Calgary has one of the most active dog rescue communities in Canada. Over a dozen rescue organizations operate across the city and surrounding areas, each with a unique mission — from pulling dogs out of overcrowded shelters to rehabilitating strays and owner surrenders. These rescues run almost entirely on volunteers, foster families, and donations, and they save thousands of dogs every year.
PawFinder brings together adoptable dogs from 13+ Calgary rescue organizations into one searchable platform — and we're always adding more. Instead of checking each rescue website individually, you can browse all available dogs in one place, filter by size, breed, energy level, or compatibility, and apply directly through the rescue. Every listing links straight to the rescue organization that manages the adoption process.
Whether you're looking for a specific breed, a puppy, a senior dog, or a calm apartment companion, Calgary's rescue community has options. Many rescues operate through foster homes, meaning the dogs have already been living in a home environment and their personality, house training status, and compatibility with kids, cats, and other dogs are well documented. This makes rescue adoption one of the most informed ways to find your next family member.
Below are all the rescue organizations currently featured on PawFinder. Click any organization to see their available dogs, learn about their mission, and find a direct link to their website.
BARCS Rescue
BARCS (Be A Responsible Cat/canine Supporter) Rescue is a Calgary foster-based rescue committed to finding loving homes for dogs and cats in need....
AARCS
The Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) is a volunteer-driven, foster-based rescue that saves dogs from high-kill shelters and owner surrenders...
Pawsitive Match
Pawsitive Match Rescue Foundation is a Calgary-based, volunteer-run rescue that focuses on saving dogs from overcrowded shelters and providing foster ...
Cochrane Humane Society
The Cochrane & Area Humane Society serves Cochrane and surrounding communities west of Calgary, providing shelter and adoption services for dogs and c...
Furball Force
Furball Force is a Calgary-based animal rescue focused on saving dogs from high-risk situations. They operate through a foster network and community p...
Pause 4 Change
Pause 4 Change is a Calgary rescue organization that gives dogs a second chance through foster-based care, rehabilitation, and community adoption even...
Calgary Humane Society
The Calgary Humane Society is one of the oldest and most recognized animal welfare organizations in Calgary. They provide shelter, medical care, and r...
Heaven Can Wait
Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Society is a no-kill, foster-based rescue in Calgary that provides second chances to dogs and cats facing euthanasia....
CB Rescue Foundation
CB Rescue Foundation is a volunteer-driven, foster-based dog rescue serving Calgary and surrounding communities in southern Alberta....
ARF Alberta
The Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) is a no-kill shelter in Alberta dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need....
Megan's Rescue Efforts
Megan's Rescue Efforts is a dedicated Calgary-area rescue focused on saving dogs from overcrowded shelters and providing them with foster care and vet...
Calgary Animal Rescue
Calgary Animal Rescue is dedicated to rescuing dogs of all ages from shelters and owner surrenders in the Calgary area. They offer both adult dog and ...
Wag-a-Muffin
Wag-a-Muffin Rescue is a small, dedicated Calgary-area rescue that focuses on saving and rehoming dogs through their foster network....
How Dog Rescue Works in Calgary
Rescue vs. Shelter: What's the Difference?
A shelter (like Calgary Humane Society) is a physical facility where animals are housed. A rescue (like AARCS or Pawsitive Match) is typically foster-based — dogs live in volunteer homes until adopted. Both accept applications and charge adoption fees that cover veterinary care, spay/neuter, and vaccinations. Many Calgary organizations operate as both.
The Adoption Process
Each rescue has its own process, but most follow a similar pattern: browse available dogs, submit an application, pass a reference or home check, attend a meet-and-greet, and finalize the adoption. Some rescues approve same-day; others take one to two weeks. Adoption fees in Calgary typically range from $200 to $500 and include veterinary basics.
Why Adopt from a Rescue?
Rescue dogs are often already house-trained, socialized, and assessed for temperament. Foster-based rescues can tell you exactly how a dog behaves in a home — with kids, cats, other dogs, and alone. You're also freeing up a foster spot for another dog in need, creating a ripple effect that saves more lives.
Browse Rescue Dogs by Category
Dog Rescue Calgary FAQ
How many dog rescue organizations are in Calgary?
There are dozens of dog rescue organizations in the Calgary area. PawFinder currently aggregates dogs from 13+ rescues, including Calgary Humane Society, AARCS, Pawsitive Match, ARF Alberta, and many more. We are continually adding new organizations to provide the most comprehensive view of adoptable dogs in Calgary.
How do I volunteer with a Calgary dog rescue?
Most Calgary rescues need foster homes, event volunteers, and transport drivers. Visit the rescue's website directly to find their volunteer application. Fostering is the most impactful way to help — you provide a temporary home while the rescue covers food and veterinary costs. Click on any rescue above to visit their website.
Can I surrender my dog to a Calgary rescue?
Many Calgary rescues accept owner surrenders, though availability depends on their current capacity. Contact the rescue directly to discuss your situation. Calgary Humane Society has the most capacity for emergency surrenders. Most rescues will ask about your dog's temperament, health history, and reason for surrender to ensure a good placement.