This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Wisconsin. 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.
#56 in United States, #1 in Wisconsin
We are a 501c3 non profit rescue group Founded in New London Wi. License #487823 Our rescue is open to all breeds and ages. Focusing on providing better futures for dogs in high population/neglect areas, as well as local cases.
"We adopted a dog and loved the people and rescue so much we started to foster. Our pack is a..."
— kim g.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Great place to adopt dogs, do anything for the dogs"
— trenton r.
Volunteer / foster
#74 in United States, #2 in Wisconsin, #1 in Madison
Madison
Fetch Wisconsin Rescue is an entirely volunteer run organization dedicated to finding homes for dogs in need. We spend time getting to know each dog to make the best possible match for their forever home. Since the group's founding in April 2013, we have rescued more than 3,500 dogs. We aim to help our dogs become happy and balanced, and for our volunteers to be confident pack leaders.
"Amazing organization! Invested in saving dogs from around our state and the country!"
— jenny h.
Volunteer / foster
"Fetch has changed my life by giving me the opportunity to adopt my best friends. On top of that, I've..."
— jackie d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#184 in United States, #3 in Wisconsin
The Hope Highway is completely foster based. We pride ourselves on helping dogs and their people. We do what we can to help people keep their dogs in their home and not surrender. We also have a spay and neuter program that we also offer to the community at an affordable cost.
"I have been helping out The Hope Highway for about 2 years now. They are an amazing foster based..."
— becky g.
Volunteer / foster
"Jill and her crew The Hope Highway are consistently stepping up for the underdogs and the dogs that need medical..."
— sarah t.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#235 in United States, #4 in Wisconsin, #1 in Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Founded in 1879, the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) has been saving the lives of animals in need for generations. WHS is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates animal shelters in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Door, and Brown Counties, as well as a spay/neuter clinic in West Allis. Our Federal Tax ID is: #39-0810533. WHS annually serves more than 40,000 animals and their families. We receive no general government funding and we are not part of any national umbrella organization. As the largest shelter in the state of Wisconsin, WHS offers the following services: An adoption program that matches 13,000+ animals with new families each year; we do not euthanize animals to make space in our shelters, and animals in our adoption program have as long as it takes to find a new home Stray/lost animal and law enforcement holding services for municipalities in Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties, which reunite thousands of pets with their families each year Intake support and services for surrendered animals from Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties Affordable vaccines, microchips, and spay/neuter services open to the public Pet food pantries that provide pet food, treats, and cat litter, etc. to bridge gaps in accessing these important resources Community outreach programs that connect families with resources for their pets A foster program for animals who need extra support or a break from the shelter Dog training classes for dogs and puppies, as well as online pet support tips for behavior concerns Youth programs to engage and inspire the next generation of animal lovers Retail merchandise at our Animal Antics stores at each campus, and online The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which provides rescue, rehabilitation, and release for roughly 5,000 wild animals annually at our Milwaukee Campus.
"Organization very helpful with new fosters and committed to helping solve the homeless dog crisis."
— emma s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"I'm a volunteer, foster, adoptee with WDR. They show immense care for their dogs from HASRA in Alabama and do..."
— jared p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#235 in United States, #4 in Wisconsin, #2 in Madison
Madison
Underdog Pet Rescue is an all-breed companion animal rescue based out of Dane County, Wisconsin. Our mission is to find permanent homes for animals in need, and to enrich lives by strengthening the connection between animals and people through community services and outreach. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
"Go above and beyond to transport dogs to safe locations!"
— amy.
Fan
"I love fostering for Underdog, they have so many resources available from supplies, training and vet services to support..."
— jennifer g.
Volunteer / foster
#235 in United States, #4 in Wisconsin
CHDR rescues animals in need without discriminating against breeds or ages. The rescue operates with the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, all working toward the common goal of saving the lives of animals in need, and giving them the love they deserve. We are foster based out of the Twin Cities, and we hold events in the surrounding areas. Every animal that comes to Coco's Heart receives the highest quality veterinary care and a loving temporary home from dedicated foster families. CHDR's adoption process ensures that every animal goes to the most loving forever home.
"Coco's Heart consistently goes above and beyond to rescue dogs in horrifying and life threatening conditions. They do everything..."
— sandra b.
Adoptee
"I have volunteered and fostered from Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. After fostering a puppy for a little while, I completely..."
— marissa j.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #7 in Wisconsin
We are committed to protecting the quality of life and improving the well-being of abused, neglected and unwanted dogs and cats through prevention, education, intervention, placement, and lifelong care.
"I’ve worked with this organization in many capacities. I’ve adopted from Sandi Paws, volunteered, fostered, and received their help in..."
— tessa s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"The APCSM has been an amazing asset to our community. They have helped so many animals in need. I..."
— courtney m.
Adoptee, Supporter
#266 in United States, #7 in Wisconsin
Lucky 7 Dog Rescue was founded in 2015 and has been operating as a nonprofit, volunteer run and foster based animal rescue ever since. We work to support dogs in need both locally and nationally and believe that teamwork and collaboration with fellow rescues as well as people make a positive difference for animals and the people who love them.
