The Best Missouri Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

Stray Rescue of St. Louis

What sets Stray Rescue of St. Louis apart in the animal welfare community near and far? We seek out and take in those who no other organization will help or would simply euthanize because they are too expensive to heal. We take the abandoned, beaten, bred, fought, injured, terrified, defeated and betrayed. We see beyond their brokenness and are here to pick up the pieces to make these special animals whole again. We see the individual and know that there's no one size fits all treatment plan. The minute they enter our doors, we look in their eyes and promise them ALL the second chance they deserve for health, home, commitment and love. Because these animals come in with a story that would give us all nightmares, it takes them longer to open up, trust and believe in humankind again. But with patience and time always on their unique schedule we see the light shine in their eyes again. Animals have an amazing ability to forgive which never ceases to amaze us.

Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue

Unchained Melodies rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes chained, penned, and abused dogs that have no voice. We fight for stronger laws and have many programs that benefit our community.

Missouri German Shepherd Rescue

MOGS has several long-timers in our system that would really love to find either an Adoption or Foster Home. All of these amazing GSD's arrived at MOGS with some rough edges, but have worked really hard and are ready to take the next steps in the rehab process - landing in their forever home!

Rescue One

Rescue One is a state-licensed, 501(c)(3), foster-based rescue located in Springfield, MO. All of the animals in our care live in foster homes until a forever home can be found. We rescue without regard to breed, age, or ease of placement. Our mission is not only to rescue animals in need, but to also educate the public on responsible pet ownership and help provide low cost spay/neuter for those in need of assistance. Since forming in 2013, Rescue One has helped saved thousands of animals. Dogs find their way to us for many reasons: some are owner surrenders, some are strays, some dogs are found abandoned, left to fend for themselves in vacant homes, open fields, or on the side of the road, and many are pulled from area kill shelters. Besides giving love and socialization to the animals, all will receive necessary medical care, required vaccinations, and be spayed or neutered prior to adoption.

Furry Kids Refuge

We are a no-kill, all volunteer animal rescue organization which started in the year 2003 by founder Carla Wing. Furry Kids Refuge was established to benefit the public at large by supporting local animal control agencies in their efforts to reduce the number of homeless companion animals. In June 2005, Furry Kids Refuge was established as a Missouri Not-for-Profit Corporation and a Federal 501(c) (3) charitable organization animal rescue that operates with a network of foster homes, a small facility and many dedicated volunteers.

Center for Animal Rescue & Enrichment of St. Louis - CARE STL

We accept the homeless, abused, neglected, injured, and surrendered animals of the City of St. Louis into our care so they will be safe and loved until they can be adopted into loving homes.

KC Pet Project

KC Pet Project is a 501c3, nonprofit charitable organization operating the KC Campus for Animal Care, Kansas City, Missouri's, Animal Shelter. We care for more than 15,000 animals a year and now have 14 locations in Missouri and Kansas to adopt out pets. We focus on progressive programs to help people keep their pets through Lost and Found services, our Keep Em Together, KC program, and pet safety initiatives like microchipping, pet identification, and more.

