Looking to adopt a dog or cat in Maryland? This guide will help you find the right shelter or rescue organization. We've compiled a list of top places to find your new furry friend, along with information on their adoption processes.
1. Canine Humane Network
Location: Highland
Website: https://caninehumane.org/
Phone Number: (888) 436-2236 ext. 801
Address: 13454 Clarksville Pike, Highland, MD 20777
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caninehumanenetwork/albums/294026729512771/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chnpups/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Non-profit dog rescue, shelter, adoption, and training organization.
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs.
Application Process: Applications are required before meeting a dog.
Applications can likely be found on their website and submitted online.
Adoption Fees: Adoption fees vary depending on the age and breed of the dog.
Fees typically cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping, and other necessary medical care.
Meet & Greet: Scheduled after the application is reviewed and approved. May occur at the shelter or in a foster home setting.
Home Check: Typically conducted to ensure the home environment is suitable for the dog.
Post-Adoption Support: May offer resources and guidance to adopters, such as training tips or referrals to local trainers.
Special Programs: May have specific programs for certain breeds or dogs with special needs. Check their website for details on current programs.
Community Involvement: May participate in local events and community outreach programs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Often have opportunities for volunteers to assist with dog walking, socializing, fostering, and other tasks.                                                       Tips for Potential Adopters: Thoroughly research the breed and understand the commitment involved in dog ownership. Be honest and upfront about your lifestyle and experience level on the adoption application. Be patient and open-minded during the adoption process. Consider fostering a dog if you are not ready to adopt permanently.
2. Maryland SPCA
Location: Baltimore
Website: https://www.mdspca.org/Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Phone Number: 410-235-8826
Address: 3300 Falls Road, Baltimore, MD 21211
Social Media Links: Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/mdspca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdspca/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Humane Society/Animal Shelter
Animals They Serve: Dogs, cats, and other small animals.
Application Process: Online application through their website. May require an in-person interview.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the animal (check their website for current fee schedules)
Meet & Greet: Typically scheduled after the initial application is reviewed
Home Check: May be conducted to ensure a suitable environment for the animal
Post-Adoption Support: Offer resources and advice on training, behavior, and veterinary care. May provide access to low-cost spay/neuter programs.
Special Programs: Foster programs
Volunteer opportunities
Low-cost spay/neuter clinics
Community outreach programs
Community Involvement: Active in various community events and educational programs. Partner with other organizations to promote animal welfare.
Volunteer Opportunities: Wide range of volunteer opportunities available, including: Animal care, Adoption counseling, Event support, and Administrative tasks.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Research different breeds and consider your lifestyle. Be patient and open-minded. Be honest about your experience level and living situation. Be prepared to provide a loving and supportive home for your new pet.
3. Key to Lions Heart Rescue
Location: Derwood
Website: https://www.keytolionsheart.org/
Address: PO Box 5570 Derwood, MD 20855
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Keytolionsheart/events/
Type of Organization: Foster-based dog rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs of various breeds and mixes.
Application Process: Typically involves submitting an online application through their website. The application usually includes questions about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and desired dog characteristics.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the dog’s age, breed, and medical history.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the application is reviewed and approved. May involve meeting the dog at a foster home or at a designated meeting location.
Home Check: Typically conducted to ensure a safe and suitable home environment for the dog.
Post-Adoption Support: Many rescues offer ongoing support, such as access to training resources or behavior consultations.
Special Programs: May have specific programs for certain types of dogs, such as senior dogs or dogs with special needs. Check their website or contact them directly for details.
Community Involvement: Often participate in local adoption events and community outreach activities.
Volunteer Opportunities: May offer various volunteer opportunities, such as fostering, fundraising, or event assistance. Check their website or contact them directly for current volunteer needs.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be patient and realistic about your expectations. Research different breeds and consider your lifestyle and experience level. Be honest and upfront about your living situation and any limitations. Be prepared to provide a loving and forever home for your adopted dog.
4. Miri’s Haven Senior Dog Rescue
Location: Rockville
Website: https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/md/rockville/miris-haven-senior-dog-rescue-md514/
Address: Primarily a foster-based rescue, they do not have a physical shelter address.
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100081572005839/photos/592278183501243/
Type of Organization: Foster-based, all-volunteer senior dog rescue.
Animals They Serve: Senior dogs (7 years and older) of various breeds and sizes.
Application Process: Online Application: Typically available on their website or Petfinder page.
Thorough Screening: Includes questions about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and desired qualities in a senior dog.
Adoption Fees: Varies depending on the dog’s age, medical needs, and other factors.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the initial application review. May occur in a foster home or another suitable location.
