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The Best Houston, TX Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

16 dog rescues found

Pit Bull
Senior dog
German Shepherd
Puppy
Husky
Golden Retriever
Great Dane
Boxer
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Friends For Life Animal Shelter — Sniffspot

Friends For Life Animal Shelter

#26 in United States, #2 in Texas, #1 in Houston

We're here for the undercat and underdog, regardless of their breed, age or condition. Houston-grown, we're here to help our neighbors care for the pets they love. We're not done until every animal has a safe home. Until then, we'll be innovating, improving and tracking results to find the most effective ways to save lives.

"Friendly"

Houston, TX

THREE LITTLE PITTIES RESCUE — Sniffspot

THREE LITTLE PITTIES RESCUE

#28 in United States, #4 in Texas, #2 in Houston

Three Little Pitties Rescue is a non-profit, 501c3 all-breed dog and cat rescue dedicated to saving animals out of desperate situations, primarily in the Houston, Texas area. From 2018 to 2024 the rescue has saved 13,000+ animals and delivered them to better lives up north.

"I started volunteering with the rescue about four years ago. Sinc..." more

Houston, TX

Donna's love pet rescue — Sniffspot

Donna's love pet rescue

#36 in United States, #5 in Texas, #3 in Houston

Our charitable, tax-exempt mission is to save as many lives as possible by giving homeless and lost animals a warm and special touch to show them that they are loved so they can trust again and return that love. I served in the military (Navy) from 1989 till 1993. My passion in life has always been to work with and care for animals. I have 7 dogs of my own (Palen, Rocsco, BK, Chico, Beau, Star and Annie). All of my dogs, except Palen, were found and taken in by my facility, The Dog House Pet Salon. If I could take every rescue home with me, I would. We have taken in over 290 homeless and lost animals since we opened our doors for business at The Dog house Pet Salon in 2009. We have re-homed 289 of them. Dash has been with us for one year. Dash needs a little more training to become confident and trust humans again. If I cannot re-home one of my loved ones, they will stay with me and live a good life. We believe that every lost animal with a microchip, rabies id/vet tag number or a name tag should be able to be identified and the parents contacted in a matter of seconds. We created the innovative My Pet Credentials mobile app for that very reason ‚an easy to use digital platform to empower the parents of lost pets with a means to find their lost pet quickly and efficiently without the need of calling, faxing or emailing. Pet owners, pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians can download the MPC app or register at www.mypetcredentials.com. The cost to pet owners is $16.99 annually. The platform is free for pet salons, rescue shelters and veterinarians. I am most proud of the lost and found function that is part of the MPC pet service platform. Pet owners enter the microchip number or rabies id/vet tag number in their pet's profile. If someone finds the pet, they can use the MPC mobile app or go to www.mpclost.com to identify the lost pet by entering any one of three tracking numbers. The MPC platform will immediately display: A picture of the pet (front, left and right Image) The pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and markings The pet's most current vaccinations A button to contact the owner who will receive a text, email and mobile app notification with the good Samaritan‚ name, phone number, email and message When someone finds a pet, MPC‚ lost and found function assists in reuniting the lost pet with their family, quickly and efficiently, by giving the Samaritan the ability to enter the lost pet's name, age, gender, breed, color and any markings along with any microchip, rabies id or vet tag number (tracking numbers) and upload an image of the lost pet. Once the tracking information has been entered by the Samaritan the family of the lost pet will be able to go to our universal lost and found website, www.mpclost.com, to input their pet's tracking information and our platform will display to the family an image of their pet, the pet's name as reported by the good Samaritan, age, gender, breed, color and any markings and the name, address and phone number where the pet can be reunited with their family. This innovative process reunites lost pets found with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number with their families quickly and efficiently by eliminating the need to post lost and found flyers or waste time calling animal shelters, city pounds or veterinarians to locate their lost pet. I could go on about all the features of the MPC platform such as transfer of ownership, vaccination records storage, vaccination reminders and scheduling appointments with your pet salon. We created Donna's Love Pet Rescue for people who want to help end homelessness for animals and provide an easy to use digital platform to help identify pets, contact owners of lost pets quickly and efficiently and allow owners of lost pets with a microchip or rabies id or vet tag number to be registered with MPC for a quick and joyous reunion! The donation we receive from you helps with. Vetting Food Training Fostering Transportation Spay and neuter Our goal is also to educate the community on the importance of spay and neutering, having dogs vetted and properly trained and provided with appropriate identification markers. Animals are family too. To make a tax-deductible donation by mail: Donna's Love Pet Rescue 5917 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77057

