Adopting is a great way to welcome a companion animal into your family, provide a home for an animal in need, and help animal shelters.
You can find wonderful cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs at Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), which has adoption centers in Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island* and holds adoption events across the city.
ACC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization contracted to serve as the City's open-admissions animal-shelter system, and is constantly taking in new animals from across the five boroughs. When you adopt an animal from ACC, you're adopting a "Boroughbred!"
ACC waives adoption fees for veterans, as well as for adults 60+ adopting an animal who is at least six years old. IDNYC cardholders receive a $25 discount.
Many animals available for adoption have experience living with families, and were surrendered due to issues affecting their humans, such as financial challenges, housing problems, and allergies.
Animals are also available for adoption from other shelters and rescue groups:
*Brooklyn and Bronx Animal Care Centers, which will include adoption centers, are currently under construction!
If you're not in a position to adopt but are interested in caring for a companion animal temporarily (could be just a few weeks!) consider fostering. You'll get to hang out with a fun friend for a bit, while making a big difference for animals.
Many organizations in New York City, including ACC, have foster programs. You can sign up for an ACC foster orientation on ACC's foster page.
Additional foster (and other animal-related volunteer) opportunities may be posted at NYC Service.