52 dog rescues found
#51 in United States, #1 in Virginia, #1 in Richmond
Lu's Labs is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit, foster-based rescue for labrador retrievers and lab mixes. Our mission is to assist dogs who are in need of shelter, food, and medical care with the ultimate goal of finding them permanent, loving homes. We primarily intake from high-kill shelters throughout the southeast and rehome within 300 miles of Alexandria, Virginia. Since our founding in 2015, Lu's Labs has matched more than 1,600 dogs with their forever families.
"When Lu’s Labs rescues a dog they don’t just remove the dog from ..." more
Richmond, VA
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
#58 in United States, #2 in Virginia, #1 in Langley
To inspire compassion for all, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare and responsible animal guardianship in our community.
"During the summer of 2020 I was living on my own for the first ti..." more
Langley, VA
#72 in United States, #3 in Virginia, #2 in Langley
Vindicate Pit Bull Rescue was founded in 2014 by a group of volunteers with one goal in mind: restore the reputation of the misrepresented and misunderstood "pit bull". VPBR pulls pit bull type dogs from the shelter which are often ill from an unforgiving environment. From freedom ride to adoption, our dogs are in a foster home where they receive full vet care, nutrition, basic training and sometimes even care from a veterinary behaviorist. Our Animal Placement team matches each dog to a home where they will thrive.
"I fostered with Vindicated Pitbull Rescue. After months of foll..." more
Langley, VA
#83 in United States, #4 in Virginia
At GDU, we are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and re-homing of special needs and exceptional animals. We believe that every animal deserves a chance at a happy and fulfilling life, and we work tirelessly to ensure that they get just that. Our rescues come from all over the country, primarily from rural and high-volume shelters. These animals often have special needs or require exceptional care, and they come to us when there is no other hope for them. We arrange their transport and ensure they receive necessary medical care from a licensed veterinarian. Upon arrival, our animals find refuge in caring foster homes as they await their forever families. Our fostering application process mirrors the same meticulous approval standards as our adoption procedure, guaranteeing the best possible homes. This fostering period provides invaluable insights into our animals' personalities, enabling us to make ideal matches with their perfect forever homes. During this time, we seek to enrich their lives through positive enrichment activities and training. This helps our animals learn essential skills and build their confidence, making them more adoptable and increasing their chances of finding their forever homes. Our approach combines scientifically proven positive behavior modification methods and time-tested best practices from our amazing foster families. We pride ourselves on matching animals with families on an individual basis, considering factors like temperament, lifestyle, physical and mental needs, and emotional and social well-being. This personalized approach ensures an unparalleled adoption match success rate.
"Green dogs unleashed does it all. What so special is the saving a..." more
VA
Margaret's SAving Grace Bully Rescue
#86 in United States, #5 in Virginia, #1 in Front Royal
Moving dogs to better places through caring arms & hearts. One rescue at a time. MSGBR was established in 2019 and has since gone on to assist the rescue of over 1700 dogs. 90% of what we rescue is a pitbull mix. 75% of the adults we rescue are heartworm +. MSGBR is passionate about the most medically in need.
"MSGBR is an amazing organization! I am proud to volunteer for the..." more
Front Royal, VA
#87 in United States, #6 in Virginia, #2 in Richmond
The Richmond SPCA, founded in 1891, is central Virginia's oldest full-service humane society. Each year the organization serves more than 18,000 pets across the community in its shelter, veterinary hospital, spay and neuter clinic, training programs and pet retention services. Since becoming no-kill in 2022, the Richmond SPCA has found loving adoptive homes for more than 71,800 dogs and cats.
"The Richmond SPCA is the best shelter to adopt from. I adopted m..." more
Richmond, VA
#94 in United States, #7 in Virginia, #3 in Langley
Friends of Homeless Animals is located on a 40-acre campus in Loudoun County. We work with partner shelters to rescue and save at-risk dogs and cats to include FIV+ cats, senior dogs, and heart worm positive dogs.
"FOHA is a wonderful organization that genuinely cares and advocat..." more
Langley, VA
Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic
#94 in United States, #7 in Virginia
Aussie Rescue of the Mid-Atlantic (ARMA) is a foster-based rescue for Australian Shepherds. Our mission is to provide permanent loving homes for Aussies in need. We work collaboratively with shelters and individuals who are no longer able to care for their Aussies.
