Every year on April 30, National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day brings attention to the thousands of pets in shelters, all hoping for a second chance. It’s the perfect opportunity to not only support local shelters that do so much for our community and pets, but also to help these animals find their furr-ever homes.
What do I need to adopt a pet in L.A.?
Around L.A., there are many NGOs and places where you can adopt animals, but in this case, we’ll focus only on the requirements set by the official pet shelters managed by the city. According to the LA Animal Services website, to adopt your new pet you must be at least 18 years old and present a valid photo ID with your full name (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
As for the fees, they include spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and for LA City residents, the first-year dog license. The fees vary as follows:
- Adult dogs (4 months and older): $102.00, or $122.00 for LA City residents (includes license)
- Puppies (under 4 months): $150.00
- Adult cats (4 months and older): $25.00
- Kittens (under 4 months): $50.00
- Rabbits: $71.00
- Small animals like guinea pigs, hamsters, chickens, roosters, turtles, rats, mice, reptiles, and others: $17.00
In other locations, such as pet shops and NGOs, fees may change.
Where can I adopt a pet in L.A.?
LA Animal Services operates several shelters throughout the city, including:
- West Los Angeles: 11361 West Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
- Chesterfield Square: 1850 W. 60th St, Los Angeles, CA 90047
- North Central: 3201 Lacy St, Los Angeles, CA 90031
You can check its available pets clicking here.
If you’re unable to visit one of the city-run pet shelters, here are a few other options you can consider:
- Best Friends Pet Adoption Center: 1845 Pontius Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025
- spcaLA: 12910 Yukon Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250
- Wags & Walks Adoption Center: 2238 Federal Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064