This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Colorado. 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.
#67 in United States, #1 in Colorado, #1 in Denver
Denver
We are a small volume rescue with a huge focus on humane education. We rescue dogs and cats and work with our adopters/fosters and the general public to educate about how to best support our companion animals so that their placements can be successful. Unwanted pets is at epidemic levels, and without education we won't make progress. Our rescue is unique in that we are run by multiple certified dog trainers and behavior professionals. We have a podcast called Pod To The Rescue, which is produced with the goal of providing evidence based behavioral support to adopters and fosters.
"Summit Dog Rescue saved my dog from being euthanized and i found him,, he has been my PAL for 4..."
— fred w.
Fan
"Summit Dog Rescue's people demonstrate exemplary patience, compassion, and integrity every day. It has been an honor to become acquainted..."
— kevin m.
Supporter
#71 in United States, #2 in Colorado, #2 in Denver
#3 in husky
Husky
Denver
Jailbreak Husky Rescue is a 501(C)(3) and PACFA licensed organization based out of Colorado that aims to rescue, rehabilitate, transport, rehome and advocate for Siberian Huskies and other northern breeds that are at risk of being euthanized, abandoned, or in neglectful or abusive situations. Our mission has a specialized focus on pregnant or nursing northern breeds, including pre-natal and postpartum care, whelping, bottle, syringe and tube feeding, and breed-focused litter care and development.
"Jailbreak rescues huskies who need it the most. She coordinates multi-state rescue missions and rescues huskies that have been thrown..."
— colleen l.
Supporter, Fan
"I was looking to adopt a husky after losing my boy. I filed out an adoption app and Brooklyn was..."
— heather c.
Adoptee
#90 in United States, #3 in Colorado, #3 in Denver
#1 in boxer
Boxer
Denver
Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue is a non-profit, all volunteer group in Colorado. We have been active and engaged in our community since 1972.
"Great Rescue , awesome Director and great volunteers. I adopted a female Boxer and was very impressed with the home..."
— angela b.
Adoptee, Supporter
"I have worked with HoBo for the past 4 years. This rescue is filled with the most selfless, compassionate, and..."
— katie m.
Volunteer / foster
#102 in United States, #4 in Colorado, #1 in Grand Junction
Grand Junction
La Plata County Humane Society is a private non-profit, that has been helping pets in need in rural, southwest Colorado since 1971! We adopt companion animals, provide low-cost spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccination, have a robust trap-neuter-release program, a life-saving foster program, offer onsite training, and provide animal protection services.
"This shelter puts heart and soul into helping the animals of La Plata County. From the health and care of..."
— liza b.
Staff member
"I got a great dog from them named Jerry after the Primus song. Sometimes he stares at trees and whines,..."
— bonquisha c.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#118 in United States, #5 in Colorado, #4 in Denver
Denver
The Fairy Dawg Mother works with trusted partners in Colorado and nearby states to bring dawgs to the Denver Metro area, where they will have a better chance at adoption. We do our best to select dogs that will be highly successful candidates for placement with a new furever family, but change can be stressful for even the most easy-going dawg. Because of this, we work with foster families to start getting them stabilized, learn about each dawg's individual temperament, and provide training and guidance to the dawg.
"I have been a follower for several years as well as an attendee to several fundraisers for them. For..."
— kelly f.
Supporter, Fan
"They only care about the dogs at this rescue. MFDM will do everything for the dog first and foremost."
— jessica w.
Volunteer / foster
#192 in United States, #6 in Colorado, #5 in Denver
Denver
PawsCo is a 501(c)3 animal welfare organization based in Denver, Colorado. PawsCo is dedicated to reducing pet homelessness by partnering with animal shelters and other rescues in order to help the most in-need animals ‚ those animals not thriving in a shelter setting.
"I volunteer with PawsCo bc they give animals a chance that are struggling in the shelters. It’s so important that..."
— natalie m.
Volunteer / foster
"I adopted my cat from PawsCo years ago and began volunteering/fostering after the passing of my beloved dog. Not only..."
