This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Eugene, OR. 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.
#57 in United States, #4 in Oregon, #1 in Eugene
#5 in pit Bull
Pit Bull
Eugene
We specialize in bully breed, pregnant pups and moms with litters. These pups are 3rd on the euthanasia list and we found that they need help the most. We rescue , rehab and rehome all our dogs so that they have a better chance of getting homes. We dedicate every waking moment to these pups. They run every day at least 2 times a day, they get tons of love from our staff and volunteers. We love what we do.
"Many Miles rescues pitbulls and other bully breeds, including abandoned pregnant mamas, and cares for them until they find homes...."
— sharon a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"They always take in, drive and care for all the mamas and babies! They are active with all even years..."
— anita s.
Adoptee
#63 in United States, #5 in Oregon, #2 in Eugene
Eugene
Greenhill Humane Society has been caring for animals in Lane County since 1944. We operate the only animal shelter within the Eugene/Springfield area. Our programs include animal adoptions; reuniting lost animals with their families; disaster response; crisis care boarding in situations of domestic violence, medical emergencies, and other crisis situations; spay/neuter for free roaming, un-owned community cats; a pet pantry; on-site volunteer opportunities; foster care and humane education. We are a private non-profit and rely on donations for a majority of our budget. The generosity of our local community enables us to provide a high level of care to lost, abandoned, and neglected animals while at the same time helping pet owners in need.
"We adopted two beautiful 4 year old Guinea pigs from Greenhill Humane Society and I feel so lucky! They are..."
— alicia r.
Adoptee
"Greenhill is hands down the most caring and fantastic animal shelter in the country."
— sam m.
Volunteer / foster
#88 in United States, #9 in Oregon, #3 in Eugene
Eugene
Our love for all animals, big and small, runs deep. Our rescue efforts began while healing from the sadness of losing our 13-year-old Golden Retriever, Ruby. The healing began with a phone call from a friend nearly 1,000 miles away: Can you help us? It was that desperate plea that opened our eyes to a problem that isn't going away anytime soon. Pet overpopulation, animal abuse, neglect, and abandonment affect all of us and the communities we live in. Through our transports, we are able to save these animals from being euthanized in high kill shelters by carrying them to the safety of our rescue network. Dog Rescue is all about teamwork. Each life saved represents countless hours of collaboration between volunteers and rescue organizations. Currently, our network spans the I-5 Corridor, from the Mexican to Canadian borders. Here, these various agencies provide the training, medical care, and fostering to help find a happy, healthy, and loving home for the dogs to live in for the rest of their lives. As of April 2024, over 11,800 dogs (and many cats) have been transported. In addition to transport, we work with several pet food suppliers to secure donated food for animals in our community. Donated food, supplies, and treats are distributed to food banks, shelters, rescue agencies, churches, veterans and the homeless. In the sweet spirit of Ruby, we wake up every day with the hope of giving these animals a new leash on life.
"A New Leash on Life is constantly on the move rescuing dogs from high kill shelters on the I-5 corridor..."
— lauren l.
Supporter, Fan
"They donate food to my rescue, making it possible to rescue more dogs!"
— marra w.
Fan
#98 in United States, #13 in Oregon, #4 in Eugene
Eugene
Finding Homes, Opening Hearts, and Educating Minds to strengthen and improve the lives of animals and people
"SafeHaven is amazing!"
— paige l.
Supporter
"I have had excellent service finding my forever pets here. The place is very clean and welcoming."
— edelyn s.
