The Best Naperville, IL Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026

Project Hope Animal Rescue

We're a foster based animal rescue with the overflow of animals kenneled in our facility.

River Valley Animal Rescue

River Valley Animal Rescue is a registered non-profit no-kill animal rescue and shelter located in Momence, Illinois. River Valley Animal Rescue has no paid employees and operates fully on proceeds from our resale shop and donations from the public. We offer a temporary home at our shelter to dogs, cats, birds and a variety of small animals until their "furever" home arrives. We are proud to say that we have placed hundreds of animals in permanent homes since 2012!

K9s4U Dog Rescue

K9s4U Dog Rescue is a non-profit dog rescue organization founded by a group of friends committed to saving dogs from high-kill shelters and dire situations and placing them into their FUREVER homes. We are a foster-home based rescue and rely on donations and fosters to help us in our mission to save as many dogs as we can. Thanks to our wonderful fosters and the donations we've received, we have saved the lives of more than 5,700 dogs since we began.

ALIVE Rescue

ALIVE Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that was founded in March 2008 as a rescue and safe haven for animals. From March 2008 through November of 2012, we ran operations solely through the use of our foster homes. In November of 2011, we signed a lease for a building (The Little Barn) in the Roscoe Village neighborhood of Chicago. For nearly one and a half years, we rehabbed and re-designed the original structure, preparing it to become our first adoption center. On May 5th, 2013, we opened The Little Barn, celebrating this accomplishment with dozens of our donors, volunteers, and the animals we rescued. In June of 2019 we closed The Little Barn and opened our new Adoption Center ("AC") in Chicago's West Loop. We remained at the AC through the pandemic and closed those doors in January of 2022. On October 5, 2020, we broke ground on The Big Barn, a new location that will help us save more homeless pets.

Orphans of the Storm

To take responsibility for each and every orphaned, abandoned, abused, or neglected dog and cat who reaches our doors; to take them in and shelter them; to provide the best medical and physical care possible for them; to nurture them back to health if need be; and finally to place them into warm, loving, adoptive homes where they can enjoy the lives they deserve.

MCP Rescue Pack

MCP Rescue is a Chicago based animal rescue that finds Forever Homes for the overlooked, abused, neglected, in need, at risk dogs (and cats). We believe every animal is an individual with their own idiosyncrasies, gifts, likes and dislikes, just like humans. MCP is the opposite of a revolving door type of Rescue model. We may not have the large numbers monthly but we have a return rate lower than 3% and we know where our dogs are and how they are. 85% of the dogs we bring into our Pack are considered true underdogs and harder to adopt, whether they be of Pitbull types dogs, XL breeds, bonded pairs, seniors, major medical, or hospice.

New Start Dog Rescue of Illinois

New Start Dog Rescue of Illinois is a 501(c)(3) foster-based dog rescue. We do not have a facility, all of our dogs are in individual foster homes. New Start Dog Rescue of Illinois was founded in May of 2014 by five local animal lovers who just knew they could make a difference.​ We are a 100% volunteer-based, not-for-profit charitable organization. Licensed by the Department of Agriculture, our dogs are all cared for in licensed foster homes. We are dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned puppies and dogs of all breeds and situations. All donations are tax deductible and are 100% used to benefit the animals. There are no paid positions at New Start Dog Rescue of Illinois.

Paws Up 4 Rescue

We are located in Joliet, Illinois. All our animals are located in foster homes. The best way for you to meet them is to attend one of our adoption events. See the calendar for dates and locations.

Just Animals Shelter

Just Animals is a non-profit no-kill animal shelter. We have been serving Grundy and surrounding Counties since 1997. All of our funding comes from donations and fundraisers. Each year we take in hundreds of cats and dogs that come in as strays off the street, from animal controls and owners that surrender them. Many of these animals have been neglected, abused and abandoned. Our goal is to provide the best medical care to mend their broken bodies, patience and love to rebuild their spirits, and when they are ready, offer them for adoption to a permanent, safe, loving home. Financially, the last several years have been difficult for many people and many of them had to give up their animals because they were losing their homes, or just couldn’t afford to take proper care of them. Because of this, there were many more animals that needed our help. We are happy to say that we have continued to place many dogs, puppies, kittens and cats into loving forever homes through the hard work and dedication of the workers and volunteers that give so much of themselves to the animals here at Just Animals. This is an amazing number of precious lives saved working from our small office in Mazon and some wonderful foster homes. Thank you to the wonderful people that adopted a new family member from us and thank you to the wonderful people that so generously donate to us, we could not do this without you. Before going to their new homes, all pets are vet checked, spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated, flea treated and dewormed. Cats are tested for feline leukemia/FIV, dogs are tested for heartworm and started on preventative. Many of the animals we take in can require extensive medical care. Without your donations, we would not be able to provide the care many of them need. Just Animals Shelter is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization. We receive no tax-payer dollars or government funding. All funding has been donated by caring community members or raised ourselves. All donations to Just Animals Shelter are tax-deductible.

