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The Best Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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

Meridian Canine Rescue
#81 in United States, #1 in Idaho, #1 in Meridian
Meridian
Saving lives through storytelling and education. We promote behavioral wellness through a holistic care approach for every animal in our rescue. Our life skill training curricula teach both dogs and humans how to live ‚and thrive together. The best way for us to help more animals is by sharing our knowledge and skills. We have several program to support our community with resources to reduce the amount of dogs with behavioral issues entering shelters in the state of Idaho. We also have a prison program (EPIC) where we also work with the incarcerated community and provide life skills to humans and dogs.
"Meridian Canine Rescue is a warm and loving place where dogs with behavioral issues can learn to be part of..."
— diana l.
Supporter, Fan
"Meridian canine rescue has saved countless canine lives since its creation and has focused on giving dogs the safest possible..."
— trinity p.
Supporter

The Furry Farm Rescue
#86 in United States, #2 in Idaho
Our promise to our animals: We will love and protect you, provide an enriching and nurturing foster home, care for all your medical needs, give you the structure and training needed for success, and above all treat you as our own while you are with us. Our promise to our community: We will work together, we will be kind and considerate, we will educate, we will advocate, we will serve. We are a small rescue established in North Idaho with 501(c)(3) status. Our team brings years of rescue and animal welfare together to form a family who is here to provide safety for forgotten animals and help find their forever family. We focus on those who need help the most, our abandoned local shelter dogs needing medical and more. Furry Farm is a foster based rescue; with an application, home check, and a meet and greet process before formalizing the adoption of your new furry friend. If you see an animal you would like to meet, head over to our website at thefurryfarmrescue.org to complete and application.
"We've adopted two pups from The Furry Farm. We love what they do and do our best to share the..."
— mandy f.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"I have fostered puppies for Furry Farm rescue several times. They always provide everything needed to help them thrive...."
— carol l.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

Idaho Humane Society
#98 in United States, #3 in Idaho, #1 in Boise
Boise
The Idaho Humane Society is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization and veterinary charity in the state. We are a private 501(c)3 organization that relies on donations to provide programs and services that benefit animals in Idaho.
"I adopted my Koda from the Idaho Humane Society in October 2023. He had the sweetest face and was listed..."
— morghan t.
Adoptee, Fan
"ID Humane Society took my RTH kitties that someone dumped at our property and I couldn’t be more appreciative of..."
— laura c.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

Take Me Home Dog Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Boise
Boise
Founded in 2017, we are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization that partners with high-kill dog shelters in Idaho and around the United States. We are solely volunteer-based, and rely on ongoing volunteers and fundraising to sustain our work. We utilize our foster homes located throughout the Treasure Valley to secure safe placement for adoptable dogs while they are in transition. We do not have a facility. We value being an inclusive organization and do not discriminate against the breed, age, or medical condition of any dog.

BnB Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Boise
Boise
BnB Rescue was founded by a small group of people in 2017 who collectively have many decades of experience in dog rescue, transport, evaluation, training, care and placement. Our rescue team is comprised of all volunteers.

Moonsong Malamute Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Boise
Boise
We foster our dogs from our homes. We are growing, and we need foster homes and volunteers to help care for our charges. All too often we do end up assisting senior dogs that have been “dumped” in shelters or abandoned by their owners. Many of these older dogs don’t find their forever homes, but spend the rest of their lives in loving foster homes and become “Forever Fosters“. If you would like to help with MMR’s efforts, please see our Foster and Volunteer sections. Moonsong Malamute Rescue, Inc. is organized exclusively for the purpose of rescuing, rehabilitating and permanently re-homing purebred Northern breed dogs and Northern mixed breed dogs. MMR is not a shelter or humane society. We are affiliated with the Alaskan Malamute Assistance League (AMAL), which is the national rescue organization recognized by the Alaskan Malamute Club of America. As an affiliate to AMAL, MMR operates under AMAL’s code of ethics.