Angels Left Behind

Missouri Pit Bull Rescue

An all-volunteer 501C3 rescue group in Kansas City, Missouri, MPR's Mission is to promote responsible Pit Bull ownership, provide breed education, combat pet overpopulation, fight unfair legislation's and find qualified homes for sound Pit Bull dogs in Missouri and beyond. The Beginning MPR was formed in 1998 by husband and wife Veronique (V) and Robert (Rob) Chesser. The two Pit Bull lovers met online in 1996 when participating in a Pit Bull related forum. Rob and V quickly realized they had a lot in common, including a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of homeless Pit Bulls. V, who is French Canadian and originally from Quebec, Canada, has a certification in Canine Science and over 40 years of experience with dog rescue. Rob, a Network Security Engineer by profession, grew up with Pit Bull dogs and embarked on his rescue journey over 25 years ago. MPR began with Rob and V saving dogs from local pounds one at a time, keeping rescue Pit Bulls in their home with very little resource and no financial assistance until the word spread out and help came forward. The organization started to grow as V joined forces with other local Pit Bull lovers wanting to help this noble, yet vilified and abused breed of dog. MPR was recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2003 and has continued to grow ever since. Luckily now, MPR is fortunate enough to receive assistance and financial support from Pit Bull lovers across the country, allowing the organization to build a fund dedicated to covering each dog's basic needs and essential medical care. Thanks to a well-rounded team of committed volunteers and a large base of supporters, MPR has gone from saving 20 Pit Bulls in 2000 to over 100 a year - an increase well over 200%. The Present MPR’s mission is still very much the same as it was when V and Rob were saving Pit Bull dogs one at a time, but on a much larger scale. The organization currently operates with over 50 active volunteers, a dozen dedicated foster homes, its very own private shelter, and a team of advisors to help provide governance. No one is getting paid for their involvement with the group but the rewards are endless. We're all Pit Bull lovers with full-time jobs and families who spend every spare dollar and minute of our time helping those deserving dogs. Our commitments include Pit Bull education (via email, the website and events), evaluating dogs for rescue, fostering, caring for the shelter dogs, vet visits, rehabilitation and nursing sick dogs to good health, attending adoption events, screening applications, conducting phone interviews, home checks, and follow-ups, transporting dogs to potential homes, teaching a dog how to be a good pet, and lastly, LOVING our rescue dogs with all our heart until it's time to let them go to their forever home. In 2016 MPR reached its biggest goal to date. We designed and conceived our very own shelter! We opened our doors in 2017 and this little Pit Bull haven has been thriving since then. We currently have the capacity of 12 dogs at the shelter with a total of 25 on the property. We built the shelter to be comfortable for both pit bulls and our volunteers, and inviting to potential adopters and supporters. We have large kennels with indoor and outdoor access. 2 large playrooms, an isolation/medical room, office space, a laundry room, a kitchen, bathroom, storage and play yards. While pouring our hearts out helping as many blockheads as we can, we must still endure the heartbreaking job of turning away countless dogs, often the victim of extremely poor care, over-breeding and negative image perpetrated by the media, due to limited space, resources, foster homes and funds. We are keeping our chins up however, as we know our hard work is significant even if we only make a dent in the grand scheme of things. Helping 1 dog wont change the world, but it will change the world for that 1 dog. The Future Our future goals include continuing growth and education reach, increase our volunteer base, improve our adoption rate, and always enhance our positive and helpful impact not only on the dogs, but on the breed in general. We also have big plans for our rescue facility, including adding an adoption center, more walking trails and a memorial garden.

Wayside Waifs

As Kansas City's largest and most comprehensive no kill pet adoption campus, Wayside Waifs is committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. We serve more than 27,000 pets and people every year through pet adoptions, youth education, canine training programs, and community outreach. We do not euthanize adoptable animals, and there are no time limits for animals in our care. Only animals suffering from significant medical issues or those that pose a danger are humanely euthanized. We are proud to be a part of Kansas City's no kill community. Wayside is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity with regional and national reach.

Old drum animal shelter

Old Drum Animal Shelter will provide compassionate animal care in support of a thriving pet welfare community within Johnson County, Missouri.

Humane Society of Ray County

The Humane Society of Ray County is a volunteer-based, independent animal shelter, helping dogs and cats without homes. We have no affiliation with the Ray County government. All animals accepted at the shelter are fully vaccinated per age and weight, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before being offered for adoption. Before and after spaying or neutering we house, feed, and care for them until they can be adopted. All staff members are volunteers, and we do not have any paid staff. Our incredible volunteers donate countless hours of time and effort each year to keep operations at the shelter running smoothly. The only payments we make to individuals go to the veterinarian who provides spaying, neutering, and medical care for ill animals. Use of Funds We gain funding from donations and adoption fees, and that’s it. We have no other source of income. We do not receive any funding from any government entity, nor do we have any foundation grants. To understand the importance of donations, it’s important to understand how the money is used. Facilities Our facilities occupy the former Ray County jail, provided to us at no cost through the generosity of Ray County, Missouri. We are thankful to occupy our building rent-free, courtesy of the Ray County government, but we are responsible for all operating expenses and ongoing maintenance. All utilities and other expenses, including said maintenance and upkeep, are paid for by the community through donated funds. Animal Care Upon arrival at the shelter, both dogs and cats get a full veterinary workup as soon as possible. They receive a checkup, all necessary shots according to their age and weight, a microchip, and they’re spayed or neutered. If they’re ill, they’re treated for their illness. On average, the adoption fees almost cover the cost of the veterinary services (except in the case of sick animals). So a pet who comes to us, gets the necessary services, and is adopted out almost immediately will usually not incur excessive expense. However, the longer the animals stay with us, the more money they cost to care for over time. Of course, that doesn’t include their share of heat, air conditioning, lights, food, water, bedding, litter, or even laundry expenses. You’d be amazed how much money it takes to operate an animal shelter!

