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Animal Shelters & Rescues in Des Moines, IA

7 of the 29 dog parks, shelters, trainers and boarding kennels we list in Des Moines are shelter and rescue services.

Organizations vary between open-admission municipal facilities and private, foster-based rescues that do not operate a public viewing kennel. Choosing where to adopt depends on whether you want to walk through on-site kennels or submit an application online before meeting dogs in private homes. Adoption fees, home visit requirements, and hold periods for stray animals differ significantly across locations.

  1. ARL Animal Services

    1441 Harriet St, Des Moines, IA 50317

    Mon-Fri 9:30am-6:30pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-5:30pm

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  2. Animal Lifeline of Iowa

    4521 SE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50320

    Mon-Tue 9:30am-6:30pm, Wed-Thu 12pm-5pm, Fri 12pm-4pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-5:30pm

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  3. ARL Animal Services

    1615 SE 14th St, Des Moines, IA 50320-1010

    Mon-Fri 9:30am-6:30pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-5:30pm

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  4. Pet Project

    4944 Franklin Ave Ste. N, Des Moines, IA 50310

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  5. Animal Rescue League of Iowa

    5452 NE 22nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313-2528

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  6. Forever Home Dog Rescue

    PO Box 33, Des Moines, IA 50125

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  7. Iowa Bird Rehabilitation

    3108 49th St, Des Moines, IA 50310

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Check visitor policies early. Municipal facilities usually allow walk-in visits during public hours, but private rescues often require an approved application before scheduling a meet-and-greet.

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Good to know

What is the difference between an animal shelter and a rescue organization?

Shelters typically operate a physical facility that houses stray or surrendered animals directly on site. Rescue organizations are often run by volunteers using network foster homes, meaning animals live in private residences until adoption.

How much does it typically cost to adopt a dog?

Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $350 depending on the organization and the age of the dog. Puppies usually carry higher fees, while standard fees generally include spay or neuter surgery, initial vaccinations, and a microchip.

Can I bring my current dog to meet a potential rescue dog?

Most organizations require or strongly encourage a controlled meet-and-greet between your existing dog and the rescue dog before finalizing an adoption. Staff or foster parents usually facilitate this interaction on neutral ground at the facility or a local park.