Rehoming a pet

I adopted a PAWS pet and cannot keep it

Please select “adoption questions” here and reach out directly to our staff to notify us. We encourage you to use ReHome, but will also work with you to arrange for return to a PAWS facility if needed. Please note that if you rehome your pet yourself, you must still contact PAWS so we can assist in any way needed and ensure our ownership records or the record are correct.

I have a pet and cannot keep it

PAWS’ priority is to rescue animals from the city shelter, but when we have kennel space available, we can sometimes take in animals directly from the public.

Inquiries about surrendering your own cat or a cat you found can be submitted here.
Inquiries about surrendering your own dog can be submitted here.

Depending on the issues you are facing, we may be able to offer resources to help you keep your pet such as pet pantry assistance or low-cost vet care. You can learn more about PAWS’ efforts to keep families together here, and you can find additional tips and resources here.

If you cannot keep your pet, you can re-home the animal yourself by asking your friends and family, posting flyers in your neighborhood, posting on websites such as Craigslist, Facebook, etc., or contacting breed-specific rescues (if applicable) to see if they can assist you. Charging a small re-homing fee and checking vet references are good ways to screen applicants and find a good home for your pet. You can also use ReHome – an online matchmaking service that directly connects pet owners with adopters, and keeps animals out of shelters. You can use the code RCXHAQTL2U8AD8Z to only be charged a $1 listing fee. Here is more information about how ReHome works, and here are some frequently asked questions.

As an absolute last resort, ACCT is Philadelphia’s open-intake shelter and will accept pet surrenders.

Affordable Veterinary Care

Our two clinics offer spay/neuter surgery, treatments for many illnesses and injuries, and preventive care. We aim to be accessible and welcoming to all community members, and our expert medical team provides high-quality care at the lowest possible prices.

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Pet Food Pantry

Our Pet Food Pantry program provides dog food, cat food, litter, and other supplies to Philadelphia pet owners in need. We partner with community organizations across the city to make these items available to as many people as possible, through large and small events, as well as one-on-one.

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Temporary Housing

PAWS’ Safety Net foster program provides temporary care for pets whose owners are going through times of transition. Our goal is to keep you from permanently parting with your pets, and instead make a joyous reunion possible!