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The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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

    Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1282/178507e67e44-MC_logo_square.jpg
    No
    spokaneWashingtonUS
    Mikey’s Chance helps with all kinds of situations and dinds fosters or adopters
  • Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue Logo

    Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue

    Spokane

    Our mission to provide a safe haven for dogs in desperate circumstances within our community and surrounding area. We rehome these dogs with families that are a good fit for the dog. We seek to serve the humans that come to us ‚both our adoptive families and the people who need help rehoming dogs ‚but our priority is to act as advocates for our dogs at every stage of the rescue and adoption process. We commit to our dogs for life! We are a registered non-profit organization, headquartered in the Tri-Cities in south-central Washington State. We focus mainly on saving dogs that are at risk in our region and placing them with adopters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most of our dogs come from shelters in Washington & Idaho, where they are facing the threat of Euthanasia. Others are released to us by private individuals who need medical help with their own dogs. Other dogs are strays, either dumped or abandoned, that need a chance at a new life.

    "Mikey’s Chance helps with all kinds of situations and dinds fosters or adopters"

    michelle h.

    Fan

    "Mikey's Chance always goes above and beyond to take care of the animals."

    mackenzie s.

    Supporter, Fan


  • Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1283/498e4cc9912d-PXL_20230824_210822875.jpg
    3409 Stone Way N, Seattle WA 98103
    seattleWashingtonUS
    Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. Since October 2023, my family and I have had the privilege of fostering four pups with them, and it's been a great experience. Not only does Resilient Hearts show unwavering love and care for all their animals, but their sense of community is truly remarkable. The support and camaraderie within the sanctuary's network have been invaluable. We couldn't ask for a better organization to be a part of, and we're proud to support their mission wholeheartedly.
  • Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary Logo

    Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary

    Seattle

    Resilient Hearts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit rescue that rescues animals from high risk situations and unites them with their forever families in the Puget Sound area. As a queer led organization, we are committed to accessible and inclusive programs for our entire community, and maintain a community safe space for anyone to share our animals.

    "Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. Since October 2023, my family and I have had..."

    felie h.

    Volunteer / foster

    "To me, dogs are about family. They aren't just members of the family but they improve the quality of our..."

    rob f.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1284/f60349008a54-hi_res_logo.jpg
    by appt only: 8410 Woods Creek Rd, Monroe, WA 98272
    seattleWashingtonUS
    Great care and supporr of good homes for pets
  • Motley Zoo Animal Rescue Logo

    Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

    Seattle

    Motley Zoo Animal Rescue is the revolution of rescue. As a rock and roll-themed, foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue, we take in animals that have no one else. "Animals" primarily means dogs and cats, but as the name "zoo" implies, we take all kinds (as long as we have a foster home/ resources for that species). We work with shelters and owners who cannot keep their pets and through extensive veterinary care and training, we rehabilitate them and place them in loving, forever homes where the animals will never again be abandoned. More than 30% of the animals we take in are special or medically needy and require more extensive and expensive care. In all we work with all ages, breeds, many species and all different types of humans too- treating each as an individual so they can find the life and love they deserve.

    "Great care and supporr of good homes for pets"

    sue b.

    Adoptee

    "I've been a follower and supporter of Motley Zoo for many years. I've continually been impressed by their efforts..."

    kerma j.

    Adoptee, Supporter, Fan


  • The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    As a new foster parent, the support I receive is unreal. The staff and volunteers are all amazing, kind, and awesome human beings.
  • The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County Logo

    The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County

    "As a new foster parent, the support I receive is unreal. The staff and volunteers are all amazing, kind, and..."

    jess a.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

    "As a staff member at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, I see the hard work and dedication..."

    stefanie c.

    Staff member


  • Greyhound Pets, Inc.
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    After I adopted my retired racers from GPI, I decided to volunteer there as a thank you. I found that the organization is even better than I thought! Each dog is treated as an individual, with specific notes on their kennel. They are loved dearly and cared for by all of the staff and many volunteers. The dogs receive not just veterinary care, but when necessary, rehab care. Plus special diets, meds, and special treats (including the dogs’ preference!) And their trainers are top notch. I cannot recommend this adoption center highly enough!
  • Greyhound Pets, Inc. Logo

    Greyhound Pets, Inc.

