This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Maryland. 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.
Canine Humane Network
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/534/b864fe526d99-Screenshot_2024_03_25_at_10.09.24_AM.png13454 Clarksville Pike, Highland, MD 20777
baltimoreMarylandUS
I am a foster and event team member for CHN…I love the care these volunteers give our dogs! To call them advocates doesn’t seem like enough!Tara Mitchell
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Canine Humane Network
Established in 2016, Canine Humane Network is a non-profit dog rescue, shelter, adoption and training organization here in Highland, Howard County, Maryland. We are substantially operated by volunteer staff and many big-hearted volunteer foster families.
Here at Canine Humane Network, we are dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs and providing a safe haven, humane care, and adoption programs for rescued dogs. We are deeply invested in the lifelong happiness of the dogs and owners we serve.
We strive to build a humane environment for animals and people by providing excellent resources and training including humane education and therapy dog programs.
"I am a foster and event team member for CHN…I love the care these volunteers give our dogs! To call..."
— tara m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"CHN was so helpful in helping me to find my perfect dog. I worked with a great Adoption Coordinator who..."
— tim r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
Key to lions heart rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/548/4069b3849d71-KTLHLogoTransparentWhiteMoon.pngPit Bull, PuppyPit Bull, PuppyKey To Lion's Heart Rescue is full of heart! They helped us find and rescue our dog, Yogi, a little over 4 years ago and he has been the perfect addition to our family! The caring and compassion of this organization was evident through every step of the process of Yogi's adoption. We truly felt that KTLH is invested in fitting the perfect family with their perfect companion/dog. Thanks for all you do, KTLH! We can't thank you enough for allowing our family to experience the unique level of devotion to saving and caring for dogs that your organization does through the adoption of our special boy!Jessica Paugh
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Key to lions heart rescue
Key to Lion's Heart Rescue was founded in January 2018 in honor of Lion, a dog who made a tremendous impact on so many lives. Lion was dumped at a very high kill shelter where his time was up. Without knowing his past, he was pulled by a rescue and placed into a home. Lion was then moved nine times over the course of one year in an effort to find the right home. Unfortunately, the second to last move was that one that forever changed his soul. Just like people, dogs have a breaking point, and Lion had reached his. He had been through more in one year than any dog should ever have to go through in a lifetime. His last move was to a home where he was loved and cared for by a handful of people, his advocates for many months. Unfortunately, it was too late. The pain and suffering he had endured in some of his previous places was more than Lion could overcome. The light in his eyes was gone and he was suffering. In the arms of the people who loved him dearly, we whispered our goodbyes and told him how much we loved him. Humans had failed him. As we kissed him goodbye, we promised Lion that we would do our best to ensure no dog would ever have to endure what he had in his last year. At that moment, we dedicated ourselves to unlocking hope for all dogs by giving a little piece of our hearts to every single one that we can save.
"Key To Lion's Heart Rescue is full of heart! They helped us find and rescue our dog, Yogi, a little..."
— jessica p.
Adoptee
"KTLH takes in dogs who are at high risk, and makes a lifetime commitment to helping them even if their..."
— kathleen s.
Volunteer / foster
Reed's Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/533/24b7bd32f6db-RR_logo_final.jpgSenior dogSenior dogThey do great things for great dogs!Mike Yentsch
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Reed's Rescue
Reeds Rescue is a non-profit volunteer dog rescue organization serving Baltimore County and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs of senior age or deemed to be terminally ill from area shelters, dogs given up by their owners because of difficult circumstances, and those in danger of decompensating in the shelter environment. Reeds Rescue will provide nurturing foster homes while they await placement in their permanent homes. Reeds Rescue, the board, and the volunteers will strive to work with area shelters, the community, and other rescues to develop a network of supporters to create a better world for the elderly and terminal pets in need.
"They do great things for great dogs!"
— mike y.
Supporter
"I encountered Reed's Rescue a few months after they first were founded. I came across them at a vendor table..."
— meghan b.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/535/4396e2c86d55-Miris_Haven_Logo.pngSenior dogSenior dogWonderful mission! Caring for senior pets is so noble and much needed in today’s society.Allison Chandler
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Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue
A senior dog rescue working to raise awareness of the dangers of puppy mills and backyard breeding
"Wonderful mission! Caring for senior pets is so noble and much needed in today’s society."