Freedom Bound Hounds
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Boise
Boise
Freedom Bound Hounds is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to saving dogs from the streets and high-kill shelters and helping them find their forever homes in the Pacific Northwest. Although we work in Idaho, our dogs actually come from volunteers and shelters in the South Texas area. Volunteers find abandoned, hurt, and neglected dogs, and from there, we get the dog to safety in foster care or boarding to be vetted and await their ride to Idaho. Once they arrive in Idaho, they typically go into foster care, and we screen applicants thoroughly to find the best fit.

Fuzzy Pawz Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
Fuzzy Pawz Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to finding loving families for homeless dogs and cats in Idaho and Utah. We rescue “at risk” dogs/cats from shelters and animal control facilities. “At risk” animals are those who have run out of time at shelters, have medical conditions, are seniors or don’t stand out in the crowd (i.e. black animals). We work with many shelters and pounds throughout the 2 states but focus on rural areas that do not have the facilities to hold dogs for more than a few days and do not have holding facilities for cats at all. Our volunteers work to socialize our animals, work on minor behavioral and training issues and most of all provide them with loving care. Through our foster homes, we assess the dogs in a home setting, allowing us to better understand the kind of home and family the dog will need. All animals are screened by a veterinarian, vaccinated, neutered and given any other vet care they require. All applicants are thoroughly screened and a home check is preformed before an adoption can occur. We consider an applicant’s previous pet ownership history. We work hard to match the lifestyle and personality of the people to the temperament and energy level of the pet they are interested in. Our goal is for a pet to end up in the right home, not just the first home to come along. Our board of directors consists of 5 passionate women who between them have almost 75 years of animal rescue experience; these women saw a need in the Idaho/Utah area for an all breed rescue and stepped up. We have volunteers that are groomers, dog behaviorists, and animal nutritionists. We say “once a Fuzzy Pawz dog, always a Fuzzy Pawz dog.” Our volunteer base allows us to build lifelong relationships with our adopters so we can always be there for them to answer any questions and assist in any way we can to ensure their relationship with their adopted pet is always a great one.

Boxer Lovers Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
#6 in boxer
Boxer
Meridian

Lake Lowell Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
The Lake Lowell Animal Rescue began with one person—Melissa Blackmer—simply trying to rescue a couple cats that had been dumped at the refuge area in Nampa, Idaho. The first cat rescued (and the one Melissa says will forever be her favorite) is a young male she named Fergus. Fergus had been hit by a car and suffered from a fractured pelvis and femur. By posting the story on Facebook, Melissa was able to raise enough money to pay for surgery and follow-up care for Fergus. Today he is living a very happy life with three golden retrievers and the best owners a cat could want! After watching his incredible recovery and seeing him go from the tragic condition he was in when she found him to, literally, the best outcome that could be hoped for, Melissa resolved to do what she could to help other cats abandoned in the Lake Lowell area. The scope of the problem quickly began to sink in, however, as Melissa came to realize that abandoning all kinds of animals in this region is a common occurrence—and the animals generally don’t fare well. Amid cars, predators, and life-threatening frigid temperatures in the winter, “people don’t realize what the outcome for the animals will be when they ‘set them free in the wild,’” she says. She adds that most of the cats and dogs she rescues are friendly, and therefore at one time were likely someone’s pet. Melissa then decided to set up a Facebook page with pictures of the few cats she was rescuing, hoping to find good homes for them, but the outcome far exceeded her expectations. “Two days later I was contacted by local news station KTVB,” Melissa says. “Very reluctantly I agreed to do a ‘small’ story on the animal-abandonment problem at Lake Lowell. KTVB, though, ran it as the lead story that night, which launched the rescue efforts into a much larger program than I ever intended.” Click here to view the KTVB news report. As a result of the news story, a local family contacted Melissa and offered to help. The family is connected to a charitable giving foundation, and, obviously, huge animal lovers. “They helped move the rescue program into a facility that we can eventually expand and therefore rescue even more of these animals,” Melissa says. “Most of the animals we rescue are cats, so we’ve done some construction and now have three beautiful cat rescue rooms and the most amazing back porch that we screened in and turned into a catio. Walkways have also been built so the cats can move back and forth between the rooms and the outdoor patio.” Although a lot has been accomplished, Melissa says that much more needs to be done. “It’s a work in progress,” she says. To describe this journey as a dream come true is an “understatement,” says Melissa. “And we’re working hard to develop the rescue into something even better.” Melissa is not new to animal care. Her work for many years as a veterinary technician has helped prepare her for her additional role as an animal rescuer. Her network of other animal healthcare professionals and rescue workers has also proved to be an asset. Now an established animal program run by a seven-member board comprising local community leaders and animal healthcare professionals, Lake Lowell Animal Rescue, Inc is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Plans are also in place to renovate a separate building on the property to provide more living space for rescued animals and limited, on-site healthcare. “This has been an incredible blessing,” Melissa says. “It’s so rewarding to watch these guys come out of what are generally awful places and usually sick or injured from trying to fend for themselves, and then see them sleeping on fluffy cat beds, recovering at the rescue, and eventually getting adopted into wonderful forever homes. But I know all this wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of so many people—including the many vet clinics and other animal rescue organizations in the area that have provided healthcare and other assistance for no or very reduced cost. I’m very grateful to them!”

