Today, I’m going to show you the top 20 places to find rescue dogs in US & UK.
In this article I’ll also cover:
Why rescue dogs are so special.
Why rescue dogs can be aggressive.
How to calm a rescue dog.
and
How to get a scared rescue dog to trust you.
Let’s get started.
- What Is the Meaning of Rescue Dog?
- What Is the Function of Rescue Dogs?
- Places to Find Rescue Dogs in the US
- Places to Find Rescue Dogs in the UK
- Are Rescue Dogs Loyal?
- Why Are Rescue Dogs so Special?
- Can Rescue Dogs Be Aggressive?
- How Do You Calm a Rescue Dog?
- How Do You Get a Scared Rescue Dog to Trust You?
- What Are Search and Rescue Dogs?
- What Do Search and Rescue Dogs Do?
What Is the Meaning of Rescue Dog?
Rescue dogs are animals that have been saved from difficult or dangerous situations, such as abuse, abandonment, or a natural disaster. They may have been given up by their owners due to financial or other reasons, or they may be strays.
Rescue dogs are often adopted from shelters or rescue groups who specialize in saving and rehoming animals in need.
The people who work with rescue dogs often foster them for a period of time, during which the animal is assessed for any behavioral issues and given necessary medical care.
Once deemed healthy and safe for adoption, these dogs are then placed in a new home. Rescue dogs are typically very grateful to have been given a second chance and make wonderful companions.
What Is the Function of Rescue Dogs?
Rescue dogs provide invaluable services to their human companions. They serve as loyal and loving companions, offering unconditional love and comfort in times of distress.
Rescue dogs can also be trained for a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, therapy work, and even guide dog assistance.
They are incredibly versatile animals, capable of learning a wide range of behaviors and providing invaluable help to those in need.
Additionally, they can be great family pets, providing hours of fun and companionship. Rescue dogs are a true blessing to the people they help and to the communities they serve.
10 Places to Find Rescue Dogs in the US
Rescue dogs are amazing animals who deserve loving homes and owners. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or just want to give a pup a second chance, adopting a rescue dog is a great way to make a difference.
If you’re in the United States, there are plenty of places to find the perfect rescue dog for you.
In this article, we’ll be looking at the top 10 places to find rescue dogs in the United States.
1. Alabaster Animal Clinic
Located in Alabaster, Alabama, the Alabaster Animal Clinic is a great place to find rescue dogs. They have a wide selection of rescue dogs from all over the state, from small breeds to large breeds, and from puppies to older dogs.
All of their rescue dogs are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and given any necessary medical care prior to adoption.
The staff at Alabaster Animal Clinic is also very knowledgeable and friendly, and they can help you select the perfect dog for your family.
They will make sure you understand all of the responsibilities involved in caring for a rescue dog, so that your new pet has the best chance for success in its forever home.
2. Anchorage Humane Society
Located in Anchorage, the Anchorage Humane Society is a great place to find rescue dogs. With over 80 years of experience providing care for animals, this non-profit organization has established itself as an excellent source for finding loving, forever homes for rescue dogs.
The Anchorage Humane Society provides a safe and nurturing environment for the animals in their care, as well as a wide variety of services to ensure that all rescue dogs are given the best chance at a happy and healthy life.
The team of dedicated volunteers works hard to match each rescue dog with the right family and the right home, so that each animal can find a place to call its own.
From comprehensive medical care to behavioral assessments and training, the Anchorage Humane Society does it all to make sure that each rescue dog finds its perfect home.
3. Arizona Humane Society
The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) is a great place to look for rescue dogs. AHS is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need.
The shelter offers a variety of adoption services, such as low-cost spay/neuter services and pet wellness clinics.
AHS also has an extensive network of volunteer foster homes where rescue dogs can live until they find their forever homes. The organization hosts regular adoption events and offers resources for potential pet owners.
With an array of services and a commitment to helping animals, the Arizona Humane Society is a wonderful resource for those looking to adopt a rescue dog.
4. Animal League of Washington County
The Animal League of Washington County is a great place to find rescue dogs in Arkansas. This organization provides shelter, care and adoption services for animals in need.
They have a wide variety of rescue dogs, from puppies to seniors. All of their rescue dogs are up-to-date on shots and neutered/spayed.
The Animal League of Washington County also offers foster care, volunteer opportunities and educational programs that can help potential pet owners learn about the benefits of adopting a rescue dog.
With a variety of activities and training classes, the Animal League of Washington County is an excellent place to find a forever home for a rescue dog in Arkansas.
