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ASPCA Adoption Center

4.5 (281 reviews)
Closed 12:00 pm - 5:00 PM

Services - ASPCA Adoption Center

Animal shelters

Pet adoption

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3 days prior to being euthanized by the ASPCA: Milkshake loving his new home:

My experience with the ASPCA was an utter abomination. On Friday 12/16/2022 "Milkshake" was released to me as a fast-track foster. He was intended to be an adoption, but because of a potential ear surgery that he required, we had to foster until after the shelter vet performed the second surgery. Upon meeting the behavior team, they mentioned in passing that he had grabbed at a person's pant leg during a walk and also had canine leash reactivity. This did not disuade them from releasing him to me. They sent me home with food, toys, and helped lead him into our Lyft ride home. It did not disuade me from taking him as I have been adopting dogs with behavioral issues for decades and am a certified trainer specializing in behavior. As agreed, I returned with Milkshake to the shelter Sunday evening for his medical evaluation. I emailed prior to let them know that I did not believe a second surgery was necessary. With supervision and care the surgical site was no longer bleeding, but I would defer to the vet. Upon meeting with ASPCA personnel, I stated that unless it was absolutely medically necessary it was not in Milkshake's best interest to remain overnight. I was told he must stay. I asked that due to his known reactivity to please not walk him (Manhattan is too stimulating), and if they must, please use a head harness (gentle leader) and allow him to carry a tennis ball. My feed back was disregarded. I was informed the following day that he was involved in an "incident" and the person required medical attention. How did this happen you ask? Sheer negligence. After two days of being managed by the Director of Foster Relations (Eileen Hanavan), I was informed by the Senior Manager of Behavior (Adi Hovav) that Milkshake would be humanely euthanized due to the lack of warning signals and the severity of the incident. Let's examine this for a moment: 1. The shelter readily released a dog that had already exhibited canine and human reactivity to me on Friday. 2. The shelter allowed the leash reactive dog to be walked by an "experienced handler" (volunteer) on a busy Manhattan street. 3. I was told that the dog was being walked on the left side of the handler, but yet had enough freedom that he was able to cross in front and attack a person on the right. 4. The shelter disregarded my feedback regarding proper safety and handling of the dog 5. The dog had not displayed aggressive tendancies during his first few weeks in the shelter. This behavior surfaced after neuter surgery. It is not uncommon for a dog to display what are often temporary reactive tendencies soon after a neuter. Shelter stress can also manifest with reactivity issues that are resolved after the dog is removed from the environment, allowed to decompress, and is provided with proper behavior modification training. 6. The ASPCA was not open to discussing potential alternatives to euthanasia (e.g.; meds, rescues that specialize in behavioral issues, etc.) to allow the dog to decompress and potentially be rehabilitated. Conversely, their frustration with me escalated when I pleaded Milkshake's case and explained that I was simply trying to "be his voice" as their very famous motto asks us to do. It culminated in Adi Hovav telling me "the decision has been made, you have no voice". My heart goes out to the individual that sustained injury. It is a horrific, traumatic incident that was completely avoidable. My heart breaks for Milkshake who paid the ultimate price for human negligence and error. I fully recognize that we can not allow dogs to pose a danger to society. I also know first hand, that many of these dogs can be worked with and rehabilitated to become good canine citizens. Have we learned nothing from the Bad Newz Kennel/Michael Vick debacle? My assumption is that euthanization was the only option the ASPCA considered because of potential litigation from the victim. Euthanizing the animal just looks better in court. Any way you look at it, the ASPCA made grave errors in judgement. If the dog was deemed dangerous enough to euthanize due to unpredictability, why was he being walked on a front clip harness (no control if his head) after already lunging at someone days prior? What humans are being held accountable for this? Any? Milkshake died in vain, alone, and was then carted to the dump. RIP sweet boy. You mattered and I will never forget you!

This is Tater
Kevin A.

I recently adopted a cat from here. It's been difficult to find a cat I connected with. I had applied for one cat and through a clerical error I was not able to adopt him. I had to choose another cat. My adoption counselor Kim was wonderful. I fell in love with another cat named Tatum. He's now Tater. He was not a happy cat in the shelter but Kim & I both felt like he had potential. A few days later he was home with me cuddling, purring & making biscuits. My point is the counselors really try to help you make a connection and with Covid restrictions it can be challenging. But they do it. These cats are loved and well taken care of. They follow up and offer support.

The information to get in touch with the ASPCA
Karen G.