    #121 in United States, #5 in Washington

    "After I adopted my retired racers from GPI, I decided to volunteer there as a thank you. I found that..."

    megan m.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

    "I volunteered at different rescues and can honestly say that Greyhound Pets Inc is one of the best experiences I've..."

    sapphire r.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster


  • Auburn Valley Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1289/a8d43c45b2b5-AVHS_NWSNC_Square.png
    4910 A St SE Auburn, WA 98092
    seattleWashingtonUS
    AVHS is an amazing non-profit which provides a much needed service to our community. The care and compassion they provide to the animals in their care is inspiring. Dedicated and passionate, they match the animals with the right people, to have a great team. We are so excited about the list and homeless animals in our community.
  • Auburn Valley Humane Society Logo

    Auburn Valley Humane Society

    #121 in United States, #5 in Washington

    Seattle

    AVHS is a local, independent 501(c)3 non-profit, which relies on pet licensing fees, vulnerable pet housing agreements with the City of Auburn, shelter services, spay and neuter services, Thrift Store sales, Cat Cafe Sales, and generous donations from the community to fund the shelter, clinic, and educational programs.

    "AVHS is an amazing non-profit which provides a much needed service to our community. The care and compassion they provide..."

    regina h.

    Volunteer / foster

    "Ethics and care of people and animals is top notch"

    mer m.

    Supporter, Fan


  • Juno's Den
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    They help dogs in Mexico, find good homes, plus supplies food, blankets and medical needs
  • Juno's Den Logo

    Juno's Den

    #124 in United States, #7 in Washington

    "They help dogs in Mexico, find good homes, plus supplies food, blankets and medical needs"

    frances v.

    Supporter

    "I would like to nominate Juno's Den for two main reasons. 1. The dogs they rescue have the most incredibly sad..."

    macarena m.

    Volunteer / foster, Fan


  • Caring Hearts 4 Paws
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1290/b34a0c15d7b5-20210706_141938.jpg
    5111 Pheasant Ln SE Olympia Washington 98513
    olympiaWashingtonUS
    I cannot imagine a rescue with staff so active, loving, dedicated and tireless as those at Caring Hearts for Dogs. Susan, the hands-on carer at her home in Olympia, is in almost constant motion with everything to include so much work birthing the rescued mothers, transporting for vet visits, treating the new arrivals with baths and immunizations/medical needs, reviewing applications and doing home visits to insure the rescue’s excellent adoption requirements are met before approving adoptions, gathering items and holding fundraising and adoption events, finding fosters, modifying the property to include safe outdoor spaces for the dogs to get exercise, cleaning up after them inside and out, responding to calls/texts, applying for grants, getting healthy food for the dogs, keeping all the records, seeking out volunteers and fosters - the seemingly endless list goes on. Susan’s chosen life of rescue is admirable, and we don’t know how she does it all! In my opinion, Caring Hearts for Dogs is the most worthy, and I highly recommend this amazing rescue!
  • Caring Hearts 4 Paws Logo

    Caring Hearts 4 Paws

    #137 in United States, #8 in Washington

    Olympia

    Founded 06/21 with a passion to help strays of the Yakima Valley and Yakama Reservation we take in pregnant or nursing strays with their puppies.

    "I cannot imagine a rescue with staff so active, loving, dedicated and tireless as those at Caring Hearts for Dogs...."

    renee h.

    Supporter

    "Caring Hearts 4 Paws is a small rescue that is making a big difference in the lives of dogs! I..."

    melissa d.

    Adoptee


  • Misspits Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1287/65acd9dd036c-IMG_0273.jpeg
    olympiaWashingtonUS
    Great Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dogGreat Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dog
    Melissa aka MissPits is one of the most thoughtful, ethical rescues I know of. I am a certified behavior consultant and I volunteered my time, helping with some more of her challenging. She’s thoughtful. She’s ethical, and she will never resort to hurting or scaring a dog to get compliance out of it. She is continually tracking dogs that have been adopted out from her, and always welcome them back with open arms if necessary. She has a big heart and a very challenging job, and I just can’t say enough amazing things about her. my parents adopted a dog from her over a year ago and he is doing fantastic. I often update her with antics, and when she finds old photos of him, she sends them our way. If all rescues could be like Miss Pitts, this world would be a much better place.
  • Misspits Rescue Logo

    Misspits Rescue

    #141 in United States, #9 in Washington

    Great Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dog

    Olympia

    I started Misspits Rescue in 2013 to help advocate for pit bull type dogs. After adopting Dexter, a big, happy, pit bull that almost died simply due to his looks, I knew I had to do something. After years working with a local pit bull rescue and volunteering at a shelter, Misspits Rescue was born. In the last ten years we have grown and moved to larger property. We adding additional breeds over the years and help those that need us the most. Now that we have the space, we offer sanctuary to farmed animals as well. This created a perfect place to help struggling herding breeds as well.