5. San Diego Humane Society
The San Diego Humane Society is a great place to look for rescue dogs in California. They have a variety of breeds, sizes and ages of rescue dogs available for adoption.
The Society works hard to ensure that all their animals find the best home possible and that their adopters have the knowledge and resources to care for the rescue dog for the rest of its life.
At the San Diego Humane Society, potential adopters can meet with potential rescue dogs before committing to adoption.
With a commitment to helping animals, the San Diego Humane Society is an excellent place to find your new rescue dog.
6. Dumb Friends League
The Dumb Friends League is one of the most popular places in Colorado to find rescue dogs.
Located in Denver, this non-profit organization provides animal welfare services and works to improve the quality of life for homeless, abused and neglected animals throughout Colorado.
The League operates a number of shelters that serve over 30,000 animals each year, including rescue dogs.
Dogs in the care of the League are often adopted from their facilities or placed into foster homes while they wait for their forever homes.
In addition to providing rescue dogs, the League also offers pet adoption, pet training classes, and pet owner education programs.
For those looking for a new pet, the Dumb Friends League is an excellent option for finding the perfect rescue dog.
7. CT Humane Society
The Connecticut Humane Society (CTHS) is one of the top places to find rescue dogs in the United States. CTHS has been around since 1881 and has saved thousands of animals over the years.
The organization works with local animal shelters and rescues to help place adoptable pets in permanent, loving homes.
CTHS offers a wide variety of services and resources, such as education programs and veterinary clinics, that can help potential adopters find the perfect rescue dog for their family.
They also have a network of foster homes where dogs can stay until they are adopted, as well as an online adoption center that features available rescue dogs.
If you’re looking for a furry friend in Connecticut, be sure to check out the CT Humane Society!
8. Delaware Humane Association
For those looking for rescue dogs in Delaware, the Delaware Humane Association (DHA) is a great place to start. Located in Wilmington, the DHA is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping animals in need.
The organization offers a variety of programs including adoptions, foster care, low-cost spay/neuter services, and more. They also work closely with local shelters to ensure that all rescued dogs find loving homes.
At the DHA, all of the rescue dogs available for adoption have been examined by a veterinarian and given vaccinations.
Adopters also get access to resources such as pet training and behavior help, medical assistance, and much more.
The DHA also works closely with local schools, offering classes and workshops on animal care and humane education.
This helps spread awareness about the importance of rescuing pets, and encourages students to become responsible pet owners.
If you’re looking for a furry friend in Delaware, consider adopting from the Delaware Humane Association.
With their commitment to providing animals with loving homes, you’re sure to find a rescue dog that fits perfectly into your family.
9. Humane Society of Greater Miami
If you’re looking for rescue dogs in the Sunshine State, then the Humane Society of Greater Miami is the place to go.
As one of the largest animal welfare organizations in South Florida, they provide care and adoption services for thousands of homeless animals each year.
From cats and rabbits to dogs, they offer a variety of adoptable animals that are in need of a loving home. Their shelter is home to a variety of rescue dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds.
Each pup is carefully evaluated and given the love and care it needs before being made available for adoption. They even have certified trainers on staff to help prepare these rescue dogs for a new life with their forever family.
Whether you’re looking for a small pup or a larger breed, the Humane Society of Greater Miami has a variety of rescue dogs ready for adoption.
10. Atlanta Humane Society
For those looking to adopt a rescue dog in the state of Georgia, the Atlanta Humane Society is a great option.
The society’s mission is to “bring people and animals together to enrich each other’s lives,” and they are committed to providing the highest quality of care for their rescue dogs.
The Atlanta Humane Society offers an array of services and resources for pet owners and potential adopters alike.
The Atlanta Humane Society also provides veterinary care for rescue dogs, along with training and behavioral counseling.
They understand that not all rescue dogs come from ideal situations, so they are committed to providing compassionate and patient care for each individual animal.
In addition, the Atlanta Humane Society also offers an array of activities and events for animal lovers. From fundraisers to pet adoption fairs, these events provide opportunities for people to connect with rescue dogs in a fun, family-friendly environment.
Adopting a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. With the help of the Atlanta Humane Society, you can make a difference in the life of a rescued pup while finding your perfect four-legged friend.
10 Places to Find Rescue Dogs in the UK
Adopting a rescue dog can be a wonderful experience and a great way to make a difference in the lives of these animals.
There are many different organizations and rescue centers that provide loving homes to rescue dogs throughout the UK.