Pawsitivity Rescue Inc
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
Since 2018, Pawsitivity Rescue Inc. has been a beacon of hope for animals in Elmore County, ID , and its neighboring areas. As a locally owned and operated non-profit organization, we specialize in rescuing and nurturing both cats and kittens, providing fostering opportunities, accepting donations, and providing education - catering to animal enthusiasts. Our commitment to transparency and compassionate care has earned us the prestigious Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.org. Join us in our mission to support and protect animals in need.

West Valley Humane Society
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
West Valley Humane Society serves Canyon County, Idaho with a holistic array of services to people and animals that include: safe and secure temporary housing, medical care, food and nutritional support, enrichment, exercise, and behavioral modification for strayed, lost, and homeless pets. West Valley Humane Society also provides low-cost preventative care for its community such as: vaccine clinics, microchip clinics, spay/neuter services, and targeted humane education. West Valley Humane Society was founded in 2011 after Canyon County Animal Shelter became privatized as a charitable nonprofit entity. The organization serves thousands of animals in Canyon County and surrounding areas each year and continuously looks to provide support to network partners and the rescue community. West Valley Humane Society is a brick-and-mortar animal shelter that is a private, charitable, nonprofit Idaho 501(c)(3) Corporation.

Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho, #2 in Meridian
Meridian
IDAWG (Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation based in Nampa, Idaho. We've been in existence since June 2000 and are staffed entirely by volunteers. IDAWG supports southern Idaho animals in need, assisting both shelters and private citizens. Sometimes this involves transporting or organizing transports for dogs or cats, or sometimes birds or bunnies, to rescues or permanent homes in adjoining cities and states. IDAWG also offers financial assistance to senior citizens and others who need help paying for spay/neuter services for their companion animals.

