Even if you’re unable to adopt a dog, there are still many ways to provide care and support to these loving animals. Making a charitable donation to a shelter or rescue center is one great alternative. The charities on this page have been selected based on GoFundMe platform activity. Additionally, all charities on this list have at least an 80% rating on Charity Navigator. Here you’ll find charities for dogs rescued from unsafe environments to organizations that train service dogs.
Best Dog Charities to Donate to on GoFundMe
1. Senior Dog Sanctuary
Senior Dog Sanctuary rescues senior dogs from abandonment, euthanasia, and abuse. The organization has a surrender program for owners that can no longer take care of their senior pets. Rescued dogs are re-homed through adoption.
Charity Navigator ranking: 100%
2. Lost Dog [And Cat] Rescue Foundation
Lost Dog [And Cat] Rescue Foundation helps rescue animals living on the streets. Its mission is to place these pets in loving homes through foster and adoption. The nonprofit allows volunteers to socialize with dogs during adoption events and take them on walks. Lost Dog Rescue Foundation also provides dog educational resources for topics ranging from rescue and training to medical and pet loss.
Charity Navigator ranking: 100%
3. Happy Tails Dog Rescue, Inc.
Unique from other nonprofit dog organizations, Happy Tails Dog Rescue is a 100% foster-based charity. The organization helps save dogs from shelters that can no longer take care of them due to space or medical conditions. The charity is able to work towards its mission with the support of donors, volunteers, fosters, and company sponsors.
Charity Navigator ranking: 100%
4. Puppies Behind Bars
Puppies Behind Bars is a dog charity that partners with incarcerated individuals to help train working dogs for law enforcement officials, veterans, and military personnel. These programs teach men and women responsibility during their sentences while teaching dogs to serve and protect in emergencies. The dogs also learn commands to help comfort people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other related injuries. When released from service, the dogs are put up for pet adoption.
Charity Navigator ranking: 100%
5. Second City Canine Rescue
Second City Canine Rescue is the best dog charity in the Chicagoland area that cares for homeless dogs. The nonprofit is dedicated to rescuing neglected dogs and finding them the perfect forever home. Second City Canine Rescue hosts adoption events for the public to meet and interact with all sorts of dogs. Donations are used to fund rescues and supplies like food, leashes, and baby gates.
Charity Navigator ranking: 100%