This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Georgia. 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.
#38 in United States, #1 in Georgia, #1 in Augusta
Augusta
Thomasville Humane is a charitable organization committed to promoting the humane treatment of animals through a variety of means, including adoption programs, foster care programs, spay and neuter services, and community education projects with the long-term goal of eliminating unwarranted euthanasia.
"The staff is caring and incredibly dedicated to every animal."
— india j.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Thomasville Humane Society has been one of my favorite places ever since I was a little girl. For my birthday..."
— alexis k.
Supporter, Fan
#51 in United States, #2 in Georgia, #1 in Atlanta
#3 in puppy
#5 in senior dog
#2 in goldendoodle
#2 in golden Retriever
Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle, Puppy, Senior dog
Atlanta
Adopt a Golden Atlanta [AGA] is a volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding warm, loving permanent homes for Golden Retrievers [both purebred and high golden mixes] in order to prevent them from becoming strays or adding to the shelter overpopulation. If a non-golden is best friends with a golden who is surrendered to us, non golden will not be left behind and will accompany the golden into our program and placed with the golden to live together in their new home. Golden Retrievers, regardless of medical needs or age, will receive comprehensive evaluation, spay/neutering services, veterinary care, behavioral training if required, and safe passage into a permanent loving home. In addition to providing those services, Adopt a Golden Atlanta is intent on treating dog owners who are faced with surrendering their dogs with the utmost respect, understanding and compassion. It is also our obligation to educate and assist the metropolitan Atlanta general public, and dog owners specifically, regarding issues such as responsible pet ownership, spay/neutering, obedience training, and veterinary/specialists referrals. Our goal is to reduce the number of Golden Retrievers sent to shelters. AGA will never allow a golden to die in a shelter. AGA relies solely on donations and has a 501(c)(3) classification with the IRS. Your donation is tax deductible. We also meet the requirements for corporate matching, employee giving and volunteer grant programs.
"Adopt a Golden goes above and beyond to make sure the dogs get all their needs met, whether it’s medical,..."
— paula a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"We love Adopt a Golden Atlanta. Our daughter has adopted our granddogs here and they do an amazing job..."
— sherry s.
Supporter, Fan
#83 in United States, #3 in Georgia, #1 in Savannah
Savannah
We are a small rescue in South Ga taking in all animals from cats and dogs to horses and sheep. We try to spay and neuter community dogs as people will allow and educate to help prevent these issues from continuing for years to come.
"I have adopted 2 dogs from SGER. Heather’s screening process for both the animal and the adopter insures that..."
— teri w.
Adoptee
"Amazing rescue who helps more than any Rescue in our area!"
— heather g.
Staff member
#93 in United States, #4 in Georgia
"Writing from Ontario Canada... I was fortunate to be introduced to Lucky Dog Rescue Ranch when I volunteered with a..."
— shanna d.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
"I am so grateful for the love, care and dedication that Julie gives every single one of her sweet dogs..."
— meredith l.
Adoptee
#97 in United States, #5 in Georgia
North Georgia Animal Alliance, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) organization comprised of volunteers. We operate on the financial support of donations, grants and corporate sponsors.
"I follow this shelter and I recommend it often. I love that they treat animals with love and kindness. I..."
— joy s.
Fan
"North GA Animal Alliance is a small group of people who operate like an army- their passion for helping animals..."
— andrea o.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #2 in Augusta
Augusta
Providing a much-needed service to dogs in need is the driving force behind PFR. We are their trusted companions in this life-changing journey from danger to safety. We are 100% donation driven and make anywhere from 1 - 2 transport trips per month thanks to everyone's support.
"I like that they help small shelters"
— janice m.
Supporter
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #2 in Augusta
Augusta
We are a grassroots organization that begin with incorporation in 2015. Organized initially by Kathryn Ellis with friends and family that were concerned about the animal situation in the CSRA. The group received initial Non-profit status in September 2016 and have been GA Dept of Agriculture licensed since 2016. We have NO PHYSICAL FACILITY as we are a foster home rescue! To this day the rescue continues to be an All-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors. All activities are volunteer-based and the rescue is an All-donation (or grant) based funding rescue!
"They are a small rescue that help the community"
— janice m.
Fan
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia
"The most loving, thoughtful and caring folks you will ever meet!"
— christina s.
Supporter
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #1 in Cumming
Cumming
The animal shelter of DeKalb County Animal Services (DCAS) is managed by LifeLine Animal Project, a nonprofit organization working to end shelter euthanasia. LifeLine provides humane care for the animals at the shelter, veterinary care including spay/neuters, pet adoptions, animal reclaims, volunteers, foster homes and rescue group coordination.