To help you find the perfect rescue dog for your family, here is a list of the top 10 places to find rescue dogs in the UK.
11. Dogs Trust
The Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and works to rescue, reunite and rehome thousands of dogs each year.
Established in 1891, the Dogs Trust has 19 rehoming centres across the UK and provides shelter and care to abandoned and neglected rescue dogs in need.
Every year, the organization saves around 15,000 dogs from abandonment and neglect, providing them with necessary veterinary care, behavioural training and lots of love.
All Dogs Trust rescue dogs receive their very own personalized support plan that’s tailored to their individual needs so they can find the right home.
The Dogs Trust also offers adoption events, educational programmes, an advice line and lots of other helpful resources. It’s a great place to find a loving rescue dog who will bring you joy and companionship.
12. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
If you’re looking to adopt a rescue dog in the UK, then Battersea Dogs & Cats Home should be high on your list of places to check out.
This shelter has been rescuing, reuniting and rehoming dogs for over 150 years, and is one of the most well-known and respected animal charities in the country.
At Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, all of the dogs that come through their doors are given medical and behavioural assessments before being made available for adoption.
This ensures that any rescue dog adopted from them will have been given all of the care and attention they need before joining a new family.
As part of the adoption process, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home also offers advice and guidance on how to look after and train your new pup.
In addition to offering rescue dogs for adoption, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home also offers a wide range of other services, including puppy fostering, canine behaviour courses, and pet bereavement support.
If you’re looking to adopt a rescue dog in the UK, then it’s definitely worth checking out Battersea Dogs & Cats Home first!
13. Blue Cross
Blue Cross is a nationwide charity providing help for sick, injured, and homeless pets in the UK.
They have a network of volunteer-run rehoming centres across the country, so if you’re looking to adopt a rescue dog, this could be the perfect place for you.
Blue Cross offers a wide variety of services for rescue dogs, including neutering, vaccination, microchipping, grooming, and even training.
With their help and advice, you can ensure that your new pet will have the best start in life. Plus, many of the dogs are already house-trained and socialized, so they’re ready to go straight into a loving home.
If you’re interested in adopting a rescue dog from Blue Cross, you can search their online database or contact your local centre.
14. RSPCA
The RSPCA is a leading animal welfare charity in the United Kingdom, dedicated to rescuing and rehoming rescue dogs. Their mission is to end animal suffering through education, investigation, and providing sanctuary for rescued animals.
Their centres provide a safe and secure place for these animals until they can find their forever homes.
RSPCA have an extensive network of animal rescue and rehoming centres across England and Wales, meaning it’s easy to find a rescue dog near you.
The RSPCA provides advice on how to care for rescue dogs, as well as resources such as microchipping, flea treatments and pet insurance.
They also offer behavioral training classes and behavior modification seminars to help ensure that all rescued dogs are ready for their new homes.
15. Wood Green, The Animals Charity
Wood Green, The Animals Charity is a UK based organization that has been rescuing and rehoming animals since 1924. They provide shelter, care and rehabilitation for thousands of rescued dogs in their five centres across the country.
Wood Green strives to find the best home for all of their rescue dogs, ensuring they will live happy and healthy lives.
They work closely with local authorities and other animal welfare organizations to ensure they are doing the best job possible in helping these pups find loving homes.
Wood Green’s website provides information about the many different breeds of rescue dogs they have available for adoption, as well as general information about their adoption process.
In addition, they also offer a range of services such as pet health advice, behaviour support and neutering to ensure all their rescued dogs have the best chance of success in their new homes.
16. Cinque Ports Rescue
Located in Kent, Cinque Ports Rescue is an animal charity that provides rescue and rehoming for both cats and dogs.
Their mission is to take in and rehome as many abandoned, neglected and homeless animals as possible. As such, they are a great source of rescue dogs in the UK.
Cinque Ports Rescue works with many different groups and organizations to ensure that all the animals they have available for adoption are properly cared for and given the best chance of finding their forever homes.
If you’re looking for rescue dogs in the UK, then look no further than Cinque Ports Rescue.
With their dedication to providing only the highest quality care for their animals and their commitment to helping animals find their forever homes, you can be sure that your rescue pup will be in good hands.
17. Manchester Dog’s Home
Manchester Dog’s Home is a non-profit organization that specializes in providing rescue dogs to those in need. They offer a wide range of services, from adoption and rehoming, to training and advice for owners.
Manchester Dog’s Home has been helping people for over 150 years and their mission is to provide a safe haven for abandoned and neglected animals.
