Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement - GCACE
Our Mission
Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement is dedicated to enhancing the safety of our citizens while ensuring the proper care and treatment of every animal that enters our doors. We strive to provide professional, compassionate services that promote responsible pet ownership throughout our community.
Serving Our Community Since 1972
Established in 1972, our division has spent decades protecting both people and animals by enforcing state statutes and county ordinances. As a proud division of the County Police Department since 1995, we serve as a vital resource, investigating animal-related needs and providing a safe haven for stray, injured, or unwanted pets.
A Dedicated Care Model
At our shelter, every animal receives professional housing and care while they await their next chapter. We utilize a variety of resources, including foster opportunities and partnerships with local groups, to ensure our pets are supported until they find a loving home. Our commitment to excellence has even earned national recognition for the quality of our programs.
Finding Your Perfect Companion
We believe that every pet deserves a chance to be part of a family. Our team works hard to understand the unique needs of our residents, and we are here to help you find the right match for your household. Whether you are looking for a new best friend or exploring ways to support our mission, we are honored to facilitate these life-changing connections.
Join Our Mission
Are you ready to meet your new companion? We invite you to explore our available pets online or visit our shelter during regular business hours to see our wonderful animals in person. Together, we can make a difference for the animals of Gaston County.
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Clean facilities
- Communication and responsiveness issues
8/26 - PETA questions North Carolina animal shelter policy after puppies abandoned
GASTON COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A story about abandoned dogs in Gastonia is prompting the animal rights group, PETA, to question Gaston County’s shelter policies. Five puppies w…
7/14 - 1-day-old puppies abandoned during ‘pouring rain’ in Gaston County, officials say
The pups were left in a box in the bushes near a veterinary facility in Cherryville.
7/1 - Dog found tied to stop sign with rope knotted around hips in Gaston County
Officials said the dog was discovered around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, just off I-85 near the Exit 13 ramp in Bessemer City.
