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The Best Asheville, NC Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Asheville, NC. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.

Mountain Pet Rescue AVL
#60 in United States, #6 in North Carolina, #1 in Asheville
Asheville
We are a non-profit, foster-based animal rescue in Asheville, NC that has saved thousands of lives since our inception in 2017. Through grassroots efforts, we envision a future in which all companion animals find loving homes where they are able to receive the care and respect they deserve.
"In January 2021 I adopted Sukey, my Blue Heeler-Golden Doodle. She is now a certified therapy dog I take..."
— victor w.
Adoptee
"MPR AVL is an amazing rescue. They are foster based, which means there isn't a physical shelter to hold pets..."
— karina h.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

Boxer Butts & Other Mutts Rescue
#98 in United States, #13 in North Carolina, #2 in Asheville
#3 in boxer
Boxer
Asheville
Welcome to Boxer Butts & Other Mutts, Inc. We are a 501 (c)(3) non profit rescue group located in Western North Carolina. BBOM was founded by Heidi Wagner and Shawn Heystek in December of 2011. Boxer Butts & Other Mutts continues to grow with the love and support of our amazing Rescue Family.
"This rescue - really, one phenomenal human - always finds a way to say "Yes." And that Yes isn't the..."
— tara f.
Fan
"Heidi takes on some of the worse cases of neglect I’ve seen, Biggie was a dog that she took in..."
— lisa a.
Supporter

Adoption First Animal Rescue
#99 in United States, #14 in North Carolina, #3 in Asheville
Asheville
Founder Staci Ventura and her husband Eric Crespo began to develop the idea of Adoption First Animal Rescue in 2011 while working for a rescue in the San Diego, CA area. When Eric was stationed in North Carolina the two realized how much help the rural areas needed and decided to pursue the idea of Adoption First! The Rescue officially started on October 1, 2013 and received its 501c3 status as an official non profit organization in 2014. Since then the rescue has developed a great team of volunteers and established a board of directors who run the day to day operations.
"Adopted a sweet dog from Adoption First and my daughter fosters dogs for them. They really care, and have saved..."
— debbie s.
Adoptee

Binx's Home for Black Cats
#100 in United States, #15 in North Carolina, #4 in Asheville
Asheville
We're a North Carolina nonprofit and federal 501(c)(3) black cat rescue located in Asheville, NC. Black cats are the most euthanized animal in US shelters and they need the additional support of organizations like us that specialize in finding them their forever homes. We do not have a physical facility; instead we operate as a foster-based rescue. This means that every cat and kitten brought into our rescue is given every chance to thrive in a home environment with one of our experienced foster parents. This is helpful because it cuts down on the stress of being in a cage in a shelter, which allows us to get to know each kitty's personality and help them to get adopted faster. We currently offer rescue and TNR services in and around Buncombe County and we frequently work with other local organizations to spread the magic of black cats in our community and beyond.

Shelter Dog Transport Alliance
#100 in United States, #15 in North Carolina, #4 in Asheville
Asheville
Shelter Dog Transport Alliance partners with over a dozen NC county shelter systems & beyond that are experiencing overcrowding and are in need of valuable space. Our aim is to work together to ensure every shelter dog gets a second chance at life. A recent study by Best Friends Animal Society has North Carolina ranked #3 for the highest shelter euthanasia rate, behind only California and Texas. In order to tackle this statistic we are currently partnering with animal rescues in New England as well as Canada to relocate our dogs to safety and into loving homes when our shelters become critically full. We decided to initiate this transport program because we never want to have to euthanize any of our shelter dogs because we simply don't have a place for them. We need to reduce overcrowding in our shelters so that we always have room to compassionately care for abandoned or neglected animals. Because of space limitations, many of our shelters have waitlists for people wanting to surrender animals. This has sadly led to the regular practice of individuals dumping helpless puppies, elderly animals, or animals that are simply unwanted by roadsides or empty fields. Our ultimate goal is to save lives, however, as we do so we are simultaneously working towards addressing the root causes that lead to our shelters being overcrowded. The Shelter Dog Transport Alliance is a life saving partnership that will not rest until our State is no longer a deadly statistic. The Shelter Dog Transport Alliance is an all-volunteer 501c3 animal transport program based in Asheville, NC and has safely relocated more than 8,000 shelter dogs & cats since 2020. We also provide foster care, medical services and shelter mentorship.

Madison county animal services
#100 in United States, #15 in North Carolina, #4 in Asheville
Asheville

Blue Ridge Humane Society
#100 in United States, #15 in North Carolina, #4 in Asheville
Asheville
The Henderson County Humane Society was first incorporated in 1950 and built an animal shelter in 1966 on property donated by the county. The Society was briefly inactive during the late 1960s when responsibility for managing the shelter was assumed by the county. County officials and animal welfare advocates continued to dialogue regarding issues related to animal welfare and overpopulation. The Society was reactivated in 1972 and began to operate both an independent, limited admission shelter and a thrift store. In 2003, the society's name was officially changed to Blue Ridge Humane Society to better reflect the differences between our county shelter and our organization's operations. In 1984, eight acres of land were purchased in Henderson County in Edneyville and the Animal Shelter was built and opened in April 1989. The animal shelter is a 5,000 square foot building with a capacity of approximately 88 animals. A major animal shelter renovation was completed in 2013. At our Adoption Center, we assess behavior and treat conditions as necessary with all animals under our care. Prior to adoption, each animal is provided with all the appropriate vaccinations, a microchip, dewormed and spayed or neutered. Screening and counseling of potential families contribute to our successful adoptions. We are committed to forging lifelong bonds between pets and people.

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #15 in North Carolina, #4 in Asheville
Asheville
Founded in 2007, Brother Wolf Animal Rescue enhances the lives of companion animals and the people who love them. We work across county lines with the goal of saving the greatest number of lives possible through strategic, creative, and impactful programming.

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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 7 private dog parks in the Asheville area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Asheville dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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

Sniffspot Asheville Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Asheville?

There are 7 in Asheville. Outside of Asheville, there are 36 located in North Carolina.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Asheville, the top 3 on our list are: Mountain Pet Rescue AVL, Boxer Butts & Other Mutts Rescue, Adoption First Animal Rescue.

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Asheville is Boxer with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Asheville?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Asheville. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
First, you will need to complete the adoption application for the pet you are interested in or fill out a generic application if you don't see a pet that is of interest to you. Our adoption counselors are excellent matchmakers and will be in touch within a few days to discuss your application. If determined that you are the best fit for the pet, a meet and greet is then scheduled for you to hopefully take home your new furry friend.

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

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

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Asheville, NC Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Mountain Pet Rescue AVL

Boxer Butts & Other Mutts Rescue

Adoption First Animal Rescue

Binx's Home for Black Cats

Shelter Dog Transport Alliance

Madison county animal services

Blue Ridge Humane Society

Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

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

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Sniffspot Asheville Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Asheville?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Asheville?

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

David Adams

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