"I have quite a few friends who adopted through this organization and have had wonderful experiences"
— kasie t.
Supporter
"Lucky 7 has been very grateful for every donation, supports community"
— michelle g.
Supporter
#266 in United States, #7 in Wisconsin, #3 in Madison
Madison
Shelter From the Storm Animal Rescue was formed in 2005 by Allison Davies in response to the overwhelming amount of animals being euthanized in local shelters. SFTS is an all-breed dog and cat rescue that focuses on alleviating overcrowding in shelters and helping adoptable/treatable animals. Since its inception, we've helped The Humane Society of The United States during Hurricane Katrina by transporting over 100 animals to safety in Wisconsin where they were vetted, placed in foster care, and ultimately found their forever homes. We also worked with them to deal with a major hoarding/neglect situation at the Thyme and Sage Ranch which was operating as an animal rescue/animal control agency but was housing in excess of 300 animals.
"They take such sweet care of their pets, making sure to find safe homes for all their animals"
— colleen c.
Volunteer / foster
"I have adopted five companions over the years from NBRAN and all of them came to me without surprises. They..."
— al v.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#266 in United States, #7 in Wisconsin, #3 in Madison
Madison
Brown Paws is a foster-based rescue and is 100% volunteer-run. We do not have a facility. Our dogs are located in foster homes throughout Madison, WI and the surrounding area.
"They were so helpful in the adoption process!! We adopted2 pups a month apart."
— corinne b.
Adoptee
"I am writing to nominate Brown Paws Rescue in Wisconsin. We adopted our beloved dog from them almost..."
— barbara f.
Adoptee
#361 in United States, #11 in Wisconsin
CHA serves as a temporary safe haven for homeless animals from Ashland and Bayfield Counties and outlying areas as capacity allows.
"I have adopted several animals from them. One very special thing they did was introduce dogs and cats to each..."
— carole l.
Adoptee, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Wisconsin
At the Dunn County Humane Society, our mission is to enhance the well-being of companion pets and secure permanent, loving homes for those in our care. As first responders for lost, abandoned, and stray pets, we provide compassionate care and work closely with law enforcement agencies throughout Dunn County. Additionally, we offer community services such as City of Menomonie licensing, free rehoming support, and Trap/Neuter/Return services for registered Community Cat colonies. We are extremely proud that in 2023 we cared for 1,032 pets from our community. However, our work extends beyond numbers; it's about ensuring every pet receives the care, love, and second chance they deserve.
"They really care about the animals there."
— gabby g.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Wisconsin
At Oshkosh Area Humane Society, we are guided by compassion in all we do, from saving the lives of homeless pets by providing the highest quality medical care, nutrition, exercise and socialization in a safe shelter environment, to connecting adopters with their best possible pet match, to reuniting lost pets with their families, to providing behavioral counseling for pet retention, low-cost vaccine and microchip clinics, emergency services and a pet food pantry to keep pets and people happy and healthy together.
"I volunteer with A WAY HOME FOR DOGS because it strives to do the best for the underdog. By that..."
— patricia j.
Volunteer / foster
#361 in United States, #11 in Wisconsin, #2 in Milwaukee
Milwaukee
We operate on a foster and volunteer based, not-for-profit model, and focus of dogs facing euthanasia due to placement in high kill shelters, overpopulation, abuse & neglect, or owner surrender. We take pride in carefully screening every potential foster and adoptive home through a comprehensive approval process. We educate every potential adopter on the dogs' needs, requirements and expectations involved with adding a new dog to their home. LMR provides a community of support for all of our adopters. All dogs we rescue receive full medical care, including spay or neuter, microchip, and vaccinations, treatments, or medications they may need, thanks to our team and network of veterinarians. While awaiting adoption, our dogs are able to decompress, build confidence, and socialize in one of our many nurturing, well supported foster homes.
"I have watched my daughter, the founder, save many dogs under Very tough circumstances. She takes time to match the..."
— judith f.
Supporter, Fan
#361 in United States, #11 in Wisconsin
The Chippewa Humane Association, also known as the Howard Gibbs Memorial Animal Shelter, seeks to relieve the suffering of homeless companion animals. By setting an example of excellence in animal care and placement, humane education, and community leadership, we can successfully emphasize their importance.
"They do amazing work with the most broken dogs!"
— janet m.
Supporter
#600 in United States, #16 in Wisconsin, #3 in Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) is an open-admission, no-kill shelter dedicated to strengthening the relationship between animals and humans through adoptions and education making a more compassionate community possible.