They are dedicated to finding homes for their rescue dogs and ensuring that each animal receives the best possible care.
Manchester Dog’s Home works closely with local authorities and animal welfare organizations to help find suitable homes for the rescued dogs in their care.
All potential adopters are thoroughly assessed to ensure the perfect match between adopter and dog.
At Manchester Dog’s Home, they believe that all animals deserve a second chance and strive to give each and every one of their rescue dogs a loving home.
With a wide variety of breeds, sizes and temperaments available, there is sure to be the perfect rescue dog to suit your family’s needs.
If you’re looking for a new companion, be sure to check out Manchester Dog’s Home for their selection of loving rescue dogs.
18. Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter
Located in Gosforth, Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter is one of the best places to find rescue dogs in the UK. Established in 1892, this animal shelter has a long history of rescuing and rehoming animals.
Their mission is to provide care, shelter and kindness for any animal in need. The staff at the shelter do an amazing job of providing love and attention to all the rescue dogs who come through their doors.
The shelter offers a variety of services, including temporary care for homeless pets, adoption programs, and training and behavior counseling.
In addition to helping find homes for their rescue dogs, they also promote responsible pet ownership by running educational seminars and workshops.
At Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter, all prospective owners must pass a stringent adoption process before being allowed to take home one of the rescue dogs.
So if you’re looking for a furry companion who needs a second chance at life, Newcastle Dog and Cat Shelter is definitely worth checking out!
19. Belfast SPCA
The Belfast SPCA is a great resource for rescue dogs in the UK. They have been providing help and assistance to animals since 1845 and have rehomed many rescue dogs over the years. They have a wide range of animals in their care, ranging from puppies to senior dogs.
All of the rescue dogs that come into their care are given medical attention, spayed or neutered, microchipped, and assessed for temperament and behavior. The SPCA staff also work hard to ensure that each dog is well matched with the right family.
The Belfast SPCA is committed to finding loving, responsible homes for all of their rescue dogs and helping to reduce animal cruelty and neglect.
20. Glasgow Dog’s Home
Located in the heart of Glasgow, Glasgow Dog’s Home is a charity organization that focuses on finding rescue dogs loving homes. They work to ensure every dog in their care is safe, happy and healthy before looking for their forever home.
The team at Glasgow Dog’s Home is dedicated to the welfare of their rescue dogs and take great pride in matching the right dog with the right person.
They provide ongoing support to ensure that the transition for the dog and the adopter is as smooth as possible.
Their team of experienced professionals are on hand to give advice to any potential adopters who may have questions or need help understanding the needs of their rescue dog.
They will always put the welfare of their rescue dogs first and do everything they can to make sure they find their perfect forever home.
Are Rescue Dogs Loyal?
Rescue dogs are known for their unconditional love and loyalty. For many people, there is nothing more special than the bond between a pet owner and a rescued animal.
Rescue dogs come from all walks of life and can be of any breed or age, but the one thing that remains constant is the fact that they are incredibly loyal to their owners.
When it comes to loyalty, rescue dogs tend to show an extra level of devotion compared to other pets. This is because they often come from unfortunate backgrounds and have endured abuse or neglect.
As such, they recognize the kindness and patience given to them by their new owners and strive to return it tenfold.
Moreover, rescue dogs tend to be incredibly protective of their owners. This is another sign of loyalty as they will stand by your side and guard you from harm or danger.
They may also become overly protective of the home or family members, making them wonderful companions and watchdogs.
In conclusion, rescue dogs are highly loyal to their owners. They appreciate the kindness and compassion given to them and will strive to repay it with unconditional love and devotion.
Why Are Rescue Dogs so Special?
Rescue dogs are special because they have been given a second chance at life. These animals have been through some sort of traumatic experience, whether it was abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Despite all of this, rescue dogs are resilient and have a lot of love to offer.
They may take time to adjust to their new environment, but with patience and understanding, they can form strong bonds with their adopters.
Rescue dogs often come from difficult backgrounds that can make them more sensitive and cautious than other dogs.
They may require extra time and patience to trust humans again, and for some, that process can take years. As such, rescue dogs have a unique appreciation for life and the people who bring them into their homes.
Rescue dogs are also special because they bring joy to their adoptive families. By providing unconditional love and companionship, they become an integral part of the family dynamic.
They also provide entertainment and enrichment by engaging in activities such as playing fetch, going on walks, or just cuddling up on the couch.
In addition, rescue dogs can teach us valuable lessons about compassion and resilience. It’s important to recognize the struggles they have gone through, and the strength they demonstrate to overcome them.
