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Best Grants for Animal Rescue
Get funding for animal rescue efforts, shelters, spay/neuter programs, and initiatives protecting abandoned and abused animals
88
Available grants
$1.5M
Total funding
$7.5K
Median grant
88
grants
$1.5M
total
$7.5K
median
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Last updated: June 8, 2026. Next update: July 5, 2026.
Up to US $10,000
BF Disaster Relief Grants
Rolling deadline
The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.
Banfield Foundation
Unspecified amount
BISSELL Pet Foundation: Partners for Pets
Rolling deadline
BISSELL Pet Foundation's Partners for Pets program supports over 6,025 animal welfare organizations across the U.S. by providing resources aimed at reducing homeless animals through adoption, spay/neuter initiatives, and emergency support. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)(3) nonprofits or local government entities engaged in animal welfare, fostering community connections and financial assistance during crises. This initiative not only benefits shelters but also enhances partnerships among various animal welfare groups, promoting a united effort to improve animal lives.
Bissell Pet Foundation
Unspecified amount
Enterprise Mobility™ Philanthropic Giving
Rolling deadline
The Enterprise Mobility™ Philanthropic Giving program focuses on enhancing community engagement through grants aimed at supporting health, education, arts, and disaster relief initiatives. Only Enterprise Mobility team members and their spouses or domestic partners who volunteer with a nonprofit can apply for funding. The program prioritizes sustainable projects that uplift local communities and address pressing social issues, fostering a culture of responsibility and giving back to society.
Enterprise Holdings Foundation
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Unspecified amount
Feed the Hungry COVID-19 Fund
Rolling deadline
The Feed the Hungry COVID-19 Fund, launched by American Humane, addresses the urgent needs of animal shelters struggling during the pandemic. With many animals abandoned and facilities facing shortages, this fund aims to provide essential resources for food and supplies. American Humane, a leader in animal welfare for over a century, seeks to support shelters and rescue organizations fighting to maintain operations amid the crisis, ensuring the safety and care of vulnerable animals across the nation.
American Humane
Up to US $50,000
Laura J. Niles Foundation Grant
Rolling deadline
The Laura J. Niles Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the lives of animals, particularly dogs, through research, training, and adoption initiatives. It seeks to foster programs that strengthen the human-animal bond while also focusing on the education of economically disadvantaged youth. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships, collaborative efforts, and innovative pilot initiatives that promise financial sustainability. Although primarily active in the northeastern U.S., it occasionally supports projects elsewhere, emphasizing long-term solutions over temporary fixes.
Laura J. Niles Foundation
US $500 - US $1,000
Microsanctuaries of Color Fund Grant
Rolling deadline
The Microsanctuaries of Color Fund Grant, managed by the Microsanctuary Resource Center, provides micro-grants to support vegans of color in establishing or enhancing microsanctuaries. With grants of $500 for individuals and $1000 for non-profits, this initiative aims to promote diversity in the sanctuary movement and support care for farmed animals and those exploited for other purposes. Eligible expenses include food, infrastructure, and veterinary care, fostering a community committed to ethical veganism.
Microsanctuary Resource Center
US $500 - US $1,000
Microsanctuary Resource Center: Micro-Grants
Rolling deadline
The Microsanctuary Resource Center offers micro-grants to individuals and organizations dedicated to rescuing and caring for farmed animals and other exploited species. Grants of $500 for individuals and $1,000 for non-profits support various expenses, including infrastructure and veterinary care. Key funding types include Startup, Reproductive Healthcare, and Special Projects Funds, each with specific criteria. The program promotes veganism and emphasizes ethical treatment of animals, ensuring that applicants align with core principles.
Microsanctuary Resource Center
Unspecified amount
Neal Foundation Trust Grant
Rolling deadline
The Neal Foundation Trust Grant supports organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals. With a focus on local community projects, the foundation funds initiatives aimed at reducing pet overpopulation and alleviating animal suffering. Eligible programs include spay/neuter services, fostering, and humane education. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate significant local impact, ensuring a compassionate approach to addressing the needs of abandoned and neglected animals.