Adoptee
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Patient Pet Advocates (formerly Hospice Pet Advocates) began when founders Ruth Helle, a medical social worker, and hospice nurse Thea Peck were asked to take custody of a dog facing abandonment due to a patient’s death. Operating with little more than a leash, an empty shed, and good intentions, PPA was born. After this rescue, requests began coming in from other hospice workers seeking to help patients in similar circumstances. As the depth and breadth of the problem became more clear, Ruth and Thea teamed up with other concerned pet lovers to form a non-profit 501(c)3 organization aimed at alleviating the problem through education, outreach, and direct assistance.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Cascade Collie Rescue was established in 2006 to care for and rehome Collies in need. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and completely volunteer ran. We are dedicated to the care and safety of abandoned or surrendered rough and smooth Collies in Oregon, as well as sharing the joy associated with the breed. Cascade Collie Rescue is an approved affiliate of the Collie Club of America's Collie Rescue Foundation Inc.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
I started out 4 years ago in 2019 as a volunteer driver from a shelter to a rescue. From there I continued volunteering to do that and more for many 501c3 rescues and realized that saving the lives of the dogs and cats were my calling. It became my mission. I started pulling dogs and cats from shelters throughout California and coordinating their transports to their rescues throughout the United States. On Sunday, March 13, 2022 I filed for my 501c3 Non Profit Rescue License in the state of California. I am very excited to continue helping other rescues as well as now starting my own. More lives saved, every second of every minute, of every day, I commit to doing everything in my power to save as many lives as I’m able to and find the best homes for them to feel loved, safe and wanted.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Loved Again Pets is a 501c(3) all-volunteer animal rescue organization in Lane County, Oregon and the Greater Los Angeles area in Southern California. We pull senior dogs from euthanasia lists in over-populated and high-kill shelters, very often on the day they are scheduled to die. We provide full veterinary care, including surgical procedures necessary to bring dogs back to good health. We provide foster homes so that these overlooked senior dogs can recover and decompress. When the dogs are ready for adoption, they are networked on social media, through adoption fairs and word-of-mouth to find them loving “furever” homes. Loved Again Pets rescues dogs that many people would assume are unadoptable due to age, medical situation, or skittishness and transforms them into dogs that are routinely adopted into loving, permanent homes. We also provide long-term foster care for those dogs who are not adoptable and, when necessary, provide hospice care for dogs to spend their last days in a loving home environment. There are are many ways to help the animals. Consider Adopting or Fostering one of our the pets on our site. If that isn’t an option consider volunteering or donating to our animals care.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
In 2001, a group of concerned, passionate people knew that the animals of Douglas County needed and deserved the very best care. After a year of working through details, Saving Grace was deeded the land from Douglas County in June 2002 and took over shelter operations from the County in July. Since that time, Saving Grace has saved the lives of over 30,000 animals! From the beginning, Saving Grace’s focus was on adoptions and providing quality care. An Animal Healthy Advisory Committee of local veterinarians was formed to provide guidance on populations, practices for disease control and vaccination protocols. The organization actively promoted spay/neuter, and in 2007 opened the onsite spay/neuter clinic. Since that time, Saving Grace has performed over 7,300 surgeries.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Savin' Juice is a volunteer-run, foster based nonprofit dog rescue in the Willamette Valley. Our founders began it all saving a dog named Juice and from that moment forward our mission has been saving dogs, one dog at a time. We are run by volunteer power and operate with the generous donations of an amazing dog-loving community!
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
SevaDog is a unique, 501c3 nonprofit family rescue in the Willamette Valley, Oregon. Our dogs come from all walks of life including local humane societies, other rescues, owner surrenders, and our rescue partners in California and Washington State. Our dogs spend their days and nights with our family and all ages of volunteers, staff, and our founder families. Our licensed facility is nestled in the country just outside of Eugene. The dogs live happily and stress-free in our licensed facilities. Some even claim that our property is magical! If you choose to foster, adopt, or board with SevaDog, there will be no surprises. You will know everything about the dogs you meet.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Reedsport K9 Shelter Is a no-kill Shelter located on West Railroad Avenue off Port Dock Road in Reedsport, Oregon. Operating under the Reedsport Police Department it is staffed by a volunteer manager and a group of dedicated volunteers who care for the many dogs received from the coastal area of Douglas County. The City of Reedsport has a very small budget for the maintenance of the building, property and utilities of the shelter. The dogs needs are supplied totally by funds, food, and assorted needs donated by benefactors in our community and abroad. Local veterinarians donate their services, medicines, and supplies at reduced or no cost to the dogs in need.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Luvable Dog Rescue (formerly known as Luv-A-Bull & Luv-A-Little Dog Rescue and Sanctuary) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) that began in 1999. We are an organization dedicated to re-homing exceptional, loving dogs who have been rescued from high-kill shelters where they had little chance of being adopted. Our motto of “Place, Pack and Purpose,” guides our rescue philosophy. “Place” refers to our peaceful and beautiful 55 acre wooded sanctuary which transforms neglected dogs into happy and healthy companions through playtime outdoors and miles of hiking. We use the “Pack” (both human and canine) to also heal, teach, and socialize the dogs, so that they can succeed at their “Purpose” which is to be a loving companion and family member. Luvable Dog Rescue dogs live either at our main kennel facility or with a foster family. Our dogs spend many hours a day with staff and volunteers, to enrich their lives and allow us to get to know them in order to place them in the most compatible home. Our dogs receive daily hikes on wooded trails, and enjoy play groups with other dogs, premium food, plenty of human company, mentally stimulating games, expert medical care, and a whole lot of love.