ASPCA Dog Adoption: Programs, Nationwide Search and Tips

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is a national animal welfare organization. Most people know it for its advocacy and cruelty-prevention work, but its website is also a useful adoption resource, whether or not you live near one of its own programs.

Visit the ASPCA →

What the ASPCA offers adopters

There are two main ways the ASPCA can help:

• Direct adoption from ASPCA programs. When this guide was written, the ASPCA listed adoption programs in New York City (its Adoption Center), Pawling, New York, Asheville, North Carolina, and Columbus, Ohio, plus an entirely foster-based program in Los Angeles. Many of these dogs come from the ASPCA's rehabilitation and cruelty recovery work.
• A nationwide search. The ASPCA site includes a search of adoptable dogs held by shelters and rescue groups around the country. These dogs are not in ASPCA care; you adopt from the local organization listed.

How to use it step by step

1. Decide which route fits you. If you live near an ASPCA program, check its available dogs. Otherwise, use the nationwide search or the shelter-finding page.
2. Search by ZIP code. Enter your ZIP code in the adoptable dogs search to see dogs at nearby shelters and rescues.
3. Apply for an ASPCA dog. For ASPCA-run adoptions, complete the adoption survey or click to apply on a particular pet's page.
4. Wait for a reply. If the team thinks you and the dog could be a good match, they contact you with next steps. The ASPCA notes this can take up to a week.
5. Contact local groups directly. For dogs found through the nationwide search, follow that shelter or rescue's own process.

What it costs and what to expect

Fees and requirements depend on where the dog is. For ASPCA programs, check the relevant location's page for current details. For dogs at local shelters, the shelter sets its own fee and policies. Many shelters bundle vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery and a microchip into the fee, but always confirm.

Tips before you apply

• Read the adoption tips. The ASPCA's guidance covers setting up a quiet, safe space, securing cords and windows, removing chewable and potentially toxic items, and keeping your existing pets' belongings separate at first.
• Plan an early vet visit. Book a check-up with your own veterinarian soon after adoption.
• Give it time. The ASPCA describes a gradual adjustment period over the first days, weeks and months, so keep routines steady and do not rush introductions.
• Consider fostering. If you cannot adopt yet, fostering through a local program is another way to help.
• Look at the whole household. Think about who will walk, feed and train the dog each day, and how a dog fits with work hours, travel plans and any other pets you already have. Talking this through before you apply makes the conversation with adoption staff easier and more productive.

Whether you adopt from the ASPCA itself or a shelter you found through its search, the same basics apply: be honest about your lifestyle, ask about the dog's history and prepare your home before day one.

Visit the ASPCA →

Frequently asked questions

Can I adopt directly from the ASPCA anywhere in the U.S.?

Direct ASPCA adoptions happen through its programs in specific locations. Elsewhere, its nationwide search helps you find dogs at independent local shelters and rescues.

How long does it take to hear back on an ASPCA application?

The ASPCA says that if your application looks like a good match, its team will contact you, which may take up to a week.

Are dogs in the ASPCA's nationwide search in ASPCA care?

No. Those dogs are held by local shelters and rescue groups, and you adopt from the organization named on the listing.

Sources

• ASPCA

Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.