The Neal Foundation
US $100 - US $1,000
Petfinder Emergency Medical Grant
Rolling deadline
The Petfinder Emergency Medical Grant assists Petfinder members in providing urgent medical care for pets in need. Grants range from $100 to $1,000 and are awarded monthly until funds are depleted. Eligible expenses cover various emergency treatments, with a focus on saving one pet's life or improving its quality of life. Applicants must be active Petfinder members and agree to share their stories on social media, promoting both the grant and the pets they help.
Petfinder Foundation
Up to US $10,000
VCA Charities: Disaster Relief Grants
Rolling deadline
VCA Charities is dedicated to enhancing pet ownership by offering Disaster Relief Grants to support animal welfare organizations impacted by natural disasters. These grants provide funding for essential veterinary care, pet supplies, temporary shelter, and transportation costs for rescued animals. Prioritizing immediate relief, VCA Charities also assesses preparedness requests at year-end. The program aims to alleviate the suffering of pets and ensure they remain in loving homes during crises, addressing both urgent and long-term needs in affected communities.
Vca Charities
Up to US $10,000
Weekly Community Conversations
Rolling deadline
Join Maddie's Fund every Monday at 11am PT for the Weekly Community Conversations, a supportive platform for animal well-being professionals. Engage in discussions about innovative programs and share valuable insights with peers. Each month, attendees have the chance to win up to $10,000 in grants by participating in the calls or watching on-demand. This initiative fosters collaboration and addresses crucial topics in the field.
Maddie's Fund
Approximately US $10,000
Animal Protection Program Grants
Letter of inquiry due Jul 1, 2026
The Animal Protection Program Grants, offered by the Summerlee Foundation, aim to support organizations focused on rescuing and advocating for animals. With a strong emphasis on sterilization and vaccination in underserved communities in the Americas, these grants prioritize projects that address the root causes of animal suffering. The foundation has contributed over $65 million to various initiatives, ensuring that the most overlooked animals receive the help they need. Applications open December 1, 2025.
The Summerlee Foundation
Unspecified amount
KM Shimano Family Foundation Donations
Applications due Jul 1, 2026
The KM Shimano Family Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the world through education, engagement, and conservation, with a particular focus on marine environments. Our initiatives include supporting organizations engaged in marine animal rescue, research, conservation, and education, as well as promoting water conservation, especially in saltwater and brackish ecosystems. Through our contributions, we aim to foster a healthier oceanic ecosystem and raise awareness about marine life challenges.
Km Shimano Family Foundation
Up to US $25,000
Rescue Grant Program
Applications due Jul 31, 2026
The Oxbow Rescue Grant Program supports animal rescue organizations by providing financial assistance for various projects, including education, outreach, capital improvements, and operational support. With annual funding of approximately $25,000, grants are available to qualified groups that benefit small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. Oxbow aims to empower these organizations by offering resources and support to enhance their rescue efforts throughout the year.
Oxbow Animal Health
Up to US $50,000
Thornton S., Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation Grant
Pre proposal due Aug 1, 2026
The Thornton S. Glide, Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation provides grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in California that focus on animal protection, land conservancy, agriculture, and civic endeavors. Established in 1995, the foundation prioritizes grants for specific capital acquisitions and does not support operational costs or direct aid to individuals. Emphasizing local impact, California-based organizations are favored over out-of-state counterparts.
T.S. & K.D. Glide Foundation
Up to US $10,000
Ready for Rescue Grants
Applications due Aug 31, 2026
VCA Charities offers the Ready for Rescue Grants to support animal welfare organizations in preparing pets for adoption. With a maximum award of $10,000, this program focuses on enhancing the mental and physical well-being of companion animals through various activities, including enrichment and training. Eligible organizations must be registered nonprofits dedicated to animal welfare, adopting out at least 500 pets annually. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines approaching soon.