MCPAWS Regional Animal Shelter
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
In early 2022, the MCPAWS staff and leadership team went through the process of updating our mission and vision statement to reflect our growing capacity, including all of the branches that make up MCPAWS. Our new mission and vision encompasses how the shelter, thrift store, and veterinary hospital all work together, in unique ways, to achieve the common purpose of supporting our community and transforming lives by connecting pets and people. Vision A humane community where all animals are well cared for and loved We are excited to share this news with our supporters and feel that the current MCPAWS operating model fulfills our new mission and vision in a creative and sustainable manner – reflecting best practices and trends in the animal welfare industry. Anyone who has a pet in their life, knows how these animals can change our lives for the better. By shifting our focus to enhancing and supporting the connection between people and pets, we are able to offer mutually beneficial, holistic services that will better serve our community and broaden the positive impact of our organization. Our Values Shelter leadership, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders have come together to identify the following values that guide our work and strategic commitment to animal welfare in our community and beyond: • Respect for the animals and people we serve and also for the people who make it possible for us to accomplish our mission (donors, volunteers, staff, and clients). • Service to pets and pet owners in need as well as our community. • Excellence: We will strive for excellence and professionalism in the services we provide and the programs we administer. • Creativity: We will remain open to new ideas, stay engaged with new trends in the animal welfare field, and encourage our staff and volunteers to approach problems with fresh perspectives. • Compassion: We remain committed to holding the pets and people we serve in a compassionate and understanding light. • Inclusivity: We acknowledge the inherent joy and mutual benefits provided from the human-animal bond. MCPAWS will remain committed to offering services and administering programs that celebrate this bond and work to ensure that pets are placed or able to remain in loving homes, regardless of factors like income, geographic location, and social status. • Gratitude for our donors, volunteers, staff, and community – and to the animals we serve. • Leadership We will continue to lead in the field of animal welfare here in the West Central Mountain Region of Idaho as well as across our entire state. We remain committed to establishing working partnerships and providing resources when we can to other nonprofit organizations locally and regionally. We will remain an active participant in the Idaho Shelter Coalition and commit time and resources as we can to ensure its successful role in Idaho animal welfare. Our History McPAWs, McCall People for Animal Welfare, a volunteer, grass-roots organization, was formed in 1998 to assist the City of McCall with operation of the city impound facility for dogs. Dogs impounded by the city needed care the police didn’t have time to provide. In response, a small group of dedicated volunteers came together and made that care their priority— feeding, exercising, and providing clean quarters for the dogs; returning dogs to owners; finding new homes for those who had been abandoned. By 2000, it was apparent that the need in the regional community was far greater than facility could meet. We couldn’t take in dogs from outside city limits and couldn’t take in cats at all. In addition, the small structure which housed the dog pound was scheduled for demolition. It was clear a larger shelter facility was needed. The Leeta Anderson Animal Foundation (LAAF) stepped up to purchase and remodel the former McCall Veterinary Clinic as a new regional animal shelter. A Board of Directors was established and the acronym McPAWS was dropped to reflect the regional nature of the shelter operation. In 2001 we officially became MCPAWS Regional Animal Shelter. On February 7, 2002 we opened our doors, transferring the two remaining dogs from the old facility. “Build it and they will come” might be our motto. Soon, kennels and cages were filling with dogs and cats from all over the county. In February, 2003 the LAAF generously donated the building and property to MCPAWS. Since 1998, MCPAWS had great expectations of realizing what had been just a hopeful dream – a shelter facility where the love of animals and a sincere commitment to their humane treatment are mandatory. So many years later, to look back at our humble beginnings, we at MCPAWS are so incredibly grateful to that small group of dedicated volunteers who came together, to ensure that companion animals in our community are cared for with compassion and humanity.

Humane Society of the Palouse
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
The Humane Society of the Palouse was founded in 1978. The city of Moscow had a pound facility and the two organizations teamed up together for the betterment of animal welfare for animals residing within the Moscow city limits, as well as for those residing in Latah County. HSoP has a long history in our local pet community. We have been uniting pets with their forever homes for 45 years. We are dedicated to our mission and believe whole-heatedly in our practices. From a safe place that provides food, shelter and preventive care, to providing lifesaving surgeries, HSoP gives second chances to pets in need. The City of Moscow owns and maintains the HSoP facility. HSoP is directed under the Chief of Police and reports directly to a designated captain. The City of Moscow pays for HSoP utilities such as water, sewer and electrical. They also provide us with $2400.00 each fiscal year for facility upkeep and maintenance. The City of Moscow also provides the funds for one pay period per month. The City of Moscow provides 22% of our yearly budget. Latah County provides HSoP with 10% of our yearly budget. 35% of our annual operating budget comes from our generous community support through donations. For our 2016/2017 fiscal year, fundraising made up 8% and adoption fees contributed 10% of our budget. HSoP is a community center striving to provide humane education for local pet owners. HSoP with the assistance of volunteer dog trainers, provide our community with training classes that focus on positive reinforcement and learning how to communicate with your canine friends. HSoP also has a Facebook page and Website section dedicated to humane education. HSoP has a strict spay and neuter policy for any animals adopted from our organization. HSoP encourages national and local initiatives that reduce pet homelessness and resulting euthanasia. We believe programs like SNAP, as well as a strict spay/neuter requirement for animals adopted from HSoP, promote responsible pet ownership by reducing unwanted or accidental litters that contribute to the pet overpopulation crisis being experienced nationwide. An average cat has 1-8 kittens per litter and 2-3 litters per year. During her productive life, one female cat could have more than 100 kittens. A single pair of cats and their kittens can produce as many as 420,000 kittens in just 7 years.