    "Melissa aka MissPits is one of the most thoughtful, ethical rescues I know of. I am a certified behavior consultant..."

    kristine a.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

    "Misspits is an amazing rescue and sanctuary. Volunteers work tirelessly to ensure the best care and life for adoptable animals..."

    wendy c.

    Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan


  • Path of Hope Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1322/1cbac5caa1b0-Path_of_Hope_Rescue.png
    No physical address
    spokaneWashingtonUS
    We adopted our pup from Path of Hope Rescue four years ago. They did a great job throughout the process, showing us how much they care and want to find the right home. They continue to offer tips and guidance to help the pups have a successful life.
  • Path of Hope Rescue Logo

    Path of Hope Rescue

    #146 in United States, #10 in Washington

    Spokane

    At Path of Hope Rescue we strive to decrease the euthanasia rate of high risk dogs in the southern United States by transporting pregnant dogs and puppies to the Pacific Northwest to find adoptive homes. We are 100% foster based and rely on volunteers and fosters to help in our mission. The overpopulation of dogs in Texas is extreme. Because of a culture that does not value spay and neuter, there are simply too many dogs. And because of this, dogs are being euthanized merely for their existence. Shelters are forced to choose which dog to kill and which to save on a daily basis. There are an estimated 700,000 stray dogs just in the city of Houston alone. Dogs on the streets, dogs in shelters, dogs living on chains, dogs everywhere. Pregnant dogs and puppies are often euthanized because of the amount of resources they require or even more often, pregnant moms are spayed, aborting the puppies. Path of Hope Rescue believes that these dogs deserve a chance at life.

    "We adopted our pup from Path of Hope Rescue four years ago. They did a great job throughout the..."

    lori w.

    Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

    "Frank & Fiona (Lisa) were rescued from a kill shelter in Texas. She was pregnant and they were a bonded..."

    sophia a.

    Adoptee


  • Hope 4 huskies
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1288/b60116672607-received_1198140844043698.jpeg
    Na
    WashingtonUS
    HuskyHusky
    Hope for huskies has been trying really hard to battle over breeding and dumping of huskies in Washinton state. My husband and I adopted a wonderful dog from them in October. And took our first foster with them in January. They did a lot for the foster who had ended up having pneumonia, and both ear and sinus infections. We just love this rescue and the work they do!
  • Hope 4 huskies Logo

    Hope 4 huskies

    #153 in United States, #11 in Washington

    Husky

    We are a small but determined rescue. We are all in to save even 1 husky/malmute at a time. We are dedicated to quality care not quality. Every H4H dog is family.

    "Hope for huskies has been trying really hard to battle over breeding and dumping of huskies in Washinton state. My..."

    charissa a.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

    "I was looking for a husky friend for my current husky and sure enough I found Hope 4 Husky in..."

    emily b.

    Adoptee


  • Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG)
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1291/7e06a55bd202-WAG_HHR_logo_circle_RGB.jpg
    751 McComb Rd, Sequim, WA
    WashingtonUS
    WAG is a special haven on the Olympic Peninsula that provides a safe and loving home for rescued and surrendered dogs. WAG shelters dogs at both their lovely 2.5 acre “Halfway Home Ranch” (on the beautiful landscaped grounds of a former nursery) as well as in the homes of countless devoted volunteers. They accept large, small, old, young, healthy, and needy dogs, and often rescue entire litters of homeless puppies plus their moms. Each charge receives extraordinary care and love for as long as they need it. WAG carefully vets potential adopters and only places their charges in the best forever homes with people who have the necessary skills to welcome the dog(s) into their family and home.
  • Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG) Logo

    Welfare for Animals Guild (WAG)

    #162 in United States, #12 in Washington

    Since 2001, WAG has placed dogs into new, loving homes. Our rescues come to us in many ways: owner surrenders due to unplanned life changes, over-populated shelters, and strays found wandering streets and fields. Prior to adoption, all of our rescues are spayed/neutered, receive all vaccines, are micro-chipped, and all other medical needs are addressed.

    "WAG is a special haven on the Olympic Peninsula that provides a safe and loving home for rescued and surrendered..."

    julie s.

    Adoptee

    "The entire crew at WAG work tirelessly 24/7 to help the dogs that are fortunate enough to come there. They..."

    susan h.

    Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan


  • CHEW Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1293/42d94132a615-CHEW_Logo.jpg
    None
    seattleWashingtonUS
    We were looking for an older dog to be a companion to our 12 year old, Waldo. CHEW holds regular events for people to meet dogs ready for adoption, but they arranged a special meet and greet for us. CHEW Rescue, Gloria, and foster mom, Vicki, helped us learn about Benny and special needs, and he is now our new boy! He is absolutely thriving and happy and we know it is because CHEW gave him such a great start. Wonderful rescue program!
  • CHEW Dog Rescue Logo

    CHEW Dog Rescue

    #184 in United States, #13 in Washington

    Seattle

    CHEW Dog Rescue is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned dogs, dogs scheduled for euthanasia due to shelter space limitations, and other dogs who need us. We are always looking to find additional foster homes and acquire funding for other essential elements of dog rescue to allow us to help more dogs in need. We strive to place our dogs in safe and loving forever homes. Additionally, we promote responsible dog ownership through the facilitation of educational and recreational activities and events. CHEW (Canine Health Education and Welfare) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.

    "We were looking for an older dog to be a companion to our 12 year old, Waldo. CHEW holds regular..."

    judy m.

    Adoptee

    "CHEW does a fantastic job in finding the best home for its dogs."

    marybeth h.

    Volunteer / foster


  • The Pit Bull Pen
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1294/45aca63c8d44-logo.png
    22206 e Kennedy rd Benton city Washington
    seattleWashingtonUS
    Pit BullPit Bull
    They do so much with so little. Never hesitate!
  • The Pit Bull Pen Logo

    The Pit Bull Pen

    #218 in United States, #14 in Washington

    Pit Bull

    Seattle

    We are an all volunteer rescue specializing in bully breeds. We are facility based and prefer our dogs experience the home environment with their foster homes because the care they receive is superior to a shelter environment. Spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations, training, socialization and lots of love are critical for producing well balanced and well behaved dogs.

    "They do so much with so little. Never hesitate!"

    es.

    Supporter

    "Pitbulls are not the easiest to pet out due to the breeds reputation but they still work with as many..."

    michelle m.

    Supporter


  • Adams County Pet Rescue
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    Most caring rescue I have ever encountered.
  • Adams County Pet Rescue Logo

    Adams County Pet Rescue

    #218 in United States, #14 in Washington

    "Most caring rescue I have ever encountered."

    ellen h.

    Supporter

    "They never turn animals away even though they are overwhelmed, isolated, and often overrun. It’s a ground up, grassroots operation...."

    erin b.

    Supporter


  • Forgotten Dogs Rescue
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    Great rescue!
  • Forgotten Dogs Rescue Logo

    Forgotten Dogs Rescue

    #235 in United States, #16 in Washington

    "Great rescue!"

    gemma b.

    Fan

    "All the hard work they put into the rescue animals they save!"

    stephanie w.

    Supporter


  • Homeward Pet Adoption Center
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    The work they do is amazing!
  • Homeward Pet Adoption Center Logo

    Homeward Pet Adoption Center

    #235 in United States, #16 in Washington

    "The work they do is amazing!"

    darlene j.

    Supporter, Fan

    "I have volunteered at several shelters in the area, and I can say without a doubt that Homeward Pet Adoption..."

    lori b.

    Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan


  • Old Dog Haven
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    Our neighbor adopted a senior dog from Animal Haven and gave it great end of life car. It was so inspiring to see the family love a dog that was in his golden years.
  • Old Dog Haven Logo

    Old Dog Haven

    #235 in United States, #16 in Washington

    "Our neighbor adopted a senior dog from Animal Haven and gave it great end of life car. It was so..."

    olivia j.

    Fan

    "Old Dog Haven rescues senior dogs dumped at shelters (or who lose their homes for other reasons) and provides a..."

    margaret t.

    Supporter


  • The Humane Society of Mason County
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    The staff and volunteers go above and beyond to care for the animals and match them with loving families. All of our dogs are mentally and physically healthy, living their best lives thanks to these amazing humans at the shelter.
  • The Humane Society of Mason County Logo

    The Humane Society of Mason County

    #235 in United States, #16 in Washington

    "The staff and volunteers go above and beyond to care for the animals and match them with loving families. All..."

    kristen d.

    Supporter, Fan

    "The humane society of mason county has been hugely helpful to me in spaying my dogs and helping with a..."

    beck d.

