Special needs rescue dogs are among the hardest to get adopted. Often overlooked by potential adopters, it can take up to three times as long for a special needs dog to be adopted. Handicapable dogs have so much love to give; they offer companionship, loyalty, and love beyond measure—and they often need our help the most.
If you’re considering adopting a special needs dog, many incredible rescues focus on saving, rehabilitating, and finding homes for these amazing dogs. Here are ten rescues making a difference by giving second chances to special needs dogs.
1. Marley’s Mutts Dog Rescue
Tehachapi, CA
Marley’s Mutts focuses on rescuing dogs in need, including many with special needs or behavioral challenges. They even built a special area called ‘Wheelie World’ specifically for wheelchair dogs in their care! Known for their work with “Miracle Mutts” and the Pawsitive Change prison program, Marley’s Mutts provides a second chance for dogs who might otherwise be overlooked. Their commitment to rehabilitation and community engagement encourages adopters to embrace the unique bond that comes with adopting a special needs dog.
Learn more about Marley’s Mutts online and follow them on Instagram @marleysmutts.
2. Muttville Senior Dog Rescue
San Francisco, CA
Muttville is dedicated to transforming the lives of senior dogs. Founded on the belief that all dogs deserve dignity and love, this rescue matches older dogs with loving families who understand that age is just a number. With thousands of successful adoptions, Muttville shows how special senior dogs can enrich our lives.
Learn more about Muttville online and follow them on Instagram @muttvillesf.
3. The Animal Pad
San Diego, CA
The Animal Pad is a rescue organization focused on saving dogs from high-kill shelters, including those with special needs. From puppies to seniors, they work with a wide range of dogs, offering life-saving surgeries and medical treatments. Known for their commitment to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs with disabilities, The Animal Pad provides loving homes and advocates for the unique needs of differently-abled dogs. Their work encourages adopters to see beyond a dog’s physical challenges and embrace the joy they can bring into a home.
Learn more about The Animal Pad online and follow them on Instagram @theanimalpad.
4. Speak! for the Unspoken
Columbus, OH
Specializing in rescuing dogs with unique physical needs, such as those with blindness, deafness, or limb differences, Speak! for the Unspoken celebrates the unique abilities of differently-abled dogs. Through education and advocacy, they inspire adopters to see beyond a dog’s physical differences.
Learn more about Speak! for the Unspoken online and follow them on Instagram @speakfortheunspoken.
5. Blind Dog Rescue Alliance
National
This organization focuses on rescuing, fostering, and rehoming blind and visually impaired dogs. With a network that spans across the United States, Blind Dog Rescue Alliance advocates for the capabilities of blind dogs and their potential to live full, happy lives with the right care and support.
Learn more about the Blind Dog Rescue Alliance online and follow them on Instagram @blind_dog_alliance_rescue.
6. Perfectly Imperfect Pups
National
Perfectly Imperfect Pups Rescue (PIPS), is dedicated to rescuing dogs who have been overlooked due to their physical or medical needs. From dogs with missing limbs to those with chronic conditions, Pips Rescue focuses on providing these “perfectly imperfect” dogs with the love, care, and rehabilitation they deserve. Their work advocates for the idea that every dog, no matter their physical challenges, deserves a forever home full of love and understanding.
Learn more about Perfectly Imperfect Pups online and follow them on Instagram @pipsrescue.
7. Road Dogs Rescue
Southern CA
Known for rescuing bulldogs with special medical needs that they call “loveable lemons”, Road Dogs Rescue is a unique organization that sees the potential in dogs who might otherwise be overlooked. From puppies with cleft palates to senior bulldogs with joint issues, they’re dedicated to proving that every dog has something valuable to give.
Learn more about Road Dogs Rescue online and follow them on Instagram @roadogs.
8. Deaf Dogs Rock
National
Deaf Dogs Rock focuses on finding loving homes for deaf dogs. With a mission to support deaf dog owners, educate the public, and break stereotypes around deafness, they help adopters understand that a dog’s inability to hear does not define their quality of life.
Learn more about Deaf Dogs Rock online and follow them on Instagram @deafdogsrock.
9. Scoot to the Stars
National
Scoot to the Stars focuses on helping dogs with mobility issues, including those who are paralyzed or have difficulty walking. Through education, advocacy, and fostering, this organization provides the tools and support needed for these dogs to lead fulfilling lives. Scoot to the Stars shows adopters that dogs with mobility challenges can still run, play, and enjoy life with the right equipment and care.
Learn more about the Scoot to the Stars online and follow them on Instagram @scoottothestarsrescue.
10. Grey Muzzle Organization
National
A grant-making organization, Grey Muzzle funds shelters and rescues across the U.S. to support senior dogs. Their work focuses on dogs who are often overlooked and need extra resources, such as medical care or rehabilitation. They’re on a mission to give every senior dog a chance to thrive in a loving home.
Learn more about the Grey Muzzle Organization online and follow them on Instagram @greymuzzleorg.
Adopting a special needs or senior dog is the ultimate show of love and compassion. These rescues offer support and hope for dogs who deserve a loving home, and they remind us that every dog has a story and a spark worth sharing. When you adopt, you’re not just giving a dog a home; you’re empowering them to live their life in motion, surrounded by love.
Do you have a favorite rescue that was left off this list? Tag them in the comments; we’d love to highlight them or a special dog in their care in a future post!
The Dog Mobility Project 
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