Vca Charities
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
KONG Toy Grant
Applications due Sep 1, 2026
The KONG Toy Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation in collaboration with KONG, aims to enhance the adoptability of shelter pets by providing enriching toys. This initiative supports animal shelters and adopters throughout North America, helping to keep pets mentally stimulated and happy. By focusing on pet enrichment, the grant seeks to increase the chances of successful adoptions, thereby reducing the euthanasia of adoptable animals. Organizations that are Petfinder.com members can apply for these valuable resources.
Petfinder Foundation
Up to US $50,000
Rachael Ray Save Them All Grants
Letter of inquiry due Sep 17, 2026
The Rachael Ray Save Them All Grants support innovative projects aimed at enhancing the lifesaving efforts for cats and dogs in U.S. shelters. Eligible organizations, including public and private shelters and rescue groups, can apply for up to $50,000 to fund initiatives like intake prevention services, medical care for at-risk pets, and shelter enrichment programs. All projects must align with the mission of increasing adoption rates and improving animal welfare within the Best Friends Network.
Best Friends Animal Society
US $5,000 - US $100,000
Petco Love Stories Grant Campaign
Applications due Oct 1, 2026
The Petco Love Stories Grant Campaign celebrates the profound impact of pet adoption. Each year, Petco Love and BOBS® from Skechers® award grants to animal welfare organizations that facilitate these life-changing adoptions. Since 2013, over $8 million has been distributed to support these organizations. Pet parents are encouraged to share their unique love stories about their adopted pets, showcasing how their lives have been enriched. Compelling narratives and quality visuals will help submissions stand out.
Petco Love
Unspecified amount
Crawford Taylor Foundation Grants
Letter of inquiry due Oct 1, 2026
The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.
Crawford Taylor Foundation
US $100 - US $1,000
Cat Enrichment Grant
Applications due Nov 1, 2026
The Cat Enrichment Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, provides funding ranging from $100 to $1000 to enhance the well-being of adoptable cats. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, supporting initiatives like interactive activities and safe outdoor experiences. This program aims to ensure that every cat remains happy and healthy while waiting for a forever home, ultimately increasing their chances of adoption.
Petfinder Foundation
Up to US $10,000
Petfinder Disaster Response and Recovery Grants
Applications due Nov 1, 2026
The Petfinder Foundation's Disaster Response and Recovery Grants provide crucial support to Petfinder members affected by natural disasters. These grants assist organizations in recovering from events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, ensuring that adoptable pets receive necessary care. Eligible applicants must be active Petfinder members and demonstrate a need due to disasters occurring within the past 60 days. The initiative aims to enhance the resilience of shelters and rescue groups in challenging times.
Petfinder Foundation
US $250 - US $1,000
Wag Wine Operation
Applications due Nov 1, 2026
The Wag Wine Operation supports no-kill adoption groups by providing grants ranging from $250 to $1000. These funds assist organizations in purchasing essential supplies, food, and medical care for adoptable pets. Offered by the Petfinder Foundation, this initiative aims to keep homeless animals healthy and facilitate their transition to loving homes. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, with the program benefiting over 10,000 adoption groups across North America.
Petfinder Foundation
Unspecified amount
Animal Welfare Organizations Grants
Applications due Mar 31, 2027
The Petco Foundation offers grants aimed at animal welfare organizations, focusing on enhancing adoption and medical care initiatives. With a commitment to lifesaving programs, they invest in organizations that demonstrate accountability and significant impact in their communities. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, municipal agencies, and SPCA/humane societies that provide sheltering services. The grant cycle allows for one proposal submission per year, ensuring support for those dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals.
Petco Love
US $10,000
ASPCA: The Rescue Effect Campaign Grants
Applications due Apr 4, 2027
The ASPCA's Rescue Effect Campaign Grants provide $1.8 million to support animal welfare organizations in the U.S. during a crucial adoption initiative. Eligible non-profits can receive funding based on their intake of adoptable pets and commitment to hold fee-waived adoption days. The program aims to promote responsible pet adoption and community involvement, making a significant impact on animal welfare during the months of August to October.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
US $100,000
PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant
Applications due Apr 13, 2027
The PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant aims to support innovative initiatives that enhance dog adoption rates in the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation focuses on organizations that improve care for dogs in shelters and rescues. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations with a commitment to creating best practices for increasing adoptions. The program requires a manual or toolkit to be developed and shared with the animal welfare community to ensure sustainability and broader impact.
PEDIGREE Foundation
Up to US $10,000
WCP Foundation Grants
Applications due May 1, 2027
The William and Charlotte Parks Foundation for Animal Welfare offers grants to support projects and research aimed at improving animal welfare. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to reducing animal suffering and enhancing welfare through effective programs. Grants, typically not exceeding $10,000, may be awarded to organizations or individual researchers with proven track records. Eligible projects include adoption programs, education, and research initiatives that align with the Foundation's mission to promote animal rights and welfare.
The William and Charlotte Parks Foundation for Animal Welfare
Showing 27 of 88 results.
Sign up to see the full listGrants for Animal Rescue Highlights
Grants for animal rescue fund nonprofits dedicated to protecting animals, improving shelters, and providing veterinary care. These grants empower organizations to save lives, promote adoption, and enhance animal welfare in their communities.
Search Instrumentl's Animal Rescue Grants Database
Find 88 funding opportunities for animal rescue initiatives, with $1.5M available. Instrumentl offers nonprofits tailored tools for searching grants, tracking deadlines, and accessing funder insights to support animal welfare efforts.
Last updated: June 8, 2026. Next update: July 5, 2026.
Top Searched Grants for Animal Rescue
Grant Insights : Grants for Animal Rescue
Grant Availability
How common are grants in this category?
Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.
88 Grants for Animal Rescue grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.
19 Grants for Animal Rescue over $25K in average grant size
11 Grants for Animal Rescue over $50K in average grant size
26 Grants for Animal Rescue supporting general operating expenses
73 Grants for Animal Rescue supporting programs / projects
200+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets
500+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Animal Welfare - General
Grant Deadline Distribution
Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for Animal Rescue?
Most grants are due in the third quarter.
Q1
24.4%
Q2
23.9%
Q3
30.7%
Q4
20.9%
Frequently asked questions
Animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and advocacy groups that rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals can qualify for these grants. Most of the time, funders will prioritize organizations that focus on reducing animal cruelty and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Grants for animal rescue typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q3, with 30.7% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.
The overall purpose of these grants is to reduce animal suffering. To that effect, funders offer awards to organizations that support things like rescue operations, medical care for abandoned pets, and adoption initiatives.
Funding for animal rescue grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $25 to a maximum of $275,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $7,500, while the average grant awarded is $25,963. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.
Pet-related organizations like the ASPCA, the Humane Society, and the Petco Foundation generally award grants for animal welfare initiatives. These organizations support a wide range of programs, from shelter operations to animal rescue efforts.
Government agencies, such as municipal animal control departments, also provide funding for animal welfare projects. Additionally, corporate sponsors like PetSmart Charities and the Bissell Pet Foundation contribute to these efforts, focusing on initiatives that improve animal care and adoption rates. Private foundations, including the Banfield Foundation and the Pedigree Foundation, further support animal welfare by funding programs that help pets and their owners.
To improve their success rate, applicants should show funders how they've practically impacted animal welfare in their communities. A great way to do this is to provide data on adoption success rates and show how engaged their community is in these efforts. One of the best strategies for standing out is partnering with veterinarians, local businesses, and animal advocacy groups on applications.
Discover how Eversight increased their grant success rate from 14% to 22%.Instrumentl makes it easy for animal rescue organizations to find good-fit grant opportunities that they are eligible for. And by tracking funding opportunities for them, Instrumentl helps ensure applicants never miss a deadline.
Use Instrumentl’s reporting tools to track and analyze grant performance.
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