— allison c.
Fan
"Miris Haven does such a phenomenal job looking after elderly dogs that so often have tragic backstories. Every dog is..."
— matthieu o.
Supporter, Fan
Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/536/014fd645bed8-SDS_Logo_w_Text.jpg8336 WB&A Road, Severn, MD 21144
baltimoreMarylandUS
Senior dogSenior dogI have fostered hospice dogs for Senior Dog Sanctuary and both the dogs and I could not have been better supported. The staff at the Sanctuary was incredibly kind and generous to both of us. It made the whole experience wonderful anf fulfilling despite it being the pups last days. This place is exactly what you would hope a dog rescue would be.Susan Biro
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Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.
SDS provides a safe haven for senior dogs who cannot be cared for by their owners, are abandoned or abused, or face euthanasia. Our sanctuary has provided a safe, loving home for over 900 dogs since 2016. Our staff and volunteers supply residents with expert-level care and rehabilitation until they are adopted. We also provide long-term homes to seniors who aren't currently adoptable.
"I have fostered hospice dogs for Senior Dog Sanctuary and both the dogs and I could not have been..."
— susan b.
Volunteer / foster
"I can't even remember how we came across SDS but I'm sure glad we did. Our family started off..."
— bonnie m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Fan
SPCA of Anne Arundel County
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/537/b1d6af2193ad-SPCA_Logo_Sharp.jpg1815 Bay Ridge Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21403
baltimoreMarylandUS
I have volunteered at and adopted from the Anne Arundel County SPCA in Annapolis, Maryland. I've been a volunteer for 8 years now. I am in the Enrichment Program so I've had extra training and work with the dogs that need a little extra help getting adopted. The progress I've seen these dogs make is beyond belief. Some are scared, have no confidence, need a lot of leash manners, are reactive and the list goes on. I've worked with a good number of dogs that have been at our shelter for 4+ years. They never lose hope of finding their forever family and greet me with happy tail wags and goofy grins. Two of our 4+ years at the shwlree dogs have been adopted and i will be forever grateful to their families foe taking the time to create a bond with them foe their successful adoption. Some of the dogs I work with may spend the rest of their lives at our shelter but I know I will do everything I can to make their days as bright as possible. My wonderful Sammy was pulled from a kill shelter and was on that shelter's euthanasia list. I thank AACSPCA all the time for bringing Sammy into my life. AACSPCA is a non-profit no kill shelter. It relies entirely on donations to run the facility. Some times are leaner than others but the staff always makes the best of whatever they have.Karen Beck
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SPCA of Anne Arundel County
The SPCA of Anne Arundel County is the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in the county.
"I have volunteered at and adopted from the Anne Arundel County SPCA in Annapolis, Maryland. I've been a volunteer..."
— karen b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"The president, Kelly Brown, does not give up on animals. The staff is vested in the positive outcomes we have...."
— mary w.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter
Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/539/79c7e5e771a2-barcs_logo_blue.png2490 Giles Road, Baltimore, MD 21225
baltimoreMarylandUS
My two dogs have come from barcs. Both sweet babiesBrian kephart
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Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)
BARCS is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization operating Maryland's largest animal shelter and pet adoption center. We are an open admission shelter, granting refuge to every abandoned, neglected, abused, lost or surrendered animal that comes through our door. A staggering 30 or more animals are surrendered to BARCS every day. No matter what the circumstance, we do not turn away any animal in need of shelter, food, medical care and a loving touch. Yearly, this equates to 11,000-12,000 dogs, cats, kittens, puppies, and even wildlife and exotic animals that need care and placement.
Each year, BARCS is growing, evolving and working to implement new innovative programs that benefit animals in need and the neighborhoods that support them.
"My two dogs have come from barcs. Both sweet babies"
— brian k.
Adoptee
"We adopted a small poodle from BARCS 13 yrs ago. They were wonderful!!!"
— robert c.
Adoptee
Keller's Cause
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/538/5d9679a31ff3-IMG_8160.jpegNA as we are foster based
baltimoreMarylandUS
We were lucky enough to adopt our Piper, who is a deaf Australian shepherd. This rescue was not only responsive in answering my questions, but they took the time to know us and what we were looking to adopt. Our Piper is beyond amazing and we still, 5 years later stay in contact with this rescue. Even if you have a question, they are always happy to help you out. They definitely dedicate their lives to this cause and we are thankful they do because we ended up with our pup because of them!Nicole Needham
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Keller's Cause
We are a small, foster based rescue operating in Maryland and Michigan. We specialize in deaf and blind dogs, specifically double merles.