Bombshell Bullies Pit Bull Rescue, Inc.

At Bombshell Bullies Pit Bull Rescue, our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home dogs identified primarily as American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers. Our goal is to place these adoptable dogs into their safe and loving forever home.

Traveling Tails Dog Rescue

We rescue animals that need help. Whether it is domestic U.S. or overseas, we focus on helping the animals that have no voice of their own. We have worked with a lot of wonderful people in the USA as well as in a large array of countries in the Middle East. Many of those countries do not have animal rescue and our team stepped in to help. As times have changed, due to the pandemic and the CDC ban on the importation of dogs from 113 countries, the TTDR team is still fighting for the voiceless animals that need our help. At this time we are focusing on finding loving homes for abused, abandoned, and neglected dogs here in the USA. We are not losing hope that the CDC ban will still be lifted.

A Heart for Animals

A Heart For Animals is a no-kill, non-profit 501(c)(3) animal rescue. We are foster based and believe that all animals deserve a chance to have a loving, forever home. Our organization is dedicated to helping our youth understand how to properly care for their pets and we offer service hours for high school students who volunteer to help our programs. Engaging teens to learn how to be responsible and care for pets pays it forward to future pet owners. Contact Us if you are interested in learning more about these programs. In addition, we are a volunteer-only organization and rely on the commitment and skills of our volunteers to carry out our mission. Please consider volunteering or fostering to help us save as many lives as possible.

Glory Bound Rescue Ranch

Over two decades ago, Jennifer Finkelman, our founder, president, and lifelong animal advocate, envisioned Glory Bound as a peaceful haven for her horses, boarders, and riding lessons. However, the transformative encounter with a draft horse named Ripley marked a turning point. Ripley needed Jennifer just as much as she needed him, forever altering the trajectory of Glory Bound. What began as a horse stable has blossomed into a sanctuary for horses, dogs, and various farm animals. Fueled by a dedicated volunteer force, we embrace senior animals and those that may not fit elsewhere. The resilience displayed by our "residents" is nothing short of miraculous. Emerging from adversity, these animals overcome physical and mental anguish, learning to trust and accept human touch during their rehabilitation. Glory Bound stands as a no-kill animal sanctuary, rescuing creatures from abuse, neglect, imminent danger, and abandonment. Our daily commitment echoes our purpose: to be a voice for the voiceless. We're steadfast in our determination to RESCUE ON! As Winston Churchill aptly said, "There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man." At Glory Bound, we witness these profound connections daily, as many souls find solace, rehabilitation, and a second chance at a fulfilled life.

All Herding Breeds Dog Rescue

All Herding Breed Dog Rescue of Illinois is a state licensed, non for profit, 501c3, rescue group. We are an all-volunteer organization that operates solely on donations.

FIERCE Animal Rescue

FIERCE Animal Rescue is located along the Illinois/Wisconsin border. We are a small but mighty group of animal advocates. We welcome all people to help us in our battle against pet overpopulation. You will see us out and about in the community, assisting local Trap, Neuter, Return initiatives led by county TNR groups. We have a special place in our hearts for educational outreach. We love to speak with local community groups, nursing homes, and schools about what we can all do to help this cause! We realize that in the fight against suffering, there can never be enough hands on deck. We partner with other local rescues and provide “backup.” We are stronger together!

