04.09.2026
Grays Ferry update: safe evacuation and temporary closure
As you may know, yesterday afternoon, there was a partial collapse at the construction site next door to our Grays Ferry shelter/clinic. It was a frightening and tragic situation; one person lost their life, and two workers remain unaccounted for. As search and rescue efforts continue, our hearts are with them and their loved ones.
We are grateful to share that all PAWS staff, volunteers, animals, and owned pets in our care are safe. Late last night, the City’s Office of Emergency Management advised us to evacuate due to increasing structural instability. Thanks to the swift efforts of our team, volunteers, fosters, and firefighters, all animals were safely relocated within hours to our Grant Avenue location, Old City Adoption Center, and foster homes.
Our Grays Ferry Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic is closed today, Thursday, April 9, and will remain closed until the area is deemed safe. Surrounding streets remain closed as emergency crews continue their work. We do not yet know when we will be able to return but will share updates as we learn more.
If you need care for your pet and can travel to our Northeast location, please email gfclinic@phillypaws.org and we will do our best to accommodate you as quickly as possible.
Many of you have asked how you can help:
– FOSTER: Learn more and sign up at phillypaws.org/foster. Cat fosters who can pick up from Grant Avenue, please email foster@phillypaws.org with “Grant Ave Cat Foster” in the subject line.
We are immeasurably grateful to everyone who stepped in to ensure the safety of our animals and team on such short notice, and for the outpouring of care and support we have received. This is an extraordinary community — thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a part of it.
P.S. Given these events, we are taking this time to focus on our animals, staff, and everyone affected by this tragedy, and will resume our TNR Triple Match on a later date to be determined. Gifts received through that time will still be matched up to the goal.