Sandy was sent here for an emergency surgery. They needed to unblock his urinary tract or he would die. He's only 4 years old so we weren't trying to have that happen to him. As soon as we got there from the Bronx ASPCA they took him right in. They kept him for 3 days and told us to come pick him up by days end. They did an excellent job with Sandy. When we left they only charged us $100.00. As opposed to the other place we took him to they wanted to charge me almost 4,000.00 that wasn't happening so this is why I love the ASPCA. They don't rob you without a gun. They sent him home with a bag full of urinary tract food and his meds for 10 days. I will always donate and support the ASPCA they take care of your pet and you.

Allison S.

5 stars because we adopted our sweet angel Queen Ann (@queenannkitty) here 5 years ago and I can't imagine life without her! The staff was great, they really let us take our time and meet many different kitties. When we saw our girl, she was in rough shape. She was feral from the Bronx and it looked like she had gotten attacked by some bigger animal because her back had a big bite. Poor girl. They took good care of her and we could tell they really wanted her to find a good home. Well, she chose us more than we chose her, and I just couldn't be more in love with this girl. So thankful that places like the ASPCA exist. Now let me spam you with photos of my beautiful baby Ann!

Ser Pounce dreaming of flying
Yuan C.

The staff here are deeply caring and purely amazing. Came here on a Saturday looking to adopt an older cat or dog. We were able to see all the animals in the shelter (most of which were adopted earlier in the day since they had an event). The whole process from start to end was quite seamless despite it being somewhat busy. I was able to interact with the cat I wanted to adopt, Sid. As a first time pet owner, I wasn't sure if we were the right fit. He had been interacting with people all day and was quite tired so I couldn't exactly gauge how well we would get along. He stayed in the corner and seemed to want to sleep for the most part. There was this fun little quiz I got to take to see what kind of cat would best suit me and Sid matched exactly that! I decided to adopt him that same day with the backup of staff's good words on what he's like usually. It was only a few papers, chat with the vet about medical history/questions, and that was most of it. All I had to do was pay for the pet carrier ($35) because there isn't a pet fee for older pet. I was also provided with a voucher for a first vet visit (which covers up to $200 and must be used in the first 2 weeks of adoption), pet food, and all necessary documents. I had renamed Sid to Ser Pounce and they provided me with the necessary tag as well. Overall, the process of adopting couldn't be easier! It's been over a month and I couldn't be more happier welcoming my new son into my life!!

The other kitten we took home
Tiffany I.

Mobile Adoption Truck review: I can't sing their praises enough! If I were rich I would donate generously to this organization because they truly deserve it; the ASPCA does great work!! They help the under served community to be able to obtain pets and even help them care for their pets by providing affordable top quality veterinary care! After a HORRIBLE experience at North Shore Animal League (see previous review), the ASPCA restored my faith in pet shelters. The adoption truck was in Corona Queens on 10/23/21 at 11am and I was lucky enough to be the 2nd person on line! I got to the location at 9am to be sure, but since the weather was drizzly and cool there wasn't too many people and I could've arrived a bit later. There's was no place to park at the original location they advertised and ended parking down the block. When I saw the truck, I RAN following them around the block until they finally parked; I noticed my line mate who was lucky number 1 did the same! Lol The 2 staff were extremely nice and so patient! They didn't rush you to make a choice and let me interact with multiple cats before making my choice. I was lucky enough to adopt a pair of 4 month old kittens who were litter mates that came from a hoarding situation. I had previously completed their online adoption application which expedited my process. The $150 adoption fee is MORE than worth it! Way more affordable than other organizations like Brooklyn Animal Action. Also the animals are MUCH healthier than places like Sean Casey Animal Rescue, which was pretty shady (review coming soon). They provide temporary pet carriers if you don't have one and I got a little welcome home bag with the wet and dry food they had been eating. They even let me take home the little bed and blankets they were using to make their transition easier. However they were so well socialized and so outgoing, that they required exactly zero days to get acquainted to our home! Lol I was careful to choose kittens who were not shy and were playful when I interacted with them; also having a companion kitten made it much easier for them to be comfortable right away. The only very minor downside (if it can even be called that) is that they only had about 7-8 cats to choose from. So there's a good chance that folks at the back of the line probably went home empty handed, but at least they can try again at one of their other mobile adoption events. Another thing is, of course, there is a lot of waiting involved especially if you are not at the front of the line, but I promise you it's worth it! The positive experience and quality of the animals are unmatched! Pro tips: 1. Complete the online Adoption Application beforehand. 2. Go on a day the weather is not so great, the line will be much smaller! 3. Get there early and pay attention for the truck, they might have to park in a slightly different location.

Michael G.

