Wake County Animal Center
Our Mission
The Wake County Animal Center is determined to make a difference for the animals and citizens of our community through adoption, education, enforcement, and strong community partnerships. We strive to create a humane environment where every animal in our care is treated with dignity and compassion.
Why We Are Here
Every year, we work alongside dedicated community partners to treat and re-home thousands of homeless animals across Wake County. Our commitment is rooted in the Five Freedoms of animal welfare, ensuring that every pet we care for experiences freedom from hunger, discomfort, pain, fear, and the ability to express natural behaviors.
How We Care
Our facility serves as a vital resource for our community, providing a safe harbor for pets in need. We operate through a blend of direct shelter care and a supportive foster network, ensuring animals receive the specialized attention they deserve while waiting for their forever homes.
Your New Best Friend
Adoption is a joyful partnership, and we are here to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle. We encourage you to meet your potential companion in person on our adoption floor to foster a real, lasting connection. Because we prioritize the well-being of our animals, our team is committed to providing helpful resources to ensure a successful transition into your home.
Start Your Journey
Ready to meet your new companion? Visit us at 820 Beacon Lake Drive in Raleigh, any day of the week between noon and 6 p.m. You can browse our current adoption gallery online to see all the wonderful dogs, cats, and little critters currently waiting to meet you!
- Dedicated and friendly staff
- Affordable adoption fees
- Inconsistent disclosure of animal health issues
8/11 - Saving lives, one foster at a time
At the Wake County Animal Center, some heroes wear scrubs, and some warm bottles for hungry kittens in the middle of the night. Elle Felkins has done both. By day, Felkins is a clinical project manager for oncology studies at a pharmaceutical company. She began her career as a nurse and later moved into research. Caring for others has always shaped her life.
8/3 - Wake County Animal Center joins Clear the Shelters with free pet adoptions
The Wake County Animal Center is waiving all pet adoption fees throughout August as part of the nationwide Clear the Shelters campaign to find homes for hundreds of dogs and cats and free up space for incoming animals.
7/17 - The story of a dog who learned it was safe to dream
Always ready for a walk, a car ride or a cozy afternoon nap, Jimmy has a way of making every day a little brighter. He's the kind of dog who wants to be wherever his people are, happily matching their energy. Adventure? He's in. Quiet evening on the couch? He'll be snoring right beside you. Gabriella Agnello and her partner adopted Jimmy from the Wake County Animal Center in March 2026.
7/13 - Wake County Animal Center asks for adopters as hundreds of animals fill shelter
Hundreds of pets go missing around the Fourth of July each year. The Wake County Animal Center says many could be waiting at the shelter.
4/24 - Wake County SPCA expands services to curb pet euthanasia
Overpopulation leads to pet euthanizations. Here’s how the nonprofit is expanding Wake County services to help.
4/23 - Splash into fun and find a furry friend!
Get ready for wagging tails, big splashes and plenty of smiles! Wake County Animal Center dogs are back for Shelter Dog Swim Day on April 25 from 10a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sliding G Ranch in Chapel Hill.
4/21 - Longtime foster Kim Leon brings love and care to Wake County dogs
For Kim Leon, loving animals has always come naturally. Long before she ever walked through the doors of the Wake County Animal Center, she was the kind of person who noticed animals, worried about them and wanted to help.
