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The Best Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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

    Sweet Home Doberman Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/4/97b91b90f8a4-4x4TwoDoberman.png
    None at this time
    AlabamaUS
    My husband and I founded this rescue in 2015 and in those almost 9 years, we have been humbled daily by the support from people all over who help make this rescue possible. We are the only breed specific doberman rescue in the state and our work is never done! We are honored by this nomination and know this could have a huge impact on our ability to continue our mission. We have helped 100's of dogs find loving forever homes, who would not otherwise have had a second chance in life.
  • Sweet Home Doberman Rescue Logo

    Sweet Home Doberman Rescue

    #106 in United States, #1 in Alabama

    Sweet Home Doberman Rescue (SHDR) is the only 501c3, not for profit Doberman rescue organization in Alabama. Founded in 2015, SHDR has committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and placement of abused, abandoned, and/or neglected Dobermans. It is SHDR's personal mission to assist these magnificent breeds in any way we can. We are dedicated to educating the public as well as future Doberman owners about these majestic, often misunderstood breeds. They are often portrayed as aggressive dogs who will attack at a moment's notice when in fact they are Velcro dogs who are loyal, protective, and want to please their family! A Doberman wants nothing more than to be by your side and on your couch. All SHDR rescues are up to date on their shots, HW tested, microchipped, and spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Some come into rescue injured or abused and it may take a little longer to ready them for a forever home.

    "My husband and I founded this rescue in 2015 and in those almost 9 years, we have been humbled..."

    nikki l.

    Volunteer / foster, Staff member

    "We have 2 dogs from SHDR and love them both. One is a normal young pup and the other one..."

    sylvia w.

    Adoptee


  • Island of Misfits
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/5/144d6fc0678c-IMG_8397.jpeg
    AlabamaUS
    Island of Misfits knows the root of our community’s animal over population problems! They are true warriors for the voiceless! They work tirelessly to voice much needed change & enforcement of state & local laws, codes & enforcement. They take advantage of every adoption event possible, to include a neighboring very rural County shelter that has no help & non stop abandonment. They assist pet owners get low cost spay neuter with option of transporting those animals to a low cost clinic. They have relationships with rescues in states that have animal protected laws, transporting our Community’s unwanted to them. They very carefully screen potential adopters, know breeds and will not allow an animal to go into a home that doesn’t fit. I could go on & on praising them! They are their voice & they are a much needed part of the army to save animals!!
  • Island of Misfits Logo

    Island of Misfits

    #114 in United States, #2 in Alabama

    Our mission at Island of Misfits is to make a difference in the lives of shelter and unwanted animals we can bring into our lives. We also hope to make an impact on the pet overpopulation by offering a low cost option for spay and neuter.

    "Island of Misfits knows the root of our community’s animal over population problems! They are true warriors for the voiceless! They..."

    renee.

    Supporter

    "This rescue has devoted an enormous amount of love, time, energy, and resources to doing all they can for the..."

    jessica w.

    Supporter, Fan


  • City of Mobile Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/6/32f2b76e8a00-logo.png
    855 Owens Street, Mobile, AL 36604
    mobileAlabamaUS
    They go above and beyond for each and every animal that is brought to them.
  • City of Mobile Animal Shelter Logo

    City of Mobile Animal Shelter

    #207 in United States, #3 in Alabama, #1 in Mobile

    Mobile

    Thank you for visiting the City of Mobile Animal Services website! In August 2021, The City of Mobile began charting a new course to transform how we support people and animals in our City. The creation of a new Animal Services Department under the arm of Administrative Services signified a shift to a modern approach to shelter, control and programs. With a focus on community partnerships, this forward-facing approach works to ensure safe and healthy environments for people and pets. The department promotes responsible pet ownership, implements programs to reduce animal overpopulation, and has formed innovative partnerships and programs to increase the City's effectiveness in supporting animals and humans in Mobile. As part of this approach, a newly modernized Animal Services facility is currently in design and will be built in a new location central to all parts of the City, and many new positions are also being added to further our mission and programs. We look forward to serving your needs!

    "They go above and beyond for each and every animal that is brought to them."

    catherine c.

    Volunteer / foster

    "The City of Mobike Shelter works tirelessly to provide the best care and to find homes for these beautiful animals...."

    pat c.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Wags and Whiskers
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/7/36bd8984b245-c146b1_4629309310384a1f8856724f4df0d6be_mv2.jpg
    AlabamaUS
    This shelter is amazing and is one of the best I’ve ever seen it’s super well run and super well maintained the staff is great and they take take care of their dogs like nothing I’ve ever seen.
  • Wags and Whiskers Logo

    Wags and Whiskers

    #266 in United States, #4 in Alabama

    Wags and Whiskers, Mobile AL is a 501c3 FOSTER based animal rescue along the Gulf Coast. We do not have a brick and mortar facility. All of our adoptable animals are in Foster homes. We take in dogs from local shelters, strays, and from individuals who are in need of help. We can only take in dogs that we have a foster space available for and that space is limited due to the sheer number of unwanted dogs in our area.

    "This shelter is amazing and is one of the best I’ve ever seen it’s super well run and super well..."

    shane t.

    Supporter

    "As a foster with Wags and Whiskers I am able to open my home to the puppies. Puppies are the..."

    breanna v.

    Volunteer / foster


  • Dixie Girl Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/9/be1fa7559d6c-f84d30_16013daf2b4e469a90d7f7545c6774e6_mv2.webp
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    We had a wonderful experience adopting our family member Tipper back in 2020. It was during the pandemic and Dixie Girl made the process and pick up super safe. Today is Tipper’s and his siblings fourth birthday and their foster mom had created a Facebook page for all of us to join and keep track of each other. we are all in the Northeast area and see how each pup has grown. We can even contact the adopters of his mom whom he looks so much alike. His foster was wonderful at sending photos and videos and medical information on all of the pups throughout the whole process. Dixie Girl is a wonderful rescue group.
  • Dixie Girl Dog Rescue Logo

    Dixie Girl Dog Rescue

    #361 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

    Huntsville

    At Dixie Girl Dog Rescue, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home. We are dedicated to finding the right families for our animals, ensuring every pet is placed in a safe and loving environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals in need, and we strive to find homes for every pet, regardless of age or breed. We are committed to finding forever homes for each of our rescues and we are proud of the successful adoptions we have facilitated. We believe in the power of happy endings, and we are here to make that happen.

    "We had a wonderful experience adopting our family member Tipper back in 2020. It was during the pandemic and..."

    julie k.

    Adoptee


  • Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/13/7cdc3056b157-Capture.JPG
    AlabamaUS
    They have worked so hard to turn this shelter around and it shows. The euthanasia rate was once so high but is now only in extreme circumstances where the animal medically can’t be saved. They are so deserving of any recognition for their tireless hard work for the homeless animals of our county.
  • Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter Logo

    Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter

    #361 in United States, #5 in Alabama

    Metro Animal Shelter is a 501c3 non-profit organization that opened its doors in July, 1994. We are funded by the City of Tuscaloosa, City of Northport, and Tuscaloosa County Commission. Along with those funds, we receive donations which are tax-deductible, redemption and adoption fees. We receive animals from both animal control and citizens.

    "They have worked so hard to turn this shelter around and it shows. The euthanasia rate was once so high..."

    cynthia d.

    Supporter


  • Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/10/4713141d4da1-Screenshot_2024_02_05_at_11.26.24_AM.png
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    Golden retrievers saved from hell is a difficult mission…and they’re doing it!
  • Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary Logo

    Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary

    #361 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

    Huntsville

    The mission of Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary is to prevent cruelty to all animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption into their forever homes. Full Circle is a small, 501(c)(3), 100% volunteer-run, foster-based rescue and sanctuary in central Alabama.

    "Golden retrievers saved from hell is a difficult mission…and they’re doing it!"

    valerie k.

    Fan


  • Greater Huntsville Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/12/65ff8ab197be-Capture.JPG
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    Such a necessary for our community.
  • Greater Huntsville Humane Society Logo

    Greater Huntsville Humane Society

    #361 in United States, #5 in Alabama, #1 in Huntsville

    Huntsville

    The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has been rescuing North Alabama's homeless animals for 55 years. Our mission is dedicated to supporting the humane care and treatment of all animals and providing adoption services to homeless and unwanted animals. We also proudly serve our community through programs and initiatives such as King's Community Kitchen, Pet Wellness Clinics (returning in 2024!), the Good Samaritan Fund, and Community Day. Three Tails ReSale, the GHHS Thrift Store, provides a unique shopping experience for all members of our community, while supporting the pets of GHHS.

    "Such a necessary for our community."

    michael d.

    Supporter


  • American Lurcher Project
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/8/9a1654a0e5ff-alp_logo_250.gif
    AlabamaUS
  • American Lurcher Project Logo

    American Lurcher Project

    #600 in United States, #9 in Alabama

    An exciting movement is underway to save the American Lurchers. The American Lurcher Rescue Project is a team of dedicated volunteers concerned about the plight of the American Lurcher ‚ the underdogs of underground racing. Our love for the retired racing Greyhounds has drawn us together to help the thousands of lurchers who have often been forgotten. We hope to make a difference by helping them find loving forever homes through transport of these wonderful dogs to responsible adoption groups throughout the United States and Canada. We are a young group, but have accomplished much since we started transporting needy lurchers to groups in September of 2013. We hope to make a difference by raising awareness of the need for finding homes and adoption groups for the racing lurchers once their career has ended, through social media, networking, and the general support of a caring community.


  • Greater Birmingham Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/11/d41b0098b739-GBHS_WHITE_LOGO.png
    birminghamAlabamaUS
  • Greater Birmingham Humane Society Logo

    Greater Birmingham Humane Society

    #600 in United States, #9 in Alabama, #1 in Birmingham

    Birmingham

    In 1883, a young educator, Dr. John Herbert Phillips, came to Birmingham to direct the city's floundering school system. Dr. Phillips realized that a well-rounded child must be taught humane values and compassion. To that end, he founded the Birmingham Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals as well as the city's first High School and Birmingham's public library. GBHS has worked through more than our share of obstacles and problems. And yet, when you consider our predecessors had to take uncharted steps through times of war, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, it is a credit to uncounted supporters that we have not lost sight of our primary goals. Our mission is, always has been, and will be to ‚promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services‚


The Best Birmingham, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Greater Birmingham Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/11/d41b0098b739-GBHS_WHITE_LOGO.png
    birminghamAlabamaUS
  • Greater Birmingham Humane Society Logo

    Greater Birmingham Humane Society

    In 1883, a young educator, Dr. John Herbert Phillips, came to Birmingham to direct the city's floundering school system. Dr. Phillips realized that a well-rounded child must be taught humane values and compassion. To that end, he founded the Birmingham Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and Animals as well as the city's first High School and Birmingham's public library. GBHS has worked through more than our share of obstacles and problems. And yet, when you consider our predecessors had to take uncharted steps through times of war, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, it is a credit to uncounted supporters that we have not lost sight of our primary goals. Our mission is, always has been, and will be to ‚promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy, and services‚

    View profile

The Best Huntsville, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Dixie Girl Dog Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/9/be1fa7559d6c-f84d30_16013daf2b4e469a90d7f7545c6774e6_mv2.webp
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    We had a wonderful experience adopting our family member Tipper back in 2020. It was during the pandemic and Dixie Girl made the process and pick up super safe. Today is Tipper’s and his siblings fourth birthday and their foster mom had created a Facebook page for all of us to join and keep track of each other. we are all in the Northeast area and see how each pup has grown. We can even contact the adopters of his mom whom he looks so much alike. His foster was wonderful at sending photos and videos and medical information on all of the pups throughout the whole process. Dixie Girl is a wonderful rescue group.
  • Dixie Girl Dog Rescue Logo

    Dixie Girl Dog Rescue

    At Dixie Girl Dog Rescue, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home. We are dedicated to finding the right families for our animals, ensuring every pet is placed in a safe and loving environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals in need, and we strive to find homes for every pet, regardless of age or breed. We are committed to finding forever homes for each of our rescues and we are proud of the successful adoptions we have facilitated. We believe in the power of happy endings, and we are here to make that happen.

    View profile

  • Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/10/4713141d4da1-Screenshot_2024_02_05_at_11.26.24_AM.png
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    Golden retrievers saved from hell is a difficult mission…and they’re doing it!
  • Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary Logo

    Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary

    The mission of Full Circle Rescue and Sanctuary is to prevent cruelty to all animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption into their forever homes. Full Circle is a small, 501(c)(3), 100% volunteer-run, foster-based rescue and sanctuary in central Alabama.

    View profile

  • Greater Huntsville Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/12/65ff8ab197be-Capture.JPG
    huntsvilleAlabamaUS
    Such a necessary for our community.
  • Greater Huntsville Humane Society Logo

    Greater Huntsville Humane Society

    The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has been rescuing North Alabama's homeless animals for 55 years. Our mission is dedicated to supporting the humane care and treatment of all animals and providing adoption services to homeless and unwanted animals. We also proudly serve our community through programs and initiatives such as King's Community Kitchen, Pet Wellness Clinics (returning in 2024!), the Good Samaritan Fund, and Community Day. Three Tails ReSale, the GHHS Thrift Store, provides a unique shopping experience for all members of our community, while supporting the pets of GHHS.

    View profile

The Best Mobile, AL Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    City of Mobile Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/6/32f2b76e8a00-logo.png
    855 Owens Street, Mobile, AL 36604
    mobileAlabamaUS
    They go above and beyond for each and every animal that is brought to them.
  • City of Mobile Animal Shelter Logo

    City of Mobile Animal Shelter

    Thank you for visiting the City of Mobile Animal Services website! In August 2021, The City of Mobile began charting a new course to transform how we support people and animals in our City. The creation of a new Animal Services Department under the arm of Administrative Services signified a shift to a modern approach to shelter, control and programs. With a focus on community partnerships, this forward-facing approach works to ensure safe and healthy environments for people and pets. The department promotes responsible pet ownership, implements programs to reduce animal overpopulation, and has formed innovative partnerships and programs to increase the City's effectiveness in supporting animals and humans in Mobile. As part of this approach, a newly modernized Animal Services facility is currently in design and will be built in a new location central to all parts of the City, and many new positions are also being added to further our mission and programs. We look forward to serving your needs!

    View profile

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

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

Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Alabama dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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Sniffspot Alabama Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Alabama?

There are 10 in Alabama. 3 are located in Huntsville with 7 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Alabama, the top 3 on our list are: Sweet Home Doberman Rescue, Island of Misfits, City of Mobile Animal Shelter

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Alabama?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Alabama. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
We are a best match rescue. Please visit our site for application details.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Alabama, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby states, including New Jersey, Utah, Illinois.

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Alabama 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 Alabama?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Huntsville is Dixie Girl Dog Rescue.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    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

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    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.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    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.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    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.

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

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

    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.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    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.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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