The Maryland SPCA

Our Mission

The Maryland SPCA is dedicated to reducing pet homelessness by providing vital retention services, safety net housing, and community engagement that empowers residents of Baltimore and beyond. We believe that we can only help pets by helping the people who love them.

A History of Compassion

Founded over 150 years ago in 1869, our organization was built on a simple, enduring notion: every animal deserves to be treated with kindness and care. Today, we continue to fulfill that promise by leaning into our core values of compassion, integrity, innovation, and respect.

Our Approach to Care

We provide a safe haven for cats and dogs, maintaining a commitment to saving all healthy and treatable pets. Because we believe in supporting the bond between pets and their families, we utilize a combination of shelter care and foster homes to ensure every animal receives the attention they deserve while waiting for their perfect match.

Your Adoption Journey

Adoption is the beginning of a beautiful, lifelong partnership. We prioritize thoughtful, judgment-free connections, supporting you throughout the process to ensure you and your new furry friend thrive together. By choosing to adopt, you are not just getting a pet; you are becoming part of a community that celebrates the unique human-animal bond.

Join Our Mission

Whether you are looking to open your home to a new companion or want to support our life-saving programs, there are many ways to get involved. We invite you to explore our current list of adoptable pets, learn about our volunteer opportunities, or visit us at our main campus in Baltimore to meet your new best friend today.

Trust Assessment
BronzeRated Sep 27, 2026
NonprofitVerifiedOperating 50+ years
Finances
Online Review Highlights
  • Compassionate and helpful staff
  • Efficient adoption process
  • Difficulty reaching staff by phone
Vetted byASPCA
How we assess
Coverage We Reviewed
WBAL

9/28 - Meet Sheeba, a pup looking for a new home from the MDSPCA

It's that time again as WBAL-TV 11 News helps pets looking for new home.

Baltimore Sun

9/10 - 5 Things to do in Baltimore: Sept. 11 – 17

Learn about our local history, enjoy a seafood festival, adopt a shelter pet, see a free flick, or root at a rugby match.

WBFF

9/4 - PET OF THE WEEK: Meet Bitty Sweet

Baltimore (WBFF) - For our most adorable segment of the week, Katy Haines with the SPCA joined Fox45 with Bitty Sweet!

WBFF

8/28 - PET OF THE WEEK: Meet Poe

Baltimore (WBFF) - Its time for our most adorable part of every week.Katie Haines with the Maryland SPCA joined Fox45 this morning with Poe.

WBFF

8/22 - National Dog Day Festival returns to Hampden, benefiting Maryland SPCA

WBFF Fox45 provides local news, weather forecasts, traffic updates, notices of events and items of interest in the community, sports and entertainment programming for Baltimore and nearby towns and communities in Maryland, including Annapolis, Crofton, Glen Burnie, Linthicum, Pasadena, Severn, Cockeysville, Dundalk, Essex, Parkville, Owings Mills, Towson, White Marsh, Woodlawn, Hampstead, Sykesville, Taneytown, Westminster, Elkton, Perryville, Pt. Deposit, Rising Sun, Aberdeen, Abingdon, Bel Air, Edgewood, Fallston, Havre De Grace, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Fulton, and Ocean City.

WBFF

8/21 - PET OF THE WEEK: Meet Orang!

(WBFF) - For our most adorable segment of the week, Katie Haines with the SPCA joined Fox45 alongside Orang.

CBS News

8/19 - Maryland animal shelters asking for help as pet surrenders rise over the summer

MDSPCA has handled 6% more surrenders than in years past, and the constant stream of animals in the shelter doors means more demand for staff and supplies.

WMAR 2 News Baltimore
Improves Trust

8/5 - Maryland SPCA celebrates National Dog Week with community events

The Maryland SPCA brings National Dog Week to life with three exciting community celebrations featuring activities for both humans and their four-legged family members.

WBAL
Improves Trust

7/30 - Adoption event hopes to place 3,000 animals as Baltimore shelters clear space for more pets

Baltimore shelters are waiving adoption fees in a Maryland-wide push to help more than 3,000 animals find homes.

The Banner
Improves Trust

7/20 - Inside Baltimore’s free pet pantry network

A network of eight free, self-serve pet food pantries has sprung up across the Baltimore area, helping owners keep their pets fed and out of shelters.

CBS News

7/14 - Paws N' Claws: Meet two-month-old Wacko, an adorable and loving pup at the Maryland SPCA

Chandler Blake with the Maryland SPCA joins us with Wacko, a 2-month-old pup looking for a his forever home.

WBAL
Improves Trust

7/3 - Tips to help pets cope with July 4 fireworks celebrations

While Marylanders plan for Independence Day celebrations, animal shelters are preparing for an influx of animals, often as a result of fireworks displays.

WBAL

6/28 - MDSPCA: Meet Munchkin, a small and gentle pup ready for adoption

Munchkin is a gentle dog, who knows her commands, and does great with children. If you're looking to adopt, you can reach the MDSPCA at 410-235-8826

Dundalk Eagle

6/11 - Letters to the Editor: Local animal organizations should be supported

Fifth grade students from Battle Grove Elementary School wrote letters to the editor explaining why local animal organizations should be supported.