"I have volunteered with several herding dog rescue groups over th..." more
VA
Animal Welfare League of Arlington
#96 in United States, #8 in Virginia, #4 in Langley
Here at AWLA, we're all in for animals. For more than 75 years, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) has served the Arlington community with animal sheltering and control services to help pet owners keep their animals healthy, happy, and home.
"Supported first time foster dog momma above and beyond hopes. Fro..." more
Langley, VA
#97 in United States, #9 in Virginia, #1 in Stephens City
Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue (SSR) was founded in January 2017 and is a 501c3 Animal Welfare rescue focused primarily on the rescue of German Shepherd Dogs (GSD) & GSD mixes. Based out of the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, we expand our reach & work to save German Shepherd Dogs in heavily populated, high kill areas in south Texas. SSR pulls the dogs that most other rescues can't or won't take. Most have medical issues, aren't vaccinated, are heartworm positive, pregnant, needing costly surgery, etc. Once they are vetted in Texas and healthy enough for transport, they are brought to Virginia to meet their foster. SSR is not a brick and mortar facility. Rather, we are foster-based, meaning that every dog that comes into our care goes into a home environment, where they can be readied for their forever home. about shenandoah shepherd rescue
"SSR has rescued, rehabilitated and found forever homes for over 3..." more
Stephens City, VA
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia
For the Love of Poodles and Pooches Rescue of Richmond, Virginia was founded in 2013 in memory of Callie and O'Brien, our founder's beloved toy poodles. Our goal is to provide compassionate care for our dogs while they are with us and to find them loving, forever homes. We were founded with the belief that each one of us can make a difference in the world, one rescued dog at a time. Our rescue has grown and now helps small to mid-sized dog of all breeds and mixes. Most of our dogs have had a rough start in life and we do everything we can to make sure they have a wonderful life. We start by making sure all of our rescues have whatever medical attention they need. We make sure every dog is spayed or neutered prior to adoption in order to ensure we are doing our part to reduce unwanted litters.
"We are HUGE fans of flop!! We adopted ( formally named mimosa) - ..." more
VA
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia, #5 in Langley
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue is a volunteer-powered nonprofit dedicated to rescuing homeless, neglected, and abandoned animals from certain euthanasia and finding them loving forever homes. We educate the community and all pet parents on responsible pet parenting, including the importance of spay/neuter, obedience training, and good nutrition.
"Lucky Dog Animal Rescue gave me three four legged best friends an..." more
Langley, VA
Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia, #1 in Newport News
Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter; A New Vision for a Community Dedicated to the Well-being of Animals. Being Virginia's largest open admission shelter, taking in over 7,000 animals a year, we see a lot! Our staff is dedicated to bettering the lives of every animal that passes through our facility; one fur-friend at a time.
"Best shelter ever! The staff truly care for the animals and it sh..." more
Newport News, VA
Richmond Animal Care and Control
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia, #3 in Richmond
Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) was established as the first city pound on June 5, 1902. Since then, it has served as the only open-admission public animal shelter in the City of Richmond. We provide humane care for more than 3,000 stray, sick, injured, and relinquished pets per year. Our focus is on keeping owned animals out of the shelter environment and instead offering pet owners a variety of rehoming options and resources to find placement for their pet(s). With such a great need for immediate intervention with stray, sick, and injured animals in our area, our ability to take in surrendered animals is limited, and we operate on a case-by-case basis when the space and resources are available in this regard. While we seek to help every pet that comes into our care, there are instances where humane euthanasia is the only option. When an animal is considered a danger to the community or is suffering due to a severe medical condition, we believe the most responsible and compassionate option is humane euthanasia. First and foremost, our commitment is to public safety and ending unnecessary suffering. RACC is not considered a "no-kill" animal shelter and does not subscribe to this label. However, we never humanely euthanize animals due to space or length of stay. Our Animal Control unit investigates animal cruelty, enforces humane laws, and issues pet licenses/permits. These services include the enforcement of City ordinances related to animals, removal of killed or injured animals/wildlife, impoundment of stray pets, and investigation of animal-related neglect, cruelty, nuisance, and bite cases. The RACC Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, is committed to championing the success of our agency. The Foundation works hand in hand with RACC, diligently contributing to the expenses of vital emergency care, while simultaneously elevating marketing and outreach initiatives through strategic fundraising and volunteer coordination. United in their passion for saving lives, RACC and The Foundation are thrilled to unveil a tapestry of heartwarming stories, showcasing unwavering compassion for our City's most vulnerable animals.
