Illinois

Dogs for Adoption in Marissa, IL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home

Pearl, up for adoption near Marissa, IL

187 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 13 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Marissa. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of Marissa, 29 puppies, 56 young dogs, 95 adults and 6 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever and Terrier, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.

1. Pearl

Adult (2 years 6 months) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-226.

Pearl is a 2-year-old Terrier mix weighing in at a perfectly portable 28 pounds. She's rocking the short-leg look and has a happy-go-lucky personality that is absolutely contagious!

This girl is all about enjoying life, making friends, and spreading smiles wherever those little legs take her.

If you're looking for a best friend with a big heart, a fun personality, and absolutely no shortage of charm, Pearl might just be your girl!

✨ 2 years old
✨ Terrier mix
✨ 28 pounds
✨ Adorably short legs
✨ Happy-go-lucky personality

Pearl is ready to trade shelter life for a couch, a family, and a lifetime of adventures!

Read more about Pearl

Don't let those short legs fool you — Pearl has a HUGE amount of love to give! ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pearl fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Oct 26

2. Xela

Young (11 months) · Female · Australian Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-211

❤️ Meet Xela ❤️

Sometimes the dogs who need us the most are the ones who just need someone to show them that the world can be a pretty wonderful place. Xela is one of those girls.

Xela is around 1 year old and 28 pounds, and she is said to be an Aussie mix. She came to us from animal control after being signed over because there were simply too many dogs and the living conditions were not what any dog should have to experience.

Because of her past, Xela can be a little nervous when she first meets you. But once she starts to feel safe, you get to see the fun, playful girl underneath that initial shyness. ❤️

Read more about Xela

Xela gets along with other dogs, cats, and children, and she is currently learning all the things a young pup needs to know — leash skills, potty training, and basic commands. She may not have had the easiest start, but she's ready to learn, grow, and finally have the life she deserves.

And when Xela decides it's time to have fun… WATCH OUT! She loves to run and play and gets the most adorable zoomies. One minute she's being a little shy, and the next she's flying around like she just discovered she has four legs and absolutely no speed limit!

What Xela needs most is a patient family who will give her time to settle in, build her confidence, and show her what it feels like to be loved and safe.

She didn't get the start she deserved, but her story doesn't have to end there.

Xela is ready for the next chapter — one filled with a soft bed, a loving family, plenty of playtime, and someone who will promise her that she is finally home. ❤️

She may need a little time to trust you, but once she does, you'll have a goofy, playful girl who will be worth every second.

Will be available after her spay on October 26th, 2026

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Xela fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Oct 5

3. Tickles

Young (6 months) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Poodle (Standard) / Mixed (short coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-206

Meet Tickles!

Apparently, when Giggles was born, someone thought, “You know what this family needs? MORE CHAOS!” And along came her sister, Tickles!

Tickles is a 7-month-old, 34-pound black and white merle girl with a smooth coat and a personality that is every bit as entertaining as her name suggests. We’re not exactly sure what breed mix she is — possibly some kind of doodle-ish mystery mix — but we do know she is 100% adorable and 100% fun!

Read more about Tickles

Tickles is a social little sweetheart who gets along with other dogs, cats, and kids. She absolutely LOVES attention and would be perfectly happy being the center of your universe. If you're sitting down, she's probably wondering why she isn't sitting with you. If you're petting her, she's wondering why you ever stopped. And if you're not paying attention to her… well, she may simply have to fix that.

Like her sister, Tickles is still working on her potty training and leash skills. She also hasn't quite mastered the concept that greetings don't require all four feet to leave the ground. Yep… she's still a jumper! But she's young, eager to learn, and ready for a family willing to help her become the best version of herself.

Tickles is playful, affectionate, goofy, and just the right amount of ridiculous. She's looking for a forever family who will give her plenty of love, patience, training, and, most importantly, lots and lots of attention!

Come meet Tickles — because life is just more fun when you have a little Tickles in it! ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Tickles fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Sep 24

4. Scotch

Adult (5 years 1 month) · Male · French Bulldog / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-205

Meet Scotch!

They say Scotch gets better with age… and we're pretty sure that applies to this Scotch too!