"I volunteer for the most amazing rescue on the planet. We are sma..." more

Houston, TX

Texas Sled Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

Texas Sled Dog Rescue

#57 in United States, #6 in Texas, #4 in Houston

Texas Sled Dog Rescue is a small rescue focusing on finding fur-ever homes for sled dog types (Siberian huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, and mixes). While in rescue, we will place them in foster homes, provide basic training as needed, and vetting which includes vaccinations, spay or neuter, microchip and other medical services as needed. Our volunteers are involved in all facets of rescue including but not limited to fundraising, transporting, evaluating dogs, respresenting the rescue at local dog events, fostering, etc.

Husky

"I have adopted twice from TSDR.They are very dedicated to all who..." more

Houston, TX

Caitie's Foster Fam Rescue — Sniffspot

Caitie's Foster Fam Rescue

#96 in United States, #18 in Texas, #5 in Houston

Founded in May 2021, we are a non-profit 501(c)3 rescue made up of animal-loving individuals. Our team consists of animal rescuers who have been making a difference in the lives of homeless pets for over a decade. We each started as volunteers and fosters, specializing in medical needs cases. Because of the high demand for more medical fosters and rescuers, we decided to join together and start our own non-profit rescue. We are an entirely foster-based organization, so we do not have a physical shelter. All animals are kept in loving foster homes. Our founder, Caitie, has been fostering medical cases in the Houston area for over ten years.

"Love this organization"

Houston, TX

Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue — Sniffspot

Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue

#98 in United States, #20 in Texas, #6 in Houston

Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue is a Houston area 501(c)(3) non profit organization dedicated to rescuing homeless and abandoned puppies and dogs from high-kill shelters and owners who can no longer care for them. By working with committed volunteers, foster homes, local veterinarians, trainers, and boarding facilities, we are able to rescue countless animals every year, provide them with loving foster care, and ultimately find them well-matched, carefully screened forever homes. We also plan to serve as a resource to our community and all pet owners by providing education and information on responsible pet ownership, including the importance of spay/neuter, positive behavior training, and good nutrition and care.

"We rescued our dog Hamilton from here! The team was so organized ..." more

Houston, TX

Wag Again Rescue — Sniffspot

Wag Again Rescue

#98 in United States, #20 in Texas, #6 in Houston

Wag Again is a section 501(c)(3) foster based dog rescue group with years of animal and rescue experience amongst our volunteers. Wag Again is committed to helping the neediest, as well as the readily adoptable, among our community's most vulnerable creatures. We are a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to restoring the dogs under our care to physical and emotional health as they await placement in loving, responsible homes. Virtually all donated funds will be spent directly on the care of the animals. Wag Again stands ready to help you, the prospective adopter or foster home, find a companion who will thrive in your home. We are here to assist you in every way possible throughout the adoption process and will continue to be a helpful resource after you have welcomed your new pets into your life.

