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Animal Shelters & Rescues in Philadelphia, PA

11 of the 81 dog parks, shelters, trainers and boarding kennels we list in Philadelphia are shelter and rescue services.

Organizations vary between open-admission municipal facilities and private, foster-based rescues that do not operate a public viewing kennel. Choosing where to adopt depends on whether you want to walk through on-site kennels or submit an application online before meeting dogs in private homes. Adoption fees, home visit requirements, and hold periods for stray animals differ significantly across locations.

  1. Wet Nose Rescue

    14425 Bustleton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19116-1177

    By appointment only

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  2. PAWS Downtown Adoption Center

    100 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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  3. PAWS Northeast Adoption Center

    1810 Grant Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19115

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  4. Morris Animal Refuge

    1242 Lombard St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

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  5. ACCT Philly

    111 W Hunting Park Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19140-2717

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  6. Pspca

    350 E Erie Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19134-1013

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  7. Street Tails Animal Rescue

    1030 N 2nd St #401, Philadelphia, PA 19123

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  8. PSPCA Fishtown Center

    1546 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125-4429

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  9. Saved Me

    2609 Federal St, Philadelphia, PA 19146-3828

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  10. Princess a Mese

    1534 N 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19121

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  11. Northeast Animal Rescue (Philadelphia, PA)

    P.O. Box 52395, Philadelphia, PA 19115

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Check visitor policies early. Municipal facilities usually allow walk-in visits during public hours, but private rescues often require an approved application before scheduling a meet-and-greet.

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Good to know

What is the difference between an animal shelter and a rescue organization?

Shelters typically operate a physical facility that houses stray or surrendered animals directly on site. Rescue organizations are often run by volunteers using network foster homes, meaning animals live in private residences until adoption.

How much does it typically cost to adopt a dog?

Adoption fees typically range from $50 to $350 depending on the organization and the age of the dog. Puppies usually carry higher fees, while standard fees generally include spay or neuter surgery, initial vaccinations, and a microchip.

Can I bring my current dog to meet a potential rescue dog?

Most organizations require or strongly encourage a controlled meet-and-greet between your existing dog and the rescue dog before finalizing an adoption. Staff or foster parents usually facilitate this interaction on neutral ground at the facility or a local park.