    Volunteer / foster, Supporter


  • Pet OverPopulation Prevention Tri-Cities
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    WashingtonUS
    I rescued a senior black lab mix that was 11 years old. She was sweet and loving and made a great addition to our family. She gave us 5 great years of love.
  • Pet OverPopulation Prevention Tri-Cities Logo

    Pet OverPopulation Prevention Tri-Cities

    #235 in United States, #16 in Washington

    "I rescued a senior black lab mix that was 11 years old. She was sweet and loving and made..."

    kendal o.

    Adoptee

    "I’ve worked with rescues/humane societies to adopt before, but this was the first time I experienced an organization that was..."

    corey c.

    Adoptee


See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Washington


The Best Olympia, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Caring Hearts 4 Paws
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1290/b34a0c15d7b5-20210706_141938.jpg
    5111 Pheasant Ln SE Olympia Washington 98513
    olympiaWashingtonUS
    I cannot imagine a rescue with staff so active, loving, dedicated and tireless as those at Caring Hearts for Dogs. Susan, the hands-on carer at her home in Olympia, is in almost constant motion with everything to include so much work birthing the rescued mothers, transporting for vet visits, treating the new arrivals with baths and immunizations/medical needs, reviewing applications and doing home visits to insure the rescue’s excellent adoption requirements are met before approving adoptions, gathering items and holding fundraising and adoption events, finding fosters, modifying the property to include safe outdoor spaces for the dogs to get exercise, cleaning up after them inside and out, responding to calls/texts, applying for grants, getting healthy food for the dogs, keeping all the records, seeking out volunteers and fosters - the seemingly endless list goes on. Susan’s chosen life of rescue is admirable, and we don’t know how she does it all! In my opinion, Caring Hearts for Dogs is the most worthy, and I highly recommend this amazing rescue!
  • Caring Hearts 4 Paws Logo

    Caring Hearts 4 Paws

    Founded 06/21 with a passion to help strays of the Yakima Valley and Yakama Reservation we take in pregnant or nursing strays with their puppies.

    View profile

  • Misspits Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1287/65acd9dd036c-IMG_0273.jpeg
    olympiaWashingtonUS
    Great Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dogGreat Dane, Pit Bull, Senior dog
    Melissa aka MissPits is one of the most thoughtful, ethical rescues I know of. I am a certified behavior consultant and I volunteered my time, helping with some more of her challenging. She’s thoughtful. She’s ethical, and she will never resort to hurting or scaring a dog to get compliance out of it. She is continually tracking dogs that have been adopted out from her, and always welcome them back with open arms if necessary. She has a big heart and a very challenging job, and I just can’t say enough amazing things about her. my parents adopted a dog from her over a year ago and he is doing fantastic. I often update her with antics, and when she finds old photos of him, she sends them our way. If all rescues could be like Miss Pitts, this world would be a much better place.
  • Misspits Rescue Logo

    Misspits Rescue

    I started Misspits Rescue in 2013 to help advocate for pit bull type dogs. After adopting Dexter, a big, happy, pit bull that almost died simply due to his looks, I knew I had to do something. After years working with a local pit bull rescue and volunteering at a shelter, Misspits Rescue was born. In the last ten years we have grown and moved to larger property. We adding additional breeds over the years and help those that need us the most. Now that we have the space, we offer sanctuary to farmed animals as well. This created a perfect place to help struggling herding breeds as well.

    View profile

The Best Seattle, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1283/498e4cc9912d-PXL_20230824_210822875.jpg
    3409 Stone Way N, Seattle WA 98103
    seattleWashingtonUS
    Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary holds a special place in my heart. Since October 2023, my family and I have had the privilege of fostering four pups with them, and it's been a great experience. Not only does Resilient Hearts show unwavering love and care for all their animals, but their sense of community is truly remarkable. The support and camaraderie within the sanctuary's network have been invaluable. We couldn't ask for a better organization to be a part of, and we're proud to support their mission wholeheartedly.
  • Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary Logo

    Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary

    Resilient Hearts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit rescue that rescues animals from high risk situations and unites them with their forever families in the Puget Sound area. As a queer led organization, we are committed to accessible and inclusive programs for our entire community, and maintain a community safe space for anyone to share our animals.

