All states›Animal Shelters & Rescues›Washington DC›Washington

Animal Shelters & Rescues in Washington, DC

9 of the 79 dog parks, shelters, trainers and boarding kennels we list in Washington 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. Washington Animal Rescue League (WARL)

    71 Oglethorpe St NW, Washington, DC 20011

    Call Website Directions

  2. Washington Humane Society

    1001 L St SE, Washington, DC 20003-3613

    Call Website Directions

  3. Humane Rescue Alliance

    71 Oglethorpe St NW, Washington, DC 20011-2346

    Call Website Directions

  4. Animal Shelter

    1201 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002-1618

    Call Website Directions

  5. Humane Society National Capital Area Spay & Neuter Center

    1001 L St SE, Washington, DC 20003

    Call Website Directions

  6. Wildlife

    1255 23rd St NW, Washington, DC 20037-1125

    Call Website Directions

  7. Brandywine Valley SPCA, Washington, DC - Ivy City

    1516 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002

    Call Directions

  8. Washington Humane

    15 Oglethorpe St NW, Washington, DC 20011-2346

    Call Directions

  9. 1000 L Street NW Parking

    1001L N St SE, Washington, DC 20003

    Directions
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.

Also in Washington

More in Washington and Washington DC

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.