Anyone who has been a pet parent knows how rewarding and fulfilling it is to open your heart to an innocent creature who offers love in return.
And many of these unions are made possible by the admirable efforts of nonprofits and volunteers who ensure these animals are cared for until they find their furever homes.
Perhaps you are looking to expand your family with a furry, feathery, or even scaly friend. Or, maybe you seek to lend your support to a worthy cause in the form of donations or time. Either way, these animal rescues are excellent candidates for all of the above.
Crystal’s Critter Haven
As its name indicates, this Mesa rescue offers rehabilitation and sanctuary for all kinds of critters in need. Birds, reptiles, bunnies, guinea pigs, goats, and turtles—to name a few—in addition to the usual pups and kitties, have all been given a new lease on life thanks to founder Crystal Alldredge-White and her team. With a specialty in medical care of creatures 4 weeks old and younger, the rescue is also a licensed rehabilitator at the state and federal levels that is 100% volunteer-run.
Saving One Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
This never-kill and volunteer-run organization cares for at-risk cats and dogs by harnessing the power of foster and adoption programs, animal sanctuary services, feline colony management, and community outreach and collaboration. Since 2009, the Chandler-based Saving One Life has saved countless canines and felines in need throughout Arizona, as well as Southern California, that have been abandoned or were candidates for euthanasia. The locale also welcomes animals from local shelters, as well as owner surrenders and Trap-Neuter-Return.
RAIN: Rescuing Animals In Need
Operating on a mighty foster-based network rather than a traditional shelter setting, this no-kill nonprofit rescue has come to the aid of thousands of fur babies Valleywide for decades. While both dogs and cats have found their forever homes through the efforts of this Chandler-based rescue, RAIN’s kitties of all ages have captured the spotlight in recent years, making the organization a specialist in all things feline. In addition to an army of foster parents, the organization partners with PetSmart Charities to host two adoption centers at PetSmart locations in Chandler and Tempe.
Moseleys' Mutt Oasis
Founded by the husband-and-wife team of Tana Fellenz-Moseley and Tim Moseley, this Gilbert rescue focuses on dogs, who find safety and comfort on 1.5 acres of play space featuring a pool and a 1,200-square-foot facility complete with large dog runs and a “she shed,” where dogs can relax, feel safe, and begin adjusting to the comforts of home life. Additionally, horses, alpacas, a pig, ducks, chickens, and rabbits are under their care here.
Dogs Day Out AZ
This animal advocacy organization dedicates its efforts to an overlooked population that has yet to find a brick-and-mortar space to call home. The generosity of donors enables it to handle a bevy of outreach programs that support dog owners experiencing homelessness, as well as rescues and local shelters. Targeting shelters and the streets, an army of volunteers hand out doggie care packages and other necessary supplies, including food, water, toys, dog shoes, clothing, and bedding, as well as strollers and wagons, to canine parents, providing these vital items to more than 1,800 dogs at any given time.
Find Dogs Day Out’s Facebook Group page for additional information.
HARTT (Humane Animal Rescue and Trapping Team)
HARTT is a volunteer-powered Arizona nonprofit specializing in the humane rescue of animals that cannot be safely approached or captured through ordinary means. From frightened lost pets to injured strays and abandoned animals, HARTT's teams respond to some of the community's most challenging rescue situations, using specialized trapping equipment, proven strategies, and remarkable patience to bring animals to safety. By reuniting lost pets with their families and rescuing vulnerable animals that might otherwise be beyond reach, HARTT fills a critical gap in animal welfare that few organizations are equipped to provide. Supported entirely through community donations, HARTT gives animals—and the people who love them—a second chance. Unowned, unclaimed animals are available for adoption.