Rescue dogs show us that no matter how tough life may seem, there is always hope for something better.
Ultimately, rescue dogs are special because of their capacity for love and forgiveness. Despite all the hardships they have endured, they never forget the kindness shown to them by humans.
They are proof that second chances exist and that hope can always be found in unexpected places.
Can Rescue Dogs Be Aggressive?
It is a common misconception that all rescue dogs are aggressive, when in reality many have been rescued from difficult circumstances or have suffered from neglect.
Unfortunately, this means that some rescue dogs may display signs of aggression, but it is not true of all rescue dogs.
It is important to remember that aggression can be caused by a variety of factors, such as fear or anxiety.
If a rescue dog has been subjected to traumatic experiences prior to being rescued, it is possible that the dog may display aggressive behaviour as a result.
It is important to understand the underlying causes of aggression, so that it can be addressed properly.
In general, rescue dogs can be just as loving and loyal as any other pet. They may just require more patience and understanding while they adjust to their new environment and establish trust with their new family.
The best way to ensure that a rescue dog does not develop aggressive behaviour is to provide them with the proper care and training they need. This includes regular exercise, quality food, and plenty of love and attention.
Additionally, making sure that the rescue dog receives regular vet visits can help to identify any underlying health problems which may contribute to aggressive behaviour.
With the right care and guidance, rescue dogs can become wonderful companions who provide years of love and companionship.
While some rescue dogs may display signs of aggression, this should not be a reason to avoid rescuing a dog in need.
How Do You Calm a Rescue Dog?
Calming a rescue dog can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take your time and be patient.
The best approach is to start by building trust with the animal. Speak to the dog in a soothing voice and offer treats. Reward them with treats when they behave in a calm manner.
If the dog is feeling particularly anxious or scared, it may help to put them in a quiet room with no distractions.
It’s also important to recognize that rescue dogs may have experienced trauma in their past and could be more reactive than other dogs.
When calming a rescue dog, you should avoid sudden movements and loud noises as these could trigger a defensive response.
Offer the dog plenty of praise when they are behaving calmly, and provide reassurance if they appear scared or distressed.
Make sure to give the dog space when they need it and never force them into interactions that make them uncomfortable.
With patience and consistency, you can help your rescue dog feel more relaxed and secure in their environment.
How Do You Get a Scared Rescue Dog to Trust You?
Adopting a rescue dog can be a wonderful experience, but it may take some time to build a trusting relationship with your pet.
If you have adopted a rescue dog that is particularly scared, there are some steps you can take to build trust.
Firstly, it is important to remember that your rescue dog is likely to be scared of the unknown, so give them lots of time and space to adjust to their new environment. Showing patience, understanding and empathy are key in this process.
It is also important to create a positive environment for your rescue dog. Provide them with plenty of mental stimulation through interactive toys and activities like hide-and-seek. This will help them develop an enjoyable sense of security and keep them occupied.
Additionally, it is important to offer positive reinforcement whenever your rescue dog does something good. This could be as simple as giving them treats or offering verbal praise.
Finally, try to introduce your rescue dog to other people or animals slowly, as sudden changes can be overwhelming.
When taking your pet out in public, ensure they wear a tag or collar with their name and your contact information so they can easily be returned if lost.
What Are Search and Rescue Dogs?
Search and rescue dogs, also known as SAR dogs, are highly trained canines that are used to locate missing persons or objects.
These dogs are typically rescue dogs, meaning they have been adopted from a shelter or breeders, and then trained to be search and rescue animals.
SAR dogs are trained to sniff out human scents over large distances and often times across terrain that may be difficult for humans to traverse.
Search and rescue dogs are invaluable resources for disaster relief and locating people who are lost in wilderness areas.
SAR dogs can even be used to detect objects such as drugs, explosives, and even cadavers. They are incredibly intelligent and motivated animals, capable of remarkable feats in the service of their handlers.
What Do Search and Rescue Dogs Do?
Search and rescue dogs are highly trained dogs used to locate people in a variety of difficult or dangerous scenarios.
They are typically deployed in natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and avalanches, as well as in more localized searches, like finding lost hikers or children.
These dogs are specially trained to locate people by smell, even if they’re buried deep under rubble or debris.
In addition to their incredibly sensitive noses, they also have a strong desire to please their handlers and this motivates them to search tirelessly until the missing person is found.
The team of handler and rescue dog can cover vast areas quickly and their success rate is very high. All of these traits make rescue dogs an invaluable asset to any search and rescue operation.