"We were lucky enough to adopt our Piper, who is a deaf Australian shepherd. This rescue was not only responsive..."
— nicole n.
Adoptee
"Keller's Cause is an amazing organization that takes in deaf and/or blind dogs and helps them find their forever homes...."
— laura m.
Adoptee
Knine Rescue Inc.
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/549/a903a56821b7-Knine_Rescue_Logo.jpegThey never say no to a dog in need and have changed so many lives; humans and animals! They once saved a plott hound mix off euthanasia in NC and he lived his best life even though he had a heart condition. The rescue wanted Herman to know how loved he was and how important it is to adopt not shop.Gabrielle Browne
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Knine Rescue Inc.
Knine Rescue is a small non-profit 501(c)3 organization, dedicated to animal care and protection. Founded in 2005, we assist shelters and other rescues (both in our local community and beyond) by finding loving forever homes for neglected, abandoned and homeless animals. Our goal is to promote responsible animal ownership by educating the wider public on the importance of spay/neuter, positive training and pet health care.
Last year, we helped save more than 600 dogs from euthanasia.
"They never say no to a dog in need and have changed so many lives; humans and animals! They once..."
— gabrielle b.
Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter
"Wonderful rescue with great network of volunteers. They truly care about their dogs"
— valerie c.
Volunteer / foster
MID-ATLANTIC GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/544/e4bddbe2a001-magsr_logo_25_200.pngGerman ShepherdGerman ShepherdThis rescue has wonderful, caring volunteers. We adopted from them in 2014 and had seven wonderful years with our pup until we surrendered him due to circumstances outside our control. The rescue staff were empathetic and caring and took great care of our beloved family dog for us.Erica Benkert
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MID-ATLANTIC GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
We are a non-profit rescue dedicated to German Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes. If you are looking to add a new family member to your loving home in the Mid-Atlantic area
"This rescue has wonderful, caring volunteers. We adopted from them in 2014 and had seven wonderful years with our pup..."
— erica b.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
"I have personally visited MAGSR's facility and they truly are a wonderful group of people. Volunteers of some of their..."
— tricia a.
Supporter
Forever Changed Animal Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/541/bdde69c911ee-Capture.JPGI can't say enough good things about this rescue organization and my experience with them has been nothing short of life-changing. They rescued both of my babies (the loves of my life) from horrible situations and ensured that they were fully vetted and cured of pre-existing conditions, ready for a fresh start at life. The rescue volunteers were in constant contact with us, available to answer questions and provide support. This was vital as we first adjusted to having a new puppy, Ivy in 2020 and then a year later when we decided to adopt Maisy, despite the challenge of her having to undergo a lengthy heartworm treatment. The fact Forever Changed pays for all medical care is unbelievable to me given the number of challenging medical cases, like Maisy's, that they encounter. My experience was so positive that it has prompted further involvement with their organization (donating, helping with fundraising efforts, attending and helping out at events, and fostering more dogs). Everyone I have met who is affiliated with them has truly been a saint and I am now lucky enough to call several of them my friends. The Forever Changed volunteers are some of the kindest, most hard-working, dedicated people-- they pour their hearts and souls into this "volunteer work," which is beyond a full-time job for them, and I know all of it takes an emotional (and physical) toll. I am so grateful to Forever Changed and can't imagine a rescue group that is more trustworthy and deserving of increased exposure/support.Holly Rosensweig
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Forever Changed Animal Rescue
FCAR is a small, locally-run 501(c)(3) non-profit charity dedicated to saving dogs from high-kill shelters and other dangerous or unhealthy situations. We operate through a network of volunteers and foster homes in the DC Metro area. Our efforts are funded by tax-deductible contributions from compassionate people and organizations who want to make a difference in our community. We can't save every dog, but every dog we save is forever changed.
"I can't say enough good things about this rescue organization and my experience with them has been nothing short of..."