Pampered Poms Rescue

We are a RESCUE, which is very different than a shelter. Instead of hours, we have appointments. You may fill out an Adoption Application first, or call us to set up a time to meet the dogs we have for adoption. They may all be at our location, but some may be in foster homes. We need to get an idea of which dogs might be a good match for you, then proceed. Adoption is a process. We want to learn about you, as you learn about the pet. We want to make the best match possible for each dog. Some may need a fenced yard, others may do well in an apartment with only leash walking. Some may need a human at home during the day. We try to evaluate each dog thoroughly to see what they need. Sometimes there could be five Poms you can meet all at once to see which one you are attracted to. In the past we have had as many as 8 Poms at once. We get our dogs from a variety of places. Many animal groups work together in this area. Everyone knows we are the Pom Rescue so they may want us to take a Pom because we know more about the breed. We have people that adopt from us that have had this breed for decades, and may choose to adopt, instead of purchase. Most come from individuals who cannot care for the dog. Often times it boils down to finances. Things like housing, jobs, or lack of, allergies, kids, and owners passing are reasons we might get a dog. Most of the times it is not the animals fault. Sometimes the dog needs extra training or is special needs. Life happens, and we try not to blame the humans for making hard decisions that affects this furry friend they are respondsible for. We are always glad in the end that the dogs came to us. We hope to make the rest of their lives, the best of their lives. When we get a dog, our first priority is Love and Acceptance. It is very important the dog feel safe and loved. Then we evaluate the behavior, health, and needs of the dog. We do all the medical before searching for the perfect home. We have fantastic vets who give us a small discount and is awesome with tiny special dogs that often need major surgery. We get applications from far away and many ask about transports. We will contemplate a long distance adoption and we have done this many times. If we have a great application locally it will likely be picked first. Some special needs dogs may be eligible because its harder to find them homes. There are other rescues who will transport dogs to you, but we will not. If you adopt long distance and are approved you must drive here to get them. Sometimes the adopter isn't approved until we meet in person. Meet n greets are so important, for the dog and the people. Personalities and characteristics can't be shown in a picture. Please understand its hard to make everyone happy and its the dog that matters most. Fortunately we are a small rescue and never have a problem with space. The dogs can stay with us as long as needed for rehab or while searching for the perfect home. We are a state licensed, non profit and rely on donations to operate. We charge adoption fees, but often the bills go beyond a reasonable donation fee. We also provide things like collars, leash, harness, kennel, food and grooming for every dog we adopt out.

Boxer and Pittie Paws Rescue

Mac's Mission

We are a tiny but hardworking grassroots rescue based in Jackson, Missouri but we rescue nationwide. We save the ones who need us most. Many are neonatal puppies, (cleft palates/hydrocephalus newborns). We have a very extensive, experienced neonate program. Mac’s Mission is a federally recognized 501c3 non-profit and a Missouri state licensed dog rescue. We have a satellite location near Fredricksburg, Virginia. The Mission lives by "i am pitbull strong", a federally trademarked registered slogan that we share to help raise funds so we can keep rescuing sick homeless dogs. This phrase is a way of life for us. We rely 100% on donations from our dedicated supporters. We also help pay for costs by selling merchandise designed by one of our most dedicated volunteers. When you purchase a product in our store you help save sick puppies!!! We can not do this without our generous supporters and we thank you so much for being part of the solution to save these helpless souls.

