As the calendar turns to 2026 and the holiday decorations come down, dozens of dogs and cats at Wake County Animal Center are still waiting for a fresh start of their own. From Jan. 2–12, the Animal Center will host its first adoption campaign of the year, “New Year, New Pet!” offering dog adoptions for $25 and cat adoptions for just $5. Currently, the Center is home to 98 dogs and ten cats, with an additional 42 dogs, 47 cats and kittens in foster care.
“A new year naturally brings reflection and hope,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Adopting a pet is a simple, meaningful way to turn that sense of possibility into action for families and for the animals who depend on us.”
During the weeklong campaign, adopters will find dogs and cats of all sizes and personalities, each waiting for a family to call their own. Every pet adopted from Wake County Animal Center is spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations saving families hundreds of dollars in veterinary costs while giving each animal the gift of a loving home.
“Our goal is to find homes and create lasting connections,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Animal Center. “As families settle back into routines after the holidays, we hope this early-January effort reminds the community that sometimes the most meaningful resolutions begin with a visit and end with a new family member.”
Throughout 2025, Wake County Animal Center continued its mission to protect and care for animals across the community. As of Dec. 30, the Center took in 8,315 animals, helped 3,867 pets find new homes, and reunited 1,203 lost pets with their owners. In addition, 1,674 animals were supported through foster care and 1,498 were placed with transfer partners. These efforts were made possible in part by the dedication of volunteers, who contributed more than 29,239.40 hours in service to the animals and the community.
Ready to adopt? Check out our adoption gallery or come by and see the pets’ sweet faces for yourself. The shelter is open for adoptions daily from noon to 6 p.m., seven days a week. The Wake County Animal Center is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive, near the intersection of I-440 and New Bern Avenue in Raleigh.
