Best Friends Pet Adoption Center - West LA

Best Friends Pet Adoption Center - West LA

A Legacy of Hope

Best Friends Animal Society is dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. We believe that every pet has a story and that, together, we can save them all by ensuring every animal has a safe place to call home.

Our Story and Mission

Our journey began in 1984, when a group of passionate friends joined together to create a sanctuary in Utah’s high desert. From those humble beginnings, we have grown into a national movement committed to bringing the entire country to no-kill status, proving that kindness is the most powerful tool for change.

How We Save Lives

Operating in Los Angeles and nationwide, we work collaboratively with city shelters, rescue groups, and dedicated individuals to provide care for homeless animals. Our approach includes a vibrant foster network and our local adoption center, where animals receive medical checkups, vaccinations, and spay/neuter services while they wait for their forever families.

Your Partner in Adoption

Adopting a pet is a joyful partnership, and we are here to ensure you find the perfect match for your lifestyle. Our team offers thoughtful matchmaking, training guidance, and behavior support to ensure every transition into your home is a success. We treat every animal as an individual, and our counselors are dedicated to helping you experience the life-changing magic of welcoming a new best friend.

Start Your Journey

Ready to meet your new companion? We invite you to browse our available cats and dogs online or visit our Los Angeles center on Pontius Avenue to meet the animals in person. Whether you choose to adopt, foster, or volunteer, you are an essential part of the lifesaving work that gives pets the second chance they truly deserve.

Trust Assessment
GoldRated Nov 10, 2026
NonprofitVerifiedPhysical FacilityOperating 50+ years
Finances
Online Review Highlights
  • Clean facilities
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff
  • Operational friction regarding adoption queues
Vetted byMaddies FundPETCO LOVEPedigree FoundationPetSmart Charities
How we assess
Recent Videos

11/8 - Meet Chevy! This adoptable shelter dog from Best Friends Animal Society in Salt Lake City enjoyed a Halloween adventure, a neighborhood walk, and a pup cup (once he decided he liked it). Chevy is looking for his forever home! Like, comment, and share to help this good dog get adopted! #saltlakecity #adoptdontshop #rescuedogsrock #adoptme #volunteer

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11/5 - A little help can go a long way! 🙏 This National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, show some love to the shelters and volunteers making a difference for pets in need. From donating supplies to lending your time, every act of kindness counts. Visit bestfriends.org to get involved! #nationalanimalrescueappreciationweek #bobsfromskechers #adoptdontshop #goodforthesole

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11/5 - Behind every lifesaving moment are people who care deeply about the work they do. 🧡 This Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week, we're celebrating the dedication, compassion, and experiences of those who make a difference for pets and their communities every day. We asked students across our Learning Advancement programs to share their "why." Those moments, big or small, that remind them why they love what they do. 💬 We'd love to hear from you! What's a moment that's reminded you why you love working in animal welfare? If you’re looking to continue help shape this field and deepen your understanding, our seven-week online Intro to Animal Services certificate course explores how animal services has evolved, the approaches shaping it today, and where it’s headed. Along the way, you'll earn a certificate from Southern Utah University. 📅Apply by January 6, 2027 🔗Link in bio

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11/3 - Liz Lemon came to Best Friends very sick, but with dedicated medical care, foster support, and time to heal, she made an incredible recovery. Now, she’s found a loving home to call her own! Her story is a beautiful reminder of what a second chance can make possible. 🧡

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11/2 - He just wants all the love 👅 #ChewyPartner ✨MEET BEAUMONT✨ 5 months old ✨LIKES✨ Kissing Sticks More kisses Puppy kisses Constant kisses ✨DISLIKES✨ None to report! We’re partnering with our friends at @Chewy who will be covering Beaumont’s adoption fees AND if you want to help more dogs get adopted for free, visit chewy.com/chewyclausshelters and submit your Chewy Claus letter today! Every letter submitted helps Chewy Claus cover adoption fees for shelter pets across the country. If you want to see all the dogs available for adoption, check out @bestfriendsanimalsociety, or the Chewy Claus link above! Dog backpack by @heylittlechonk I can’t wait to share the next adoptable pup with you soon! #dogsofinstagram #adoptdontshop #ChewyClaus

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11/2 - Bessy is available for adoption at Best Friends Animal Society in Salt Lake City, Utah. 🧡 #saltlakecity #adoptdontshop #rescuedogsrock #shelterdog #dogadoption

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11/1 - Back in September, shelter dogs across Los Angeles got a day out of their kennels for Adventure Buddies Day. Some went hiking while others hit the beach. Some just enjoyed a car ride, a nap and a few hours feeling like someone’s dog. That same kind of help can mean so much during the holidays. If you have room in your home, consider fostering a shelter pet this season, even for just one day. A little time out of the shelter can give a pet a chance to relax and show off their personality. They may even meet the person who’s been looking for them all along. 🥹 This holiday season, be someone’s Adventure Buddy. Learn more at the link in bio. 🧡

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10/29 - Happy National Cat Day! 🧡🐈 Cat lovers know just how special it is to feel a cat’s love. On this day, we appreciate them, their unique personalities, and unconditional love. Adopt a cat and have your life changed for the better!

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10/27 - Today, October 27th, our Sanctuary honors the beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge as we celebrate Día de los Muertos. In Mexican tradition, this day is dedicated to remembering our animal companions who are no longer with us. It is believed that on this day, our animal companions return to visit the families who love and miss them. 🌈 At our Sanctuary, we honor their memories and the special bonds we share with them. This beautiful ofrenda was created with photos and meaningful offerings to welcome and remember the spirits of those who will forever hold a place in our hearts. This beautiful tradition reminds us that love never dies, and the paw prints our beloved companions leave on our hearts last a lifetime. 🧡

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10/26 - Show me your adopted besties! I wanna see them! Best Friends little collab with Peanuts is soo cute!! All me and my besties always chose adopt over shop ✨ @bestfriendsanimalsociety @snoopygrams #snoopysiblings #adoptdontshop #petsforadoption #bestfriendsanimalsociety #snoopyfinds

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10/25 - Patsy’s journey is one worth celebrating! 🧡 Diagnosed with FIP, this sweet kitten got lifesaving treatment, a loving foster home, and a second chance at life. The best part? Her foster family fell in love and officially adopted her!

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10/24 - Last Day of the Peanuts Pop-Up! Snoopy and his siblings are taking over our Pet Adoption Center! Join us today from 11-7pm at 307 W Broadway to see your favorite Peanuts pups alongside some real cats and dogs! We’re collaborating with Peanuts to bring you exclusive limited-edition merch, prizes, multiple photo opportunities, and more while supplies last. You won’t want to miss this Peanuts pop-up!

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10/24 - @bestfriendsanimalsociety has teamed up with Peanuts to shine a light on adoptable dogs and cats in shelters across the country. Like Snoopy and his siblings, each one is unique and ready for a place to call home! They’ve released 8 pieces of limited edition merch, so get yours while supplies last! 🐶🐱 #snoopy #bestfriendsanimalsociety #adoptdontshop #shelter #savealife

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Visit Us At

1845 Pontius Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025

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