WBFF

5/29 - SPCA Pet of the Week

Katie Haines from the SPCA joined the FOX 45 morning show to talk about Sebastian, a 12 year old dog looking for a home.

WMAR 2 News Baltimore

5/29 - 'We want to help': Where pet owners can find affordable care after vet closures

The announcement that a longtime East Baltimore animal hospital was planning to close is shining a light on a growing veterinarian shortage affecting communities across Maryland and the country.

WBAL

5/24 - MDSPCA: Advice on acclimating a kitten to the home

Meet Turtle Toes, a tiny kitten who is ready to find her forever home.

Norwood News - Serving Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights

5/14 - Belmont: Another Cat and Turtle Rescued Three Weeks after Fatal Fire at 660 East 187th Street - Norwood News

For three straight weeks, as reported, family members displaced by a 5-alarm, fatal fire in Belmont that also resulted in several injuries, have been back at the building, now encased by a temporary wooden barricade, keeping vigil and searching the broken windows for any glimpse of the estimated seven cats and other animals left behind after the blaze. Residents believe they may still be inside the hollowed-out structure.

WBAL
Improves Trust

5/12 - Animal advocates praise series of laws to hold abusive owners accountable

The Baltimore County executive signed a series of laws aimed at protecting animals and closing loopholes.

WMAR 2 News Baltimore

4/29 - Pets on Set: Boston Nico

Meet Boston Nico, a playful 10-month-old pup looking for his forever home. This energetic bundle of joy loves adventures, knows basic commands, and is perfect for active families.

WMAR 2 News Baltimore
Improves Trust

4/29 - Art and furry fundraising combine for "Kindness for Paws Art Show"

This spring, the Maryland SPCA invites animal lovers and art enthusiasts to the "Kindness for Paws Art Show," a community event that blends creativity, compassion, and youth engagement.

Recent Videos

10/20 - Curry is looking high and low for her hero! She loves playing with toys and will happily show off her playful side. This 5-year-old girlie may become overstimulated at times, so she would do best with older children who will understand when Curry might need a little break. With patience and playtime, Curry is sure to make a wonderful companion! 😻 #adoptme #sheltercat

Watch on Instagram

10/19 - This week, we’re celebrating Maryland SPCA vet techs and the incredible work they do to keep our mission strong. 💪 From daily exams and vaccinations to surgeries, illness management, and so much more, they bring skilled care and a whole lot of heart to every pet who needs them. We are deeply grateful for our team’s dedication, and for vet techs across the nation who give their very best to this important work. 🙌 Happy #VetTechWeek!

Watch on Instagram

10/17 - @mtroyalsoaps Pet Toe Bean Balm brings a well-deserved spa moment to some of the big doggos at the @MDSPCA. See the judges’ reviews! #baltimore #adoptdontshop #dogrescues #dogsofinstagram #mdspca

Watch on Instagram

10/16 - Meet Dinghy! Smol boy with a big heart ❤️ Ready for his forever home and up for adoption at the @mdspca !!#baltimore #dogrescues #adoptdontshop #dogsofinstagram #shelterdog

Watch on Instagram

10/9 - Rhonda is a super friendly, chill-out kinda gal! 😎 This sweet senior lady is looking for a home filled with leisurely strolls, cozy cuddle time, and plenty of relaxation. Rhonda walks nicely on leash, happily accepts snacks as payment, and is more than willing to follow directions—especially if treats are involved. 🦴 While she’s wonderful with her people, Rhonda gets uncomfortable around other dogs and would prefer to be the only dog in her new home, where she can soak up all the love and attention. If you’re searching for a mellow, affectionate best friend with a championship tail wag, Red Rhonda is ready to clock in! ❤️ #adoptdontshop #shelterdog #seniordog

Watch on Instagram

10/6 - Thank you to @ravenscommunity & @unitedwaycentmd for all of your help! 🫶🙏💙 #ravenscawtoaction #volunteer #shelter #dogwalking

Watch on Instagram

10/2 - Petey Bonez trying out a few costumes for our Howloween market next week! 🧸 Join us next Friday on Oct 9 from 5-9pm at George’s Flealess Market (4007 Falls Rd) for a spooky sale! 🎃 Petey Bonez is available for adoption! This 3 year old pup is super sweet and loves all people and pets! Come down to the shelter today to meet him! 🦴 . . . #adoptdontshop #dogcostume #petsupplies #pittbulllovers

Watch on Instagram

9/30 - We have so many bonded pairs of cats available for adoption! ✨ We have kitties of all ages and colors with a friend looking for a home! Adopting a bonded pair comes with a few benefits. First is built-in companionship: bonded pairs can provide comfort, play and enrichment for each other. Bonded pairs also have an easier transition period from shelter to their new home, but most importantly the adopter gets double the love and double the fun! 😊 Please help spread the word about these adorable duos needing to find a family! #adoptdontshop #bondedpair #sheltercats

Watch on Instagram

9/26 - We are full of kittens and they are ready to steal your heart! ❤️ Swing by this weekend to meet tiny purr machines looking for loving homes. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, now’s the perfect time to make a difference! We are here Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m. Come say hi! 😍 #adoptdontshop #kittens #shelterkitten

Watch on Instagram
Visit Us At

3300 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211

(410) 235-8826
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