Home Check: Conducted to ensure a safe and suitable environment for the senior dog.
Post-Adoption Support: Offers ongoing support and resources to adopters, including guidance on senior dog care, access to veterinary resources, and a network of support.
Special Programs: Focuses specifically on finding loving homes for senior dogs, recognizing the unique needs and challenges of adopting an older dog.
Community Involvement: Participates in local adoption events and community outreach activities to raise awareness about senior dog adoption.
Volunteer Opportunities: May have opportunities for fostering, fundraising, and other volunteer roles. Check their website or contact them directly for current volunteer needs.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be Patient: Finding the right senior dog may take time. Be Realistic: Understand the potential challenges and commitments of caring for a senior dog, including potential health issues and decreased energy levels. Be Prepared: Research senior dog care, including dietary needs, grooming requirements, and potential health concerns. Offer a Loving and Stable Home: Provide a safe, comfortable, and loving environment for your senior dog to enjoy their golden years.
5. Bmore Humane
Location: Reisterstown
Website: https://bmorehumane.org/resources/
Phone Number: (410) 833-8848
Address: 1601 Nicodemus Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BMOREHUMANE/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmorehumane/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Animal Shelter
Animals They Serve: Dogs, Cats
Application Process: Online application available on their website. May require an in-person interview.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the age and breed of the animal.
Meet & Greet: Scheduled appointments are typically required for meet-and-greets.
Home Check: Home checks may be conducted to ensure a suitable environment for the animal.
Post-Adoption Support: May offer resources or referrals for training, behavior counseling, or other support.
Special Programs: Foster programs. Volunteer programs. Community outreach events.
Community Involvement: Active in promoting animal welfare and education within the community. May participate in local events and fundraisers.
Volunteer Opportunities: Various volunteer roles available, such as dog walking, cat socializing, event support, and more.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be prepared to provide a loving and permanent home for your new pet. Research different breeds and consider your lifestyle and living situation. Be patient and understanding throughout the adoption process. Be honest about your experience level and any limitations.
6. Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)
Location: Baltimore
Website: https://www.barcs.org/
Phone Number: 410-887-7297
Address: 301 Stockholm St, Baltimore, MD 21230
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BARCSbaltimore/?locale=ja_JP
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barcsanimalshelter/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Open-admission animal shelter and pet adoption center
Animals They Serve: Dogs, cats, and other small animals
Application Process: Online application available on their website.
May require an in-person interview.
Adoption Fees: Vary based on the animal’s age, breed, and medical needs.
Meet & Greet: Typically scheduled after the application is reviewed and approved.
Home Check: May be conducted to ensure a suitable living environment.
Post-Adoption Support: May offer resources and advice on training, behavior, and veterinary care.
Special Programs: Foster programs. Volunteer opportunities. Community outreach events. Low-cost spay/neuter programs.
Community Involvement: Actively involved in community education and outreach programs. Partners with various organizations to promote animal welfare.
Volunteer Opportunities: Available in various areas, including dog walking, cat socializing, and event support.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be prepared to provide a loving and permanent home. Research different breeds and consider your lifestyle. Be patient and open-minded. Be honest about your experience level and living situation.
7. SPCA of Anne Arundel County
Location: Annapolis
Website: aacspca.org
Phone Number: (410) 268-4388
Address: 1815 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403
Social Media Links: Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SPCAofAnneArundelCounty/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spcaannearundel/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Animal Shelter
Animals They Serve: Dogs. Cats. Occasionally other small animals.
Application Process: Online Application: Available on their website. Application Review: Staff reviews applications to assess suitability.
Adoption Fees: Vary based on the animal’s age, breed, and medical needs. Fees are typically used to cover the cost of care provided to the animal.
Meet & Greet: Scheduled appointments to meet potential pets. Allow for interaction and assessment of compatibility.
Home Check: Conducted to ensure a safe and suitable environment for the animal.
Post-Adoption Support: Offer resources and guidance to adopters. May provide access to training classes or behavior consultations.
Special Programs: Foster Program: Allows individuals to provide temporary homes for animals. Volunteer Opportunities: Various roles available, from dog walking to event assistance. Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic: Offers affordable spay/neuter services to the community.
Community Involvement: Participate in community events and educational programs. Advocate for animal welfare issues.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Research breeds: Understand the characteristics and needs of different breeds. Consider lifestyle: Ensure the pet fits your lifestyle and living situation. Be patient: Finding the right pet may take time. Be honest and upfront: Provide accurate information on your living situation and experience level. Prepare for the commitment: Pet ownership is a long-term responsibility.
