Animal Rescue League of Iowa Inc.
Our Mission
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) is dedicated to protecting the welfare of animals, preserving the human-animal bond, and preventing the overpopulation of companion animals.
We believe in giving every animal we encounter a second chance at a happy, healthy life.
Our History and Community
Since our founding in 1926, we have grown to become Iowa’s largest nonprofit animal shelter, serving thousands of pets and people across the state each year.
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that remains entirely dependent on individual and corporate contributions to sustain our life-saving programs.
How We Care
At the ARL, we treat every animal as an individual, providing personalized treatment and rehabilitation plans tailored to their specific needs.
We operate without time limits, keeping animals in our care for as long as it takes to find them a loving home. When a shelter environment is not the best fit, our dedicated network of foster homes provides a temporary, comforting sanctuary for pets to recover and thrive.
Your Role in Our Journey
When you choose to adopt from the ARL, you are doing more than just welcoming a new family member into your home; you are actively supporting a mission that changes the lives of thousands of pets every year.
We are here to support you throughout the process, ensuring a thoughtful match that strengthens the bond between you and your new pet for a lifetime of joy.
Join Us Today
We invite you to experience the impact of adoption firsthand. Visit our website to browse our currently available pets or stop by one of our many locations across the Des Moines metro to meet your perfect companion.
Join the journey to transform the future for rescue animals by finding your new best friend today.
- Compassionate adoption staff
- Efficient rehoming support
- Communication breakdowns in veterinary services
6/24 - How you can spend a day with a shelter dog for free this June
DES MOINES, Iowa — The Animal Rescue League of Iowa’s “Dog’s Day Out” program is free in June. The program gives people the chance to give a rescue dog a field trip. Normally, participants pay a $…
6/23 - Keeping pets safe and calm during Fourth of July fireworks
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa offers tips to help keep your pets calm during Fourth of July fireworks and festivities.
5/14 - Iowa animal shelters seeing huge uptick as 'kitten season' ramps up
It's kitten season, and that means local animal shelters are seeing an influx of cats. Here's what experts say to do if you see a cat outside:
5/5 - ARL of Iowa to take in dozens of Ridglan Farms beagles
Ridglan Farms in Wisconsin agreed to sell 1,500 beagles to rescue groups, including the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Here's what to know.
5/4 - Animal Rescue League of Iowa prepares to take in beagles saved from Ridglan Farms
Ridglan Farms gave up its license to avoid potential felony animal mistreatment charges.
5/3 - Spock's Sanctuary sees community support after fire leaves reptiles homeless
A fire at Spock’s Reptile Sanctuary prompted heroic efforts by the community, saving 147 animals.
5/2 - Reptile rescue center faces tragedy as fire kills 20+ animals
DES MOINES, Iowa — Crews are working to recover after a fire sparked at Spock’s Sanctuary overnight, claiming the lives of more than 20 reptiles. Spock’s Sanctuary, located at 210…
5/2 - Animal Rescue League of Iowa to care for beagles rescued from Wisconsin facility
The Animal Rescue League of Iowa is preparing to take in rescued beagles bred for testing.
3/30 - Des Moines declares March 30 'Animal Rescue League of Iowa Day' to celebrate ARL's 100th year
Since its founding in 1926, the Iowa ARL has become the largest nonprofit animal shelter in the state, caring for more than 13,000 animals each year.