Scotch is a 5-year-old, 30-pound neutered brindle male who may be a Frenchie/Terrorist mix — and honestly, that second part might explain a few things. He’s got the adorable squishy looks of a Frenchie with just enough terrier attitude to make sure everyone knows he has OPINIONS.

Scotch is a fun-loving guy who LOVES to play and absolutely LOVES attention. He knows his basic commands, walks nicely on a leash, and keeps his kennel clean — so clearly he has some manners… he just likes to save a few of them for special occasions.

Read more about Scotch

When it comes to roommates, Scotch is a little particular. He's great with female dogs, but he's selective about his male canine friends. Cats? Absolutely afraid of them. Scotch doesn't want to chase them, play with them, or even make eye contact with them. In his mind, cats are simply a hard NOPE.

Because Scotch is a confident little dude with a strong personality, he would do best with older, respectful children who understand that dogs have boundaries and know how to interact with them appropriately.

If you're looking for a dog who will make you laugh, keep you entertained, shower you with attention, and occasionally remind you that he has his own rules, Scotch might just be your guy!

He's got the brindle stripes, the personality, the charm, and just enough terrorist attitude to keep life interesting. ❤️

Come meet Scotch — he's ready to find someone who appreciates a little spice with their snuggles!

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Scotch fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Sep 24

5. Carl Dean

Young (9 months) · Male · Boston Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-186

CARL DEAN – LOOKING FOR HIS FOREVER BACKSTAGE CREW!

Meet Carl Dean, a 8-month-old Boston Terrier mix… we think. His DNA apparently decided to keep a few secrets. He weighs around 23 pounds and is basically a professional lap warmer and cuddle enthusiast.

Carl Dean is the kind of guy who may look at you at first and think, “Ummm… I don't know about this.” Give him a few minutes, though, and he'll decide you're pretty awesome. ❤️ He's a little shy when meeting new people and just needs some time to warm up and feel comfortable.

Once he knows you're safe? GAME OVER. He's climbing into your lap for snuggles!

Read more about Carl Dean

Carl Dean:
Loves to snuggle
Loves his toys
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
Good with kids
Doing GREAT with his potty training
♂️ Working on leash training — a harness is definitely his preferred fashion accessory!

This sweet boy is looking for a family who understands that sometimes the biggest thing a puppy needs isn't more training… it's a little emotional support and someone willing to tell him, “You've got this, buddy.” ❤️

Carl Dean would love a patient family who will give him time to build confidence, plenty of reassurance, lots of lap time, and of course, a ridiculous number of toys.

He's sweet, cuddly, playful, and just waiting for someone to become his person.

Carl Dean is ready to find the family that will make him feel safe, loved, and like the superstar he already thinks he is. ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Carl Dean fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Aug 26

6. Dolly

Young (9 months) · Female · Boston Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-187

DOLLY – THE PERFECT BLEND OF SWEET & SPICY!

If Carl Dean and Jolene had a sister who decided to take the best parts of both personalities, you'd get Dolly!

Dolly is a 8-month-old Boston Terrier mix… we think—because apparently this family likes to keep us guessing! She’s around 22 pounds and has the perfect combination of snuggly sweetheart and curious little adventurer.

She may not be quite as shy as Carl Dean or quite as adventurous as Jolene. Dolly is more of a “let me check things out first, then I'll decide if I want to climb into your lap” kind of girl. ❤️

Read more about Dolly

Dolly is:
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
Good with kids
Loves toys
Loves attention and cuddles
Doing well with potty training
♀️ Working on leash training — and a harness is definitely more her style!

She's still a puppy and has plenty to learn, but Dolly is smart, playful, affectionate, and ready to experience all the good stuff life has to offer.

She's got enough adventure in her to keep things interesting and enough snuggle in her to make sure you always have a furry little buddy to curl up with afterward.

Basically, Dolly is the Goldilocks of her siblings—not too shy, not too wild… just the right amount of puppy chaos!

Dolly doesn't need much—just a loving family, some toys, a few adventures, a comfy lap, and someone willing to accept that their personal space is officially no longer personal. ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Dolly fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Aug 26

7. O'Reilly

Young (1 year) · Male · Feist / Mixed (short coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

2026171

Meet O'Reilly!