"We have adopted two of the most wonderful pups. We adopted Bacon ..." more
Richmond, VA
Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) Foundation
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia, #3 in Richmond
The Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, is committed to championing the success of the agency. As the sole open-admission animal shelter in the City, RACC tirelessly tends to the needs of over 3,000 animals annually, requiring urgent care. The Foundation works hand in hand with RACC, diligently contributing to the expenses of vital emergency care, while simultaneously elevating marketing and outreach initiatives through strategic fundraising and volunteer coordination. United in their passion for saving lives, RACC and The Foundation are thrilled to unveil a tapestry of heartwarming stories, showcasing unwavering compassion for our City's most vulnerable animals.
"RACC is doing amazing work in the Richmond community and beyond e..." more
Richmond, VA
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia, #1 in Virginia Beach
We are here to help our communities Dogs in Need!! We are a very unique version of a dog rescue but prefer to be a RESOURCE to the community on multiple levels rather than a regular rescue. We help Families Rehoming Pets, Adopters looking to find a Pet, Owners in need of guidance to keep their current pets, Education to the community to cut down on pets ending up in shelters, and much more.
"Vindicated Pitbull Rescue is the most well run rescue I have ever..." more
Virginia Beach, VA
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia
We are a committed, highly experienced group of herding dog rescuers operating to save herding dogs in Virginia and the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. We have taken in many herding dogs into our foster homes and paired them with wonderful adoptive homes. Our dogs come primarily from shelters, though we do occasionally take in owner surrenders based on evaluation and circumstance. We are foster-based and do not have a main facility, as we believe that all dogs should have a home - even if it's temporary and while they are in search for their forever home.
"My younger Aussie came to us through SOHO ... he's a paragon of b..." more
VA
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia
Since 1916, the Roanoke Valley SPCA has made the welfare of homeless and unwanted animals a priority and in 1958 the RVSPCA became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to be a community resource that provides pet adoption, retention, and education services in Virginia's Blue Ridge. By implementing resources and programs that support our mission, we hope to have a community where animal welfare is valued and demonstrated that leads to positive outcomes for both animals and people.
"The RVSPCA staff work super hard at caring for all of the animals..." more
VA
Loudoun County Animal Services
#99 in United States, #10 in Virginia
At Loudoun County Animal Services (LCAS), we work each day to ensure a compassionate, humane community for animals and people. LCAS operates an animal shelter, which provides for companion animals who have been surrendered by their owners or found stray in the county. The shelter also has pets for adoption. Humane Law Enforcement Officers enforce local and state animal laws and investigate reports of animal cruelty. Additionally, LCAS maintains a lost and found animal directory, issues dog licenses and assists citizens with a variety of animal issues.
"This shelter has been a lifesaver to Loudoun County and surroundi..." more
VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia
We are a nonprofit, 501(c)(3). We are not selective about the breed of dog we help. We consider the lives of all breeds to be equal. The labor force behind our mission is 100% volunteer staffed. We save dogs from shelters as well as from owners who cannot care for their dogs any longer. The dogs we take in are placed in loving foster homes until they find their forever home. We do not have a brick and mortar facility; we are 100% foster-based including loving fospice for terminally ill dogs. We work to support the local community by providing education on care and treatment of dogs, promoting safe handling, the importance of vaccinations, heartworm prevention, advocating and providing financial assistance to those in need for spay and neutering. We arrange for community outreach by building kennels and outdoor shelters to get dogs off chains.
VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #4 in Richmond
Richmond Animal League (RAL) has been committed to saving the lives of animals and finding loving homes for pets for over 45 years. Since 1979, we've worked with area shelters to provide temporary housing, medical treatment, vaccinations, spay/neuter, and loving care to tens of thousands of pets who were then adopted into new homes.
