy to use digital platform to empower the parents of lost pets with a means to find their lost pet quickly and efficiently without the need of calling, faxing or emailing. Pet owners, pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians can download the MPC app or register at www.mypetcredentials.com. The cost to pet owners is $16.99 annually. The platform is free for pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians. I am most proud of the lost and found function that is part of the MPC pet service platform. Pet owners enter the microchip number or rabies id/vet tag number in their pet's profile. If someone finds the pet, they can use the MPC mobile app or go to www.mpclost.com to identify the lost pet by entering any one of three tracking numbers. The MPC platform will immediately display: A picture of the pet (front, left and right Image) The pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and markings The pet's most current vaccinations A button to contact the owner who will receive a text, email and mobile app notification with the good Samaritan‚ name, phone number, email and message When someone finds a pet, MPC‚ lost and found function assists in reuniting the lost pet with their family, quickly and efficiently, by giving the Samaritan the ability to enter the lost pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and any markings along with any microchip, rabies id or vet tag number (tracking numbers) and upload an image of the lost pet. Once the tracking information has been entered by the Samaritan the family of the lost pet will be able to go to our universal lost and found website, www.mpclost.com, to input their pet's tracking information and our platform will display to the family an image of their pet, the pet's name as reported by the good Samaritan, age, gender, breed, color and any markings and the name, address and phone number where the pet can be reunited with their family. This innovative process reunites lost pets found with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number with their families quickly and efficiently by eliminating the need to post lost and found flyers or waste time calling animal shelters, city pounds or veterinarians to locate their lost pet. I could go on about all the features of the MPC platform such as transfer of ownership, vaccination records storage, vaccination reminders and scheduling appointments with your pet salon. We created Donna's Love Pet Rescue for people who want to help end homelessness for animals and provide an easy to use digital platform to help identify pets, contact owners of lost pets quickly and efficiently and allow owners of lost pets with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number to be registered with MPC for a quick and joyous reunion! The donation we receive from you helps with. Vetting Food Training Fostering Transportation Spay and neuter Our goal is also to educate the community on the importance of spay and neutering, having dogs vetted and properly trained and provided with appropriate identification markers. Animals are family too. To make a tax-deductible donation by mail: Donna's Love Pet Rescue 5917 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77057
Friends Left Behind Rescue was founded in 2023 by an animal enthusiast who recognized the need for a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation center in our community. Since then, we have rescued and rehabilitated many animals from all over the region. Our facility includes a network of medical professionals and a caring team of volunteers who are passionate about the welfare of animals. We are committed to providing the best possible care for every animal that comes through our doors. Our History We formed our nonprofit organization to provide pet rescue solutions nationally. We've grown considerably since then, all thanks to the helping hands of this amazing community!
Greyhound Pets of America ‚ Houston (GPA-Houston) is the Houston chapter of Greyhound Pets of America (GPA), a national non-profit organization. GPA National was founded in 1987 and, together with its nearly 40 nationwide chapters, has adopted over 100,000 greyhounds to homes throughout the country. Established in March 1988, GPA-Houston was the first greyhound adoption group in Texas. For over thirty-five years, GPA Houston has been and continues to be dedicated to finding responsible and loving homes for retired racing greyhounds. GPA Houston is also involved in educating the public on the suitability and availability of greyhounds as pets, and to acquainting them on how this beautiful and noble breed makes an excellent and loving pet. GPA-Houston operates throughout the greater Houston area.
Houston Boxer Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all-volunteer, total foster care (no kennel facility) organization. HBR is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, health, and re-homing of abused, abandoned, neglected, or surrendered boxers within the Houston Metroplex and beyond. No officer or volunteer of Houston Boxer Rescue is compensated for their services. Rescue is a commitment of the heart, a labor of love. We are serious about changing the lives of boxers that come through our program. Our goal for the dogs we rescue is a loving and secure forever future in a home that has been vetted by an experienced volunteer. We strive to match the needs and character of a particular animal to the home environment of an approved adopter. Houston Boxer Rescue depends totally upon donations from like-minded, compassionate people. If you are an individual, a business, or a corporation that believes in our mission, please consider a tax-deductible contribution today. Remember to inquire as to whether your workplace supports matching donations.
Pearl's Place was named after Pearl, a 12+ year old yellow lab that I pulled from the Harker Heights, TX animal shelter the day before she was to be euthanized. Pearl lived with us and loved to be in the grooming shop until she passed away 4 years after she was rescued. During the outbreak of COVID and the grooming business having to be closed for a while, I was left pondering what to do with the empty boarding kennels and I decided to officially register Pearl's Place as a 501c3 nonprofit, which was IRS official in February 2021. My focus is senior and other special needs dogs to have a place to recover, heal mentally, physically and decompress. We take in all kinds of special needs dogs at Pearl's Place; dogs with demodectic mange, bacterial, yeast or fungal infections, long term shelter residents, and even dogs from the street that are found and no one will claim. Since 2018, under the guidance and training of Dr. Faver and Suzanne Marchetti, I have been using top-quality products from Iv San Barnard that are imported from Italy, along with the revolutionary hydro-massage ozone bath. The shampoo and hydro-massage ozone bath helps to heal the dog's skin that have demodectic mange, bacterial, yeast or fungal infections, to name just a few. We have recently added another qualified pet aesthetician to Pearl's Place so we can help even more dogs get the care they need.
