Adopt

Meet your new best friend!

When you adopt from PAWS, you are truly saving a life. Read on for rescued animals who are waiting to meet you! Every time an animal is adopted, it opens up a space in our no-kill facilities for the next homeless pet in need.

Learn about our adoption process, fees, and what to expect.

Our Most Urgent Animals

Misty

Northeast Adoption Center

I'm a gentle and cuddly lap cat who would love to enjoy a quiet evening with you!

Meet Me >

Gilligan

Foster Care

I'm a fun-loving and cheerful 8 year old who always has a smile on my face!

Meet Me >

Mushy

Foster Care

I'm a loving and affectionate gentleman who gets along great with dogs and cats!

Meet Me >

Nick Furry

Foster Care

I'm a confident one-eyed guy (just like my namesake) who is always ready for fun and play time!

Meet Me >

Merriweather

Foster Care

I'm a charming older lady who warms up quickly and loves toys and cuddles!

Meet Me >

Ace Ventura

Foster Care

I'm a friendly and playful goofball who is always up for a good time!

Meet Me >

More Urgent Animals

All Available Animals

All Available Dogs

All Available Cats

Adoption Fees

Cat (6 months of age and older): $60
Kitten (under 6 months of age): $100, or $150 when you adopt a pair
Small dog (under 25 lbs) and any puppy (under 1 year of age): $250
Large adult dog (older than 1 year): $150

(Fees listed above do not include PA sales tax.)

More Info

Adoption Locations

Available animals are waiting for you:

at PAWS’ Old City Adoption Center (100 N. 2nd Street)
at PAWS’ Northeast Adoption Center (1810 Grant Avenue)
in foster homes (see individual pet listings for contact info)

Plus, visit these satellite adoption locations (cats only):

Kawaii Kitty Cafe (759 S. 4th Street)
PetSmart in South Philadelphia (2360 Oregon Avenue; M-F 6-8pm; Sat/Sun: 11-3)
PetSmart at Broad Street and Washington Avenue (M-F 6-8pm; Sat/Sun: 11-3)

Adoption Process

We look forward to helping you adopt a pet! Read about our convenient process, what is included in adoption fees, and how to meet available animals.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

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I am applying for a specific PAWS animal. If my application is approved, am I guaranteed that animal?

There is a chance the animal may already be adopted once you are ready to bring it home. When your application is approved, it will be good for any animal in PAWS’ care that would be a good match for you and your household. Your application is valid for three months so you have time to find the right one for you!

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How long does the adoption process take?

Applications generally take several days to one week to process. There is a possibility for same-day adoption, but we cannot guarantee it.

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Can you hold an animal for me until I am ready to adopt?

PAWS is not able to hold animals for potential adopters: every day we hold an animal is a day we cannot save another in danger.

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How can I adopt an animal who’s been overlooked and needs me the most?

Please browse our Most Urgent Animals to find out who needs you! Some have special medical or behavioral needs, and others have simply been waiting a long time. Or, stop by an adoption center and ask who’s been waiting the longest. We can help you match you with a pet who not only needs you the most, but is also a good match for your home and lifestyle.

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Can you offer advice on dog and cat care?

Find lots of useful resources here on bringing home a new pet, common behavior issues, pet care advice, and more.

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I can’t adopt. Can I come in just to spend time with animals?

Our adoption centers are open to the public and all are welcome here! However, if you are not visiting to adopt, we ask that you make a donation of funds or supplies to support our lifesaving efforts. Please keep in mind that our staff is busy and that those who are visiting to adopt must be given first priority when visiting with the animals. Even better, you can become a PAWS volunteer and sign up for regular shifts to care for the animals.

Your new best friend is waiting.

Get Started