Where to Adopt a Pet in Philadelphia

Thinking of adopting a furry friend of your own? Here’s a quick guide to finding your next four-legged bestie.

🐾 First, you’ll need to secure a dog license, which you can do online, via mail, or in-person at various shelters and pet clinics.

🐾 Philly has several low-cost shelters that would love to help you out. Here’s the application form for the Pennsylvania SPCA and ACCT Philly. Same-day adoptions are available, but walk-ins should sign up for the waitlist online 30 minutes before arriving.

🐾 Philly PAWS is another great option. Their website has an Urgent Animal section, featuring the animals who have been waiting the longest. You can apply online to adopt cats, dogs, and other small animals.

🐾 Find a feline friend through Green Street Rescue. Apply online or scope out a new buddy in person at Le Cat Café in Brewerytown. You’ll need two references, a veterinarian contact if you have other pets, and your landlord’s contact to confirm pet policy. The process can take up to five days.