Richmond, VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #6 in Langley
Homeward Trails Animal Rescue is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Founded in 2002, we secure temporary and permanent homes for thousands of dogs and cats annually who are rescued from under-resourced communities and shelters or whose owners can no longer care for them. While most of our animals come from the mid-Atlantic region, we also rescue animals internationally and have partners in numerous countries including Thailand, Kuwait, Peru, Russia, Ukraine and more. We also provide spay/neuter for hundreds of street dogs and cats annually in Puerto Rico through our GuaniCARES program. In 2020, Homeward Trails created our Trails UP program which brings lifesaving resources, training, education, outreach and funding to Virginia's most under-resourced communities. Trails UP provides Trap-Neuter-Return and spay/neuter programs, vaccine clinics and sustainable solutions and programs to address the root causes of animal homelessness.
Langley, VA
Southern Paws Virginia Animal Rescue
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia
Southern Paws VA Animal Rescue was established in 2016 with a focus on accepting owner surrenders. In 2017, we obtained legal non-profit status as a 501(c)3 organization, broadening our mission to caring for a variety of species, including domesticated and non-licensed exotic animals. Our dedicated team of volunteers primarily operates in the Winchester and Louisa VA area, but we have recently extended our reach to assist in neighboring states.
VA
Virginia Beach Animal Care & Adoption Center
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #2 in Virginia Beach
Our mission is accomplished by working with our citizens and other animal welfare organizations; by enforcing the domestic animals laws of our Commonwealth and our City, providing educational programs and humanely providing care, nourishment and a safe environment for the unwanted, stray, abused and abandoned animals in our City. We will educate the public about responsible companion animal ownership, aggressively investigate animal cruelty cases, find homes for the homeless animals and humanely euthanize the unwanted animals in our community.
Virginia Beach, VA
Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation (LDCRF)
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #6 in Langley
The Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation (LDCRF) was incorporated as a 501c3 not-for-profit organization in 2001 when restaurant owners, Pam McAlwee and Ross Underwood,of Arlington, VA decided to formalize their efforts to save homeless pets in their community. They purchased 63 acres of land in Sumerduck VA and began building The Lost Dog Ranch, a kennel facility for homeless pets with plenty of outdoor space for dogs to run and a cage-free building for cats. In 2018 LDCRF embarked on a new chapter of its mission and purchased a facility in the heart of Falls Church, Virginia. The facility today is now know as the Lost Dog & Cat 'Rescue Care Center' Since 2001, LDCRF has saved the lives of more than 45,000 homeless pets, most of whom were facing the threat of euthanasia at over-crowded municipal shelters. Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation is overwhelmingly a volunteer-run organization with a small paid staff providing direct care to animals at the Lost Dog & Cat 'Rescue Care Center'. Many other animals are cared for in our network of volunteer foster homes and some cats are housed at Petsmart Cat Adoption Centers. Every weekend, LDCRF holds off-site adoption events at local PetSmart and PetCo stores and places more than 2,000 dogs and cats per year for adoption. In addition to weekly adoption events, LDCRF is very active within the local community and partners with local businesses and community members to hold 'Special Adoption' events through the year.
Langley, VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #1 in Henrico
Ring Dog Rescue is a rescue group dedicated to 'Pit Bull type dogs', which are defined as any dog having bulldog lineage. We are a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization and are currently listing adoptable pit bulls from, not only Ring Dog Rescue, but our other rescue friends and those who have opened their door to an orphaned pit bull in private rescue. We at Ring Dog Rescue all own a pit bull type dog and would like to answer all your questions and help guide you to a happy life for you and your companion, as well as to aid you in finding the perfect one for you.
Henrico, VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia
Shadows sanctuary is a 501(c)3 nonprofit Rescue, Foster and Sanctuary. We specialize in severely abused, neglected, and special needs dogs. The primary purpose and goal is to provide lifetime care and sheltering to dogs who, are unable to find homes due to age, chronic illnesses, and behavioral issues as a result of extreme abuse. We also rescue otherwise healthy dogs that find themselves in dire circumstances: such as scheduled for Euthanasia in high kill shelters. We rescue from all States in the USA and Internationally.
VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia
When our six founders met a few years ago, they discovered they shared a passion for rescuing animals. Then they were fosters, case managers, event coordinators, matchmakers, shelter volunteers, and foster and intake coordinators. They became fast friends and started us on our passion project. We are the Squishy Face Crew! The SFC is organized around connecting foster families and adopters in the Fredericksburg area and beyond with dogs and cats who have found themselves in a shelter. Virginia is a regional leader in the no-kill movement, with a live release rate of 78%, but we have a long way to go to reach the state goal of 'No-Kill 2020' and the national goal of 'No-Kill 2025.' We hope to play a role in helping the state achieve a 90% live release rate by transferring in animals from under served county shelters and other rescues that work directly with these shelters and finding them homes in our area. We are a foster-based rescue, which means that we do not maintain a physical shelter and all animals in our care remain in foster homes until they are adopted. The SFC is committed to open, low-barrier adoptions, which means that in most cases, our pets can be adopted directly from the foster parent or at an adoption event after a meet-and-greet to ensure they are a good fit for your family. We believe that removing barriers to adoption is truly lifesaving and enables us to help more animals that have found themselves without a home. We are a 501c3 organization as of July 2019.
VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia, #1 in Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, VA
#100 in United States, #11 in Virginia
Operation Paws for Homes is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization devoted to the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of dogs and cats who have overcome great odds and deserve wonderful, caring forever homes. These dogs and cats are rescued from overcrowded shelters in the southern region of the United States, including South Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and Virginia. We partner with local shelters as needed. We also rescue a few international dogs by partnering with shelters and rescues in India and Kosovo who rescue dogs from dangerous and deplorable conditions . Our organization is volunteer-powered by a dedicated group of animal lovers who have seen the horrors and sad fate of animals who find themselves abandoned and left to fend for themselves in the world. At the rural shelters, the staff faces everyday challenges of few adopters, underdeveloped spay/neuter programs in their counties, and (in many instances) local residents who do not understand the need to spay/neuter or engage in rescue activities. With limited resources and few adoptions locally, the shelters are forced to put down a significant percentage of their animals.
VA
To inspire compassion for all, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare and responsible animal guardianship in our community.
Vindicate Pit Bull Rescue was founded in 2014 by a group of volunteers with one goal in mind: restore the reputation of the misrepresented and misunderstood "pit bull". VPBR pulls pit bull type dogs from the shelter which are often ill from an unforgiving environment. From freedom ride to adoption, our dogs are in a foster home where they receive full vet care, nutrition, basic training and sometimes even care from a veterinary behaviorist. Our Animal Placement team matches each dog to a home where they will thrive.
Friends of Homeless Animals is located on a 40-acre campus in Loudoun County. We work with partner shelters to rescue and save at-risk dogs and cats to include FIV+ cats, senior dogs, and heart worm positive dogs.
Here at AWLA, we're all in for animals. For more than 75 years, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) has served the Arlington community with animal sheltering and control services to help pet owners keep their animals healthy, happy, and home.
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue is a volunteer-powered nonprofit dedicated to rescuing homeless, neglected, and abandoned animals from certain euthanasia and finding them loving forever homes. We educate the community and all pet parents on responsible pet parenting, including the importance of spay/neuter, obedience training, and good nutrition.
Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter; A New Vision for a Community Dedicated to the Well-being of Animals. Being Virginia's largest open admission shelter, taking in over 7,000 animals a year, we see a lot! Our staff is dedicated to bettering the lives of every animal that passes through our facility; one fur-friend at a time.
Norfolk Animal Care Center (NACC) is the city's animal sheltering facility. Our shelter is open-admission, providing a safe haven for animals from the City of Norfolk. On average, the Norfolk Animal Care and Adoption Center cares for 400 to 600 animals each month, and over 5,000 animals each year.
Founded in 1972, Chesapeake Humane Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is funded by private donors ‚ we do not receive government subsidies. The Society supports the homeless and underserved animals of Chesapeake in the following ways: Providing low-cost veterinary services including spay/neuter, dental cleanings, soft tissue surgeries, and vaccination services Offering financial assistance to shelter animals and pets at risk of surrender in immediate medical need Serving on the Chesapeake Animal Services Advisory Board Lending countless volunteer hours to enhance the lives of shelter pets Operating an adoption program for dogs, cats, and small animals
The Chesapeake Animal Services Unit (CASU), located at 2100 S Military Highway, operates under the umbrella of the Police Department. Animal Control Officers are on duty from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week. They respond to complaints such as cruelty, animal bites, stray domestic animals, at large complaints, nuisance, vicious, injured, and/or sick animals. From 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. an officer is on call for emergencies. CASU does not pick up deceased animals. Owners may pay a fee for the disposal of their deceased pets' remains at the facility.