Looking for a sweet boy with a little puppy energy and a softer side? Meet O'Reilly! This handsome 10-month-old, 34-pound neutered male may be a Mountain Feist mix, and he’s ready to find someone who will help him blossom into the amazing dog we know he can be. ❤️

O'Reilly is a little more on the shy side, so he may need some time to feel comfortable and show you his true personality. Once he warms up, he’s a fun-loving young pup who enjoys being around his people. He also does well with other dogs, which can help give him a little extra confidence.

Read more about O'Reilly

Like any young dog, O'Reilly is still working on his potty training and leash skills, so his new family will need to be patient and willing to keep working with him. He has plenty of energy and would love a family ready for walks, playtime, and lots of positive encouragement.

10 months old
34 lbs
Neutered male
Possible Mountain Feist mix
Good with other dogs
Not good with cats
A little shy at first
Lots of puppy energy
Working on potty & leash training

O'Reilly may not be the first dog to run up and introduce himself, but give this sweet boy a little time and patience, and you just might earn yourself a loyal best friend for life.

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt O'Reilly fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Aug 7

8. Napa

Young (1 year) · Male · Feist / Mixed (short coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

2026172

Meet Napa!

Say hello to Napa, a handsome 10-month-old, 38-pound neutered boy who may be a Mountain Feist mix—and boy, does he have some pep in his step!

Napa is a fun-loving, energetic young guy who would love an active family ready to keep him busy and help him learn all the important grown-up dog skills. He gets along well with other dogs and would make a great playmate. ❤️

He’s still working on his potty training and leash manners, so his new family will need to be patient and willing to continue his training. He’s young, smart, and ready to learn!

Read more about Napa

10 months old
38 lbs
Neutered male
Possible Mountain Feist mix
Good with other dogs
Not good with cats
HIGH energy
Working on potty & leash training

Napa is ready to find a home where his energy, goofy personality, and puppy antics will be appreciated. If you're looking for a fun adventure buddy who will keep you on your toes, Napa might just be your guy!

Come meet Napa and let him add a little excitement to your life! ❤️

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Napa fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Aug 7

9. Diva

Young (1 year) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 19 mi from Marissa

D2026-169

Meet Diva!

Diva is looking for her forever person!

At just 11 months old and 48 pounds, Diva is a beautiful German Shepherd/Husky mix with a BIG heart and a personality to match her name!

Diva is an incredibly smart, loving, and highly trainable girl. She is what we lovingly call a Velcro dog—if you're moving, she wants to know where you're going! She absolutely loves being glued to your side and soaking up attention from her favorite person.

Read more about Diva

Diva does have some anxieties, so she needs someone who understands that she may need time, patience, consistency, and training while she learns what it means to live in a home. She previously lived outside, so she is not potty trained yet and will need someone willing to teach her the basics of being a house dog.

A few things to know about Diva:

Learning how to play and interact with other dogs — she needs time to adjust and someone willing to work with her.

Not cat friendly

Not potty trained yet

Very smart and highly trainable

❤️ Extremely loving and affectionate

Total Velcro girl who wants to be by your side

Needs someone committed to helping her build confidence and learn

Diva isn't looking for someone who expects her to be perfect on day one. She's looking for someone who will give her a chance, put in the work, and let her blossom at her own pace. With the right person, this gorgeous girl has the potential to be an amazing companion. ❤️

If you're looking for a loyal best friend who will happily follow you everywhere, Diva may be your girl!

  • No cats
Adopt Diva fromRandolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · listed Aug 5

10. Tango

Adult · Male · Boxer / Pit Bull Terrier · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Tango is a 3‑year‑old Boxer/Pit Bull mix who came to us from a crowded shelter’s euthanasia list. He’s a tall, lean goofball with big boxer energy, very food motivated, and loves people. He’s best buddies with other playful dogs like Linus, but he’s still learning manners and impulse control, so he’ll need a home that can handle his enthusiasm and keep working on his training. Free training is included with your adoption. Fee is $150 What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Tango fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

11. Sweetie

Adult · Female · Beagle / Pit Bull Terrier · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Sweetie is an incredibly affectionate, intelligent, and loyal dog. She loves being close to her people, enjoys cuddling, and settles down nicely in the evenings. Through her training, she has learned a great deal and is kennel trained (and is so quiet in her kennel, you may forget she's in there!), she is fully house trained, and is familiar with commands such as sit, heel, climb, bed (kennel), and does well with loose-leash walking, and several other obedience skills. One thing the trainer has consistently emphasized is just how intelligent and capable Sweetie is.