"Wag again rescue has helped us find homes for many dogs . They le..." more

Houston, TX

Corridor Rescue — Sniffspot

Corridor Rescue

#98 in United States, #20 in Texas, #6 in Houston

Corridor Rescue was born in 2009 when Deborah Hoffman, while driving through the area to work, realized there was a horrible problem with abandoned and stray animals. Her tenacity and love for the dogs would not allow her to stand by and watch...Corridor Rescue was conceived! Corridor Rescue is named after a 14 square mile area of Northeast Houston dubbed ‚'The Corridor of Cruelty'. The sheer number of dogs abandoned, dumped and allowed to roam the streets in this area is mind boggling. But sadly, the Corridor area is known for animal cruelty. The animals are unwanted, seen as a nuisance, and in some cases wrongly thought of as aggressive. People hit them, throw things at them, shoot them, fight them, and even deliberately run them over. Corridor Rescue has grown phenomenally over the last decade. What started as a one-woman show now has multiple volunteer teams and a kennel facility where we are able to take our rescued street dogs directly off the street for rehabilitation. The facility can house up to 30 dogs and is staffed with two Veterinary Technicians and three Kennel Technicians. The dogs receive medical care and enrichment to begin healing and to put them on the road to their forever home. Corridor Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is solely funded by the generosity of our wonderful donors and supporters. We are a volunteer-based organization, always looking for enthusiastic, outgoing, motivated, and animal loving volunteers to join our team. Corridor Rescue has a number of areas that you can help save lives.

"Corridor Rescue saves and helps so many dogs and some cats on the..." more

Houston, TX

Greater Houston German Shepherd Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

Greater Houston German Shepherd Dog Rescue

#99 in United States, #21 in Texas, #7 in Houston

is a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization founded in 2008. We are a breed-specific organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming German Shepherds in Houston, Texas and surrounding areas. GHGSDR is guided by three core values: dedication, integrity, and compassion. We are devoted to finding homes for our GSDs with people who want to continue our mission of giving these dogs a better life and a second chance. Our GSDs are obtained from public shelters after they have completed a stray-hold period or they are surrendered to us directly by their owners. We strive to ensure that each dog in our care is given the love, attention, and medical care they need to thrive. We believe that every dog deserves a second chance at a happy life. All of our rescued German Shepherds are placed in a foster home while we work tirelessly to find loving, forever homes; carefully matching each dog with an adoptive family who will provide them with the love and care they deserve. We attribute our success in rehoming German Shepherds to our wonderful volunteers. We have many volunteers who have been with us since inception, which gives us stability and a sense of history. We also have newer volunteers who bring enthusiasm and new ideas to our group, which is essential for us to continue our mission. As an all-volunteer run organization, we all hold different jobs in our actual lives. We are not professionals in animal behavior, training, or health, but we work closely with local veterinarians, trainers, and other animal welfare organizations to ensure that our dogs receive the best possible care and support.

German Shepherd

"This rescue has been around for a long time. I love how hard the..." more

Houston, TX

Forgotten coast animal rescue — Sniffspot

Forgotten coast animal rescue

#99 in United States, #21 in Texas, #7 in Houston

Our co-founders Rachell Jones and Courtney Lomelo met in 2019 where all good rescue ladies hang out: Facebook groups dedicated to rescuing dogs. Although Rachell lives in Florida, and Courtney in Texas, together they networked and found a home for their first dog together! His name was Ryder. Courtney began rescuing street dogs in 2011 and Rachell entered the rescue world in 2018 inspired by countless dogs displaced by Hurricane Michael in Florida. The duo went on to network several more dogs on high-kill Houston shelters' euthanasia lists. They got to know each other over late night calls and Facebook messages. A true modern friendship! Finally, they decided to officially form a rescue together and Forgotten Coast Animal Rescue was born. Forgotten Coast Animal Rescue was named for Rachell's home coast in Florida. Presently, FCAR operates primarily in Houston, Texas. We hope to expand to North Florida, the forgotten coast, in the coming years to care for Rachell's home state.

"They have rescued several dogs from me here in Houston TX and fin..." more

Houston, TX

Lola's Lucky Day — Sniffspot

Lola's Lucky Day

#99 in United States, #21 in Texas, #7 in Houston

Lola's Lucky Day strives to make a positive impact by rescuing animals that otherwise would not have a chance in Texas. We rescue pups from the streets and shelters, get them healthy, fully vetted, spayed/neutered, and network with our partner rescues in Wisconsin to match them with loving families.

