Top 100 Animal Rescues in the United States
Across the country, thousands of dedicated animal rescue organizations work tirelessly to save, rehabilitate, and rehome pets and wildlife. These groups are on the frontlines of animal welfare, giving countless animals a second chance at life. Today we celebrate 100 of the most impactful rescues in the U.S., highlighting their missions and the ways you can help.
Note: This list is not ranked — each organization plays a critical role in improving animal lives, and there are many more unsung heroes beyond these organizations.
10 Inspiring Animal Rescues Leading the Way
1. Best Friends Animal Society
bestfriends.org
Location: Kanab, Utah
Mission: End the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters by 2025 through adoption programs, spay/neuter initiatives, and advocacy.
2. ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
aspca.org
Location: New York, New York
Mission: Prevent cruelty to animals through rescue, legislation, and education nationwide.
3. The Humane Society of the United States
humanesociety.org
Location: Washington, D.C.
Mission: Promote the protection of all animals, from pets to wildlife, through advocacy and direct care.
4. American Humane
americanhumane.org
Location: Washington, D.C.
Mission: Ensure the welfare of children and animals, famous for their “No Animals Were Harmed®” film certification.
5. Rescue Dogs Rock NYC
rescuedogsrocknyc.org
Location: New York, New York
Mission: Save dogs from high-kill shelters, provide urgent medical care, and find forever homes.
6. Hope for Paws
hopeforpaws.org
Location: Los Angeles, California
Mission: Rescue homeless animals from extreme situations and share rescue stories to inspire others.
7. The Gentle Barn
gentlebarn.org
Location: Santa Clarita, California
Mission: Rescue and rehabilitate abused farm animals while providing programs for at-risk youth.
8. Big Cat Rescue
bigcatrescue.org
Location: Tampa, Florida
Mission: End the abuse of big cats, rescue those in need, and provide lifelong care and advocacy for captive wild cats.
9. Animal Rescue League of Boston
arlboston.org
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Mission: Rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome companion animals while protecting them from neglect.
10. Wildlife SOS
wildlifesos.org
Location: Washington, D.C. & India
Mission: Protect and conserve India’s wildlife, including elephants, bears, and leopards, through rescue operations and habitat protection.
- Bunny’s Buddies – San Diego, CA
- Big Dog Ranch Rescue – Loxahatchee Groves, FL
- Animal Humane Society – Minneapolis, MN
- Animal Haven – New York, NY
- The Bond Between (formerly Secondhand Hounds) – Atlanta, GA
- D.E.L.T.A. Rescue – Acton, CA
- Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue – San Angelo, TX
- Carolina Tiger Rescue – Pittsboro, NC
- Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary – Candy Kitchen, NM
- Lucky Dog Animal Rescue – Washington, DC area
- Last Hope Animal Rescue – US (various locations)
- Pet Friendly Services (Shelters & Rescues Directory) – US wide
- Nashville Humane Association – Nashville, TN
- San Francisco SPCA – San Francisco, CA
- Korean K9 Rescue – New York, NY / South Korea
- Lucky Dog Rescue – Arlington, VA
- Muttville Senior Dog Rescue – San Francisco, CA
- Humane Society of Midland County – Midland, TX
- Humane Life Sent – online / national aid org
- Humane Society Silicon Valley – San Jose, CA
- Humane Society of Broward County – FL
- Animals Australia – (Though based abroad, works with rescue networks)
- PAWS (Chicago area) – IL
- Saving Grace Animal Rescue – TX
- Second Chance Animal Rescue – Various
Why Supporting Animal Rescues Matters
Each of these organizations relies on donations, volunteers, and advocates to continue their lifesaving work. Whether it’s adopting a dog, fostering kittens, donating supplies, or sponsoring a sanctuary animal, every act of kindness helps create a safer world for animals.
Looking for a local rescue to support? Check out regional rescues near you and consider donating or volunteering — your contribution could save a life.
Explore More Animal Wellness Resources
- How to Keep Dogs Calm During Stressful Events
- What Can You Give a Dog for Pain?
- Hemp Well Calm Collection for rescue dogs adjusting to their new homes
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