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The Best Small dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top small dog rescues and shelters, all making a significant impact on the lives of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on these exceptional organizations.

Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
#266 in United States, #11 in Florida, #2 in Miami
#2 in pug
#4 in puppy
#1 in yorkie
#1 in maltese
#1 in shih Tzu
#1 in chihuahua
#1 in dachshund
#1 in small dog
#2 in pomeranian
#12 in senior dog
#2 in jack Russell
Chihuahua, Dachshund, Jack Russell, Maltese, Pomeranian, Pug, Puppy, Senior dog, Shih Tzu, Small dog, Yorkie
Miami
Barky Pines Animal Rescue is located in Loxahatchee Fl. Founded in 2014. We are a 5.5 acre farm and house dogs and farm animals. We also have a veterinary clinic
"despite the small-medium size organization, Barky Pines saves many animals from the county shelter. Opened a clinic two years..."
— elaine t.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan
"Barky Pines Animal Rescue and Sanctuary is a unique rescue because they rescue all types of animals, including farm animals...."
— micki n.
Volunteer / foster

Open Arms Rescue
#600 in United States, #69 in California, #16 in San Diego
#2 in small dog
Small dog
San Diego
Open Arms Rescue focuses on smaller breed dogs. We are a Non-Profit 501c3 Registered Charity and ALL volunteer based organization. We are based in Imperial Beach, CA but we have volunteers who foster dogs for us all across San Diego County, Riverside and Orange County. We are always looking for more volunteers to help foster a small breed dog. We rescue dogs from shelters across Southern California and all the way into the Mexico -Tijuana Perrera (Dog Pound) and from the streets of Mexico down to Ensenada. We have volunteers that go down to Baja on a regular basis to help out with feeding, cleaning and finding dogs to bring into our rescue program. Dogs in the Perrera only have 3 days before they are euthanized. We rescue a lot of dogs from this shelter because they have no chance of being adopted before they are either euthanized or become sick from being exposed to disease (as they are not vaccinated there when they first come into the Perrera). We select dogs that are adoptable, we quarantine them at our vet in Baja, monitor them, vaccinate them and then transport them to the US straight into volunteers homes for fostering until they can be adopted out. We also take in injured dogs that require surgeries to become healthy and adoptable. Typically when a California shelter receives an injured or special needs dog that is in need of surgery that the shelter is unable to perform due to their limited funds/resources they will either put the dog to sleep or only exit it to an approved rescue partner who can get the necessary medical care performed. We take a lot of these cases in from these California shelters and our adoption fees help support the medical bills. All of our dogs for adoption are spayed or neutered, microchipped,fully vaccinated, flea/tick treated and de-wormed. We are always in need of volunteers to foster a small breed dog.

Small Breed Rescue of Southern California
#600 in United States, #69 in California, #16 in San Diego
#2 in small dog
Small dog
San Diego
Small Breed Rescue of Southern California is an all-volunteer, non-profit, foster-based organization funded by donations. We are dedicated to taking in and caring for small breed dogs, small reptiles, and select exotic pets primarily from public shelters and other rescues. We are education and science-focused to help ensure that the animals that go into their new homes and their new families are set up for success! Our rescue is uniquely structured to rehabilitate animals who are at high risk of euthanasia due to manageable behavioral challenges, such as small dogs who are declining in a shelter environment and reptiles/exotics that have not been properly handled over their lifetime. We develop organizational and individual relationships to accommodate these specific assistance needs, which is one thing that differentiates us from other rescue organizations. Another is focusing on the two groups of animals that most would not usually combine. Initially, we started working with behaviorally challenged dogs under 15lbs who were not sheltering well. Because of our team's different skill sets, we decided to also work with reptiles on the side. The pandemic and the current shifts in the economy have drastically changed our direction to where we now care for more reptiles and exotics than dogs! With these shifts, we have also had to drop our weight limit on dogs down to under 10 lbs due to a lack of foster homes. We are always looking for new foster guardians who want to help us in our mission to save more lives with stability, commitment, education, and support. We provide everything you need no matter the animal type. Inexperienced? No worries! We will match the right foster pet to your skill set and comfort level as well as provide you with the training and tools that you need. Consider joining our team to foster a dog that needs a little patience, guidance, and TLC to come out of their shell, or foster one of our reptiles like a bearded dragon, ball python, or leopard gecko! We have assembled a support team that consists of experienced individuals who bring particular skills from the animal welfare industry that enable us to grow, educate, and enrich our foster community in a manner that supports our specific needs and those of our animals. The same support is given to our adopters. We will help you get ready for your new companion before they go home. Our goal is to set you up on the path to success so there are no broken hearts if we can avoid them. SBRSC remains interested in and committed to the welfare of the animals beyond the adoption process by providing continued education, training tips, resource references, and an open-door policy to our supporters. ~

