Operations Return in Stages Due to Overcapacity
Starting Monday, March 3, the Wake County Animal Center will resume adoption services for dogs, cats, and small animals quarantined since Feb. 7 due to an outbreak of Streptococcus zooepidemicus, which led to the deaths of three dogs. All available dogs on the adoption floor have completed treatment and are cleared for adoption.
Pet adoptions are the only service to resume on March 3 as Stage 1 of the return to operations. Future stages include stray animal intake (Stage 2) and owner surrenders (Stage 3), depending on space. Updates will be available on the Wake County Animal Center website and social media.
A Call for Adoptions
“We’re thrilled to welcome our residents back after this temporary closure. Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure the health and safety of every pet in our care, and now, we need your help more than ever,” said Wake County Commissioner Safiyah Jackson. “The shelter is full, and we have so many loving animals waiting for their forever homes. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, now is the time.”
Currently, there are 240 animals in the Wake County Animal Center’s care—142 at the center and the rest in foster care. The community can help by adopting pets, assisting in finding stray pet owners, rehoming pets without surrendering, and sharing adoptable pets on social media.
Adoption Details
“Now that we’ve reopened, our top priority is finding homes for the many dogs and cats still in our care,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Animal Center. “Overcrowding remains a serious challenge, and we desperately need the community’s help. Every adoption saves a life—so please, come visit us!”
Adopted pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines, saving you on vet bills. Additionally, Friends of Wake County Animal Center is offering $350 vouchers for heartworm-positive dogs through the Heal a Heart Program.
Visit Us!
Ready to adopt? Visit our adoption gallery or stop by to meet the pets. The shelter is open for adoptions from noon to 6 p.m., seven days a week.
Location: 820 Beacon Lake Drive, near I-440 and New Bern Avenue, Raleigh