Missouri / Kansas Italian Greyhound Rescue

Missouri / Kansas Italian Greyhound Rescue operates under Italian Greyhound Rescue Foundation (IGRF) and follows their policies and procedures. IGRF is a national not-for-profit organization with volunteers all across the country. This organization takes in unwanted Italian Greyhounds (IGs) and place them in carefully screened homes where they are appreciated and loved as they deserve. IGs in our program come from a variety of sources but most are owner surrenders given up when the family is no longer able to keep their pet. The dogs are fostered in our families until the right home is found. Their personalities and health are evaluated, and we try very hard to match each dog to the right situation. Our adoptable dogs range from Italian Greyhound puppies to seniors and everything in between. If you would like to adopt an Italian Greyhound, the first step is to research the breed to be sure they have the personality and traits you desire in a companion. IGs are wonderful pets but they are not your typical “dog” and many people find them too difficult, demanding and/or high energy. House training requires continuous reinforcement and supervision and they should NEVER be allowed off leash unless they are in a securely fenced area. One common misconception many people have is that puppies bond better and easier than adults when, in fact, it is actually the adults and more mature pups who bond most easily.

Warriors' Best Friend Foundation

Long Veterinary Clinic

Long Veterinary Clinic is a locally owned mixed animal practice in Kearney, Missouri. We strive to provide top quality care for our patients, and comfort to our clients knowing their pet is receiving the best medical, surgical, and emergency care at an affordable rate. HISTORY OF LONG VETERINARY CLINIC Long Veterinary Clinic is a mixed animal practice located in Kearney, Missouri. The practice was bought by Dr. David Leighr in 2004, who brought new life to the facility by introducing new technology, equipment, services, and ideas. We offer comprehensive medical, surgical, and emergency services and are dedicated to providing the upmost care for our clients to ensure all needs are met in a timely fashion. Both Dr. Leighr and the staff regularly attend continuing education seminars, introduce new equipment, and add new services to provide the best care and options for our patients. Our doors at Long Veterinary Clinic are always open to new clients, and we welcome you to check out our facility.

Friends of the Animal Shelter of St. Joseph

Friends of the Animal Shelter of St. Joseph, Inc. was founded in 2000 by Cathy Madsen with the guidance of Rick Smith, Manager of the St. Joseph Animal Control & Rescue Shelter at the time. In August 2000, the group had its first meeting. Over a decade later, The Friends of the Animal Shelter, are more than 100 volunteers strong. We are a select group of people from all walks of life – our common bond being a genuine concern for animal welfare. The work we do is not for everyone. Many who start out with us find it difficult to continue due to the many emotionally challenging aspects of volunteering at the Animal Shelter. More times than one can imagine, the appalling condition of animals brought in to the Shelter by concerned citizens, their owners or Staff is shocking; and yet the animals continue to give back unconditional love – their spirits are truly amazing. Our group’s mission is to support all aspects of work done by the Animal Shelter Staff. This includes working to increase animal adoption and redemption rates while minimizing the number of euthanized animals; educating our community regarding animal care and welfare issues; and helping care for the medical needs of all sick and injured animals that come through the Animal Shelter. Some of our volunteers are at the Animal Shelter every possible minute while others find it stressful to do work there on a routine basis. Yet many different volunteer opportunities are available, no matter what your comfort level may be. All we ask of you is your consistent commitment of time and sincere effort. One rewarding aspect of what we do involves community service. This includes: 1. Sponsoring animal education and welfare awareness programs in our local schools to educate future animal owners. 2. Participating in the Missouri Department of Transportation Adopt-A-Highway program on Highway 759 near the Animal Shelter. 3. Showcasing adoptable animals to the public at local businesses and on television for a monthly special adoption day. 4. Coordinating spay/neuter surgeries for low-income families in conjunction with Spay Day USA. 5. Setting up information booths at local events throughout the year. 6. Participating in local parades and festivals to promote the work we do. 7. An annual creative fundraising project. 8. Clean cat condos at Petco. The work we do is solely funded by private donations. And we’re extremely proud to say that 100% of all donations go toward the work we do for the animals at the St. Joseph Animal Control & Rescue Shelter. We consider everything that comes our way in the form of assistance a blessing.