Read more about Sweetie

In fact, he recently described her as "a dog trainer's dream" and said Sweetie could be great at doing a job, or sport, like agility or dock jumping. She has energy and a vertical leap you wouldn't believe. She genuinely enjoys learning, responds best to structure, and seems happiest when she is being challenged and given opportunities to work, train, and engage with her handler. We believe she would thrive with an adopter who enjoys training dogs and would continue building on the strong foundation she already has. She's happy and... well... sweet. Sweetie gets along best with male dogs. Her adoption fee is $150. She is in a foster home, so contact us for a meet and greet. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Sweetie fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

12. Macho Man

Young · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Boxer · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Macho Man is a 2-year-old pit bull mix who is full of energy and love. He enjoys playing tug, going for a long sniffy walk and cuddling on the couch with a bone. Macho was rescued as a stray, so we don't know much about his history. Here's what we do know: he is a little afraid during thunderstorms, but he just needs to cuddle up on the couch and have something good to chew on. He seems uncertain about other dogs; he's not overtly aggressive or scared, just showing us mixed signals. We are continuing to socialize with control until we find the personality type that opens him up more.

Read more about Macho Man

We think he could have a house mate if they had the right personality for him. Macho has begun obedience training and knows sit, down, climb, come and we're currently working on heel. He does require exercise during the day but knows how to chill out in the evening and relax. Macho would be a great fit for a semi active household. He has not been cat tested. Older children who are appropriate with dogs would be best for him. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • House-trained
Adopt Macho Man fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

13. Linus

Adult · Male · Pit Bull Terrier · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Linus is about 2-years-old and 45 lbs. Up to date on everything. He is a very good boy and very smart and best of all --- HE LOVE LOVE LOVES OTHER DOGS!!!! He NEEDS to be in a home with other dogs that he can play with. Linus was found locked in a crate in an abandoned home. Poor boy was skin and bones, covered in urine and feces. He has made a full recovery, but with that kind of trauma comes trust issues. Linus does NOT like people greeting him. He needs people to give him space, feed him some treats and build trust first.

Read more about Linus

It only takes 15 minutes and the new person is now his new best friend. The report from the shelter: Like the gentle, kindhearted Peanuts character he’s named after, Linus is thoughtful, sensitive, and truly good at heart — he just needs someone to believe in him. ✨ Linus’ Best Qualities (because there are so many): • Walks nicely on a leash — thoughtful, not chaotic • Gentle treat taker — soft soul, soft mouth • Moderate energy — not a wild Charlie Brown football scene • Very dog-friendly — he LOVES dog friends and they help him feel brave 🏠 Linus is searching for: A home that can offer patience, consistency, love, and guidance. Somewhere he can exhale, settle, and remember that the world can be kind. If you’ve ever loved an underdog… If you’ve ever believed in second chances… If you’ve ever cheered for Charlie Brown when the world seemed unfair… FREE TRAINING IS INCLUDED for any foster or adopter. For questions, please reach out at rescuers@spencerpetrescue.info or fill out our application at spencerpetrescue.info/application. His fee is $150 What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Linus fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

14. Dart

Adult · Male · Pit Bull Terrier · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Energetic and playful pup, Dart thrives when he's running around with his best doggie pals! Cat history is unknown. He could be okay around kids with proper boundaries and training. He loves going for trips to the park and to the LAKE!!! Dart loves to swim and fetch his ball out of the lake. He does great with recall on his long line and has proven to be a reliable and friendly boy. He is crate-trained, house-trained, loves being out with people. Spencer provides continued training support for all of our dogs. Contact us to arrange a meet and greet - rescuers@spencerpetrescue.info. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Dart fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