— holly r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/542/c01792d1654b-LabRescue_Logo.jpgAt almost 5 years in existence, Southwest Oasis Lab Rescue (SOLR) has recued over 1100 labradors and lab mixes (and a few of their bonded non-lab friends.) These dogs come from throughout the Southwest with about 40% from Arizona and the rest from TX, NM, UT, NV and Sonora Mexico. SOLR is an all volunteer rescue and has a team of about 100 trained fosters that care for the incoming dogs of all ages in their homes. Medical care is provided to all of dogs prior to them being made available for adoption. In addition to the Foster team, the Intake, Transport and Home Visit teams are critical to SOLR's success in finding new homes for all of the rescued dogs. SOLR's Events, Fundraising and Social Media teams are critical to the success also. The SOLR volunteers are amazaing!Carol Lange
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LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP
We are a non-profit volunteer organization that rescues, fosters, and finds forever homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned Labrador Retrievers in the states of Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.
We provide our Labs with veterinary care, spay or neuter services, and placement with foster families where they are loved while they await adoption.
"At almost 5 years in existence, Southwest Oasis Lab Rescue (SOLR) has recued over 1100 labradors and lab mixes (and..."
— carol l.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
Baltimore Humane Society
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/540/095b596bbddc-Capture.JPG1601 Nicodemus RoadReisterstown, MD 21136
frederickMarylandUS
I volunteer walking dogs at Bhs They are always making decisions based solely on the animals. Such hard working staff and volunteers make it one of the best shelters I’ve ever been involved withRebecca flynn
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Baltimore Humane Society
The Baltimore Humane Society was founded to protect our region's pets and to address and prevent their suffering. Since our first day we've developed a set of tenets that represent our commitments to the pets we care for. All of our efforts are centered around one word ‚'humane'.
"I volunteer walking dogs at Bhs They are always making decisions based solely on the animals. ..."
— rebecca f.
Volunteer / foster
Petey and Furends
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/545/436d82699498-Petey_Lockup_Bold_Wh.pngWe’ve worked with several rescues and Petey and Furends is such a gem. Their approach to finding the best match for the adopters and pets is fantastic, they are incredibly supportive of their fosters, and I’ve never seen so much dedication to the animals- they take on pups in particular that other rescues would pass over, get them the support they need, and find them great homes, no matter how long it takes. It is a pleasure working with them and we can’t imagine fostering with anyone else.Ally Bain
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Petey and Furends
Petey and Furends is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill animal rescue organization that is dedicated to reducing instances of neglect, abuse, and homelessness in companion animals. To do this, we use research- and evidence-based practices to facilitate a matchmaking experience that will increase the rate of successful adoptions.
"We’ve worked with several rescues and Petey and Furends is such a gem. Their approach to finding the best match..."
— ally b.
Volunteer / foster
Maryland SPCA
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/543/0cb05c9344f2-Capture.JPG3300 Falls Road, Baltimore, MD 21211
410-235-8826
frederickMarylandUS
Utilizes only positive reinforcement training methods, provides behavioral help to the animals in their careKathy Forthman
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Maryland SPCA
Our animal shelter works to improve the lives of pets and people in the communities of Baltimore City and the surrounding areas.
"Utilizes only positive reinforcement training methods, provides behavioral help to the animals in their care"
— kathy f.
Fan
Almost Home Dog Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/547/cfe9a826f06d-luna_and_baby.jpgThis small rescue goes way above and beyond putting in 1000’s of miles every weekend to make sure doggies have a shot at a better life. They are so easy to work with a nd co tinue to be a source of support once you adopt from them.Monica v
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Almost Home Dog Rescue
Almost Home Dog Rescue is a non-profit, foster-based, all volunteer rescue organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilating dogs at risk and in danger of an untimely death. We all share the passion of helping these homeless dogs who don't have a voice, who won't have a chance, without organizations such as this one, helping them to a new beginning. It is our mission to seek out dogs where there is need, to bring them to us where they are placed in loving foster homes and prepare them for their forever families. It is also our mission to prepare our adoptive families for a smooth transition and a better outcome. Our community outreach program will offer New Adopter classes whether you adopt from us or not.
"This small rescue goes way above and beyond putting in 1000’s of miles every weekend to make sure doggies have..."