Lu's Labs is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit, foster-based rescue for labrador retrievers and lab mixes. Our mission is to assist dogs who are in need of shelter, food, and medical care with the ultimate goal of finding them permanent, loving homes. We primarily intake from high-kill shelters throughout the southeast and rehome within 300 miles of Alexandria, Virginia. Since our founding in 2015, Lu's Labs has matched more than 1,600 dogs with their forever families.
The Richmond SPCA, founded in 1891, is central Virginia's oldest full-service humane society. Each year the organization serves more than 18,000 pets across the community in its shelter, veterinary hospital, spay and neuter clinic, training programs and pet retention services. Since becoming no-kill in 2022, the Richmond SPCA has found loving adoptive homes for more than 71,800 dogs and cats.
Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) was established as the first city pound on June 5, 1902. Since then, it has served as the only open-admission public animal shelter in the City of Richmond. We provide humane care for more than 3,000 stray, sick, injured, and relinquished pets per year. Our focus is on keeping owned animals out of the shelter environment and instead offering pet owners a variety of rehoming options and resources to find placement for their pet(s). With such a great need for immediate intervention with stray, sick, and injured animals in our area, our ability to take in surrendered animals is limited, and we operate on a case-by-case basis when the space and resources are available in this regard. While we seek to help every pet that comes into our care, there are instances where humane euthanasia is the only option. When an animal is considered a danger to the community or is suffering due to a severe medical condition, we believe the most responsible and compassionate option is humane euthanasia. First and foremost, our commitment is to public safety and ending unnecessary suffering. RACC is not considered a "no-kill" animal shelter and does not subscribe to this label. However, we never humanely euthanize animals due to space or length of stay. Our Animal Control unit investigates animal cruelty, enforces humane laws, and issues pet licenses/permits. These services include the enforcement of City ordinances related to animals, removal of killed or injured animals/wildlife, impoundment of stray pets, and investigation of animal-related neglect, cruelty, nuisance, and bite cases. The RACC Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, is committed to championing the success of our agency. The Foundation works hand in hand with RACC, diligently contributing to the expenses of vital emergency care, while simultaneously elevating marketing and outreach initiatives through strategic fundraising and volunteer coordination. United in their passion for saving lives, RACC and The Foundation are thrilled to unveil a tapestry of heartwarming stories, showcasing unwavering compassion for our City's most vulnerable animals.
The Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit, is committed to championing the success of the agency. As the sole open-admission animal shelter in the City, RACC tirelessly tends to the needs of over 3,000 animals annually, requiring urgent care. The Foundation works hand in hand with RACC, diligently contributing to the expenses of vital emergency care, while simultaneously elevating marketing and outreach initiatives through strategic fundraising and volunteer coordination. United in their passion for saving lives, RACC and The Foundation are thrilled to unveil a tapestry of heartwarming stories, showcasing unwavering compassion for our City's most vulnerable animals.
Richmond Animal League (RAL) has been committed to saving the lives of animals and finding loving homes for pets for over 45 years. Since 1979, we've worked with area shelters to provide temporary housing, medical treatment, vaccinations, spay/neuter, and loving care to tens of thousands of pets who were then adopted into new homes.
We are here to help our communities Dogs in Need!! We are a very unique version of a dog rescue but prefer to be a RESOURCE to the community on multiple levels rather than a regular rescue. We help Families Rehoming Pets, Adopters looking to find a Pet, Owners in need of guidance to keep their current pets, Education to the community to cut down on pets ending up in shelters, and much more.
Our mission is accomplished by working with our citizens and other animal welfare organizations; by enforcing the domestic animals laws of our Commonwealth and our City, providing educational programs and humanely providing care, nourishment and a safe environment for the unwanted, stray, abused and abandoned animals in our City. We will educate the public about responsible companion animal ownership, aggressively investigate animal cruelty cases, find homes for the homeless animals and humanely euthanize the unwanted animals in our community.
Welcome to the 2025 Virginia Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Virginia 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 Virginia dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Virginia. 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.
We adopt within 300 miles of Alexandria, VA
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.