"I started working with Dekalb Country animal Shelter as an 18 wanting a kitten. I quickly learned how valuable space..."
— brenna h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #1 in Cumming
Cumming
"Love their work"
— titta.
Supporter
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #2 in Atlanta
Atlanta
LifeLine Animal Project, a nonprofit ending the shelter euthanasia of healthy and treatable animals, has been managing the Fulton County Animal Services (FCAS) shelter since 2013. FCAS provides humane care for the animals at the shelter, veterinary care including spay/neuters, pet adoptions, animal reclaims, volunteer and foster opportunities and rescue group coordination. Also, we provide field enforcement services through our Animal Services Officers.
"Bunny Buddies"
— julie s.
Fan
#99 in United States, #6 in Georgia, #2 in Augusta
Augusta
Located in the green rolling hills of Northeast Georgia, The Bullpen provides assistance and sanctuary for giant breed dogs and other vulnerable companion animals. We believe that by integrating grassroots community education and outreach, coalition building, support for existing animal welfare efforts, and our own independent rescue operations, we can eliminate needless euthanasia and improve the overall health and well-being of our four-legged friends.
""I can't thank the BullPen reacue enough for their incredible work! Thanks to their dedication and compassion, countless dogs have..."
— michele r.
Fan
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
#8 in puppy
Puppy
Star Bright Animal Rescue is a 501C3, non-profit organization run by volunteers in central GA and New England areas. We rescue dogs and puppies from high kill and all kill animal controls, and strays, anywhere they need help, we try to help as many as we can. Most of the puppies that you see in New England shelters and websites (including our own) come from southern states. Nearly 95% of our the fur babies in our program come from a shelter in Georgia which we have developed a close partnership with the goal of saving lives from needless euthanasia. The remaining 5% come from abandoned and owner surrender situations.
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
No Kill Glynn County (NKGC) is part of a national movement working towards eliminating euthanasia by working to find homes for unwanted or homeless cats and dogs. NKGC is a 501c3, all-volunteer, nonprofit with zero paid staff or government funding, meaning we depend completely on private grants and contributions. Our volunteers consist of people just like you, animal lovers, who want to make a difference in their community. NKGC is a foster based rescue, meaning we do not have a facility to house the animals. All NKGC's animals are in foster homes until they have been adopted into their new forever homes. NKGC's commitment is making Glynn County one of the safest places for companion animals and feral cats in the county by establishing Glynn County as a 'No Kill' community.
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
Our amazing team of volunteers are committed to helping animals in our community. We take our convictions and turn them into action. We believe that shelter dogs make the best family pets and make it a top priority to find forever homes for dogs rescued from high kill shelters. Think you would be a good fit? See our contact page for more information!
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
Rescuing for years and mainly livestock animals, we have now become a 501C3 non profit sanctuary along with our farm. With this side, we can continue our efforts to rescue mainly special needs livestock or that special second chance animal. Some may have special medical needs, some may need some basic training or many just need a safe haven to live out the rest of their lives. As we grow and continue to maintain our current rescues, care is 24/7 and requires everyday upkeep, feeding, haying, hoof care, medical supplies and everyday special care for our special needs kids. We also have vet care when a special rescue comes in with major issues or problems. We continue our efforts with advancing our pastures and structures as we can. Our sanctuary section of the farm is home to llamas, alpacas, donkeys, sheep, goats, pigs, cows, chickens and even all our family dogs have found us. 100% of all our donations are 100% tax deductible and go directly for the continuing care of our rescue animals and any future ones that we feel we can add if there is enough space, time and funds available.
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
Best Friends Humane Society is a private, non-profit organization. Our goals include providing shelt
#100 in United States, #7 in Georgia
outhern Comfort Animal Rescue, Inc. (SoCo Rescue) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that rescues and re-homes abused, unwanted, and abandoned companion animals. We primarily house dogs of all breeds, ages, shapes and sizes, and occasionally offer cats for adoption as well. We are a small rescue and the only resource for homeless dogs in a rural county of Georgia.
SSGDR is a 501c3 nonprofit organization incorporated under the laws of the State of Tennessee. SSGDR is owned and operated by a Board of Directors and a dedicated group of volunteers. We are a foster home based rescue. We do not have an actual brick and mortar building. Foster homes are located in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee.
We created JCHS in hopes of helping the voiceless in Jasper County, Georgia. Jasper County is a rural town, with an abundance of unaltered pets, with very little community support. Our mission is to not only support our local shelter, with getting the unwanted animals out of our community and into loving homes so euthanizing isn't an option, but to also educate the community on the importance of spay and neutering their pets. The struggle is real as we have no local veterinarians. We try to help citizens with transport and financial burden with those seeking help. Bringing awareness to everyone about the crisis we face, not only as a rural county, but all counties state wide. Laws MUST change AND quickly as the overpopulation of the unwanted is greater than rescues can handle. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. ALL proceeds go towards the medical needs of our shelter animals.
