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Dogs For Adoption

Thank you for considering adopting a dog! All PAWS pets are spayed/neutered, given age-appropriate vaccines, microchipped, and examined by a veterinarian before adoption. Use the tabs below to browse dogs currently available by location. At PAWS, our thorough matchmaking process allows us to find the best fit for you and your family. Learn more about our Adoption Process here.

Dog Adoption Locations

Dog adoptions take place by appointment at PAWS’ Grays Ferry location or through foster homes.

Adoption Fees

  • Large adult dog (older than 1 year): $150
  • Small adult dog (under 25 lbs): $275
  • Puppy (under 1 year of age): $300

Fees do not include PA sales tax. Dog adopters living in Philadelphia must also purchase a city license at the time of adoption ($18).

The following services are included in the adoption fee. Before going home, your new dog will be:

  • spayed or neutered;
  • vaccinated for: distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus (DHPP – for puppies, the first in a series of three vaccinations that should be completed at your veterinarian’s office or at a PAWS clinic), bordetella, and rabies;
  • dewormed (often the first in a series of treatments that should be completed after adoption);
  • treated for fleas (treatment must continue monthly to keep your pet flea-free); and,
  • microchipped. Your BuddyID microchip will be registered in your name at the time of adoption and your contact info can be updated any time.

For safety, dogs must go home in a collar or harness and leash. You can bring your own or they are available for purchase at our facilities.

Dog Adoption Application

Ready to get started? This brief online form is the first step to bring home your newest family member.

We look forward to helping you meet your new best friend!

Begin Application

Frequently Asked Questions

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How does PAWS’ dog rescue program work?

Read more here about our Dog Rescue & Care program and learn about the process from intake to adoption!

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How long does the adoption process take?

We are processing applications as quickly as we can: sometimes the volume outstrips our capacity, so we thank you in advance for your patience and understanding! If you haven’t heard from our team in over a week and are still interested in adopting, please feel free to follow up by emailing adoptions@phillypaws.org.

 

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Should I fill out a new application for each pet I am interested in?

No, please only submit one application per adopter/household. You can check our website and social media pages regularly to see when new pets are posted. If there is a new pet that interests you, please email adoptions@phillypaws.org with your full name that was listed on your application, the name and ID# of the pet you’re interested in, and a bit about what drew you to them. Our team will then update your application. 

 

If we can’t match you with the first pet you apply for and you do not hear from us, feel free to follow up with us by emailing adoptions@phillypaws.org if there are other pets you are interested in. We will keep your application for 3 months in case other pets interest you. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding!

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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.

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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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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?

You are welcome to visit our Old City Adoption Center to spend time with the cats and guinea pigs housed there. Our Northeast Adoption Center remains closed for browsing.

 

To spend time with our pets, you can also consider fostering – taking a cat, dog, or guinea pig into your home temporarily while they find permanent adoptive placement.

 

We do ask that you refrain from petting or putting fingers in the kennels while you are browsing. We require potential adopters to wear gloves between meeting different pets.

PAWS’ Old City Adoption Center is housing cats and guinea pigs, and prioritizes approved adopters with appointments. Walk-ins are welcome as space permits. PAWS cats are also available for adoption at PetSmart, 1415 Washington Avenue! Dog adoptions are by appointment at our Grays Ferry location or directly from foster homes. Our Northeast Adoption Center remains closed. 

When you adopt a pet from PAWS, you truly save a life. PAWS is the city’s largest rescue partner and is dedicated to making Philadelphia a no-kill city where every savable pet is guaranteed a home.