#600 in United States, #16 in Wisconsin
ABMR, a 501c3 non-profit, is a breed specific rescue organization. With an all volunteer staff we work diligently to rehabilitate and provide a second chance for malinois in need. Our dogs are first placed in foster homes where they receive necessary vetting and plenty of TLC. Our foster homes spend a great deal of time socializing and training the malinois in their care. It is during foster care that they are spayed or neutered, brought up to date on their shots, and microchipped. ABMR is completely funded by donations. By far our biggest expenses are veterinary care and boarding so our biggest need is for foster homes and monetary donations. Typically donations to 501c3 organizations are tax deductible, check with your tax advisor to be sure.
#600 in United States, #16 in Wisconsin
#15 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
MLGSDR is a 501c3, non profit organization with a mission is to educate, rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome abused, neglected, or unwanted German Shepherds in need. Our goal is to give as many dogs a second chance as we can, and we do so by providing housing, vetting, and ongoing support to ensure successful dog/owner relationships.
#600 in United States, #16 in Wisconsin
The Eau Claire Community Humane Association (ECCHA) is dedicated to promoting the well-being and protection of all domestic pets and small agricultural animals. We give animals a voice by educating the public about the need for the humane treatment of all animals and responsible pet ownership. Our goal is to create a better community for both pets and people.
#600 in United States, #16 in Wisconsin, #5 in Madison
Madison
DCHS is a donor-supported, private non-profit. We are not affiliated with any government agency or national animal welfare organization. We receive the majority of our funding from the generosity of people in our community. We are an open admission shelter accepting all animals that need assistance regardless of age, health status, or temperament. DCHS has an adoption guarantee, meaning all healthy or treatable animals can stay at DCHS as long as it takes to find a loving home.
Fetch Wisconsin Rescue is an entirely volunteer run organization dedicated to finding homes for dogs in need. We spend time getting to know each dog to make the best possible match for their forever home. Since the group's founding in April 2013, we have rescued more than 3,500 dogs. We aim to help our dogs become happy and balanced, and for our volunteers to be confident pack leaders.
Underdog Pet Rescue is an all-breed companion animal rescue based out of Dane County, Wisconsin. Our mission is to find permanent homes for animals in need, and to enrich lives by strengthening the connection between animals and people through community services and outreach. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Shelter From the Storm Animal Rescue was formed in 2005 by Allison Davies in response to the overwhelming amount of animals being euthanized in local shelters. SFTS is an all-breed dog and cat rescue that focuses on alleviating overcrowding in shelters and helping adoptable/treatable animals. Since its inception, we've helped The Humane Society of The United States during Hurricane Katrina by transporting over 100 animals to safety in Wisconsin where they were vetted, placed in foster care, and ultimately found their forever homes. We also worked with them to deal with a major hoarding/neglect situation at the Thyme and Sage Ranch which was operating as an animal rescue/animal control agency but was housing in excess of 300 animals.
Founded in 1879, the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) has been saving the lives of animals in need for generations. WHS is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates animal shelters in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Door, and Brown Counties, as well as a spay/neuter clinic in West Allis. Our Federal Tax ID is: #39-0810533. WHS annually serves more than 40,000 animals and their families. We receive no general government funding and we are not part of any national umbrella organization. As the largest shelter in the state of Wisconsin, WHS offers the following services: An adoption program that matches 13,000+ animals with new families each year; we do not euthanize animals to make space in our shelters, and animals in our adoption program have as long as it takes to find a new home Stray/lost animal and law enforcement holding services for municipalities in Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties, which reunite thousands of pets with their families each year Intake support and services for surrendered animals from Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties Affordable vaccines, microchips, and spay/neuter services open to the public Pet food pantries that provide pet food, treats, and cat litter, etc. to bridge gaps in accessing these important resources Community outreach programs that connect families with resources for their pets A foster program for animals who need extra support or a break from the shelter Dog training classes for dogs and puppies, as well as online pet support tips for behavior concerns Youth programs to engage and inspire the next generation of animal lovers Retail merchandise at our Animal Antics stores at each campus, and online The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which provides rescue, rehabilitation, and release for roughly 5,000 wild animals annually at our Milwaukee Campus.
We operate on a foster and volunteer based, not-for-profit model, and focus of dogs facing euthanasia due to placement in high kill shelters, overpopulation, abuse & neglect, or owner surrender. We take pride in carefully screening every potential foster and adoptive home through a comprehensive approval process. We educate every potential adopter on the dogs' needs, requirements and expectations involved with adding a new dog to their home. LMR provides a community of support for all of our adopters. All dogs we rescue receive full medical care, including spay or neuter, microchip, and vaccinations, treatments, or medications they may need, thanks to our team and network of veterinarians. While awaiting adoption, our dogs are able to decompress, build confidence, and socialize in one of our many nurturing, well supported foster homes.
Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) is an open-admission, no-kill shelter dedicated to strengthening the relationship between animals and humans through adoptions and education making a more compassionate community possible.
Welcome to the 2024 Wisconsin Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
Applications are reviewed by a team of volunteers. All household members must be on board with the adoption and meet the dog of interest. Any dogs in the home must also meet, and be fully vetted (unless medically exempt) prior to finalizing adoption.
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.