My husband and I wanted to adopt a cat to keep us company when the other is at work and to help with unwanted guests. We didn't know what to expect, as we haven't adopted before. We were overjoyed by our experience. The sign in process was quick and easy. The volunteer that helped us was so kind and understanding. We filled out a questionnaire about our living conditions and our lifestyles but little did we know we were giving them information about the personality type of cat that would work the best with us. It felt like a magazine quiz but it was very cute and was helpful for both us and them. We got secret admirer. Then the volunteer began to show us around to all the available cats for adoption. We met Princa, who was in a office of one of the employees there, which they said was because it made her used to being around people. We then met a few other cats. My husband and I had a hard time deciding between two cats and we were led upstairs into the office again to meet her. The volunteer was patient with us and made sure not to rush us and give us tips to connect with the cats. We then decided on our Princa! And they provided us with everything we needed to set up a good environment for her. We had to purchase the litter box for $15 and buy the carrier for $35 but they gave us large amounts of litter and food and her towels and blankets she got used to. Overall it was a wonderful experience. The facility was much nicer than I was expecting and the staff blew me away. I would say to give your self a few hours, as it took us longer than expected (but that may have been due to our indecision.) If you are interested in adopting a cat or dog I would 100% recommend considering ASPCA!

Panini at 4 months.
Joy G.

I'm a proud, unabashed cat person, but my dreams of dying amidst a heap of cats and half-open cans of tuna kept getting deferred by my mother's pesky dander allergies. Most fortunately for me, my boyfriend likes watching cat Youtube videos on an endless loop as much as I do, so adopting was inevitable. Plus, I didn't feel like plunking down a few Benjamins at a breeder. The ASPCA is just a few blocks near our apartment, and open on Saturdays and Sundays. The process starts with filling out some paperwork to determine background and what you're looking for in a pet. The ASPCA doesn't appear to have the resources to carry out full-fledged background checks and at-home interviews as other places might, but they do ask the right questions and are honest at whether it's a good fit. For example, when I took a friend with two small children and a slightly allergic husband who was considering adoption, the interviewer (quite rightly) tried to subtly talk her out of it. I'm sure the most heartbreaking part of any day for the ASPCA volunteers is when someone returns a pet. After the interview, they'll take you up to meet the cats and dogs in person. Just know that if you're looking for a kitten, the summer months are the best, but even if you fall in love with a particular kitty with the big sad anime eyes and the most plaintive meow, you can't really reserve or hold them, and the turnover is still high. Anyway, we did the impossible and walked out of the adoption center without kitties in tow, but a week later, my boyfriend surprised me with these two furry demons - Panini and Thug. Still one of the happiest days of my life, and I was emitting incoherent squeaks a few days later.

Heather R.

After losing my cat of 9 years, I finally was able to stomach the idea of opening up to adopting a new kitten. I made sure to show up by 11am, completed the paperwork, showed proof of residence and met with my volunteer to walk through my survey results. It was a lot to just see all of the cats needing homes, but I'm so happy to see how comfortable they make it for them here. The family is nice, clean and people are actively looking for a new pet. When I told them that my old cat was a blackcat and a male, and I'd prefer to see similar again... they brought me to see the kittens. There were so many people there, but none were paying attention to the black ones. Before coming in and while waiting, I'd seen one that was the cutest, but wasn't sure he'd be there still. One look at my little guy from the website and I knew he was mine. He was outgoing and had a strong personality, and did not want to come to me at all, but I was smitten with him. I adopted him and was able to bring him home that same morning. It took awhile to get him to stop hiding and to come out, but now he's a firecracker full of love and sleeping on the bed next to me. I don't think he's had the best start in his life, but I aim to give him one moving forward. Black cats are two-thirds less likely to get adopted than white cats and only half as likely to be adopted as tabby cats in shelters. I witnessed people walking by the black kittens for all of the others, and as long as I'm alive.. I'll always adopt a black cat moving forward. They have the best personalities and are so sweet. I've since changed his name to Poe. In addition, the ASPCA deserves so many kudos for what they do. I paid $125 and he was neutered, had all of his shots, except one and has his microchip. They also sent us home with canned food and dried food, in addition a full folder of information and outline of resources available. I just wish that I could bring them all home. Adopt don't shop.

Orion
Nicole R.

Last year I adopted a beautiful black kitten from the ASPCA. I decided she needed a playmate (once she turned a year old) I decided to head back to the ASPCA since my first time around was such an amazing experience. I adopted a male kitten, 8 Weeks old, and I named him, Orion. He's such a sweetheart. Some tips for those interested in adopting: Bring proof of address: There were people being turned away heartbroken because they did not have proof of residence. A letter from your landlord, lease or a bill with your name address will due. The facility offers carriers for purchase, rental, and a complimentary cardboard carrier is also offered. Both cats were microchipped and sent home with a gift bag that contained both wet and dry food. A folder filled with information on kitten/cat care was also provided.