8. Keller’s Cause
Location: Port Deposit
Website: https://www.kellerscause.com/
Address: 463 Mechanics Valley Road, North East, MD 21901
Social Media Links: Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/kellerscause/photos/fabulous-keebler-the-deaf-chihuahua/1180618648651599/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3D3bpvBwHO/?img_index=mohibahauddindagar
Type of Organization: Foster-based rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily focuses on deaf and blind dogs, specifically double merles.
Application Process: Online application through their website.
Thorough screening process to ensure a suitable match.
Adoption Fees: Varies depending on the dog’s age, medical history, and individual needs.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the initial application review and typically involve meeting the dog in a foster home environment.
Home Check: Conducted to ensure a safe and suitable living environment for the dog.
Post-Adoption Support: Provides ongoing support to adopters, including access to resources, advice on training and care, and a network of other adopters.
Special Programs: Focus on educating the public about the challenges and joys of living with deaf and blind dogs.
Community Involvement: Actively participates in local events and collaborates with other animal welfare organizations.
Volunteer Opportunities: May offer opportunities for fostering, fundraising, and other volunteer roles.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be patient and understanding of the unique needs of deaf and blind dogs. Be prepared to provide appropriate training, socialization, and enrichment. Be open to learning new ways to communicate and interact with your dog. Be prepared to make necessary adjustments to your home environment to ensure the dog’s safety and well-being.
9. MID-ATLANTIC GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
Location: Chevy Chase
Website: https://magsr.org/dogs
Phone Number: (410) 644-7763
Address: P.O. Box 353, Mt. Airy, MD 21771
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MAGSRPups/?locale=en_GB
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midatlanticigrescue/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Breed-specific rescue
Animals They Serve: German Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes
Application Process: Online application on their website
Thorough screening process
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the dog’s age, medical needs, and other factors.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the initial application review.
Home Check: Conducted to ensure a suitable home environment.
Post-Adoption Support: Available for any questions or concerns.
May offer training resources or referrals.
Special Programs: Foster program
Volunteer program
Community Involvement: Participate in local adoption events
Conduct educational programs
Volunteer Opportunities: Fostering
Event assistance
Fundraising
Administrative support
Tips for Potential Adopters: Research the breed thoroughly. Be prepared for the energy level and exercise needs of a German Shepherd. Be patient and understanding during the adoption process. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level.
10. Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland
Location: Millersville
Website: https://www.savinggraceanimalrescuemd.com/
Address: P.O. Box 92, Millersville, MD 21108
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SGARofMD/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savinggracenc/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Foster-based rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs, but may also occasionally have cats.
Application Process: Online application through their website or by contacting them directly. Application review and reference checks.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the age, breed, and medical history of the animal.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after application review. Typically involves meeting the dog in a foster home environment.
Home Check: Conducted for all dog adoptions to ensure a suitable living environment.
Post-Adoption Support: Offer ongoing support and resources to adopters, including training advice and behavioral consultations.
Special Programs: Foster program, volunteer program, and may offer occasional fundraising events.
Community Involvement: Participate in local adoption events and may collaborate with other animal welfare organizations.
Volunteer Opportunities: Foster homes, event support, fundraising, and other roles.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be patient and understanding of the adoption process. Be prepared to provide a loving and stable home for your new pet. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level. Research different breeds and understand the commitment involved in dog ownership.
11. LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP
Location: Buckeystown
Website: https://www.lab-rescue.org/adoption-process
Phone Number: (301) 299-6756
Address: Lab Rescue LRCP
13020 Old National Pike
Buckeystown, MD 21717
Type of Organization: Breed-specific rescue
Animals They Serve: Labrador Retrievers
Application Process: Online application available on their website.
Application review and screening by adoption coordinators.
Adoption Fees: Adoption fees vary depending on the age and medical needs of the dog. Fees typically cover the cost of veterinary care provided.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the application review.
Typically held in a foster home setting.
Home Check: Conducted by volunteers to ensure a suitable home environment.
Post-Adoption Support: Ongoing support is available to adopters through email, phone, and occasional follow-up visits. Resources and guidance on training, behavior, and other concerns are provided.
Special Programs: Foster programs are crucial to their operations. May have occasional special events or fundraisers.
Community Involvement: Participate in local adoption events and community outreach.
Volunteer Opportunities: Opportunities for fostering, fundraising, event support, and more.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be prepared to provide a loving and stable home for a Labrador Retriever. Be patient and understanding of the adoption process. Research Labrador Retriever breed characteristics and understand the commitment involved. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level when completing the application.