— aileen b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#207 in United States, #7 in Colorado, #6 in Denver
Denver
Soul Dog is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue organization founded with the mission to spay/neuter and protect animals. Soul Dog is proactive in animal welfare, advancing the need for spaying and neutering our pets to reduce overpopulation. We travel to rural communities on Native American reservations, where spaying and neutering will only happen if it is nearly free or very convenient. Soul Dog works with volunteer veterinarians to provide the spaying and neutering service at no cost to the public. Donations are used to defray the costs associated with medications, supplies, and the operating cost for clinics.
"Soul Dog Rescue is absolutely a fantastic organization. Their main focus is to help the indigenous community in the four..."
— betsy w.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Soul dog is an amazing rescue whose work goes far beyond saving dogs and adopting them out into loving homes...."
— kayla r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #8 in Colorado, #1 in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs
NMDR's mission is to RESCUE, REHABILITATE and RE-HOME discarded breeding dogs and to educate the general public about the cruel realities of the commercial dog breeding industry.
"Do a great job of getting stray animals off the streets and into safe homes"
— kim o.
Supporter, Fan
"Detroit Pit Crew does amazing things for dogs in the metro Detroit area."
— margaret.
Supporter
#266 in United States, #8 in Colorado, #7 in Denver
Denver
Colorado Saint Bernard Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit that was founded in 1997, all volunteer organization dedicated to the rehoming of unwanted, abandoned, and abused Saint Bernards and Saint Bernard mixes.
"The Colorado st Bernard rescue organization has very compassionate volunteers dedicated to improving the lives of their dogs. Hobocare..."
— chris s.
Fan
"Colorado Saint Bernard Rescue holds a special place in my heart, not just because of the incredible work they do..."
— jenna r.
Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #8 in Colorado
#3 in australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd
At Australian Shepherds Furever, we work daily to save aussies in need. It can be tough work, but incredibly rewarding to see this beautiful and intelligent breed flourish when given a second chance. We are a 501 (c) 3 non profit corporation. As a nonprofit, raising funds for rescue, fostering, training, boarding and health care is vital. Please consider showing your support today
"Selfless advocacy for Australian Shepherds"
— sally k.
Supporter
"A woman-run rescue that is a model of organization and compassionate care. The Animal Pad often takes care of the..."
— loraine d.
Volunteer / foster
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado
"They do amazing work everyday to give these beautiful animals a second chance at life! They are their biggest advocate..."
— kelly r.
Supporter
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
Foothills Animal Shelter is an open admission facility serving Jefferson County in the state of Colorado and is a member of the Metro Denver Animal Welfare Alliance. We are driven to make lives better for animals and people in our community. We are a Socially Conscious Animal Welfare Organization, creating the best outcomes for all animals that enter our care. We place every healthy and safe animal for adoption. We assess the medical and behavioral needs of homeless animals and ensure these needs are thoughtfully addressed. And, we alleviate suffering through thoughtful euthanasia.
"The amount of work and care that goes into making a real difference for every animal that comes under their..."
— rebecca h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
Welcome to NOCO Humane, your community partner for comprehensive animal welfare services in Larimer and Weld counties. We have expanded our reach and our impact, taking on the sheltering and care of animals in Weld County in light of the dissolution of the Humane Society of Weld County. Join us as we heal, nature, and protect more than 10,000 animals in the year to come!
"Emotional Rescue takes in all dogs no matter their physical abilities. Shannon and the fosters give such love to..."
— lynn c.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
Taysia Blue Rescue is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. We are a family of volunteers and advocates dedicated to helping local Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and their guardians. We are funded solely and supported by, the generosity of individuals and corporations in our communities. All our dogs are located in approved foster homes in the metro areas of Omaha, Lincoln, Kansas City, Des Moines and Denver. Taysia Blue does not have a physical building and does not have set hours of operation.
"Taydia Blue Rescue currently operates actively in 7 states, and is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Established in 2010, they average..."
— richard b.
Volunteer / foster
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
Harley's Dream was established in 2016 in honor of Harley, a senior one-eyed puppy mill survivor who became the face and voice of the puppy mill dogs, earning the distinction of being the 2015 American Hero Dog for his work. Our mission is to create awareness and educate the public about the cruel commercial dog breeding industry (also known as puppy mills) and to rescue and rehome senior dogs in need.
"Harley’s Dream gives mill dogs a second chance."
— margaret.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
Our mission is to ensure that all rescued animals are treated as valuable members of society through quality veterinary care, regular grooming, and excellent nutrition. We are a foster based, 501c3 non-profit rescue, dedicated to the health and wellbeing of mother dogs and cats and their litters. We see our rescue dogs and cats through pregnancy, birth (whelping), nursing, weaning, and adoption. In addition to providing necessary care, we also work to socialize, train, and evaluate each animal to ensure that they find permanent forever homes. This involves establishing close and trusting relationships with our volunteers, adopters, and the community.
"Hands down Dalis to the Rescue in Alma Michigan deserves this honor!! The crew is amazing with educating adopting families..."
— donna c.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
One of the ways the Dumb Friends League can fulfill its mission to end pet homelessness and animal suffering is to influence the laws and policies that protect animals and enhance their welfare. Our Advocacy team works with policymakers, animal welfare agencies, law enforcement and the community to drive the policies that make Colorado a leader in protecting our furry family members. We hope to help you stay informed on issues in Colorado and across the country that impact animal sheltering and welfare and continue to make systemic changes that benefit animals and the humans that love them, now and in the future
"Dumb Friends League is a fantastic Denver rescue, devoted to helping homeless animals find forever homes. Their Furry Scurry fundraising..."
— catherine l.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
#1 in corgi
Corgi
Denver
Colorado Corgis and Friends is a 501c3 Dog Rescue specializing in Corgis and other lowrider breeds. Established in late 2019 by a group of Corgi-loving people who love and understand the Corgi breed and love all other dogs as well. The founding members have over 100+ years of experience owning Corgis and 50+ years in Rescue. It is our pleasure and passion to help homeless dogs in need, help struggling owners rehome their pets, and offer advice on training issues typical of this herding breed.
"Wonderful rescue that works to get corgis and other breeds adopted to their perfect forever homes! We rescued our adorable..."
— kristin j.
Adoptee
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado
"MaxFund is an immensely caring no-killer shelter and rescue. They are devoted to helping adoptable, homeless pets in Colorado find..."
— catherine l.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Colorado, #8 in Denver
Denver
A Friend of Jack Rescue is a Colorado, foster-based 501(c)3 non-profit rescue dedicated to finding loving, lasting homes for unwanted dogs and puppies.
"Love em!"
— baylee m.
Supporter, Fan
NMDR's mission is to RESCUE, REHABILITATE and RE-HOME discarded breeding dogs and to educate the general public about the cruel realities of the commercial dog breeding industry.
All Breed Rescue & Training (ABRT) is a nonprofit dog rescue and training organization based in Colorado Springs. Since 1994, we’ve been rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding forever families for dogs deemed unadoptable and facing euthanasia. Our 98% adoption success rate proves that our positive reinforcement- and relationship-based training works. And we offer this training to the whole community—our many on-site, certified, trainers can help make your canine a happy member of your family, always.
We are a small volume rescue with a huge focus on humane education. We rescue dogs and cats and work with our adopters/fosters and the general public to educate about how to best support our companion animals so that their placements can be successful. Unwanted pets is at epidemic levels, and without education we won't make progress. Our rescue is unique in that we are run by multiple certified dog trainers and behavior professionals. We have a podcast called Pod To The Rescue, which is produced with the goal of providing evidence based behavioral support to adopters and fosters.
Jailbreak Husky Rescue is a 501(C)(3) and PACFA licensed organization based out of Colorado that aims to rescue, rehabilitate, transport, rehome and advocate for Siberian Huskies and other northern breeds that are at risk of being euthanized, abandoned, or in neglectful or abusive situations. Our mission has a specialized focus on pregnant or nursing northern breeds, including pre-natal and postpartum care, whelping, bottle, syringe and tube feeding, and breed-focused litter care and development.
