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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.

179

Available grants

$7.2M

Total funding

$10K

Median grant

179 grants
$7.2M total
$10K median

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179 Results based on applied filters

Belvedere Animal Welfare Fund Grant

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $15,000
The Belvedere Animal Welfare Fund Grant, established in 2007, focuses on advancing animal welfare in Maine through one-year project proposals for organizations addressing population control for cats and dogs. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and public agencies. The fund emphasizes keeping low-income pet owners and their animals together and supports education on humane treatment. Note: No new general support applications will be accepted until 2025, but project proposals are welcomed.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant

East Tennessee Foundation
Private
Anderson County, Tennessee, Blount County, Tennessee +23 more
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The Harry W. and Carolyn W. Galbraith Memorial Fund Grant supports animal care organizations focusing on spaying and neutering programs for cats and dogs. Established in 2014, it awards grants ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for one-year terms beginning August 2024. Eligible organizations must be located within the Foundation's service area and provide services primarily to low-income pet owners. Funds may also cover rabies vaccinations, enhancing overall animal welfare in the community.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Rosalie and Cecil Smith Fund Grant

Akron Community Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Rosalie and Cecil Smith Fund, established by Cecil Smith in 2007, aims to reduce the feral cat population in Summit County through spaying and neutering initiatives. This grant supports nonprofit organizations with expertise in feral animal care, focusing on low-income households. Eligible applicants must operate within Summit County, either independently or in affiliation with larger organizations, to ensure effective program implementation and community welfare.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Nestle Purina Animal Welfare Grants

Nestlé Purina
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Adams County, Pennsylvania +361 more
Unspecified amount
Nestlé Purina Animal Welfare Grants focus on enhancing the well-being of pets and their owners through monetary donations to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. These grants support capacity building, capital improvements, and spay/neuter funding. The program aims to strengthen relationships between pets and people, particularly in communities near Nestlé Purina facilities, ensuring that both pets and their owners thrive together.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Neal Foundation Trust Grant

The Neal Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
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.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Ethel Frends Foundation Grant

Ethel Frends Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California, Orange County, California +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Ethel Frends Foundation Grant, established in 1997, aims to support canine care and education in California's counties, including Los Angeles and San Diego. It encourages organizations to apply for general operating support and considers small capital expenses. Grants are available for one year, focusing on established organizations rather than start-ups. This funding opportunity is essential for promoting animal welfare and enhancing community programs related to canine care.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma Grant

Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma
Association/Society
Oklahoma
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma, established in 1992, focuses on the welfare of small animals. It provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for care, shelter, food, and veterinary services for stray and injured pets. Typically awarding 2-3 grants annually, this foundation aims to support charitable organizations in Oklahoma dedicated to animal protection.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Veterinary Science & Services

Charles H. Hall Foundation Grant

Charles H. Hall Foundation
Private
Berkshire County, Massachusetts, Franklin County, Massachusetts +2 more
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Charles H. Hall Foundation Grant supports educational, health, and cultural programs for underserved populations in Massachusetts, with a focus on preventing cruelty to children and animals. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, and are typically awarded for one year. Organizations providing direct services are prioritized. The foundation seeks to address the needs of communities in Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties, ensuring impactful support for local initiatives.
Animal Welfare - General Health & Medicine Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets +6 more

Lucille Drinkwater Allen Trust Grant

Lucille Drinkwater Allen Trust
Private
Colorado
US $2,000 - US $3,000
The Lucille Drinkwater Allen Trust Grant supports the care of neglected and homeless domestic animals, particularly dogs, in Colorado. Established by Mrs. Lucille Drinkwater Allen's will, the trust aims to alleviate suffering and ensure animals can live their full lives without the threat of euthanasia. Funding is directed towards organizations that align with this mission, focusing on the welfare of animals and promoting their well-being in the community.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Dr. Hildegard H. Balin Charitable Trust Grant

Dr. Hildegard H. Balin Charitable Trust
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Unspecified amount
The Dr. Hildegard H. Balin Charitable Trust Grant supports the welfare of financially-at-risk and elderly residents in Santa Barbara County, California, as well as the welfare of dogs. Established in 1996, the Trust has awarded over $3 million to eligible non-profit organizations. Grant recipients must focus on nutritional, legal, and medical needs for the elderly, as well as providing housing and care for dogs. The Trust honors Dr. Balin's legacy in promoting community welfare.
Senior Services Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Furniss Foundation Grant

The Natalie W. Furniss Foundation
Private
New Jersey
Approximately US $3,000
The Natalie W. Furniss Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals. Established in 1974, the foundation provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, particularly those in New Jersey. Applications are accepted year-round, with a focus on humane societies and similar organizations that prevent cruelty to animals. This grant exemplifies a commitment to animal welfare and environmental stewardship, reflecting the foundation's mission to promote humane practices.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Roy and Marian Holleman Foundation Grant

Roy and Marian Holleman Foundation
Private
California
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The Roy and Marian Holleman Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on the welfare of domesticated animals and library science. Emphasizing education, environmental care, and human services, the foundation provides financial assistance to eligible entities in California. Organizations seeking funding should align with the foundation's mission, prioritizing animal welfare and library science initiatives. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through focused support and resources.
Library & Information Science Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Education +2 more

Remy Fund for Pets and Animal Services

Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham
Private
Blount County, Alabama, Jefferson County, Alabama +3 more
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Remy Fund for Pets and Animal Services, established by philanthropist Ken Jackson in memory of his dog Remy, supports organizations focused on traditional companion animals in Alabama. Priorities include rescue, spay/neuter programs, animal-assisted therapy, and educational advocacy. Since its inception in 2011, the fund has awarded over $500,000 to enhance the welfare of pets and promote humane treatment.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Human-Animal Interactions & Therapy

Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust Grants (Non-Environment Requests)

Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust
Private
Maricopa County, Arizona, Marion County, Indiana
Up to US $250,000
The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust focuses on supporting nonprofits in Arizona and Indiana through invitation-only grants. The Trust funds initiatives that help people in need, protect animals and nature, and enrich community life, emphasizing self-sufficiency, crisis intervention, and education. Grants are available for programs that enhance civic vibrancy, promote environmental awareness, and provide essential services to vulnerable populations. Organizations must align with the Trust's priorities and geographic areas to be eligible for funding.
Child Foster Care & Adoption Services Basic Human Needs Literacy +15 more

John and Maria Laffin Trust Grants

John and Maria Laffin Trust
Private
Los Angeles County, California
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The John and Maria Laffin Trust offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education, animal welfare, medical research, and human services. The Trust is dedicated to supporting initiatives in Los Angeles City and County, with specific allocations: 20% for education, 30% for animal welfare, 25% for medical research, and 25% for human services. This funding supports organizations that enhance community welfare and address critical humanitarian needs.
Education - Higher Education Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Jean M. Walker Grant

The Miccio Foundation
Private
Iowa
Up to US $2,500
The Jean M. Walker Grant, administered by The Miccio Foundation, aims to enhance public awareness regarding the humane treatment of animals, focusing primarily on companion animals. It supports educational initiatives and actions to end inhumane treatments, such as workshops and media campaigns. Projects that demonstrate measurable impacts on animal welfare and can be replicated in other communities are particularly encouraged. Grants are available to qualifying organizations dedicated to animal welfare.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

MF Standard and Mini Grants

The Miccio Foundation
Private
Iowa
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The Miccio Foundation offers Standard and Mini Grants to organizations in Iowa dedicated to animal welfare. Eligible groups include shelters and humane societies with 501c3 status. Grants can fund projects like spay/neuter programs and facility renovations, aiming for immediate, measurable impacts in local communities. Standard grants may reach up to $10,000, while Mini grants offer up to $1,500. The Foundation prioritizes projects that enhance animal health and operational efficiency.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust Grant Program

Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust
Private
San Luis Obispo County, California
Unspecified amount
The Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust Grant Program aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of San Luis Obispo, California, focusing on key areas such as animal welfare, education, environmental protection, support for the Catholic Church, fine arts, and youth development. Grants are available to California-based organizations for specific projects that align with these priorities, promoting community engagement and sustainable development.
Education Land / Habitat Conservation Green Infrastructure +10 more

Animal Assistance Foundation Annual Grants

Animal Assistance Foundation
Private
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Animal Assistance Foundation provides annual grants to organizations in Colorado dedicated to enhancing the welfare of companion animals. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits or government entities, actively serving local animals and demonstrating a commitment to community collaboration. The foundation aims to support initiatives that align with its mission of fostering responsible animal care and welfare, thus ensuring better lives for pets across the state.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Human-Animal Interactions & Therapy Service Animals

Ozzy's Fund: The Carrie Johnson Wheeler Endowment for Animal Welfare

Community Foundation of Central Georgia
Private
Baldwin County, Georgia, Bibb County, Georgia +19 more
Up to US $2,500
Ozzy's Fund, named after a rescued cat, aims to improve animal welfare in central Georgia. It prioritizes funding for animal rescue, spay/neuter programs, and efforts to prevent cruelty. The fund supports nonprofits directly working with animals, ensuring that initiatives promote their well-being. Projects must focus on tangible outcomes for animals rather than public awareness campaigns. By fostering community engagement and direct service, Ozzy's Fund seeks to make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable animals.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

GLCF: Fall & Spring Competitive Grants

Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation
Private
Amherst County, Virginia, Appomattox County, Virginia +3 more
Up to US $30,000
The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation offers competitive grants to enhance the quality of life in Lynchburg and surrounding counties. With a focus on various sectors such as the arts, education, and health, these grants support innovative projects that address community needs. Tax-exempt organizations with a 501(c)(3) classification are eligible to apply, with a preference for proposals that promise significant impact with moderate funding. This initiative aims to foster self-reliance and community engagement.
Education Health & Medicine Art & Culture +14 more

Regina B. Frankenberg Foundation Grant - Companion Animals

Regina Bauer Frankenberg Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Dutchess County, New York +10 more
Unspecified amount
The Regina B. Frankenberg Foundation Grant focuses on animal welfare, particularly in New York City and neighboring areas. It supports organizations that protect endangered species and reduce the homelessness of companion animals through various programs. Starting in 2025, the foundation will implement a closed application process for conservation grants, inviting only previous grantees with qualifying projects to apply. The foundation prioritizes public charities with operating budgets of $250,000 or more.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

BF Disaster Relief Grants

Banfield Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
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.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

PEDIGREE Foundation: Program Development Grants

PEDIGREE Foundation
Corporate
United States
US $10,000 - US $15,000
The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Petco Love Stories Grant Campaign

Petco Love
Corporate
United States
US $5,000 - US $100,000
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.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant

PEDIGREE Foundation
Corporate
United States
US $100,000
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.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

ECCF Community Grant- Field of Interest Funds

Eau Claire Community Foundation
Private
Chippewa County, Wisconsin, Eau Claire County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Eau Claire Community Foundation (ECCF) offers the ECCF Community Grant focusing on various areas including arts, education, environment, and social services. This grant aims to support programs that enhance community life, provide educational opportunities, and address essential needs for residents. Organizations located in the Eau Claire area or those demonstrating significant impact are encouraged to apply. The foundation prioritizes innovative proposals that foster collaboration and effectively respond to local needs.
Music Visual Arts Performing Arts +30 more

Grants 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 95 funding opportunities for animal rescue initiatives, with $1.9M available. Instrumentl offers nonprofits tailored tools for searching grants, tracking deadlines, and accessing funder insights to support animal welfare efforts.

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.

95 Grants for Animal Rescue grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

26 Grants for Animal Rescue over $25K in average grant size

15 Grants for Animal Rescue over $50K in average grant size

33 Grants for Animal Rescue supporting general operating expenses

79 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
27.6%
Q2
24.0%
Q3
29.0%
Q4
19.5%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for Animal Rescue?

Grants are most commonly $10,000.

$25 $25 Min.
$10,000 $10 K Median
$29,481 $29.5 K Average
$300,000 $300 K Max.

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 29.0% 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 $300,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $10,000, while the average grant awarded is $29,481. 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.