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The Best Lakeland, FL 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 Lakeland, FL. 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.

    DC Dogos Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/307/2a6fec87a82d-logo_2021.png
    lakelandFloridaUS
    My name is Ariane Duncan, and I am proud to be a part of DC Dogos Rescue since 2023. As a passionate foster, I have had the incredible opportunity to provide a safe and loving environment for dogs in need. Recently, I have taken on an even more active role within the organization, becoming a new case manager, focusing on my training to do my new position with the passion, high standards, and knowledge that DC Dogos prides themselves on. I am grateful for the opportunity to get to train alongside people who truly love, care, and have intense knowledge of the breed and rescue making a positive impact in the lives of these wonderful dogs. The commitment and care that DC Dogos demonstrates towards their dogs is truly exceptional. They prioritize the well-being and happiness of each and every dog they rescue, ensuring that they receive the love, attention, and care they deserve. DC Dogos goes above and beyond to ensure that the dogs in their care are given the best possible chance at a happy and fulfilling life. They invest significant time and effort in understanding the unique needs and personalities of each dog, tailoring their approach to provide personalized care. This level of commitment is evident in the way they listen attentively to any concerns or feedback from shelter staff, owners who surrender their dogs, fosters, adopters, and take appropriate action to address them. DCDogos is committed to ensuring that every foster and adopter is well-informed about the specific needs of their dogs. One crucial aspect they emphasize is the importance of allowing these dogs the necessary time to decompress. We firmly believe that understanding the distinction between an aggressive dog and a dog who is reactive is essential. We are educated about these differences, and will not take in a dog who shows aggression. A reactive dog responds to a stimuli exaggeratedly because they are hyperaroused, but they are not typically attempting to cause physical harm. True aggression is triggered by a physiological stress response (fight or flight), which causes an animal to respond in any manner necessary to stop the perceived threat. Moreover, DC Dogos spares no expense when it comes to the health and medical needs of their dogs. They cover all necessary veterinary expenses, ensuring that the dogs receive proper medical care, vaccinations, and any necessary treatments. This level of commitment extends beyond physical health, as they also provide assistance with training and behavior modification. They understand that a well-trained and socialized dog is more likely to find a forever home, and they work tirelessly to provide the necessary resources and guidance to achieve this goal. In addition to their dedication to individual dogs, DC Dogos also focuses on finding the best possible match between dogs and adopters. They carefully screen and evaluate potential adopters to ensure that the dogs are placed in loving and suitable homes. This commitment to responsible adoption practices ensures that the dogs are placed in environments where they can thrive and receive the continued care and love they deserve. Overall, the commitment and care that DC Dogos demonstrates towards their dogs is truly commendable. Their unwavering dedication, personalized approach, and comprehensive support set them apart as an outstanding rescue organization that puts the well-being of their dogs at the forefront of everything they do.
  • DC Dogos Rescue Logo

    DC Dogos Rescue

    #266 in United States, #11 in Florida, #1 in Lakeland

    Lakeland

    DC Dogos Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to Dogo Argentino rescue efforts. Our goal is to help this wonderful breed and educate owners and adopters so that every Dogo has a place to call home.

    "My name is Ariane Duncan, and I am proud to be a part of DC Dogos Rescue since 2023. As..."

    ariane d.

    Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter

    "Dc Dogo is one that’s not on your list I just rescued my Dogo from them. She is amazing seeing..."

    dawn s.

    Adoptee


  • Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/308/3376088b3fa0-f58124b9b8c7b2fdbe444e1bcef8e761.jpg
    26920 Gopher Hill Road.Myakka City, Florida, 34251
    lakelandFloridaUS
    I adopted my new rescue, Odin, this past October from the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch. Despite being a handful, high energy dog with special needs, they went above and BEYOND to care for him and get him the medical care he needed. Odin only has one eye and is mostly blind, but was clear to me that he “saw” how much the staff and volunteers loved him - wagging tail, slobbery kisses, and all! They do amazing work to take in these animals that need rehab, training, extra TLC and fight hard to get them a perfect home, even going above and beyond.
  • Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch Logo

    Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch

    #361 in United States, #14 in Florida, #2 in Lakeland

    Lakeland

    The HSLWR is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides a safe haven for companion animals in need until a loving, forever home can be found.

    "I adopted my new rescue, Odin, this past October from the Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch. Despite being a handful,..."

    chelsea h.

    Adoptee


  • SPCA Tampa Bay
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/313/fb839f7acb69-SPCA_logo_horiz_1331_.jpeg
    6035 Sisson RoadTitusville, FL 32780
    lakelandFloridaUS
    Our yellow Labrador retriever, Tucker, whom my husband and I adopted Thanksgiving weekend 2023, has been a constant source of joy and adventures. We went to the shelter as soon as we saw the 5-year-old pup’s pictures on the SPCA website, and were lucky enough that he was still available. The staff was very patient, despite it being a holiday weekend, and answered all our questions — including follow-up ones we had days later. Tucker is the second pet I’ve adopted here. The first was an orange cat I got when I first moved to the Tampa Bay area — in 1977! I never forgot this shelter and didn’t hesitate to return.
  • SPCA Tampa Bay Logo

    SPCA Tampa Bay

    #361 in United States, #14 in Florida, #2 in Lakeland

    Lakeland

    The SPCA of Brevard, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization with the mission of ‚protecting and providing a voice to the homeless animals.‚ Founded in 1979 in Titusville, Florida, the SPCA is the largest private no-kill animal rescue group in Brevard, finding homes for more than 2,600 animals a year. It is the first adoption facility with free-roaming cat rooms in the County, allowing adopters to interact with the cats in a more home-like setting. The SPCA of Brevard also has performed more than 60,000 low-cost spay/neuter surgeries since 1999.

    "Our yellow Labrador retriever, Tucker, whom my husband and I adopted Thanksgiving weekend 2023, has been a constant source of..."

    linda r.

    Adoptee


  • Canine Estates
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/319/aedb093a6037-cropped_CE_Logo_No_Tag_350_by_150.png
    lakelandFloridaUS
  • Canine Estates Logo

    Canine Estates

    #600 in United States, #26 in Florida, #4 in Lakeland

    Lakeland

    Canine Estates, Inc., located in Palm Harbor, Florida, is a tax exempt, non-profit 501(c)(3) adoption and sanctuary facility. We are dedicated to saving the lives of abandoned, abused and injured dogs primarily from high kill shelters. We do not discriminate against fur kids who are special, disabled, or seniors. We always try to ensure that each of our fur kids is able to continue a long and comfortable life.


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

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

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 4 private dog parks in the Lakeland area, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Lakeland dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Lakeland


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list


Sniffspot Lakeland Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Lakeland?

There are 4 in Lakeland. Outside of Lakeland, there are 45 located in Florida.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Lakeland, the top 3 on our list are: DC Dogos Rescue, SPCA Tampa Bay, Humane Society at Lakewood Ranch.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Lakeland?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Lakeland. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Lakeland, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby metro, Golden Rescue South Florida, Inc, Rescue Rebels by Cash 4 Canines, Greyhounds In Motion

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Lakeland that specialize in senior dogs?

We do not have any record of senior dog rescues and shelters in Lakeland, but these are the closest cities with senior dog rescues and shelters: Jacksonville, Miami

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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