"Lola's Lucky Day in Texas and Wisconsin is a very caring and wond..." more

Houston, TX

In the name of Zoey — Sniffspot

In the name of Zoey

#99 in United States, #21 in Texas, #7 in Houston

"We have over 1 million strays in Houston, Texas, and In the name ..." more

Houston, TX

Sunnyside Street Dogs — Sniffspot

Sunnyside Street Dogs

#99 in United States, #21 in Texas, #7 in Houston

At Sunnyside Street Dogs, we believe every dog deserves a loving home and a happy life. We rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome street dogs, ensuring they receive the care and love they need. Our mission is to create a world where every dog is valued, protected, and cherished.

"Sunnyside Dogs does great work to help so many dogs in need and w..." more

Houston, TX

HTX Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

HTX Dog Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Houston, TX

Adopt A Rescued Friend — Sniffspot

Adopt A Rescued Friend

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

We rescue animals from the street, pull animals from local shelters and accept owner surrenders. AARF Houston not only rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes these animals; we also provide support to our Veterans and low income community to vaccinate, spay and neuter their family pets. Contact us for more information.We specialize in animals that have been hurt, or are ill. Our army of veterinarians are some of the best and step up to help when we find an animal in need. AARF Houston has worked with some of the best Veterinarians in Texas. Some of our rescued dogs participated in a blood donor program to provide life sustaining blood and plasma. Our Orthopedic surgeons have repaired broken legs, hips and faces. We have several dogs with successful hip replacements. We have an unbeatable success rate for Parvo and Distemper. Of course, our vets provide every day care for our rescued animals as well. It takes a team! Texas has an animal homeless problem. In 2023, it was estimated that there were over 1 million homeless animals in Texas with 3.1 million nationwide. Non Profit Rescue Groups are an integral part of the solution. We rescue animals from the street, pull from local shelters and accept owner surrenders. AARF Houston not only rescues and rehomes these animals, we also provide community support to spay and neuter families that are in need of help. We specialize in animals that have been hurt, or are ill. Our army of veterinarians are some of the best and step up to help when we find an animal in need. AARF Houston has worked with some of the best orthopedic surgeons to provide hip replacements, cure Parvo and distemper, and provide basic health care. Some of our rescued dogs participated in a blood donor program to provide life sustaining blood and plasma.In order for AARF Houston to help these abandoned animals, we need donations, sponsors and dedicated volunteers.

Houston, TX

Destination Rescue — Sniffspot

Destination Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

We are a 501c3 nonprofit, all-breed dog rescue primarily based in Houston, TX. We save dogs and puppies from life on the streets or from euthanasia lists, rehabilitate them, and match them with forever families both in local Texas areas as well as in northern states (most commonly Buffalo, NY!) From the moment we started our work in 2022, we understood that working together across rescues is paramount to making a significant and effective impact. We strive to make a positive, long lasting change by protecting and advocating for animals that can't do so themselves. Here at Destination Rescue (DR), we strongly believe rescues should share resources and work together for the common goal of saving as many animals as possible: thus, we place incredible value in our partnerships and maintain close collaborations with local and northern rescue colleagues to match dogs with families. At DR, we believe in standardizing the humane treatment of dogs, working towards eliminating the need for euthanasia lists, putting an end to life on the streets, and promoting education to prevent uncontrolled animal repopulation. We speak for the voiceless, love the unwanted, and provide a gentle hand to the abused. Help us on our mission to show kindness to animals that have been born into an unkind world.