Hope's Haven Animal Shelter (Benewah Humane Society)
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
Hope's Haven Animal Shelter (Benewah Humane Society) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Click here to see our IRS Form 990 for 2016 return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax). We are the only animal shelter in the county (the area we cover is approximately 787 square miles). We are run by dedicated staff and volunteers who spend much of their own time and money caring for homeless pets. Our mission is to spay/neuter all animals, find homes for needy animals, and educate the public on pet care and spay/neuter programs. Millions of animals are needlessly euthanized every year, and we would like to lower these terribly large numbers. We are a "no-kill" shelter with a full house and a waiting list for incoming pets. Some of our volunteers foster animals in their own homes when we are too full to take any more animals. We assist law enforcement in investigating cases of suspected abuse or neglect. We rescue abandoned, lost, or animals in distress. Every effort is made to find the owners and/or find happy endings for these animals.

Lewis Clark Animal Shelter
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
Lewis Clark Animal Shelter envisions a time when our community celebrates the human-animal bond, embraces the mutual benefits therein and treats all fellow beings with care, compassion and respect; a time when LCAS is primarily a resource for health, education and recreational services for animals and people. Goals: • To return lost pets to their families and find safe and caring homes for homeless pets in our care. • To develop a strong board of directors which will set policy and provide oversight consistent with our mission. • To attract and retain capable, caring, professional staff and volunteers to achieve our mission. • To identify and secure resources to accomplish our goals and manage resources with wisdom and fore thought. • To provide information and resources to the community pertaining to the humane treatment of animals. • To provide programs that enhance relationships between people and animals. • To improve the level of animal care in the community and ensure the highest quality of care for animals within our facilities. • To reduce the serious cat and dog overpopulation problem within our community through spay neuter programs. Lewis Clark Animal Shelter has served the Lewis Clark Valley since 1950. The agency provides vital services to animals and people alike through sheltering and adopting animals, providing positive Fear Free Shelter approach to reinforcement behavior training for adoptable animals, foster kitten program, P.A.W.S. Training Program through the Idaho Correctional Institution - Orofino, reduced cost spay/neuter surgeries, support during animal cruelty and neglect, providing adult and youth volunteer involvement, sharing animals through pet-assisted therapy, and rescuing animals in emergency situations. A private nonprofit organization that relies on community support, contributions, grants, bequests, investments, fees for service.

Lemhi County Humane Society Inc.
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
The Lemhi County Humane Society got its start when, in the early 1970’s, a local high school student voiced his concerns regarding the state of the local city animal pound to his teacher, Kay Stone. She listened and shared his concerns with other citizens of Lemhi County. Several locals then joined together to form the Lemhi County Humane Society (L.C.H.S.), which was incorporated in 1977. Initially there was a drive to raise funds but it was quickly recognized that there needed to be a continuous flow of income in order to run the Society’s animal shelter. It was decided that a thrift store would be a good money maker. A contest was held to name the thrift store, and it was a high school senior who suggested the winning name: Rags & Wags. Originally located in a shack on Shoup Street, the board of L.C.H.S. soon realized that a better structure was warranted. The board purchased a more suitable building closer to the downtown area, known as Old Blue, which is where Rags & Wags was located until recently. In the fall of 2009 L.C.H.S. entered into an agreement with the Odd Fellows Rocky Mountain Lodge #5 to purchase their Main Street building to serve as the new home of Rags & Wags. The Odd Fellows building is approximately 110 years old and has an interesting history of its own. It was built by men from the mining town of Leesburg, who would descend to the Salmon Valley on weekends to work on the building and then return to their mining jobs during the week. Construction began in 1897 and was completed in 1902. The original title on the building dates from a time when Idaho was still a territory. The Odd Fellow Building is on the National Register of Historic Places. In the 1980’s, L.C.H.S. and the City of Salmon entered into an agreement allowing the Society to build a shelter on city property. The Society leases the land from the city for $1 per year, but the shelter building and surrounding outbuildings are owned by the Society. As each year passes, additions have been made to improve the lives of the animals while in the care of the L.C.H.S. In recent years, a large Bark Park was built for the dogs and – thanks to a generous benefactor – a major renovation to expand the office and cat area was completed in the fall of 2010.

