For November, adoption fees are just $5 for senior cats and $25 for senior dogs
Ashlyn Dibiase found her best friend in Kino, a devoted pet who brightens her days. Alyssa Pezzella welcomed her very first dog, Hera, and suddenly her life was filled with new adventure. Young couple Tyler Young and Kyro Howard went the extra mile to give a home to three-legged Kodak and Cheese, an orange deaf tabby. These are just a few of the hundreds of stories of connection, love and second chances at Wake County Animal Center.
“This November, in celebration of Adopt a Senior Pet Month, Wake County Animal Center is inviting residents to create their own stories by welcoming senior pets into their homes,” said Wake County Commissioner Shinica Thomas. “When you adopt an older dog or cat, you’re not just giving them a home — you’re giving them the chance to spend their golden years surrounded by care and comfort.”
Videos and stories highlighting these heartwarming adoptions, including Kino, Hera, Kodak and Cheese, are available on the Wake County website and for download, offering a glimpse into the joy these pets bring to their families.
Currently, the Animal Center is running its “Spooky Season, Sweet Snuggles” campaign, with all adoption fees waived through Sunday, Nov. 9. Beginning Nov. 10, the Adopt a Senior Pet Month campaign will launch, allowing you to adopt dogs for $25 and cats for $5 through the end of November.
At this time, there are 112 dogs, two puppies, 29 cats and 11 kittens at the Animal Center, including 16 senior dogs and three senior cats. When you adopt a pet from the Wake County Animal Center, they are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on their vaccines. This saves adoptive families hundreds of dollars in veterinary costs while giving a pet the gift of a home.
“Cats and dogs are considered ‘senior’ when they are 8 years old or older,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Animal Center. “Senior pets are often calmer, well-socialized and loving companions. Older pets often form deep bonds with their new families, showing incredible gratitude and loyalty for a second chance at life.”
Senior pets are usually house-trained and familiar with basic commands, saving adopters time and effort compared with younger animals. They are generally low maintenance, past the destructive phases of youth and content with cuddles and gentle walks. Senior animals also tend to adapt quickly to their new homes, already knowing how to navigate household life. Any potential health issues are often apparent upfront, allowing adopters to plan for their care effectively.
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.