Your dog's nose is an amazing tool. Did you know they have 40 times the olfactory receptors than humans? Scent training for dogs taps into this superpower, turning everyday moments into exciting sniff-fests. It's enriching for all types of dogs – reactive, shy, or simply adventurous. Ready to explore the world of scent work for dogs? Let's get started.
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 those dreaded middle-of-the-night potty breaks were over. You were finally free from cleaning up puppy puddles. Then, suddenly, your furry friend starts having accidents again. It's frustrating, right? This puppy potty training regression is more common than you think. Don't worry; we'll help you get your pup back on track. We'll cover the common causes, offer practical solutions, and give you actionable steps to tackle this challenge together.
It's a cringe-worthy moment every dog owner dreads: your furry friend chowing down on something truly disgusting. If your dog has a penchant for poop, you're dealing with coprophagia. It's more common than you think, and thankfully, often manageable. This article explores the reasons behind dirty dog syndrome, from instinct to learned behavior. We'll also give you practical tips to help break this unpleasant habit.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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.
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.
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.
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!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ever feel like your dog is restless or bored? They may be getting enough exercise, but still need more. That's where enrichment activities for dogs come in. Giving your dog opportunities to sniff, explore, and problem-solve can make a world of difference. Whether you have a puppy, adult, or senior dog, enriching their environment is key for their well-being. Let's explore how to add cognitive enrichment for dogs, even tailoring activities to your dog's breed with breed specific enrichment and fun enrichment games for dogs.
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.
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.
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.
Is your dog overly excited or fearful around other dogs? Do they bark, lunge, or whine? You might have a reactive dog. Many dog owners face this challenge. Understanding what a reactive dog is is the first step to helping them. This guide explores the common causes of dog reactivity, explains what makes a dog reactive, and offers practical tips and resources. Let's work together to build a stronger bond with your dog and enjoy stress-free walks.
Does your dog's reactivity make walks stressful? You're not alone. Many dog owners face similar challenges. This guide offers practical advice and support for managing reactivity, including finding the best online dog training for reactive dogs. We'll connect you with reactive dog support groups, share training tips, and explore resources like the best dog training app for reactive dogs. Let's build a stronger bond with your dog, together.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
* 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.
This is the story of a family and dog rescuing each other.
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.
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
Looking for the perfect dog park? Whether you need a wide-open public space or a private, fenced-in spot, this guide will help you find the best dog parks across the US. We'll cover top-rated public parks, the perks of private dog parks, and even explore Sniffspot locations – giving your pup a safe and fun place to play. Ready to find your dog's new favorite spot? Let's go!
Ready to discover Portland's best dog parks? Whether you're looking for a public park or the unique experience of a private Sniffspot, this guide has you covered. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your pup, with tips on what to bring, how to prepare, and even understanding dog body language. Plus, we'll explore some top Portland dog parks, including public and Sniffspot options, so you can plan your next dog-friendly adventure in the City of Roses.
Finding the perfect dog park for your small breed can be tricky. Big dog parks can be overwhelming, even dangerous, for little pups. This guide helps you find the best small dog park for your little companion. We'll cover essential safety checklists and share recommendations for small dog parks across the US, including public and private options. We'll also discuss why a dedicated small dog park makes all the difference.
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.
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 Retrievers: they're gorgeous, playful, and incredibly popular. But before you welcome one into your home, you need the right golden retriever advice. This guide draws on the wisdom of nearly 10,000 Golden Retriever owners, offering practical tips for caring for these affectionate dogs. From understanding their high energy levels to mastering grooming and training, we'll cover everything you need to know. So whether you're already a devoted Golden parent or just starting your research, get ready to learn how to give your furry friend the best possible care.
Think American Staffordshire Terriers are tough? Think again. While their muscular build might intimidate some, these dogs are known for their playful and loyal personalities. This guide draws on the experience of nearly 10,000 AmStaff owners to reveal the truth about this often misunderstood breed. Want to learn more about caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier? You're in the right place.
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.
Discover the Siberian Husky, a breed celebrated for its curious, intelligent, and loyal nature. Considered a medium-sized dog, Siberian Huskies were originally bred in Russia for sledding, beginning in the early 20th Century. Today, they're one of the most popular active breeds in North America.