ATTENTION: Animal Center temporarily closed
ATTENTION: Animal Center Re-Opening in Phases
In response to an outbreak of canine influenza virus (CIV), the Wake County Animal Center is taking proactive steps to ensure the health and safety of animals and the community. The shelter closed to the public on Friday, October 6 for an undetermined length of time to help contain the outbreak. The center is not accepting animals in order to prevent new cases of CIV and protect the dogs currently being cared for at the shelter.
Pets at the adoption center and in foster homes are available for adoption; cats and little critters can be visited in person and dogs can be seen by appointment. Adoption gallery: pets.wake.gov
Learn more
The Wake County Animal Center strives to create a humane community for the pets and people that live here.
As the only open admission shelter in the county, we take in all stray, abandoned and surrendered pets in Wake County. Together, with community partners, we treat and re-home thousands of homeless animals every year.
MISSION STATEMENT: Determined to make a difference for the animals and citizens of Wake County through adoption, education, enforcement and community partnership.
FIVE FREEDOMS – Based on the Brambell Report in 1965, these principles are relevant to the welfare of any animal species. The Wake County Animal Center focuses on meeting these Five Freedoms for animals in our care:
- Freedom from Hunger and Thirst by ready access to fresh water and diet to maintain health and vigor
- Freedom from Discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area
- Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment
- Freedom to Express Normal Behavior by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind
- Freedom from Fear and Distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering
Sorry, no events are currently scheduled in this category.
Contact Us
Hours:
- Adoption Floor: Noon–6 p.m., seven days a week
- Office: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
The Wake County Animal Center is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive, near the intersection of I-440 and New Bern Ave. in Raleigh. You must travel down Commerce Park Dr. to Beacon Lake Dr. where the main entrance and parking area are located. Please look for the large blue Wake County Animal Services sign.