Valentine’s Second Chance Animal Rescue

Raymore Animal Control

The Animal Control Division of the Raymore Police Department consists of two full-time Animal Control Officers (ACO). Duties of the ACOs include: • Pick-up and storage of loose, stray and dangerous animals • Enforcement of Raymore city ordinances regarding animals • Maintenance of animals housed at animal control facilities • Investigation of animal bite calls • Investigation of animal abuse / neglect calls • Adoption procedures of animals without homes • Direct contact with local veterinary offices regarding animal health concerns

Kansas City Doberman Rescue

KC Protective Animal Welfare Society

Columbia Second Chance

At Second Chance, we make families. We're a privately-funded animal rescue organization dedicated to rehoming animals and supporting relationships between people and pets. We do this through acts of rescue, adoption and education. We're always striving to increase the number of animals we help every year, and we wouldn't be where we are today without our amazing staff, donors, volunteers and foster families.

Boonville Animal Shelter

Welcome to Boonville Animal Shelter. We strive to offer healthy adoptable pets for adoption. We think an adoption should be a positive experience for both the new owner and the pet. We are a city run shelter and are licensed with the state of Missouri under the ACFA (Animal Care Facility Act) program. If you met our guidelines for adoption we will do our best to help you to find a great companion pet.

Carthage Humane Society

Carthage Humane Society is a not-for-profit animal shelter, serving our community for over 75 years. The Society's mission — to provide a safe haven for animals entrusted to our care —is a joyful one full of challenges and opportunities. We are a 501(c)(3) corporation, and our EIN is 43-6064526.

Central Missouri Humane Society

Our History • 1943: The Columbia Humane Society is formed as a regional animal welfare organization operating out of a small building on Creasy Springs Road. • 1968: Renamed the Central Missouri Humane Society and recognized as a nonprofit. • 1976: New shelter is built at 616 Big Bear Blvd. • 1988: Building addition to house more kennels. • 2009: Won the Zootoo.com Shelter Makeover Competition. On average, CMHS takes in and cares for over 2,000 animals each year! View our intake data on our shelter stats page. Each year our veterinary team performs thousands of free or low cost spay/neuter surgeries. Spaying or neutering your pet is the best way to reduce the unwanted pet population. We expand our limited shelter capacity through the kindness of over 100 foster homes; approximately 300 volunteers augment our shelter staff. We have a contract with the City of Columbia to house and care for animals picked up by animal control. We are not affiliated with any national humane organization and generate our funding primarily through private donations. It costs over $25,000 per week to run the shelter.

Pulaski County Humane Society D.B.A Loving Paws Adoption Center

Pulaski County Humane Society D.B.A Loving Paws Adoption Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, licensed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture and incorporated in the state of Missouri. Loving Paws Adoption center, built in 2011, is a physical shelter in Crocker, Missouri. We house up to 12 dogs and 15 cats/kittens at a time. Our mission is to help pets in need through sheltering, adoption, fostering, education, spay/neuter, and community outreach. Our shelter is a safe, comfortable, no kill place for these animals to stay until they find their forever home. We do not receive any public or government funding and rely solely on donations from private individuals and area fundraisers as well as utilizing volunteers to support and manage our adoption center.

Dexter Animal Shelter

The animal shelter is a division within the Dexter Police Department

M'Shoogy's Emergency Animal Rescue

With a strict no-kill policy, several hundred dogs, cats and other animals of all ages and sizes call M'Shoogy's home. It costs approximately $50.00 per month per animal, excluding medicine, and approximately $500.00 per day to open the door. In over 19 years, we have saved more than 15,000 animals from certain death. Gary and Lisa Silverglat started M'Shoogy's and have given and lived a 24 hour commitment to the animals. They have had four days away from the Sanctuary in over 20 years. They have never taken a salary for themselves, only given everything they have with no thought of monetary compensation. There are also other individuals, volunteers, and employees who help provide care and love for the animals. Several acres in the back are also dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation. Many animals are given medical attention and food until they are old enough and/or well enough to be reintroduced into the wild. Summer and spring brings around a large amount of raccoons and possums. Fox, owls, deer, squirrels and ducks have all called M'Shoogy's home for a little while. M'Shoogy's also provides educational tours and talks for groups to teach the importance of treating animals with dignity and respect. Permit laws and legislation against animal abuse have also been passed with M'Shoogy's help.