Needy Paws is a 100% foster-based, volunteer-run rescue serving St. Louis and rural Missouri. We take in dogs who are at risk in high-kill shelters, strays, and owner-surrenders, regardless of breed, size, or medical needs. We frequently pull dogs from local municipal shelters, especially those struggling in the shelter environment or requiring extensive veterinary care. A donation to Needy Paws is a donation that directly supports both our rescue dogs and our local shelter partners.

Since our founding in 2014, Needy Paws has saved nearly 8,000 dogs. In 2025 so far, our vet bills have totaled over $207,000, and the need has never been greater. This Giving Tuesday, your support helps us say "yes" to dogs who require costly medical treatment before adoption and ensures every dog receives routine vaccinations, spay/neuter, heartworm preventative, and microchipping. Your generosity also helps us provide food, crates, and supplies to keep dogs comfortable in their foster homes while they wait for their forever families!

Matching Gifts: Double Your Impact!

Thanks to generous sponsors, the first $4,250 in donations will be matched dollar-for-dollar by:

Your gift today goes even further and helps us reach our $8,500 Giving Tuesday goal faster!

Other Exciting Initiatives:

Rural Missouri Spay/Neuter Program

In 2025, we have completed 26 spay/neuter procedures in underserved rural communities at no cost to pet owners. Our goal is to complete 100 procedures in 2026, reducing unwanted litters and improving overall animal welfare in high-need areas.

Puppies for Parole Program (Bonne Terre & Potosi)

To date, 78 of our dogs have completed 12-week prison training programs through Puppies for Parole, preparing them for success in adoptive homes. 70 of these dogs have already been adopted into loving families!

Commitment to Transparency

Needy Paws holds the Candid Platinum Transparency Seal, the highest recognition offered by Guidestar.org, reflecting our dedication to ethical, transparent, and impactful rescue work.

https://www.needypaws.org/

Needy Paws Giving Tuesday 2025

Help us unlock our matching donations and save more dogs in 2026!

Team Members