Los Angeles isn’t just the city of stars—it’s also home to thousands of cats, dogs, and other animals waiting for a second chance. If you’re thinking about adopting a pet in L.A. County, you’ll find plenty of options, from large municipal shelters to small nonprofit rescues. Here’s a guide to where you can go, what the adoption process looks like, and the key rules you should know before bringing a new companion home.
City Shelters: LA Animal Services
The City of Los Angeles runs six shelters, each filled with adoptable dogs and other pets.
- What to expect: Every adopted animal comes spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. If you’re a City resident, the first year of your dog license is included.
- What you’ll need: A valid ID (driver’s license or passport) and payment (cash, check, or card).
- Why it matters: L.A. shelters are often overcrowded. Choosing to adopt here literally saves a life.
Tip: Visit early in the day if you want more time with adoption counselors and less foot traffic.
County Shelters: LA County Animal Care & Control
Outside the city limits, the County of Los Angeles operates seven adoption centers across the region.
- Ready to Go Home program (RTGH): Dogs and cats available for adoption have already cleared medical and behavioral checks. Larger dogs are often socialized in playgroups before being placed.
- Hours: Generally open Monday–Saturday, with reduced Sunday and holiday schedules.
If you live in the Valley, the San Gabriel Valley, or further east, a County shelter may be your most convenient option.
Nonprofits and Rescues
Best Friends Animal Society – Los Angeles
Located near the 405, Best Friends (part of the No-Kill Los Angeles initiative) is a hub for adoption events and rescue partnerships. Locals often highlight it as one of the most positive adoption experiences in town.
ASPCA Los Angeles
The ASPCA focuses on cat adoptions, many of which happen remotely. Their animals are cared for in foster homes, and you can often meet your future pet via video call before arranging pickup.
Smaller rescues
From breed-specific rescues (like German Shepherd or Chihuahua groups) to independent nonprofits, the rescue community in Los Angeles is incredibly active. Many of these organizations host adoption fairs at pet stores, farmers markets, and community events.
Legal & Practical Notes
- Licensing: In both the City and County, all dogs over four months must be licensed, vaccinated against rabies, microchipped, and spayed/neutered.
- Pet store laws: Since 2019, California law (AB 485) bans retail stores from selling dogs, cats, or rabbits from commercial breeders. Stores can only host adoptions through shelters or rescues.
- Street adoptions: Only recognized 501(c)(3) organizations (nonprofit organization exempt from federal income tax) are allowed to place pets for adoption in public spaces. Avoid unverified sellers.
A Few Local Realities
- Overcrowding is real. Reddit threads from Angelenos often describe shelters at capacity, especially for large dogs. That means the need is urgent.
- Think beyond puppies. Adult pets, especially big dogs and senior cats, are often overlooked but make loyal, loving companions.
- Stay flexible. You may walk in looking for a kitten and fall in love with a calm, gentle older dog.
How to Get Started
- Browse available pets online at LA Animal Services or LA County Animal Care.
- Check out Best Friends or the ASPCA for different adoption experiences.
- Block off time for a shelter visit—weekends can be busy, but weekdays are calmer.
- Bring ID, patience, and an open heart.
- Look for options on cali-dogs.com, petfinder.com and adoptapet.com !
Final Thought
Adopting in Los Angeles isn’t just about finding a pet—it’s about joining a community that values compassion, rescue, and second chances. Whether you walk into a city shelter, drive to a County facility, or meet a foster dog through a nonprofit, you’re doing more than changing one animal’s life—you’re changing your own.
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