Houston, TX

Houston SPCA — Sniffspot

Houston SPCA

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

A hundred years ago, community leaders in Houston came together to establish the Houston SPCA. Since 1924, the organization has remained steadfast in its mission: to protect animals in the community. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to creating a safe environment for animals, the Houston SPCA has grown into the influential force it is today. From conducting investigations into animal cruelty to assisting in disasters, the Houston SPCA is involved in every aspect of animal welfare. We are the Campus For All Animals, and we do it ALL. The Beginning In an era when animal welfare was starting to become a widespread concern, propelled a group of community leaders to establish the Houston SPCA. Its first leaders were initially committed to the welfare of Houston’s horses and women and children in need. The first location, affectionately called The Shelter, was located at 216 Jackson Street. Help for animals in need at the time included horses, sheep, cats, and dogs. Animal Cruelty Investigations In the 1930s, the rescue and protection organization began relying on the community’s eyes and ears to report animal cruelty. They encouraged Houstonians to dial “Wayside 1744” to speak with a humane investigator about potential animal abuse. By 1945, archive records show they conducted 2,368 investigations and yearly inspections for animals in need. Animal Rescue Ambulance A donated rescue van with a ladder secured to the top was used to respond to reports of animals in need, including those trapped in sewers, car engines, or even on roofs of homes as early as the 1930s. It was often called “Houston’s Animal Ambulance.” Born out of necessity, it was another service that the community needed, and the Houston SPCA was there to step in for the city’s most vulnerable animals: animals unowned and injured. Today, the Houston SPCA still has the only 24-hour Animal Rescue Ambulance in the Gulf Coast Region. Veterinary Services In the early 1970s, Dr. L.D. Eckermann, a longtime Houston SPCA supporter, board member, and award-winning veterinarian, was among the local veterinarians who began volunteering on days off to lend his expertise and provide medical care to shelter animals. The Houston SPCA hired its first full-time veterinarian in 1985, along with several graduate technicians. Disaster Response Since the 1980s, the Houston SPCA has been at the forefront of responding to natural disasters to help animals in need, such as Hurricane Ike in 2008, Tri-County Fires in 2011, and the Bahamas in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. In 2017, Houston SPCA rescued 2,300 dogs and cats and 80 displaced horses, farm animals, and native wildlife in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. Wildlife Rehabilitation Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center of Texas began when passionate and dedicated wildlife rehabilitators Sharen Schmalz, Margaret Pickell, and Debbie Mitchell recognized the urgent need for a dedicated facility to support all the injured, orphaned, and ill native wildlife impacted by urban expansion and environmental challenges in Houston. An estimated 92,591 wild animals have come into our care since 2008. Exotics Rescue The Houston SPCA saw a surge in the popularity of exotic pets around the early 2000s, and with it came cases of inadequate care, neglect, and abandonment. In 2000, Creutly investigators rescued four tigers, four lions, two leopards, and a wolf. The organization partners with sanctuaries and zoos around the country to ensure the rescued animals now imprinted by humans could live the rest of their lives in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. Veterinary Partnerships The organization started a program with Texas A&M where senior veterinary students are trained on campus. They are required to spend two weeks on campus learning how to practice veterinary medicine in a shelter environment. The teaching program provides veterinary students with a broad range of high-quality training experiences under expert supervision to ensure they are well-prepared for the various challenges they will face as practicing veterinarians. Expansion In 2018, Houston SPCA’s William and Evelyn Griffin Campus for All Animals opened to the community at 7007 Old Katy Road. The state-of-the-art, 12-acre campus provides sanctuary and healing to animals in need and serves as an educational hub for the community to foster a love and respect for all living beings. Pet Wellness Clinic The Houston SPCA opened its first Pet Wellness Clinic to the community, specializing in preventive and affordable care. The clinic now treats common illnesses such as heartworm disease, respiratory infections, skin infections, diarrhea and ear infections.

Houston, TX

Pippy's Pals Rescue — Sniffspot

Pippy's Pals Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

We are a 501c3 non-profit animal rescue that focuses our efforts on dogs in the greatest need who have found themselves at risk of euthanasia through no fault of their own.

Houston, TX

Galveston County Animal Resource Center — Sniffspot

Galveston County Animal Resource Center

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

The largest, most modern and best-equipped animal shelter in Galveston County, the Animal Resource Center provides animal services to Bayou Vista, Hitchcock, Kemah, La Marque, Texas City, Tiki Island, Santa Fe, Clear Lake Shores and unincorporated Galveston County, as outlined in an inter-local agreement. Our adoption fee includes rabies vaccination, a microchip and spay or neuter. You can view our available pets online at 24Petconnect. Our wonderful Pets of the Week are available for a reduced adoption fee. We have other programs that offer pets at reduced fees. Nothing makes us happier than reuniting lost pets with their owners and proper registration make it so much more likely to happen. If you can no longer take care of your pet, we accept surrenders. We are able to offer you the opportunity to cherish the memory of your beloved pet with private pet cremation. Rescue groups and fosters play a vital role in our success. We have several donation opportunities that help save lives.