Bannock Humane Society
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
The Bannock Humane Society is a non-profit organization funded by private donations plus fund raising by its members. There are no paid employees and all funds go to help the animals. The BHS receives no money from any Government agency and is not a part of the Pocatello Animal Shelter. The BHS does work closely with the shelter on many projects to benefit the animals.

City of Jerome Animal Shelter
#100 in United States, #4 in Idaho
The City of Jerome Animal Shelter is a small facility that acts as a safe haven for lost/found, abandoned, and unwanted dogs within the city and county of Jerome. Our facility operates with one Animal Control Officer, one full time, and one part time Shelter Attendant. We have a 14-kennel facility and operate on a fixed budget. On average, our facility takes in roughly five hundred dogs a year. We cannot take in dogs from outside the city and county of Jerome. We also do not have the ability to facilitate any cats or exotic pets. We take pride in our facility, keeping it clean and fresh for our dogs and the public. We work extremely hard to reunite lost dogs to their owners, find loving homes for those abandoned, and find the right facilities for dogs with special needs and/or behavioral issues. We also try to help our community solve problems with their dogs by providing solutions such as referrals to expert trainers. We provide a pet food pantry for the community who struggle with feeding their pets. We work closely with our volunteers, rescues, and community to make sure every dog that comes into our care finds their way to their “forever home.” We believe every dog deserves a second chance. We operate heavily through Social media and word of mouth. With the combined efforts of our staff, volunteers, community and rescue/shelters we save many and find loving homes for dogs in our community. Through our efforts we strive to fight against over-population and disease outbreak in our area.

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Idaho

The Best Boise, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Idaho Humane Society
The Idaho Humane Society is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization and veterinary charity in the state. We are a private 501(c)3 organization that relies on donations to provide programs and services that benefit animals in Idaho.
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BnB Rescue
BnB Rescue was founded by a small group of people in 2017 who collectively have many decades of experience in dog rescue, transport, evaluation, training, care and placement. Our rescue team is comprised of all volunteers.
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Take Me Home Dog Rescue
Founded in 2017, we are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization that partners with high-kill dog shelters in Idaho and around the United States. We are solely volunteer-based, and rely on ongoing volunteers and fundraising to sustain our work. We utilize our foster homes located throughout the Treasure Valley to secure safe placement for adoptable dogs while they are in transition. We do not have a facility. We value being an inclusive organization and do not discriminate against the breed, age, or medical condition of any dog.
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The Best Meridian, ID Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

Meridian Canine Rescue
Saving lives through storytelling and education. We promote behavioral wellness through a holistic care approach for every animal in our rescue. Our life skill training curricula teach both dogs and humans how to live ‚and thrive together. The best way for us to help more animals is by sharing our knowledge and skills. We have several program to support our community with resources to reduce the amount of dogs with behavioral issues entering shelters in the state of Idaho. We also have a prison program (EPIC) where we also work with the incarcerated community and provide life skills to humans and dogs.
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Boxer Lovers Rescue
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Fuzzy Pawz Rescue
Fuzzy Pawz Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to finding loving families for homeless dogs and cats in Idaho and Utah. We rescue “at risk” dogs/cats from shelters and animal control facilities. “At risk” animals are those who have run out of time at shelters, have medical conditions, are seniors or don’t stand out in the crowd (i.e. black animals). We work with many shelters and pounds throughout the 2 states but focus on rural areas that do not have the facilities to hold dogs for more than a few days and do not have holding facilities for cats at all. Our volunteers work to socialize our animals, work on minor behavioral and training issues and most of all provide them with loving care. Through our foster homes, we assess the dogs in a home setting, allowing us to better understand the kind of home and family the dog will need. All animals are screened by a veterinarian, vaccinated, neutered and given any other vet care they require. All applicants are thoroughly screened and a home check is preformed before an adoption can occur. We consider an applicant’s previous pet ownership history. We work hard to match the lifestyle and personality of the people to the temperament and energy level of the pet they are interested in. Our goal is for a pet to end up in the right home, not just the first home to come along. Our board of directors consists of 5 passionate women who between them have almost 75 years of animal rescue experience; these women saw a need in the Idaho/Utah area for an all breed rescue and stepped up. We have volunteers that are groomers, dog behaviorists, and animal nutritionists. We say “once a Fuzzy Pawz dog, always a Fuzzy Pawz dog.” Our volunteer base allows us to build lifelong relationships with our adopters so we can always be there for them to answer any questions and assist in any way we can to ensure their relationship with their adopted pet is always a great one.
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What's the Sniffspot Idaho Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