15. Darla

Adult · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed · 26 mi from Marissa

What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Meet the adorable little rascal whose nickname is Sweet Girl! ❤️ With her soulful eyes, this precious pup is as cute as a button and will charm her way straight into your heart. 💖 She’s devoted to her people and is always ready to tag along for adventures—indoor or outdoor. FOMO? Oh, she has it in spades! Darla is quite the little road trip enthusiast, sitting patiently in her seat or crate, ready for whatever journey lies ahead. 🚗🚙 When it comes to potty time, no problem! This gal is housebroken and crate-trained, making her a wonderful companion for those cozy nights.

Read more about Darla

In fact, she’s a master at snoring too—sometimes soft, sometimes the kind that makes you giggle! 💤 Being bright and eager to learn, Darla shows off her skills with basic commands and will do just about anything for a tasty treat. 🍖 Just teach her and watch the magic happen! However, if you have a feline friend, you might want to reconsider, as she just can’t resist chasing them! So a cat-free home is likely the best fit. On the flip side, Darla is a loving social butterfly when it comes to other dogs. She gets along splendidly with her foster sister—an energetic 2-year-old pittie mix—and even with her grumpy old foster brother, a 13-year-old terrier mix. 🐾 Watch out, though! When wrestling with her sister, she loves to be vocal; her playful spirit truly shines during those moments of fun! Now, let’s talk about her fierce and protective streak—she's got your back! But keep in mind, she may be a little skeptical of strangers initially. However, win her over with patience and repeat visits, and she’ll warm up like the sun! ☀️ It’s important to note that Darla's tough beginnings included a rough past; she was found tied to a pole in a foot of water and had some serious injuries. Fortunately, she has since undergone surgery and is now thriving in a safe environment. ❤️ Isn’t Darla just the shining diamond in need of a forever home? She’s housebroken, crate-trained, and a wonderful companion with other dogs, but she does come with a ‘no cats’ policy and a little ‘stranger danger’ warning. 🦸‍♂️ Looking for a loving, loyal friend? Sweet Girl is ready to lavish her love upon you! If she’s tugging at your heartstrings, better make a move and apply through the Buddy App right now to bring this sweetheart into your life! What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Darla fromSpencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · listed Jul 22

16. Jax

Young · American Pit Bull Terrier / Chocolate Labrador Retriever (short coat) · 33 mi from Marissa

Jax is a sweet sweet boy who refuses to be left alone without a debate. He loves people and is has been diagnosed as a stage 15 clinger.

17. Jojo

Young · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Marissa

JoJo is a sweet young man with a deep old man bark, honestly he sounds like a 4 pack a day smoker lol. JoJo loves his toys, and enjoys a good scratch on his bum!

  • No cats

18. Frankie

Young · Female · Husky (short coat) · 33 mi from Marissa

This playful girl with the gorgeous eyes is Frankie! With her eye color and love of yodeling Frankie is most definitely part husky, but I'm super curious what else is lurking in there! Frankie has the best personality; she loves people, loves other dogs, she's active but also sooo cuddly. Come meet Frankie during our open hours on Saturdays and Sunday from 2-4PM!!

19. Athena

Adult · Female · English Mastiff (short coat) · 33 mi from Marissa

. Athena is everything a mastiff is supposed to be; Large, sweet, slow, and large.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained

20. Greyson

Adult · Male · American Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Marissa

This sweet man has an underbite, upturned nose, and the most relaxed personality you can ask for. Greyson is a giant heart wrapped in a big old pittie body. His only flaw is that he thinks cats are snacks.

  • No cats
  • House-trained

Rescues and shelters near Marissa

The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Marissa.

  • Needy Paws RescueSt. Louis, MO · 38 dogs · 34 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Needy Paws Rescue

    Adopters will complete an adoption application which is sent to the dog's foster parent. Their personal and veterinarian references will be checked, a home visit conducted, and then the foster parent will set up a meeting where the adopters will meet the dog. If the adoption is approved, the adopter will then complete an Adoption Contract and the dog is theirs! Adoption fees are $275 for most dogs.