Houston, TX

Missouri City Animal Services — Sniffspot

Missouri City Animal Services

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Houston, TX

ADORE Houston — Sniffspot

ADORE Houston

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

In Houston, we have a lot of things to be proud of as a city. But the way we deal with homeless animals isn’t one of them. Roaming, homeless dogs — and dogs dumped by their owners — are an all-too-common sight. Besides all the animals we see on the streets, thousands more are being euthanized. Other cities have found ways to curb the heartbreaking problem of animal overpopulation. And Houston can, too. That's why we created ADORE (All Dogs Official Rescue Enterprise) Houston. We believe that reducing animal overpopulation is a vital way to make our community a safer and kinder place for both animals and humans. At ADORE, we work to get stray and abandoned dogs off the streets and out of shelters — and to help dogs who do have homes stay in those homes by aiding and educating their owners. ADORE provides rescue services, vet care, foster care and adoptive placement. Dogs come to us from many sources, including local animal shelters, owner surrenders and the streets of Houston. Our goal is to find safe and loving homes for each and every one. One of the ways we help dogs is by helping their humans. When dog owners are in need, we lend a hand so that they can keep their beloved pets and get back on their feet. ADORE Houston is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt animal welfare organization

Pit Bull

Houston, TX

Apollo's Pals Sanctuary Rehabilitation and Adoption INC — Sniffspot

Apollo's Pals Sanctuary Rehabilitation and Adoption INC

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Apollo’s Pals Sanctuary and Rehabilitation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the fostering, rehabilitation, and adoption of animals. All donations and proceeds to Apollo’s Pals are tax deductible. Owned and operated by Dorothy & Ray Trivitt, we are able to continue to grow with the help of local shelters and volunteers.

Houston, TX

Pup Squad Animal Rescue — Sniffspot

Pup Squad Animal Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Located in Houston, Pup Squad Animal Rescue is a volunteer-led, foster-based organization focused on rescuing pregnant mommas, nursing litters and puppies under six months old from the streets, shelters and other life-threatening situations. Our organization works tirelessly to match rescued puppies (and their mamas!) with permanent adoptive homes, while also providing support and education to our adopters as well as the broader Houston community. Our Story In 2008 Pup Squad was founded by four former BARC volunteers who wanted to do more to help the puppies and mother dogs struggling in the City of Houston’s Animal Control facility. Almost daily, moms with litters were being picked up from the streets and brought into the shelter, in addition to boxes of puppies being dropped off by owners who lacked the time or resources to find them homes. In a shelter setting, puppies have little chance of survival, as their young immune systems cause them to be extremely susceptible to falling ill. Deadly airborne diseases, to which they have no immunity, are everywhere, and even if a pup is old enough to receive their first vaccination, it is often not enough to fully protect them. Tragically, pregnant and mother dogs brought in from the streets are too often euthanized once they reach a shelter environment. With these cycles of puppy illness and mother dog euthanasia being repeated, the Pup Squad founders turned to each other and said, “There’s got to be a better way.” And so, Pup Squad Animal Rescue was born. The goal of this rescue group is to save as many puppies and nursing litters as we can from life on the streets before they enter the shelters. We also work closely with BARC and other area shelters to rescue litters quickly, before they are exposed to the diseases in the shelter environment. And we pledge to never to leave a momma dog behind. After working so hard to nurse and protect their pups they too deserve all of the love and care we can provide them while they wait for their forever homes.

Houston, TX

Save Rescue Coalition — Sniffspot

Save Rescue Coalition

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

S.A.V.E Rescue Coalition was formed for the purpose of reducing the homeless pet problem through Spay/Neuter, Adoption, Volunteering and Education.