Structure. Communication. Management. These are the building blocks of dog training. We at CoDa strive to bring effectual structure to your pup, communicate our desires to your dog in positive and reinforcing ways, all the while managing their behaviors. We then endeavor to transfer what we have taught the dog to our clients. CoDa knows that every dog is unique, therefore we listen to you and build a program that will communicate to your dog the behaviors you desire and the ones you do not.
The Association for a Pet Adoption Center (APAC) is a 501(c)3 not-for profit group of concerned volunteers who are working toward a time when homeless, unwanted animals are no longer being destroyed in our shelter, and when every dog and cat can be guaranteed a good life in a caring environment. All adoption fees and donations go to caring for the animals in our foster program, by paying for vaccinations, heartworm tests, and any other medical care needed. APAC is a 100% volunteer foster home based rescue. Therefore, we do not have a facility, nor do we have any paid employees or staff.
Concho Valley PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) is dedicated to the missions of saving homeless animals from euthanasia, finding loving homes for adoptable pets, and encouraging public awareness of spay and neuter to control the unwanted pet population. PAWS makes it possible to save even more pets and reach out to even more people in the community. We can do more together than we can do alone. Please consider joining our efforts by donating your time or money to save an animal’s life today. Concho Valley PAWS is the area’s largest non profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to pets. Our mission is to end the euthanasia of all adoptable animals. We feature pet adoption services, a low cost spay and neuter voucher program, training classes, activities for kids and teens, and opportunities for fosters and volunteers. We rely on the generous support of the community to continue and enhance our efforts to make life better for pets and people. We are located next to the City of San Angelo Animal Shelter at 3134 N US Highway 67, San Angelo, TX, 76905.
Critter Shack Rescue is an all-volunteer organization and with two paid veterinarians on staff at our low cost spay/neuter clinic. Funded by donations, fund-raisers, adoptions, and grants, the organization has been successful in rescuing thousands of adoptable animals. All of the pets offered for adoption are spayed/neutered/vaccinated, furthering the goal of reducing the numbers of homeless pets in need of rescue. Many of the rescued animals come from area shelters throughout the Concho Valley and many had been scheduled for euthanasia. Critter Shack advocates for the humane treatment of animals, works to prevent the abandonment of animals, facilitates a spay and neuter program, and provides education in animal care, behavior, and humane treatment, along with establishing an ongoing adoption program designed to find caring homes for rescued animals. As part of these efforts, Critter Shack is a partner with PetSmart Charities, which provides an on-site area for adoptable cats and offers space at the PetSmart in San Angelo for dog adoptions twice a month; PetSmart Charities also makes a monetary donation for each animal adopted on-site. Critter Shack volunteers recognize education and free or low cost spay/neuter, along with a robust adoption program are the solutions to pet overpopulation and abandonment.
K9s For Warriors serves our Veterans as honorably as they served their country. Our lifelong program is provided to Warriors at no cost and is designed to deliver maximum benefit with minimum administrative costs. We are proud that generous supporters trust us to do the right thing with their contributions, and we have received widespread recognition for our stewardship. Impacting the lives of Veterans will always be our greatest reward. Their continued participation in the program is the only validation we need.
San Antonio Pets Alive! is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Due to alarming euthanasia rates, San Antonio Pets Alive! (SAPA!) was founded in 2011. SAPA! is unique, it is the only high-paced, high-volume rescue in San Antonio, saving 5,000 at-risk cats and dogs from euthanasia annually. Since its inception, SAPA! has saved more than 70,000+ dogs and cats. SAPA! provides safety nets for the dogs and cats that fall through the cracks of all other lifesaving options and end up on the euthanasia list at the city shelter, often with just hours to be saved. SAPA! promotes the availability of these dogs and cats to other rescues, adopters, and fosters.
Our mission is fourfold: to Rescue, Rehabilitate, and Rehome adoptable animals from high kill shelters and the community, and to encourage Responsibility within the pet owning population. By providing rescue, adoption, and offering low cost spay/neuter options, we are able to connect with our community and enrich the lives of our pet population.
While we are not funded by the city, the county, or any national humane organizations, the Humane Society of New Braunfels, a 501c3 non-profit, contracts with the City of New Braunfels and Comal County to house stray animals brought in by their Animal Control Divisions. We also accept stray pets brought in by citizens and if space allows, pets whose owners can no longer care for them. A small portion of our operating budget comes from the city and country contracts. We handle approximately 4,000 animals a year and at any given time care for approximately 100 cats and 100 dogs. The revenue we collect from our contracts covers approximately three days of care per animal and their intake vaccinations. If the animal stays longer, or needs any veterinary care, we rely on donations and adoption fees to cover those costs.
Welcome to the 2024 Texas Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Texas 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 Texas dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Once your application is received, we will conduct a thorough screening process which includes a vet check of your current pets and a phone screen/interview by one of our adoption coordinators. If you rent a house or live in an apartment, we will verify huskies are accepted with the landlord/management company. Security deposits are the responsibility of the adopter. After your vet check and screenings are completed successfully, TXHR will conduct a fence/home check. This is a check for gaps, broken slats, holes, compromised spots, etc where a husky could escape. As a result of COVID-19 safety precautions, photo documentation is acceptable. Upon successful completion of the application process, a TXHR adoption counselor will set up a meet and greet with you and your matched husky. Once you determine you would like to adopt the husky, you must sign an adoption contract and pay the adoption fee before taking possession of the husky. All adoptions start with a 5 day trial period to ensure the husky is a good fit in your home and lifestyle.
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.