12. Forever Changed Animal Rescue
Location: Potomac
Website: https://www.foreverchangedar.org/
Type of Organization: Foster-based rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs
Application Process: Typically an online application through their website.
May involve questions about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and desired breed/size.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the dog’s age, breed, and medical needs.
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the application is reviewed and approved. Often held at a neutral location like a park or the foster home.
Home Check: May be conducted to ensure a suitable living environment for the dog.
Post-Adoption Support: May include access to resources like training classes or behavior consultations. Encourage adopters to contact them with any questions or concerns.
Special Programs: May have specific programs for certain breeds or dogs with special needs. Check their website for details.
Community Involvement: May participate in local adoption events or community outreach programs. Check their website or social media for upcoming events.
Volunteer Opportunities: Often rely heavily on volunteers for fostering, fundraising, and other tasks. Check their website or contact them directly for volunteer opportunities.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be patient and understanding of the adoption process. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level. Be prepared to provide a loving and forever home for your adopted dog. Consider fostering as an option if you are not ready to adopt.
13. Pitties and Purrs Rescue
Location: Baltimore
Website: https://pittiesandpurrs.org/
Phone Number: (443) 804-2388
Email Address: pittiesandpurrs@verizon.net
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/808295620331310/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pittiesandpurrs/?hl=en
Type of Organization: Foster-based rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs, with a focus on Pit Bull Terriers and Pit Bull mixes.
Application Process: Online application available on their website.
Requires information about your household, lifestyle, and experience with dogs.
May involve a phone screening.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the age and medical needs of the dog.
Typically cover costs of vetting (vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping).
Meet & Greet: Arranged after the application is reviewed and approved.
Typically held at a designated location or in the foster home.
Home Check: Conducted to ensure the home environment is suitable for the dog.
Post-Adoption Support: Offer ongoing support and resources to adopters, including training advice and behavioral consultations.
Special Programs: Foster program: Rely heavily on foster homes to care for dogs until they find their forever homes.
Community Involvement: Participate in local adoption events and community outreach programs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Opportunities for fostering, fundraising, and other volunteer activities.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be patient and understanding of the adoption process. Be prepared to provide a loving and stable home for a rescue dog. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level. Consider fostering if you are not ready to adopt.
14. Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.
Location: Severn
Website: https://www.seniordogsanctuary.com/
Phone Number: (443) 742-0270
Address: 8336 WB and A Rd, Severn, MD 21144
Social Media Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeniorDogSanctuaryMD/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenyearsdogsanctuary/
Type of Organization: Rescue Group (specifically for senior dogs)
Animals They Serve: Senior dogs (primarily)
Application Process: Download and complete an adoption application from their website.
Applications are reviewed carefully.
Adoption Fees: Varies depending on the dog’s age, medical needs, and other factors.
Meet & Greet: Scheduled by appointment at the sanctuary.
Home Check: Yes, conducted by volunteers to ensure a suitable environment.
Post-Adoption Support: Ongoing support and guidance are available to adopters. They may offer assistance with training or behavioral issues.
Special Programs: Focus on finding loving homes for senior dogs, often overlooked in shelters. May have partnerships with other organizations to support their mission.
Community Involvement: May participate in local events and adoption fairs. Often rely on community support through donations and volunteers.
Volunteer Opportunities: Available for various tasks, such as dog walking, socializing, and administrative support.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be prepared to provide a loving and comfortable home for a senior dog. Understand the potential for age-related health issues. Be patient and understanding as your senior dog adjusts to their new home.
15. Knine Rescue Inc.
Location: Brookeville
Website: http://www.kninerescue.com/
Address: PO Box 578, Ashton, MD 20861
Type of Organization: Dog Rescue
Animals They Serve: Primarily dogs
Application Process: Usually starts with an online application on their website. May require a phone interview.
Adoption Fees: Vary depending on the dog.
Meet & Greet: Typically scheduled after the initial application review.
Home Check: Yes, home checks are usually conducted.
Post-Adoption Support: May offer some level of post-adoption support, such as basic training advice. Encourage contacting them with any questions or concerns.
Special Programs: May have foster programs. May participate in adoption events.
Community Involvement: May participate in local events to raise awareness.
Volunteer Opportunities: May have opportunities for fostering, fundraising, or other volunteer roles. Check their website or contact them directly.
Tips for Potential Adopters: Be prepared to provide a loving and stable home for a dog. Be patient and understanding of the adoption process. Be honest about your lifestyle and experience level. Research different breeds and consider what would be a good fit for your family.