Houston, TX

City of Bellaire Animal Control - Bellaire Pound — Sniffspot

City of Bellaire Animal Control - Bellaire Pound

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

City of Bellaire Animal Control services protect and manage animal control issues humanely, balancing animals' needs with the community's safety and welfare. We have one Animal Control Officer. Services to the community: 1. Hold and care for impounded dogs that are lost, stray, or abandoned. (We do not accept cats). 2. Offer microchipping services to residents. 3. Respond to animal complaints (lost/found dogs, menacing animals, bites, wild animal incursions). 4. Educate and promote the benefits of spaying/neutering pets. Bellaire Pound Our brand-new dog pound is starting to take shape. It’s still in the early stages of construction. The new facility will feature eight kennels, complete with dog runs and air conditioning. A big thank you to the Rubenstein Foundation—their generosity is making this dream a reality. Congratulations, and thank you to the Friends of the Bellaire Pound, all the volunteers, the community, and the Bellaire Police Department for working together toward this common goal of providing a better quality of life for the lost and rescued dogs here in Bellaire. The Bellaire Pound is a facility for the short-term impoundment of dogs found running at large. The pound houses animals for up to three days to allow animals to be reunited with their owners. If the animal is not redeemed after three days, the department works to place the animal with local shelters or rescue organizations so they may be put up for adoption. Though not a desired outcome, the department may euthanize animals for aggression and for untreatable and/or contagious illnesses. Upon intake, dogs receive the following services: o Photos are uploaded to social media and PetFinder. o Dogs are scheduled for a vet visit within three days of intake and receive a health screening, preventative shots, and heartworm testing. o After three days in the local holding facility, dogs are transported to the main Bellaire Pound. o After approximately ten days, if a dog is still in the Bellaire Pound, we work with the Houston Humane Society to schedule placement. The department strives to avoid keeping dogs in the pound longer than 15 days.

Houston, TX

The Underdog Connection — Sniffspot

The Underdog Connection

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Houston, TX

Texas Muttley Love Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

Texas Muttley Love Dog Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Texas Muttley Love Dog Rescue is a 501c3 foster based rescue that was founded in 2019 by Mattie Gallier. We pull from the euthanasia lists at high kill for space shelters, street dogs and owner surrenders and find them homes in the PNW. We do our own transports monthly to ensure the dogs are properly taken care of and go to the best homes possible. The rescue was created to honor the memory of my friend and mentor in dog rescue Barbara. Barbara was the founder of Muttley Love which was ran out of her home and her garage apartment. I met her when I first moved to Houston and started work, which ended up being a huge dumping yard for dogs. I must have contacted 25 rescues to help me and everyone said no. Not Barbara! In fact she said yes 32 times. There aren’t many people like Barbara. When it came to people and organizations in rescue she was IT. She was the definition of selfless, compassion and dedication! She is who I have wanted to be when it comes to helping the stray and homeless population in Houston. We ended up saving 32 dogs from my job site and she vetted them all, fostered them all and found every single one of them a loving home. Barbara passed away in 2015 leaving a huge hole in the rescue world. I knew at that point I needed to honor her. I hope Texas Muttley Love will always honor you, display your heart and make you proud. You will never truly know how much you influenced me!

Houston, TX

New Best Friend Dog Rescue — Sniffspot

New Best Friend Dog Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

We are a foster based 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue and take pride in staying true to what rescue is supposed to be about – the dogs! We have taken in more than 600 puppies and dogs and at any given time we have approximately 60 animals in our program, all living in foster homes. Thanks to the best fosters there are, we are still going strong! Saving puppies and dogs is not just about picking them up from the street or pulling them from a shelter. It is about fostering, vaccinating, nurturing, spaying or neutering, and ultimately about finding a great forever home. It may be a lot of hard work but the rewards are so worth it! All puppies and dogs deserve a chance – no matter where they came from, whether or not they have the “cute” factor, or whether their lineage is pure “mutt.” Each has a beautiful spirit – they just need a chance to show it. We take pride in keeping their welfare as the focus of our group and making sure this happens. We hope you share the affection for our four-legged (and sometimes three- and two-legged) friends and will join us in helping them along the path to happiness with a new home and a family who will love them. It’s always possible, it just takes some work.

Houston, TX

Waiting Under the Willow Foundation — Sniffspot

Waiting Under the Willow Foundation

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Houston, TX

Spring Branch Rescue — Sniffspot

Spring Branch Rescue

#100 in United States, #22 in Texas, #8 in Houston

Houston, TX, a city that has an animal crisis. Spring Branch Rescue, based here, a 501C3 non-profit animal rescue tries to make a difference in the lives of Those Without Voices! We are that operates totally on donations from the community. We need a Cargo Van to help us with the rescue transport. Having our own van gives us the ability to transport our animals into Houston for events, to the vet and most importantly to their furever homes in the Pacific Northwest. Please donate whatever you can, no amount is too small! Please also share our fundraiser. How It All Started Many years ago I started networking lost & found animals in Spring Branch by creating a Spring Branch Lost Pets Page to help owners and finders with a place to post the animals. The page grew very quickly and became a neighborhood name. I started operating as an independent rescuer helping many animals in need by providing vet care and placing them in good loving homes. The number of animals found in the area has grown and the idea of becoming a non-profit organization became a reality. Now we are not only able to adopt our rescued animals in need found in our area, but have grown our name recognition in the Pacific Northwest, Colorado, Idaho, and Canada. We work together with an amazing community of animal lovers in Spring Branch and also Houston. We all work together to help the ones without voices. We save one animal at a time.

Houston, TX


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

Welcome to the 2025 Houston, TX Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Houston, TX chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks. Sniffspot offers 16 private dog parks in the Houston 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 Houston dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Houston, TX. 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.

Sniffspot Dog running on field

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


See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

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


Sniffspot Houston Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Houston?

There are 16 in Houston. Outside of Houston, there are 55 located in Texas.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Houston, the top 3 on our list are: Friends For Life Animal Shelter, THREE LITTLE PITTIES RESCUE, Donna's love pet rescue.

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Houston offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Houston is German Shepherd with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Husky with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Houston?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Houston. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
To adopt a pet from Friends For Life, you must:Be 21+ years of ageHave a legal form of photo IDBe able to spend the time and resources necessary to provide the training, medical treatment, and proper care for your petBe allowed to have a pet of the breed and size where you currently live

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

Yes! Houston has the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: German Shepherd Husky

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Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool

Most recent articles

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Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

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  • How to Deal With Puppy Potty Training Regression thumbnail

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  • Dirty Dog Syndrome: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention thumbnail

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Dog enrichment guides

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    Top 10 Dog Water Parks in the US

    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.

  • Best Toys for Herding Dogs: Keeping Your Pup Happy & Engaged thumbnail

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    Herding dogs are amazing, intelligent companions. But that also means they need more than just a simple game of fetch. Finding the right toys for herding dogs is key to keeping them happy and stimulated. This article explores some of the best toys for herding dogs, including options specifically for breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds. We'll help you discover the perfect herding toys for dogs to tap into their natural instincts and keep them entertained for hours.

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    Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with the remnants of plush toys? Are you tired of wasting money on "indestructible" dog toys for aggressive chewers that don't last? Then this post is for you. We'll cover everything you need to know about finding the best dog toys for aggressive chewers, so you can finally give your pup something safe, durable, and fun.

  • Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? thumbnail

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    Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!

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Dog reactivity guides

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    Does your dog suddenly transform into a barking, lunging Tasmanian devil on walks? It's stressful for both of you. If this sounds familiar, you might have a reactive dog. Understanding what is a reactive dog is the first step to calmer walks. We'll explore the common triggers and give you actionable strategies to manage and modify this behavior. Let's turn those stressful walks into enjoyable outings.

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    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

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Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

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  • 15 Best Dog Parks in the US: Public & Private thumbnail

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Dogs breeds

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    The German Shepherd Dog (GSDs) are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. They're also incredibly versatile, excelling as working dogs and devoted family companions. This guide covers everything you need to know about GSDs, from understanding their unique traits and rich history to practical advice on training and care. So, whether you're a seasoned GSD owner or just starting your research, let's explore this remarkable breed together.

  • Labrador Retriever: Ultimate Guide by Owners thumbnail

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    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.

  • Golden Retriever Advice: The Complete Owner's Guide thumbnail

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