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Northwest Dog Project (NWDP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit in Eugene, OR, established in August 2014. We carefully rescue dogs facing euthanasia, to no fault of their own, and welcome them into our program until they're healthy, well evaluated, trained, socialized, and ready for their forever homes. Our charming, barn-boutique-like facility sits on 20+ acres of forest land on the outskirts of Eugene. We have a large, fenced-in outdoor training yard complete with a pool and tons of enrichment toys/tools where staff and volunteers host daily training and socialization sessions. On top of that, our dogs get at least a 40-minute daily hike, and of course, so much love. The pups live in one of six large, cabin-like kennels with individual fenced yards. We've rescued and re-homed over 500+ dogs since our doors opened in 2014. Northwest Dog Project is also known for taking on dogs with specialized medical cases which don't stand a chance of making it out of shelters, and we have a special fund dedicated to saving these dogs. We have a great diverse team within our staff, volunteers, board members, and partnerships. We embrace the diversity of our group and realize the benefits to our organization. We have different perspectives, leading to better decision-making for the dogs. We also have a diverse group of rescue dogs waiting to be adopted. NWDP is not a breed-specific rescue, but we do have a special spot for the bully-type breeds. Northwest Dog Project is committed to the connectivity and longevity of our forever home placements. We provide a lifetime of support to our adopters and the dogs that grace our program. We would encourage you to visit our social media sites to see some of the incredible transformation journeys these NWDP pups have endured on the way to their forever homes.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
#26 in pit Bull
#2 in chihuahua
Chihuahua, Pit Bull
Eugene
This foster based rescue was started by two women out of Eugene Oregon, brought together by a common tragedy, the loss of a child and for our love of pit-bulls. Helping animals was our way of healing our broken hearts. Melissa McCall and Whitney Wilmarth pulled together and established, Unbreakabull Rescue Allies in March of 2020. It was just before the Pandemic began, and we still hit the ground running. With the money out of our pockets we got our business set up and our non profit status secured. We took in our first dog just 2 short days after opening. We grew very fast, not only in the number of intakes and adoptions, but also in the number of volunteers and fosters. Although Whitney is no longer a Co director/owner of the rescue, she is still a big part of why and how we started. She still supports us as we do her as well. She is focusing her time more on her family now, while her children are still young, and we support this 100%. We have a small BUT mighty team, and together we are UNSTOPPABULL AND UNBREAKABULL! Our entire team is amazing and we could not function without them. We not only help animals in need but we also help our community members. We have funded dozens of spay and neuters to our low income community members. We have also provided funding to our community for emergency vet appts, surgeries as a result of injuries, dental care, vaccines, food and microchipping. All at no cost. This is partially what adoption fees go towards, along with our other medical dogs, and all our current/long term dog’s needs. We hope to be able to continue our efforts, with enough support from our community.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Wiggly Tails Dog Rescue is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) dog rescue in Eugene, Oregon. We are volunteer-driven and foster-based. We rescue dogs from high-kill shelters in California and accept local owner-surrendered dogs. Our focus is on small dogs and puppies. Each dog we rescue is evaluated, provided with needed veterinary care (including spay/neuter and vaccinations), and then placed in a foster home. We hold adoption events at local pet stores several times a month to find forever homes for the dogs. Our model is foster-to-adopt, so we can ensure that each dog ends up in the right home.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
Founded in January 2001, the Shelter Animal Resource Alliance (S.A.R.A.) is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization based in the Eugene/Springfield area of western Oregon that is dedicated to removing animals from shelters where they might otherwise face euthanasia. While in our care, we provide these cats and dogs with a comfortable environment to live in, all necessary medical care, high-quality food and treats, and plenty of love and attention until we are able to find them their forever homes. Our main fundraiser for this life-saving work is our thrift store, S.A.R.A.'s Treasures, where we sell new and gently-used donated items, with all of the proceeds benefiting the rescued cats and dogs in our programs. You’ll find collectibles, jewelry, knick knacks, clothing, books, and so much more….but the real “treasures” are the cats and kittens you’ll find living in the store. It’s the perfect place for prospective adopters to meet and spend time with kitties who are ready for their forever homes. Along with our thrift store items, at S.A.R.A.’s Treasures we also sell a variety of top quality retail cat and dog food and supplies including Wildside Salmon treats, Hot Cat and GoCat toys, Wyoming Sunmade Litter, and Drinkwell pet fountains.
#100 in United States, #15 in Oregon, #5 in Eugene
Eugene
The Oregon Coast Humane Society, located in Florence, Oregon, is a no-kill shelter serving the animal welfare needs in Western Lane County. Comprised of volunteers and a committed professional staff, we are dedicated to assisting homeless and abused companion animals in our area. We also seek to educate people about animal-related issues such as cruelty and pet overpopulation. We are a private, non-profit organization and receive no government money. Our support comes through donations, our Bay Street Thrift Store, fundraising efforts, grants, endowments, and membership dues. We are a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. We are a no-kill, limited intake 501(c)(3) facility We serve the Oregon Coast of Lane County We operate primarily on the proceeds from our Bay Street Store, the Annex, memberships, and general donations Oregon Coast Humane Society BYLAWS 10/8/2018 Employer Identification Number (EIN) 93-1079548
Welcome to the 2024 Eugene, OR Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Eugene, OR chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 20 private dog parks in the Eugene 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 Eugene dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list
We start with an application. If approved we move on to a meet and greet. After that we home check . If it all looks good and Many Miles and the adopter feel it's good we do a 7 day trial. If that goes well the adoption.
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.
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — 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.