Deeby's Senior Chihuahua Rescue
#600 in United States, #24 in Illinois, #1 in Peoria
#2 in small dog
Small dog
Peoria
We are a 501(c) licensed Rescue that is 100% volunteer and foster based. We welcome all small breeds of all ages. However, we focus on special needs, medical, senior, and hospice dogs. Especially, but not limited to, Chihuahuas. Our rescue was named after the dog who started this passion, our beloved Chihuahua, Deeby. He was small, but mighty, and like all dogs left this world far too soon. We continue to fulfill our rescue mission in his honor.

Tail Waggin All Breed Rescue
#600 in United States, #69 in California, #1 in Modesto
#8 in puppy
#2 in small dog
#3 in border Collie
#4 in australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Puppy, Small dog
Modesto
I have always had a love for animals since I was young. I was always bringing something home. All my own pets have always been rescues.When I was 18 I worked in a pet store for a couple years then went to work for a veterinary hospital for 9 yrs in the foothills. I moved to Arizona and worked in another veterinary hospital for 2 more years. Then moving back to Cali I began working in an office at a Fabrication shop in 1997. Soon moved out into the country towards Turlock where our Rescue venture began. One afternoon November 2000, a lovely Border Collie mix Moma, we named “Nanny" , showed up skin and bones, looking like she had had pups and smelling like something the cat dragged in. We cleaned her up, gave her much needed food and water, made her a comfy bed and headed off to Turlock for some well needed supplies. We received a call about 45 minutes later from my daughter in a panic, “mom, That dog just came back with her puppies!!” To our surprise, “Nanny” jumped our short fence and went and retrieved her 2 pups. They were about 4 weeks or so at the time. So my daughter “Holly” got them all settled in while we picked up addition supplies needed :) At 8 weeks my friend and brother adopted one of each pup. CJ my brothers dog, has been a joy for their family and they love her dearly. CJ is getting up there in years (now 17yrs old), but still enjoys her family, doggie friends, and taking well deserved naps. Many THANKS to all the local Rescues, Shelters, Veterinary Clinics and friends that helped us get started. I had not intended to start a rescue but to save this poor girl whom was just left behind to fend for herself. But as most of you in the rescue world know that is how most Rescues start and it was only the beginning for us.

What's the Sniffspot Top Small dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

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

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

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In The United States

Sniffspot Small dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many Small dog rescues and shelters operate in the United States?

Florida has the most Small dog rescues and shelters with 1.

What are the most reputable Small dog rescues and shelters in the United States?

There are many reputable Small dog rescues and shelters, the top 3 on our list are: Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Deeby's Senior Chihuahua Rescue, Tail Waggin All Breed Rescue

Why do these dog rescues and shelters focus on Small dog?

Each dog rescue has its own mission, which is the reason it exists. For example, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary’s mission is 'Barky pines rescues the most urgent dogs from our municple shelter, that are at risk of euthanasia. We rehabilitate and find loving homes. We rescue senior dogs to live out their lives in comfort and with love. We have a veterinary clinic to provide low cost vet services as well free spay and neuter (when we can obtain grants )'.

How can I adopt a Small dog rescue dog?

Using our list of the top Small dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
We have an application on our website and once approved we speak with the potential adopter to choose which pets we have that are the appropriate fit to be a new family member.

Where are these Small dog rescues and shelters located?

There are Small dog rescues and shelters in 7 states, including Florida, Illinois, Oregon, Washington, None

How can I find a Small dog rescue or shelter in my local city?

There are Small dog rescues and shelters in 8 cities, including Modesto, Miami, Peoria, Portland, Seattle. You can also find your local city rescue and shelter page and browse through rescues on that specific page to find a local rescue.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Small dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Open Arms Rescue

Small Breed Rescue of Southern California

Deeby's Senior Chihuahua Rescue

Tail Waggin All Breed Rescue

What's the Sniffspot Top Small dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Type In The United States

Sniffspot Small dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many Small dog rescues and shelters operate in the United States?

What are the most reputable Small dog rescues and shelters in the United States?

Why do these dog rescues and shelters focus on Small dog?

How can I adopt a Small dog rescue dog?

Where are these Small dog rescues and shelters located?

How can I find a Small dog rescue or shelter in my local city?

David Adams

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