How to Find and Adopt From Your Local City or County Animal Shelter

Your nearest public animal shelter is one of the most direct places to adopt a dog. City and county shelters take in strays and surrendered pets from your area, so they often have a wide range of dogs waiting for homes. Here is how to find yours and what to expect.

Find a shelter via the ASPCA →

What a municipal shelter is

Municipal shelters are run by, or under contract with, a city or county government. They go by different names, including animal services, animal care and control, or animal shelter. Many communities also have private nonprofit shelters, which may be called a humane society or SPCA. These are independent local organizations, not branches of a national group, and each sets its own adoption rules.

How to find your shelter step by step

1. Check your local government website. Search your city or county website for "animal services" or "animal shelter." This is often the quickest route to the public shelter.
2. Use a shelter directory. The ASPCA's find-a-shelter page points visitors to a national list of shelters and rescues, and the large pet search sites include shelter directories searchable by location.
3. Browse the shelter's available dogs. Many shelters post adoptable dogs on their own websites as well as on national search sites.
4. Confirm hours and policies. Check adoption hours, whether you need an appointment and what to bring.
5. Visit and meet dogs. Ask staff or volunteers which dogs might suit your home and request a meet-and-greet in a quieter area.
6. Complete the paperwork. Many public shelters use a short application and can finish the adoption the same day once you are approved.

What it costs and what to expect

Public shelter adoption fees are usually set by local policy and are often lower than private rescue fees. Fees commonly include vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery and a microchip, though this varies. Some shelters run reduced-fee promotions when they are crowded. Your city or county may also require a dog license, which is separate from the adoption fee, so ask staff about local rules.

Shelters can be loud and busy. A dog who seems shy or excitable in a kennel may behave very differently in a home, so ask what staff and volunteers have observed.

Tips before you go

• Bring identification. A photo ID and proof of address are commonly requested. If you rent, bring proof that pets are allowed.
• Bring your household. If you have a dog at home, ask whether the shelter offers a dog-to-dog introduction.
• Ask about the dog's history. Ask how the dog came in, any known medical needs and how the dog acts with people and other animals.
• Ask about foster programs. Some shelters let you foster first or have dogs living in volunteer homes who can be met by appointment.
• Plan the ride home. Bring a secure collar or harness and leash, or a crate for small dogs.

Adopting locally helps your community's shelter make room for the next animal in need, and it is often the fastest way to welcome a dog home.

Find a shelter via the ASPCA →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between animal services and a humane society?

Animal services or animal control is usually run by local government. A humane society or SPCA is typically a private nonprofit. Both may adopt out dogs, each with its own rules.

Can I adopt a dog the same day from a public shelter?

Often, yes. Many municipal shelters can complete an adoption during your visit once your application is approved, but policies vary.

Do I need a dog license after adopting?

Many cities and counties require dog licensing. Ask the shelter or check your local government website for the rules where you live.

Sources

• Your local city or county animal shelter

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.