  • Animal Protective Association of MissouriSt. Louis, MO · 29 dogs · 40 mi from Marissa
  • Humane Society of MissouriSt Louis, MO · 27 dogs · 38 mi from Marissa
  • Humane Society of Missouri - Maryland HeightsMaryland, MO · 20 dogs · 50 mi from Marissa
  • St. Clair County Animal Adoption CenterBelleville, IL · 13 dogs · 24 mi from Marissa
  • Spencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · 11 dogs · 26 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Spencer Pet Rescue

    Multiple meet and greets are conducted to help ensure that the dog is a good fit for the family. Adopters first fill out the foster application to complete a 2-week trial, and then complete the adoption application and pay the fee. Adoption fees are generally $150, but can vary depending on age and working dog program. We conduct home visits and call the vet for current pet records. All current pets must be up-to-date.

  • Randolph County Humane SocietySteeleville, IL · 10 dogs · 19 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Randolph County Humane Society

    Background Check, Vet Refer.& Adoption Contract, & Adoption Fees

  • Perry County Humane Society of IllinoisDuQuoin, IL · 10 dogs · 33 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Perry County Humane Society of Illinois

    Applicants must apply and pass a thorough screening process, which includes vet and personal reference checks. They must sign contracts and pay an adoption fee.

  • Advocates 4 Animals Pet Food PantryHillsboro, MO · 9 dogs · 44 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Advocates 4 Animals Pet Food Pantry

    Applications are submitted online, vet and personal reference checks. Meet and greet are scheduled with the potential adopter, if all goes as planned a home visit is performed and a trail adoption period of seven days is provided for both dog and family to ensure its a match. The adoption fees are $300 for a puppy that includes all three rounds of puppy shots, spay/neuter, mirchochip, rabies and three months of heartworm preventative. For adults over 2-years the adoption fee is $250 and includes all shots, rabies, microchip, spay/neuter and 3-months heartworm preventative.

  • Come Bye Border Collie RescueHighland, IL · 8 dogs · 36 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Come Bye Border Collie Rescue

    Adoption process includes completing an application, having personal references checked, vet checks and home visit by one of our volunteers. Your application and backup information is then presented to the Board/Committee for review. Once your application has been approved, you may then schedule a meeting with the dog(s) in which you are interested. The foster home has the final approval on the adoption of his or her dog.

  • 4 Paws 4 RescueFenton, MO · 6 dogs · 41 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from 4 Paws 4 Rescue

    $250 to cover up to date vaccinations, 4DX, spay/neuter and microchip.

  • Camp Chaos Puppy RescueImperial, MO · 4 dogs · 37 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Camp Chaos Puppy Rescue

    Adoption events are held on Saturdays. We ask people to come and fall in love. At the event potential adopters fill out an application and our adoption contract. We review the application and pick the best home for the dog. Our adoption fee is $280 and is due at the time of completing the adoption. Some of our dogs do require home visits.

  • Country Acres RescueManchester, MO · 2 dogs · 49 mi from Marissa
    How to adopt from Country Acres Rescue

    Adoption Questionare, personal meeting/interview. Once approved we have a contract they sign and a packet of information they are given, along with food. Adoption fees-Dogs $200; Puppies $250; Cats $100; Kittens $150 Includes all the following applicable: Spay/Neuter Microchip 1st shots (FVRCP or DHLPP) Bordetella (for dogs) Heartworm Test (for dogs 6 months or older) Felv/Fiv Test (for cats) General worming Flea treatment/Prevention Heartworm protection Free bag of Science Diet food Free office visit(at the vet they have been seen by) 30 day free pet health insurance

Adopting a dog in Marissa

Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.

Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.

Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.

Questions about adopting a dog in Marissa

How many dogs are up for adoption in Marissa?

As of November 4, 2026, 187 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Marissa, Illinois, by 13 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a dog in Marissa?

The rescues with the most dogs near Marissa right now are Needy Paws Rescue (St. Louis, MO), Animal Protective Association of Missouri (St. Louis, MO) and Humane Society of Missouri (St Louis, MO). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there puppies for adoption in Marissa?

Yes. 29 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Marissa.

How do I adopt a dog in Marissa?

Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.