The best pet adoption NYC families will love
Here are the best places for pet adoption NYC families need to visit!
UPDATE: Events, venues, shops and restaurants in NYC have been canceled or closed due to coronavirus. Some offerings here might be affected—if you're unsure, please call to confirm.
Has the subject of a four-legged friend come up at your family meetings? Like, every day? Well, when you're ready to take the next step check out our list of the best pet adoption organizations in NYC.
We list humane, no-kill rescue organizations such as Animal Care Centers of NYC, the ASPCA, City Critters, Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue and more. Some, like the Humane Society, operate pet clinics that will help keep your fuzzballs healthy and happy.
After all, tackling the best things to do with kids in NYC is that much more fun with a furry companion. Plus, you'll give an animal a wonderful home! It's a win-win for everyone—which we're sure your crew has already told you.
If you're in search of a little inspiration, check out our favorite animal movies and pet movies and have a look at our suggestions for the best dogs for kids.
Pet adoption NYC
1. Animal Care Centers of NYC
The comprehensive adoption package at Animal Care Centers of NYC includes spaying or neutering, vaccinations, a certificate for a free exam, an embedded pre-registered microchip in case your pet ever gets lost and a collar. Dogs also get a leash, dog license and heartworm test, while cat adoptions also include FELV/FIV testing and a cardboard cat carrier. (If you're not into the canine or feline worlds, there are also bunnies waiting for new homes!) Interested in adopting? You start the process on the ACC of NYC website.
Address: Mobile adoption units and adoption events are listed online.
Phone: 212-788-4000
Website: nyacc.org
2. ASPCA Adoption Center
There's a reason why the ASPCA is synonymous with pet adoption: This nonprofit has been taking care of our four-legged friends for years. Look at their online directory for a furry pal in need of a good home. You'll be able to select the dog of your dreams or the charming feline who's stolen your heart.
Address: 424 E 92nd St
Phone: 212-876-7700 ext. 4120
Website: Aspca.org
3. City Critters
Operating out of a Petco in Turtle Bay and PetSmart in Flatiron, City Critters will help you find your best friend, primarily kittens and cats...plus the occasional pup. You can look at the pets from City Critters on PetFinder. Bear in mind that the application and interview process is thorough, as the organization's main concern is pairing an animal with its best match. Not quite ready to commit? Try fostering with City Critters before adopting!
Addresses:
Petco, 991 Second Ave
PetSmart, 632 Broadway
Phone: Petco: 212-593-7213; Petsmart: (212-475-0893
Website: Citycritters.org (or find their pets via Petfinder)
4. Bideawee
Bideawee has been operating for almost 120 years: It's a great place to go if you're thinking about expanding the fam to little ones with four legs and a tail. Browse the online directory, where you can take a look at cats and dogs of various breeds and ages who are up for adoption at the center's Manhattan and Westhampton locations. Once you've got a pet in mind, work on fulfilling the adoption requirements and you'll be one step closer to a new addition.
Addresses:
Manhattan Adoption Center: 410 East 38th St
The Westhampton Adoption Center: 118 Old Country Rd, Westhampton
Phone: 844-568-3738
Website: Bideawee.org
5. Animal Haven
Look into the adorable face of a pet that needs you…how can you say no? Animal Haven gives the best care possible to dogs and cats in need, but they need your help to find the perfect loving home! The organization also only accepts animals with zero history of aggression, so you’re positive you’re getting an animal with a friendly demeanor.
Address: 200 Centre St
Phone: 212-274-8511
Website: Animalhavenshelter.org
6. Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition
This Williamsburg no-kill not-for-profit is perfect for Brooklyn families looking to adopt. The detailed web descriptions of each animal help you decide if a specific pet is right for you and the kids before leaving the house—they do it right at Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition. That's, ahem, BARC for short.
Address: 86 N 1st St
Phone: 718-486-7489
Website: Barcshelter.org
7. Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue
With “Saving badass dogs from idiot humans” as a motto, we know this savvy shelter has the right attitude. Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue saves dogs from high-kill, high-volume pounds from out of state to give them a second chance at life…now it’s your turn to make a difference. See some of their dogs online here.
Address: Network of foster homes in NY, CT and MA
Phone: Contact via e-mail at adopt@badassbk.com
Website: Badassbrooklynanimalrescue.com
8. Social Tees Animal Rescue
Almost all of the adoptable pets under Social Tees Animal Rescue’s care are not onsite at the shelter, but rather snuggling in foster homes around the city. It’s a much kinder situation for the pet and it gives the organization a better idea of the animal’s temperament. The shelter also has a soft spot for injured, ill and special needs animals and tries to place them in loving homes through its “Underdogs and Undercats” and “Grandpaws” programs.
Address: 325 East 5th St
Phone: 212-614-9653
Website: Socialteesnyc.org
9. The Humane Society of New York
The Humane Society of New York has been providing ill, injured and abused New York City animals with a home for over 100 years. The center is more than just a shelter: It also provides medical care to pets at an affordable price and a loving atmosphere.
Address: 306 E. 59th St
Phone: 212-752-4842
Website: Humanesocietyny.org
10. Petfinder
Petfinder is the leading online resource for pet adoption in the United States. It works something like a matchmaking service: You can find exactly the right pet for your home. Petfinder is a national organization, which means you might find yourself rescuing a furry creature from out-of-state—lucky dog! (And cat!)
Addresses: Adoption process begins online
Phone: Contact Petfinder online
Website: Petfinder.com
11. Little Shelter Animal Rescue & Adoption Center
Little Shelter Animal Rescue & Adoption Center is right outside NYC in Huntington, NY, and it’s the only non-NYC shelter to be included in the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals. All dogs are spayed/neutered before adoption.
Address: 33 Warner Rd Huntington, NY 11743
Phone: 631-368-8770
Website: Littleshelter.com