Ho-Bo Care Boxer Rescue is a non-profit, all volunteer group in Colorado. We have been active and engaged in our community since 1972.
The main goal of 2CVR is to match Vizslas in need of forever homes with loving families. We are dedicated to providing rehabilitation, medical care, and in-home foster care for abandoned or abused purebred Vizslas or Vizsla mixes. We do not board our rescues in a kennel environment. We strive to educate the community regarding responsible dog ownership, including: the spay/neuter or companion animals, assisting shelters by promoting awareness, working with shelter managers/directors in our targeted area, and bringing shelter dogs on board as quickly as possible. We are an independent Vizsla rescue organization. We do, however, coordinate with the Vizsla Club of America (VCA) and other Vizsla rescue organizations around the United States. Our purpose is to help the Vizsla and the people who love and support the breed. As necessary, we offer support to shelters that handle stray or surrendered Vizslas. It is our goal to leave no Vizsla in a shelter or surrendering home longer than it takes to arrange pickup/release of the animal to 2CVR and foster care. Our funding is based primarily on personal donations, adoption donations, participation in local fund raising projects and grants.
Intermountain Humane Society is committed to serving our intermountain community by providing socially conscious animal sheltering, animal welfare education and advocacy, and to be the community's leading resource for animal welfare, working to improve the lives of people and their pets. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
We are a small, nonprofit 501c3) dog rescue in northern Colorado. Our goal is to provide loving forever homes for homeless and shelter dogs. We work with a variety of foster homes and rescue organizations as well as a supportive mix of local businesses.
La Plata County Humane Society is a private non-profit, that has been helping pets in need in rural, southwest Colorado since 1971! We adopt companion animals, provide low-cost spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccination, have a robust trap-neuter-release program, a life-saving foster program, offer onsite training, and provide animal protection services.
Journey Home Animal Care Center provides care for over 1,500 lost, ill, injured or orphaned animals each year throughout the Colorado River Valley in Western Garfield County. The center provides a variety of services including adoption, veterinary clinic, and more. Refer to below for a full list of what’s offered: • Adopts animals into new homes. • Reunites owners with their lost pets. • Our clinic provides limited veterinary services. • Places animals into foster homes until they are healthy, adoptable animals. • Financial assistance for community members needing veterinary services. Ask us! • Offers public education and information. • Assists those in need with feeding their animals. • Assists the community with a Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) program for feral and free roaming cats. • Provides volunteer opportunities for community members. • Provides housing and care for animals running at large in the City of Rifle and the towns of Parachute, Silt, and New Castle. Our History The journey of Rifle Animal Shelter Shelter Renovation Rifle Animal Shelter, a 30 plus year old building, originally served as an impound facility for the City of Rifle. In 1998 the shelter was on the verge of being shut down for not meeting the Pet Animal Care Facilities Act (PACFA) standards. A group of volunteers started a campaign to help renovate the shelter. In just six months, the shelter was renovated with donated labor and materials. Volunteers from all over Garfield County came together to make this project a success. This core group of volunteers formed a 501 © (3) non-profit corporation and became Garfield County Animal Welfare Foundation, Inc., also known as Friends of the Rifle Animal Shelter (FRAS). Assisting the Community FRAS’s next goal was to spay/neuter and provide medical care for every animal coming into the shelter. Today, no animal leaves the shelter without being current on vaccines, altered and micro chipped. In approximately 2002, FRAS expanded its services to include financial assistance to the Garfield County community and began to help community members alter their family pets. Expanding Our Reach On January 1, 2012, FRAS took over operations and management of the Rifle Animal Shelter. With this contract came expanded services, more efficient operations and greater public outreach.
We are located in Delta County, Colorado - about an hour south of Grand Junction, Colorado on the western side of the state. We are a small but mighty group of volunteers with only 9 foster homes, yet we manage to rescue and adopt out a fair number of pets.
Welcome to the 2024 Colorado Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Colorado 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 Colorado dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
We are conversational based and decide based on the needs of the dog, and the lifestyle/commitment level of the adopter.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
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.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.