Adopt a Golden Atlanta [AGA] is a volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to finding warm, loving permanent homes for Golden Retrievers [both purebred and high golden mixes] in order to prevent them from becoming strays or adding to the shelter overpopulation. If a non-golden is best friends with a golden who is surrendered to us, non golden will not be left behind and will accompany the golden into our program and placed with the golden to live together in their new home. Golden Retrievers, regardless of medical needs or age, will receive comprehensive evaluation, spay/neutering services, veterinary care, behavioral training if required, and safe passage into a permanent loving home. In addition to providing those services, Adopt a Golden Atlanta is intent on treating dog owners who are faced with surrendering their dogs with the utmost respect, understanding and compassion. It is also our obligation to educate and assist the metropolitan Atlanta general public, and dog owners specifically, regarding issues such as responsible pet ownership, spay/neutering, obedience training, and veterinary/specialists referrals. Our goal is to reduce the number of Golden Retrievers sent to shelters. AGA will never allow a golden to die in a shelter. AGA relies solely on donations and has a 501(c)(3) classification with the IRS. Your donation is tax deductible. We also meet the requirements for corporate matching, employee giving and volunteer grant programs.
LifeLine Animal Project, a nonprofit ending the shelter euthanasia of healthy and treatable animals, has been managing the Fulton County Animal Services (FCAS) shelter since 2013. FCAS provides humane care for the animals at the shelter, veterinary care including spay/neuters, pet adoptions, animal reclaims, volunteer and foster opportunities and rescue group coordination. Also, we provide field enforcement services through our Animal Services Officers.
Tails of Hope was founded in 2020 as a 501(c)3 organization but the genesis began long before that. In 2013, their sister organization, Coco’s Cupboard, began partnering with a local group whose mission was to assist military service members and veterans to lead healthy, productive lives. We loved connecting those who are wounded or suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Traumatic Brain Injury with ADA-compliant service dogs. Overtime, as our program grew, so began the start of the Tails of Hope journey. As our reputation in the local community grew, it brought many non-veterans in need to their door. Anxious to serve them as well, Tails of Hope Service Dogs was formed. We are now an all-inclusive organization serving anyone who could benefit from a service dog. Tails of Hope dogs do everything from monitoring a diabetic child’s blood sugar, “sweeping a room” for a veteran for PTSD, to helping a young autistic girl cope with bullying in her school.
Thomasville Humane is a charitable organization committed to promoting the humane treatment of animals through a variety of means, including adoption programs, foster care programs, spay and neuter services, and community education projects with the long-term goal of eliminating unwarranted euthanasia.
Providing a much-needed service to dogs in need is the driving force behind PFR. We are their trusted companions in this life-changing journey from danger to safety. We are 100% donation driven and make anywhere from 1 - 2 transport trips per month thanks to everyone's support.
We are a grassroots organization that begin with incorporation in 2015. Organized initially by Kathryn Ellis with friends and family that were concerned about the animal situation in the CSRA. The group received initial Non-profit status in September 2016 and have been GA Dept of Agriculture licensed since 2016. We have NO PHYSICAL FACILITY as we are a foster home rescue! To this day the rescue continues to be an All-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors. All activities are volunteer-based and the rescue is an All-donation (or grant) based funding rescue!
The animal shelter of DeKalb County Animal Services (DCAS) is managed by LifeLine Animal Project, a nonprofit organization working to end shelter euthanasia. LifeLine provides humane care for the animals at the shelter, veterinary care including spay/neuters, pet adoptions, animal reclaims, volunteers, foster homes and rescue group coordination.
Cobb County Animal Services was established in 1971. As part of Cobb's Department of Public Safety, we serve the entire county, protecting the residents and animals of Cobb. The mission of the Cobb County Animal Services Unit is to enforce state laws and county ordinances pertaining to animal control and management; educate the community on responsible pet ownership and wildlife care and provide housing and care for homeless animals, while coordinating their adoptions when possible and humane euthanization when adoptions are not possible.
We are a small rescue in South Ga taking in all animals from cats and dogs to horses and sheep. We try to spay and neuter community dogs as people will allow and educate to help prevent these issues from continuing for years to come.
Renegade Paws Rescue is a 501(c)(3) volunteer based organization dedicated to providing the highest level of care for unwanted, abused, or injured dogs in the Coastal Empire and surrounding areas.
Welcome to the 2024 Georgia Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Georgia 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 Georgia dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
We have a completely open adoption policy.
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.