    View profile

  • Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1284/f60349008a54-hi_res_logo.jpg
    by appt only: 8410 Woods Creek Rd, Monroe, WA 98272
    seattleWashingtonUS
    Great care and supporr of good homes for pets
  • Motley Zoo Animal Rescue Logo

    Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

    Motley Zoo Animal Rescue is the revolution of rescue. As a rock and roll-themed, foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue, we take in animals that have no one else. "Animals" primarily means dogs and cats, but as the name "zoo" implies, we take all kinds (as long as we have a foster home/ resources for that species). We work with shelters and owners who cannot keep their pets and through extensive veterinary care and training, we rehabilitate them and place them in loving, forever homes where the animals will never again be abandoned. More than 30% of the animals we take in are special or medically needy and require more extensive and expensive care. In all we work with all ages, breeds, many species and all different types of humans too- treating each as an individual so they can find the life and love they deserve.

    View profile

  • Auburn Valley Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1289/a8d43c45b2b5-AVHS_NWSNC_Square.png
    4910 A St SE Auburn, WA 98092
    seattleWashingtonUS
    AVHS is an amazing non-profit which provides a much needed service to our community. The care and compassion they provide to the animals in their care is inspiring. Dedicated and passionate, they match the animals with the right people, to have a great team. We are so excited about the list and homeless animals in our community.
  • Auburn Valley Humane Society Logo

    Auburn Valley Humane Society

    AVHS is a local, independent 501(c)3 non-profit, which relies on pet licensing fees, vulnerable pet housing agreements with the City of Auburn, shelter services, spay and neuter services, Thrift Store sales, Cat Cafe Sales, and generous donations from the community to fund the shelter, clinic, and educational programs.

    View profile

The Best Spokane, WA Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1282/178507e67e44-MC_logo_square.jpg
    No
    spokaneWashingtonUS
    Mikey’s Chance helps with all kinds of situations and dinds fosters or adopters
  • Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue Logo

    Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue

    Our mission to provide a safe haven for dogs in desperate circumstances within our community and surrounding area. We rehome these dogs with families that are a good fit for the dog. We seek to serve the humans that come to us ‚both our adoptive families and the people who need help rehoming dogs ‚but our priority is to act as advocates for our dogs at every stage of the rescue and adoption process. We commit to our dogs for life! We are a registered non-profit organization, headquartered in the Tri-Cities in south-central Washington State. We focus mainly on saving dogs that are at risk in our region and placing them with adopters throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most of our dogs come from shelters in Washington & Idaho, where they are facing the threat of Euthanasia. Others are released to us by private individuals who need medical help with their own dogs. Other dogs are strays, either dumped or abandoned, that need a chance at a new life.

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  • Path of Hope Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/1322/1cbac5caa1b0-Path_of_Hope_Rescue.png
    No physical address
    spokaneWashingtonUS
    We adopted our pup from Path of Hope Rescue four years ago. They did a great job throughout the process, showing us how much they care and want to find the right home. They continue to offer tips and guidance to help the pups have a successful life.
  • Path of Hope Rescue Logo

    Path of Hope Rescue

    At Path of Hope Rescue we strive to decrease the euthanasia rate of high risk dogs in the southern United States by transporting pregnant dogs and puppies to the Pacific Northwest to find adoptive homes. We are 100% foster based and rely on volunteers and fosters to help in our mission. The overpopulation of dogs in Texas is extreme. Because of a culture that does not value spay and neuter, there are simply too many dogs. And because of this, dogs are being euthanized merely for their existence. Shelters are forced to choose which dog to kill and which to save on a daily basis. There are an estimated 700,000 stray dogs just in the city of Houston alone. Dogs on the streets, dogs in shelters, dogs living on chains, dogs everywhere. Pregnant dogs and puppies are often euthanized because of the amount of resources they require or even more often, pregnant moms are spayed, aborting the puppies. Path of Hope Rescue believes that these dogs deserve a chance at life.

    View profile

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

Welcome to the 2024 Washington Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Washington 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 Washington dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Washington


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


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization


Sniffspot Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Washington?

There are 73 in Washington. 8 are located in Seattle with 65 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Washington, the top 3 on our list are: Mikey's Chance Canine Rescue, Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary, Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Washington is Senior dog with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Husky with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Washington?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Washington. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Our adoption process is detailed and comprehensive, because we want to ensure that the dog we entrust to you is a good fit for your lifestyle, home environment, needs and expectations. Our goal is not simply to place dogs in homes, but to create lasting, rewarding, happy relationships between our dogs and their humans. We will process your application as quickly as we can, but we ask you to be patient if it takes longer than you’d like. You are welcome to contact us at any time to ask about our progress.

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

Yes! Washington has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Husky Great Dane Pit Bull

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

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Seattle is Resilient Hearts Animal Sanctuary. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Washington is Misspits Rescue.

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

Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool
David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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