— monica v.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
All Shepherd Rescue of the United States , Inc
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/553/3db1e84f5a89-logo.JPGGerman ShepherdGerman ShepherdAll Shepherd Rescue is a group of dedicated dog lovers devoted to helping rescue homeless , abused, surrendered or stray German Shepherds and finding them wonderful and hopefully forever homes. We are 100% volunteer and depend entirely on donations and fundraisers to support our work. Our goal is to help you find your new best friend!Candice K
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All Shepherd Rescue of the United States , Inc
All Shepherd Rescue is a group of German Shepherd lovers who work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused, abandoned, surrendered or other wise homeless German Shepherds and find them forever homes. We are 100% volunteer and rely on fundraisers and donations to fund the Veterinary care and other needs of our dogs, to prepare them for their adoptive families.
"All Shepherd Rescue is a group of dedicated dog lovers devoted to helping rescue homeless , abused, surrendered or stray..."
— candice k.
Volunteer / foster
PetConnect Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/550/7e92088bf610-Capture.JPGPO Box 60714Potomac, MD 20859
baltimoreMarylandUS
We adopted Toosie 5 years ago from PetConnect Rescue! Since then, we've been using her doggy powers for the good through her website and social media, Dog Friendly Frederick. Tootsie has become an ambassador for the community. She tries to raise awareness and fundraise for multiple local rescue groups! She co-hosts an annual event for her own rescue! Thank you, PetConnect for saving her life so that she can go on to help save others!Tammy Mulford
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PetConnect Rescue
PetConnect Rescue was founded in 2005, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and has evolved into a vibrant animal rescue organization. Our mission is to save the lives of abandoned dogs and cats and place them in loving and permanent homes. Each day, we respond to desperate email and phone pleas to rescue dogs and cats imminently slated for euthanasia. We pull these animals into rescue from over-extended shelters between Maryland and Georgia. PetConnect Rescue is a non-breed-specific organization, and we are committed to stepping forward whenever we can and wherever there is the greatest need. We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
"We adopted Toosie 5 years ago from PetConnect Rescue! Since then, we've been using her doggy powers for the good..."
— tammy m.
Adoptee
Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/546/e84d19082136-SGAR_LOGO_FINAL.jpgI discovered the Sanctuary through a friend of mine who has 5 dogs of her own. I was looking for a special place to make my year end donation and I was given a tour of the facility by the Director Kiani and saw first hand what a loving and caring place this is for those dogs who through no fault of their own find themselves there. What a safe place to land, these dogs are walked several times a day by numerous volunteers, played with, hug and kissed and the list goes on. They even have volunteer groomers, trainers and vets who tend to the needs of these sweet seniors. In addition once a month for two days they have a pantry where senior citizens can come and get food and toys donated by local businesses for their dogs!! Is that not awesome!!! In closing I will be forever grateful to the Sanctuary as my daughter (a few days before she passed away suddenly) was able to adopt a senior dog named Pepper who brought such happiness to her and husband and who continues to help my son-in-law heal from this horrible ordeal. The kindness of all at the Sanctuary has been exceptional!!Darlene Martin
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Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland
We are an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue. As a rescue, it is our mission to end the neglect of animals across the east coast by rescuing them and helping find their forever home. We want to save the lives of pets and enhance the lives of people by finding the perfect new fur-baby for each family! We do not have a facility, our fosters accept these rescue dogs and cats into their homes out of their love for animals.
"I discovered the Sanctuary through a friend of mine who has 5 dogs of her own. I was looking for..."
— darlene m.
Supporter, Fan
Pitties and Purrs Rescue
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/551/1463fe4f937b-Pitties_and_Purrs_Logo_Redone_1.pngPitties and Purrs!Meredith Ketterer
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Pitties and Purrs Rescue
Pitties and Purrs Rescue Inc. is a small, foster-based rescue in Baltimore, MD. Our rescue dogs come from all over the country in order to be rehabilitated and to ultimately find their forever homes. Because we are a foster-based rescue, we completely rely on our incredible volunteers to care for & to temporarily welcome the dogs and cats into their homes to prepare them for adoption. All donations are tax deductible as we are a 501c(3) non-profit! You will receive a donation receipt. If you donate to our vet or through Amazon, please drop us a line to let us know so we can thank you!
"Pitties and Purrs!"
— meredith k.
Supporter, Fan
Welcome to the 2025 Maryland Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Maryland 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 Maryland dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot