10 Best Maltese Rescues in the United States!

Here’s what you should know if you’re searching for the best Maltese rescues in the United States. Given that Maltese is one of the 20 most popular dog breeds in the United States of America, it’s surprising that there are numerous Maltese rescues in the United States.

Although people love to adopt Maltese dogs, many surrender them to rescue organizations because they cannot find time for their pets, can’t afford to have a pet, don’t have the experience or temperament to deal with problematic dog behavior, or they’re facing a housing problem.

In some cases, rescues receive Maltese dogs from local animal shelters that are running out of space and rescues from unethical breeders and puppy mills. No matter how Maltese ends up at their facility, Maltese rescue organizations work tirelessly to ensure that these small dogs are rehabilitated and rehomed.

And while you might think it’s a little unfair to the dogs, this is great news for potential adopters and the breed. A higher number of breed-specific rescues means that abandoned and surrendered Maltese dogs are being taken care of.

Moreover, there is an increased demand for these lovable dogs, so there are more chances to place them in suitable homes. This article will help you find the best Maltese rescues based on your location and other important factors to consider when adopting a pet. Read on to learn more about how you can adopt one of these sweethearts.

Before you scroll down this list of Maltese rescues in the United States, you can check out these other dog rescue shelter recommendations from our team at We Love Doodles: Best Wheaten Terrier Rescues in the United States and Best Whippet Rescues in the United States.

Find a Maltese Rescue Shelter Near Me in the United States

Our team at We Love Doodles created this list of the best Maltese rescues in the United States to help you with your search.

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1. Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue – Tennessee

Perfect for residents of Tennessee and nearby states, Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue is a nonprofit rescue that primarily rescues and rehabilitates Maltese that are left in shelters, abandoned, or surrendered. However, they also rescue other toy dog breeds if they have space.

If you want to adopt a dog from Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue, you can head to their website and fill out an application. After getting your application, the rescue will proceed with a reference check, vet check, and home visit. In addition, you will have to pay an adoption fee which can vary according to the dog’s age.

While adopting from Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue, you can be sure of one thing; your dog will be happy and healthy. Most of the dogs that come to this rescue have traumatic pasts. But the rescue places them in foster homes where they receive love, care, socialization training, and behavioral correction if required.

In addition, all dogs in their care are vaccinated, dewormed, tested for heartworms, and receive dental and other necessary medical procedures before adoption. The rescue also spays or neuters the dogs before putting them up for adoption.

The rescue will provide as much history about the pet as they know and its current physical and mental health. They will not hide any information and will prepare you that even though the dogs have been rehabilitated, some may still face certain issues.

Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue loves and cares for its dogs like its pets, so they have adopted policies that help them ensure the dogs go to the right homes. The rescue does not give their dogs to families with children under ten years old. However, an exception can be made on a case-by-case basis.

Secondly, the rescue also prefers homes with fences as it gives the dogs a safe space to play in the yard. But, they do not allow adopters with electric fencing to adopt their dogs as it can be fatal. Finally, Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue only allows out-of-state adoptions if you are willing to transport the dog, as they do not ship dogs.

Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue Details

• Location/Address: PO Box 2005, Chattanooga, Tennessee
• Phone Number: (423) 443-4082
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue
• Socials: Facebook and Instagram

2. Metropolitan Maltese Rescue – Tristate Area

Metropolitan Maltese Rescue is a charitable organization that rescues Maltese and Maltese mixes and helps them find homes forever. The rescue was established in 1998 and had decades of experience rescuing and rehoming Maltese.

It is run with the help of volunteers that are spread all over New York City and surrounding suburbs. One of the best things about this shelter is its active role in the no-kill community. They believe every animal deserves a second chance and no dog should be euthanized, no matter the reason.

Every dog at Metropolitan Maltese Rescue receives training, medical attention, love, and care. The rescue only gives their dogs to people living in New Jersey, New York, or Connecticut. In addition, they do not let families with children under ten years old adopt their dogs, as the Maltese are a fragile breed.

They pride themselves on matching each dog to a suitable family rather than the first come, first serve model used by most rescues. After you apply, the rescue will contact you to learn about your lifestyle, family structure, history with pets, health condition of pets, and other information to ensure a lasting match.

Their adoption fees are as follows:

• Dogs 2 years and younger: $500
• Dogs between 3 to 5 years: $400
• Dogs 6 years and older: $300

They get numerous applications for each dog, so you may have to wait a while. Apply to adopt today to get the early bird advantage.

Metropolitan Maltese Rescue Details

• Location/Address: PO Box 20721, New York
• Phone Number: (646) 926-7165
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Metropolitan Maltese Rescue
• Socials: Facebook and Instagram

3. Florida Yorkie Rescue – Florida

Florida Yorkie Rescue is next on the list of pet rescues in the United States. This not-for-profit organization aims to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome Yorkies, Morkies, and Maltese dogs under 12 pounds. The rescue also helps spread awareness regarding the importance of spaying/neutering and responsible pet ownership.

The rescue operates with the help of volunteers that not only help rescue these dogs but also open up their homes to foster them. The dogs also receive obedience training and socialization to help them get ready for their new permanent homes. The dogs are spayed/neutered and receive any other medical attention required to nurse them back to health.

Their adoption process includes an application, an interview, a reference check, and a house visit. The rescue does not give their dogs to homes outside of Florida, nor do they ship the dogs. In addition, a house visit can only be conducted if a volunteer lives close to you.

So, your application may not be processed if conducting a house visit is not possible. If your application is accepted, you’ll be required to pay an adoption fee before finalizing the adoption process. The adoption charges can range from $100 to $600.

Florida Maltese rescue does not give its dogs to households with pets or children under 12 years old. This is because the rescue does not know the complete past of every dog, and so they cannot guarantee whether a dog will be friendly with kids or not. It is also necessary to remember that you should be at least 24 years old to adopt a dog from this rescue.

Florida Yorkie Rescue Details

• Location/Address: 2740 SW Martin Downs Blvd, #205, Palm City, Florida
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Florida Yorkie Rescue
• Socials: Facebook and Instagram

4. Maltese Rescue of OKC – Oklahoma

Next on the list of puppy rescues in the United States is Maltese Rescue of the OKC. Based in Oklahoma, this rescue has been rescuing and rehoming Maltese and other small canines for years. They are a no-kill rescue that helps every dog find the perfect loving home. All dogs that arrive at Maltese Rescue of OKC are spayed or neutered to control pet overpopulation.

The puppies also receive the medical care they may require before they are put up for adoption. Although Maltese Rescue of OKC does not have an official website, they have a page on Petfinder. Here, you can learn more about the rescue and also see their listed dogs. If you are interested in adopting, you can start the process by emailing Karolyn Lee, the rescue founder.

Maltese Rescue of OKC Details

• Location/Address: PO Box 42471, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Phone Number: (405) 919-2239
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Maltese Rescue of OKC

5. Maltese Rescue California – California

This 501(c)(3) nonprofit rescue aims to rescue and rehabilitate unwanted, neglected, abandoned, abused Maltese, and other small-breed dogs. The rescue also accepts dog surrenders from owners who cannot care for their dogs for any reason.

To adopt a Maltese from Maltese Rescue California, visit their website and learn about all the dogs available for adoption. Submit the online adoption application as soon as you find your perfect match. But if you cannot figure out which dog is right for you, don’t worry.

This rescue’s adoption specialists love matchmaking and will be ready to help you out. After your application is received, it will be forwarded to the Adoptions Coordinator. Then, you will be contacted for a telephone interview.

The Adoption Coordinator will discuss further details regarding the dog and mention any issues the dog might have during the interview. You can also ask any questions you might have.

The rescue might also schedule a home visit to ensure that you can provide a safe living environment for the dog. A meet and greet will be scheduled if your application is approved. Here, you can meet your future best friend and make final decisions.

If everything goes well, you’ll be ready to take your new puppy home after paying the adoption charges. They also have a straightforward dog surrender process; if you cannot keep your beloved Maltese for any reason, you can surrender it to us.

The rescue understands that it is emotional for most pet owners to let go of their dogs, but you can rest assured that your dog will be in capable hands at Maltese Rescue California. You can begin the surrender process by filling out the ownership release agreement.

Maltese Rescue California Details

• Location/Address: Escondido, California
• Phone Number: (760) 315-8770
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Maltese Rescue California
• Socials: Maltese Rescue California’s Facebook

6. Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue – Texas

Next on the list of pet rescues in the United States is Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Maltese and other small dog breeds that have been abandoned or surrendered. The rescue is run entirely by volunteers. These volunteers not only help in running the rescue but also act as fosters for the dogs.

So, the dogs receive the affection and care they deserve while they wait for their forever home. Every dog that arrives at Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue is spayed or neutered. The dogs are also vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped, heartworm tested, and receive any other dental or medical procedures they may need.

So you can be sure that the dog you adopt will be healthy. Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue does not adopt their dogs on a first-come, first-served basis as it can prevent the dog from going to the right home. So, the rescue has a thorough adoption process that helps them find the perfect match for their precious dogs.

The adoption process starts by filling out and submitting an online application. This is followed by a phone interview, reference, and vet checks. A volunteer from the rescue will also visit your home to ensure that your home offers a suitable environment for keeping Maltese.

It is also necessary to remember that you must be a resident of the Austin Metro Area, have a fenced yard, and be of at least 21 years old to adopt a dog from Lil’ Paws. After your application is approved, you can take the dog home for a trial period of one week.

The adoption charges will be collected at the start of this trial period. If the trial period goes smoothly, the adoption process will be finalized. You will receive the dog’s medical files, some coupons, and gift certificates. You can also attend their adoption events on the first Saturday every month from 12 pm to 2 pm at Pet Supplies Plus in Austin, Texas.

Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue Details

• Location/Address: PO Box 201192, Austin, Texas
• Phone Number: (512) 853-2575
• Website: Lil’ Paws Maltese Rescue

7. Tiny Paws Rescue – New Jersey & Pennsylvania

Tiny Paws Rescue is another nonprofit, volunteer-based organization. They do not have a central facility, as all their rescues live in foster homes until they are adopted into their permanent homes. Tiny Paws rescues and rehomes small breed dogs, including Maltese.

They also operate in Central and Southern New Jersey, Bucks, Chester, Montgomery, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties. Tiny Paws rescues dogs that have been dumped in shelters, where they may face the threat of euthanasia due to overpopulation. They also take in dogs that their owners surrender due to difficult situations.

The rescue ensures that any dog you adopt is healthy and disease-free. So, the dogs are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms before they are put up for adoption. You can visit their website to learn more about the dogs available for adoption.

You can apply for adoption online if you find a suitable match. The adoption process will also include a deed verification, which will help verify the owner of the house the dog will be adopted to. The rescue will also conduct a reference, vet check, and a Google search of all the adults living in the house.

A volunteer from the rescue will also conduct a home visit. This will help ensure that you offer a comfortable living environment and allow the volunteer to meet your current pets, if any. As this is a nonprofit organization, you must pay an adoption fee to complete the adoption process. This fee helps cover the medical costs of rehabilitating the rescue dogs.

Adoption charges are:

• $550 for dogs under one year old
• $450 for dogs that are 1 to 11 years old
• $350 for dogs that are older than 11 years

Tiny Paws Rescue Details

• Locations: New Jersey & Pennsylvania
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Tiny Paws
• Socials: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

8. American Maltese Association Rescue – Multiple States

American Maltese Association Rescue is a perfect choice if you are looking for puppy rescues in the United States with foster homes all over the nation. American Maltese Association Rescue is a nonprofit organization that rescues unlucky Maltese dogs and helps them find loving homes.

They rescue dogs from the streets, high-kill shelters, and puppy mills. When American Maltese Association Rescue rescues dogs, most are in terrible condition. They have infections, broken bones, and many other medical issues. However, the rescue provides all necessary medical treatment to help give the dogs a second chance at a beautiful life.

The dogs stay in foster homes where they receive training, love, and affection. At the same time, they are treated till they heal emotionally and physically. You can start the adoption process by filling out an application on the rescue’s website. Afterward, you will be contacted for a phone interview to discuss further details.

The rescue will also conduct a reference and vet check. Then, a volunteer will conduct a house visit. You will be ready to meet your future puppy if everything goes well. But don’t forget to take your whole family along, including pets, to see how everyone gets along.

If you feel like the puppy is the perfect match and the rescue concludes that you are the perfect applicant, you’ll be ready to take your furry friend home. You must then sign an adoption contract and pay an adoption fee; the puppy is all yours. The adoption fee can range from $325 to $625, depending on the dog’s age and health. It is important to remember that the rescue prefers to adopt in the same state as the foster home.

The rescue also does not adopt families with children under ten years old. The rescue has separate contact details for every state, as they have foster homes nationwide. So, you can visit their website to learn more about their contact details. If you do not find your state’s contact details, you can contact Edie Gobi or Gayle Lash.

American Maltese Association Rescue Details

• Phone Number: (707) 964-4592 (Edie Gobi), (707) 795-7759 (Gayle Lash)
• Email Address: [email protected] (Edie Gobi), [email protected] (Gayle Lash)
• Website: American Maltese Association Rescue
• Socials: American Maltese Association Rescue’s Facebook

9. Arizona Small Dog Rescue – Arizona

This is a Phoenix-based small dog breed nonprofit rescue. It was also named the Top-Rated Nonprofit by Great Nonprofits in 2020. The rescue is run with the help of dedicated volunteers and staff that help in every step of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming the dogs.

This no-kill dog rescue takes in surrenders, puppies, and small dog breeds and helps save dogs from high-kill and overcrowded shelters. The rescue helps these puppies in many ways. They rescue, adopt, foster, and microchip them. They also provide the required medical treatment to the dogs, no matter the cost.

To get the adoption process started, visit their website to see if the available Maltese dogs. You can find all the information you need in the dog’s bio. Once you’ve found a dog that speaks to your heart, submit the adoption application on the rescue’s website.

The rescue also charges an adoption fee as it helps them cover the cost of rehabilitating the rescue dogs. The rehabilitation fees include deworming, vaccinations, dental cleaning, spaying/neutering, and vet checkups. So, the overall adoption fee can range from $252 to $902.

Arizona Small Dog Rescue Details

• Location/Address: 1102 W Hatcher Rd, Phoenix, Arizona
• Phone Number: (602) 944-2440
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: Arizona Small Dog Rescue
• Socials: Instagram and Twitter

10. RetroDoggy Rescue – Michigan

Last on the list of Maltese rescues in the United States is RetroDoggy Rescue which was formerly known as PetRealtorz. This rescue is dedicated to rescuing small and toy breeds such as Maltese, Yorkies, and Poodles. They also assist other rescues in helping needy dogs.

Once a dog arrives at the rescue, they are thoroughly vetted, vaccinated, dewormed, and receives necessary medical treatment. The rescue also charges an adoption fee of a minimum of $175 to help cover the cost of rehabilitation. You will be required to pay a refundable deposit during the adoption process, which will be returned once it is complete.

Once the adoption process is complete, you can take the dog home, and a trial period will start. The trial period will help ensure that you and the dog are the right fit for each other. In addition, someone from the rescue will also conduct home visits during the trial period to ensure everything is working out smoothly.

RetroDoggy Rescue Details

• Location/Address: 1750 Lyka, Commerce Township, Michigan
• Phone Number: (248) 366-8674
• Email Address: [email protected]
• Website: RetroDoggy Rescue

Conclusion For The “Best Maltese Rescues in the United States”

The Maltese breed has many qualities that set it apart from other breeds. Not only do they have the looks, but also the intelligence needed to compete in dog sports and work as therapy dogs. And they make the perfect companions as well.

Still, many of these dogs end up abandoned or in shelters. But, several Maltese rescues in the United States work tirelessly to help these dogs find loving homes. You can adopt or surrender a Maltese at any of the rescues listed above without fear.

For more guides similar to this list of Maltese rescues in the United States, you can check out these other dog rescue shelter recommendations from our team:

• Best Maltese Rescues in Florida
• Best Maltese Rescues in Texas
• Best Maltese Rescues in California

Before you adopt a Maltese companion from a rescue shelter in the United States, you can learn more about this dog breed by watching “The Maltese Dog: Character, Care, and Health” down below: