Adoptions/Fosters

Adoption is an exciting and fulfilling way to add a loving pet your family! Each year, Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement takes in approximately 7,000 stray, abandoned and surrendered animals. When animals arrival at the shelter, their health and temperament are evaluated. Healthy and even-tempered animals are available for adoption. Household frequency of adoption may be restricted, to ensure animals are going to appropriate homes.

All animals arriving at the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center are scanned for a microchip, and then held for three days to allow owners an opportunity to be reunited with their lost pet. All adoptions or fosters are handled on a first-come/first-served basis; there are no phone holds.

Before your visit, complete the Adoption/Foster Application so our knowledgeable staff can  assist in finding the perfect fit for your family and home. Remember to bring a leash, collar, or a cat carrier when you come for your meet and greet!

Adopting a pet from the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center is relatively inexpensive and includes spay/neuter, microchipping, and vaccinations! Animal Welfare and Enforcement frequently offers adoption specials; follow our Facebook page @GwinnettAnimalShelter.

Ask about discounts for veterans (with proof) and seniors (age 55+). Residents must be at least 18 years old to adopt. Remember to bring a leash, collar, or a cat carrier.

Cats/kittens	$30 or two for $20
Dogs/puppies	$45
Senior pets (ages 7+)	Free
Pets sheltered 30+ days	Free
Cattle/swine	$50
Equine	$100
Fowl (livestock or exotic)	$10
Reptiles	$10
Domestic mammals (guinea pig, hamster, etc.)	$10

Adopting a pet from the shelter is a great joy, but comes with great responsibility. Consider the amount of time and effort a new pet will need versus the amount of time available to meet those needs before adopting. Keep in mind that animals need shelter, food, water, medical care, and love and attention. Pets require more than basic food and water. Younger animals enjoy high-energy households and can be playful, but will need time and attention for proper training. Older animals; however, will enjoy a calm, quiet household.

County Ordinances requires dogs and cats to wear current rabies tags. Check out the Gwinnett County Animal Ordinances for more information on responsible pet ownership, tethering, barking, and other related topics.

Dogs can be loyal, cuddly, protective, and eager to please, but need someone at home to take them out regularly and take them for walks; visit GwinnettParks.com for dog parks and walking trails. A fenced yard and doghouse may be available, but your new best friend may annoy the neighbors by barking.

Cats tend to be more independent and nocturnal; some indoor cats never go outside, making them good pets where no one is home during the day. Cats will need a carrier and generally use a litterbox instinctively, as long as it’s kept clean.

Adopting a new pet from the shelter is an exciting time. Pet ownership is rewarding and the companionship is well worth the time and effort.

Some animals are determined to need extra care, which include those that are too young or frail to be adopted, injured, or ill. Animal Welfare and Enforcement partners with many local rescue organizations licensed by the state of Georgia Department of Agriculture to place these animals where they will receive special attention they need.

Often, through the hard work of the rescue organizations, these animals can be placed in good homes after they are rehabilitated. Email AnimalRescue@GwinnettCounty.com for more information.