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

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Sniffspot Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Idaho?

There are 39 in Idaho. 10 are located in Boise with 29 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Idaho, the top 3 on our list are: Meridian Canine Rescue, The Furry Farm Rescue, Idaho Humane Society

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Idaho?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Idaho. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Adopter fills an online application, then we provide a consultation explaining all the information on the dog and if the adopter is still interested we schedule a meet and greet. We provide training to the adopters and follow up support as long as the pet is adopted.

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

Yes! Idaho has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Boxer Pug

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

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Idaho, but these are the top senior dog rescues from nearby states: The London Sanctuary, Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, Reed's Rescue, Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue, Adopt a Golden Atlanta, Misspits Rescue, Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc., Animal Farm Foundation, Over the Hill Senior Dog Sanctuary, Frosted Faces Foundation, Laramie Animal Welfare Society, Old Dogs Go To Helen, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Muttville, Peace of Mind Dog Rescue, Young At Heart Senior Pet Adoptions, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, Home Free Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Hound Haven of Lone Pine, Living Grace Canine Ranch, Tails of Gray, Sunny Sky's Animal Rescue, Senior Pet And Animal Rescue, Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary, Leashes End Senior Pet Sanctuary, Sammie’s Senior Dog Sanctuary, The Golden Bark Foundation, Camp Golden Years, Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue, Forever Loved Pet Sanctuary, Charlie's Foundation, Daisy Senior Dog Foundation aka DaisyLu Ranch, Silver Linings Rescue Ranch, Lionel's Legacy, Rusty's Angels Sanctuary, Gray Muzzle Society, Colorado Senior Dog Rescue and Hospice, Grand-paws Senior Sanctuary, Angels For Sara Sanctuary

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

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Boise is Idaho Humane Society. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Idaho is Boxer Lovers 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.

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

Most recent articles

United Airlines Dog Policy: Smart Tips For Flying with Dogs

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Explore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

American Airlines Dog Policy: Complete Guide (Fees, Sizes, Rules)

The Ultimate Guide To Flying With Large Dogs: Airline Policies and Tricks

Comprehensive Guide to Skijoring With Dogs

United Airlines Dog Policy: Smart Tips For Flying with Dogs

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Explore the Miniature Poodle: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
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.
Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
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.
How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?
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.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
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?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
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!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
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.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)
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?
Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
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.
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Signs, Causes, and How to Handle It
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.
Dog Reactivity Chart: Understand and Fix Dog Reactivity
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.
How to Socialize Your Reactive Dog
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.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States
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.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States
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.
The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks
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.
The Best United States Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
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.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
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.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

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 Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Meridian Canine Rescue

The Furry Farm Rescue

Idaho Humane Society

Take Me Home Dog Rescue

BnB Rescue

Moonsong Malamute Rescue

Freedom Bound Hounds

Fuzzy Pawz Rescue

Boxer Lovers Rescue

Lake Lowell Animal Rescue

Pawsitivity Rescue Inc

West Valley Humane Society

Idaho Domestic Animal Welfare Group

MCPAWS Regional Animal Shelter

Humane Society of the Palouse

Hope's Haven Animal Shelter (Benewah Humane Society)

Lewis Clark Animal Shelter

Lemhi County Humane Society Inc.

Bannock Humane Society

City of Jerome Animal Shelter

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Idaho

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

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Idaho

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Idaho Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Idaho?

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

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

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Idaho?

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

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

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

David Adams

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Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

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