Angel Dog Alliance

We are the Angel Dog (and Cat!) Alliance Our 501c3 rescues and rehomes dogs from the nation’s highest-kill shelters. We believe every dog deserves a chance at a happy, healthy life, and we’re committed to making that a reality. Our Story Founded by Teresa Ryan, Angel Dog Alliance emerged from a simple yet profound desire to make a difference. Witnessing the dire situation in high-kill shelters across the U.S., Teresa felt a deep calling to act. In 2023, she transformed her passion into purpose, establishing Angel Dog Alliance. Teresa’s journey began with a single act of rescue, but it quickly grew into a nationwide movement. Her vision was clear: no dog should face euthanasia simply due to overcrowded shelters. What We Do • Rescue Missions: We identify and rescue dogs at the highest risk in overcrowded shelters. • Funding and Support: Through fundraising and donations, we provide financial support for the rescue and care of these dogs. • Collaborations: We partner with rescue organizations and shelters nationwide to ensure a safe haven for rescued dogs.

Animal House Shelter

We are a non-profit, 501(c)3, no kill shelter for all breeds of dogs and cats. Founded in June 2002, we rescue and care for homeless animals. Most of the dogs and cats that we take in are from high kill facilities that are euthanizing due to lack of space. Many have been abused, neglected or abandoned . Once rehabilitated and ready, they are carefully matched with prospective adopters and placed in loving homes. We do take in some owner relinquishments as well and there are a variety of reasons people give up their dog or cat to us. The most common reasons are lack of time due to a change in work schedule, moving, allergies, new baby etc. Like people, animals have distinct personalities that make them unique. At Animal House we are proud to say that these animals are treated like our own. We care enough to be certain they go to the right loving, forever home.

Recycled Rotts, Inc.

Kane County Animal Control

Pets and Vets USA

Pets and Vets USA began from a promise between a mother and a son. Peter Thomas Cangelosi and his mother, Carol Ann, pledged to make a difference by agreeing to donate time and resources to the local animal shelter. Unfortunately, Carol Ann became ill and passed in 2005. In 2013, Peter renewed his promise, by pledging funds on death row dogs in shelters across the United States. Then Peter saved his first dog, "Truth" a bull dog/pit bull mix. The dog was minutes from being euthanized in a region where hundreds of thousands of pit bull mixes die every year. After a long journey, he joined Peter in Illinois and was renamed Miracle. During this time, Peter learned more about the countless dogs euthanized and the homeless veterans who had put their life on the line. Peter decided to keep his promise to his mother and make a difference by helping homeless veterans so he founded Pets and Vets USA, a 501c3 nonprofit.

Making A Difference Rescue

Making A Difference Rescue is a 100% volunteer run, 501c3 non-profit organization, registered with the State of Illinois and licensed by the State of Illinois Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare Because we are a 501c3 charitable organization, all donations are tax deductible. We do not have our own facility. We rely solely on a team of dedicated volunteers and screened foster homes to re-home, socialize, and care for our animals. With their help and yours, we are able to rescue animals from potential euthanasia and help lower overpopulation in area shelters. All donations are tax deductible. Who We Are Making A Difference Rescue is made up of a group of volunteers that are dedicated to placing abandoned and at-risk animals into approved, reference and screen checked homes. Making A Difference Rescue believes that these steps are crucial in order to ensure a safe and forever loving home for their animals. Financial support and/or supplies that can be donated are always greatly appreciated. We take pride in knowing that we had a part in changing their lives forever!

Animal Rescue Associates, Inc.

Animal Rescue Associates, Inc, is a licensed, No-Kill, No-Shelter rescue organization made up of rescuers throughout Illinois and surrounding communities…all dedicated and working collectively to save discarded, abandoned and displaced lives. Animal Rescue Associates strives to reduce the vast overpopulation of unwanted pets by: · Rescuing countless adoptable pets awaiting their avoidable fate of euthanasia in high-kill facilities. · Offering adoption of rescued, homeless pets. · Providing re-homing services for displaced pets. · Contributing education on the humane care and treatment of animals, as well as the importance of spaying and neutering in our communities. • Supporting and believing that high volume, community based sterilization campaigns are the humane, logical and sustainable strategy to combat the over population of cats and dogs. • Supporting the No-Kill, No-Shelter approach.

A&S Rescue

A&S Rescue was founded in 2001 by Alise Carrico and Silvia Simmons. We knew a lot of dogs—especially bullies—needed more before being adopted. These dogs have been through a lot. They needed to be prepared for their forever homes. We prioritize structure through carefully selected foster homes and training, so our rescues can feel safe to be themselves again. We also focus on nutrition and high quality food, follow our dogs for their lifetime, and will help adopters after adoption. Our rescues are at the core of everything we do, which is why we go great lengths to help them to succeed. To date, we have placed over 3,000 dogs with only two returns. That’s unheard of in other organizations!

Tails Humane Society

Tails Humane Society is a managed admission animal shelter providing a safe haven for over 2,500 animals each year. We are committed to providing each animal the time and medical care they need to have their best chance at adoption. Tails was established in 1999 by a group of local animal advocates dedicated to bringing a comprehensive animal shelter to DeKalb. We operated out of an old farmhouse until 2005 when we cut the ribbon on our Barber Greene facility. In 2009, we opened our affordable Spay/Neuter Clinic providing quality, affordable sterilization services to the public. We continue to grow and strengthen our programs and service as we continue to save lives.

All Those Left Behind Animal Rescue, Inc.

All Those Left Behind Animal Rescue, Inc. is a foster home based 501 c 3 not for profit animal rescue licensed by the State of Illinois Department of Agriculture. Our mission is to rescue animals left by their owners or at animal controls as we strive to prevent euthanasia of any animal regardless of breed, age or health concerns. Not only are we a rescue but we have sanctuary animals too which will live out the rest of their lives in our rescue because of them being considered unadoptable due to medical or behavioral concerns. All of our staff are volunteers, we do not have paid employees and we do NOT have a physical shelter, all of our animals are in foster homes.

On Angels' Wings - Pet Rescue & Resale Store

On Angels' Wings, Inc. (OAW) is a 501(c)(3) public nonprofit whose mission is to rescue, provide veterinary care for, and find forever homes for abused, abandoned, and neglected pets (dogs, cats, and small animals) in Northern Illinois and beyond. At OAW, we believe the human and animal bond is a mutually beneficial relationship, improving life for both the rescued pet as well as the members of the adopting family. OAW founders Jeannette Hager and her daughter Emily hoped to encourage future generations to embrace this way of thinking, which is why we also educate the community about animal welfare, particularly within the local school system.

It's All About The Paws

Safe Haven Dog Rescue

Safe Haven Dog Rescue, is a Tax-Exempt 501(c) 3 Organization, created by volunteers to rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving families for homeless dogs and puppies. Most of our dogs and puppies are rescued from rural southern pounds and shelters where they have little chance of a better life without being rescued. We are all foster based, meaning we do not have a shelter and we rely on the generosity of the community to open their homes and foster these deserving dogs and puppies.

Helping Paws Animal Shelter

Helping Paws Animal Shelter’s mission is to provide shelter, food, medical care, and comfort to abandoned, neglected, and abused animals until they are placed into loving, responsible homes. Our Story Helping Paws Animal Shelter (HP), legally known as the Fox Valley Helping Paws Animal Welfare Association, Inc., was established in 1969 with a foster program which rehomed orphaned animals into permanent, loving homes. In 1971, Helping Paws incorporated as the first no-kill, animal welfare association in McHenry County. Our first storefront location was on Route 14, across from Andy’s Restaurant at 465 Virginia Street. In 1995, we rented a facility in Ridgefield, IL, which was only able to house cats and then three years later purchased and remodeled the old Culligan Building at 257 King Street in Crystal Lake. The building was approximately 3,000 square feet and allowed us to house up to 60 cats and seven dogs. Then in 2006, Helping Paws moved into our current 10,000 square foot facility at 2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock, IL. This facility allows us to care for approximately 125 kittens/cats and to accommodate 45 puppies/dogs. Helping Paws is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Our small, committed staff of 11 employees and over 300 dedicated volunteers handle and care for more than 800 animals annually and serve more than 300,000 residents in McHenry County and surrounding communities. Each animal that comes into our shelter is treated with respect, kindness and compassion. We believe that for each of our animals…”Second Chances Start Here.”

Anderson Humane

Bringing people and animals together for good. For more than fifty years, Anderson Humane has been the leading animal welfare organization in our community. We have been dedicated to creating positive connections between people and animals from day one because animals make us better! Today, we place more than 4,000 pets into loving homes each year. Our innovative programs make the healing presence of animals available to seniors, veterans, and those in crisis. We help pet owners provide the best care possible to their dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles, and other animals through free training and resources. Every year, Anderson Humane cares for more than 3,000 injured and orphaned wild animals. Our classes and programs help people appreciate and preserve these animals and their natural habitat.