Peter D.

I have finally embarked on what is sure to be a lifelong journey toward becoming a cat lady. And it's all thanks to the ASPCA. After over a half-decade of dating, my wife has slowly nibbled away at my resistance to adopting a feline friend.* And I suppose it's about time that I admitted I'm not even mad about it...because our new friend Batman is amazing. There really was no question where we were going to go when we finally decided to pull the trigger on adoption, and I can report that it was the right decision. The folks that work here are patient, kind, and just want to make sure that the adoption is a good fit for both you and your furry pal. Dorothea helped us navigated down Whisker Way (seriously) to the kitten room, and encouraged us to take our time in figuring out who was right for us. There will be a bit of waiting involved as they get paperwork together, but that seems appropriate as this isn't a decision to be taken lightly. Also, you're probably going to be waiting next to some little girl who quite literally cannot contain her excitement over the puppy she is going to be bringing home. And that's cute. I must admit though, I was disappointed that although there is a Yelp Check-In offer for a free doggy loot bag, there is no corresponding kitty loot bag. That's discrimination, people. _____________ *As well as my self-worth, my ability to live without fear, and my overall masculinity.

S H.

SO BLESSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sometimes you just get REALLY lucky and last Friday I went to the ASPCA with a broken heart after putting my 9 yr old cat down and the volunteer, Katherine seemed to know exactly what to do. She was so kind, so patient ... after looking at a lot of cats I found my sweet little kitty, Beso. She asked me if I wanted to hold him and it was over in 30 sec, I was in love. Sweetest kitten EVER. Really social, smart, affectionate and is already bonding with my other 8 yr old male cat. The center is spotless and has a really good vibe. All the people I interacted with were super friendly and professional and you could tell they were genuine animal lovers. Even the security guard was especially kind! Can't say enough good things about the ASPCA. I feel so so blessed that I found such a precious little kitty -- he'll be 2 mo old tomorrow!! THANK YOU ASPCA!! and kudos to management because having happy friendly volunteers really makes a huge difference!!

Hsu Hua L.

I adopted my 3-month-old kitten from ASPCA, and it was an amazing experience! There staffs there were very kind and friendly. The kitten had already been neutered and sprayed when I adopted her. It was a Sunday noon, seeing families going there to adopt their pets and their joyful faces, all these making my heart full of happiness, which make me even more cherish my baby kitten I adopted.

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I had good experiences withe the truck and her shots and being fixed they seam to handle her with care.

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How the hell do you get a live person to speak to!! Very upset. I plan to stop my donations if I don't hear from someone

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4 years ago

ASPCA is consistently good and caring over the decades .. best adoption center around

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3 years ago

They take great care of the animals. I adopted a cat and he was microchipped, neutered and parasites and flea treatments. Great kitty

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Ask the Community - ASPCA Adoption Center

My 70-lb goldendoodle died last week. I now have many dog items I'd like to donate to wherever they can be put to good use. These include unopened canned food, dog beds, dog gear (leash, coat, sweater, bowls/stands), towels, toys, etc. Interested?

Hi Marcia, we are so sorry for your loss. We are happy to accept any gently-used items that are machine washable and unopened bags/cans of food. They can be dropped off in the donations bin in the lobby of our Adoption Center at 424 E 92nd St. Thank… Read more

Do you take/need towel donations for the dogs?

Hi Raven--yes! The ASPCA Adoption Center greatly appreciates items such as towels. For the safety… Read more

I would like to see the shelter as I would like to be a dog volunteer when opportunities open again. Can I just come in and do that?

Hi Christina, the application for ASPCA Adoption Center volunteers is currently open. You can find all of the info here: https://www.aspca.org/take-action/volunteer/volunteer-aspca-adoption-center. For more information on the Adoption Center itself,… Read more

Does the adoption cost money? Like when u get the pet itself do you have to pay money?

Yes it does, you have to pay a fee for the Cat you plan to adopt. Depending on which type of Cat or Kitten bring your Debit Card.

Can you volunteer?

Call them and they will tell you.

Can You go in to take a look at the cats & Dogs without intention of adopting?

Yes, ABSOLUTELY. I did. You'll get a good feel for it.

Does the ASPCA require landlord verification? My landlord is only available on the weekdays and I would like to know if I should go on a weekday so they can reach them or if they don't check so I know I can go whenever.

The ASPCA did not ask us for landlord verification when we adopted a cat in April. Also, a weekday adoption was free so we did not have to pay an adoption fee.

Does ASPCA offer kitty grooming without sedating them?

ASPCA has a mobile clinic for cats and dogs and offers dental cleaning at descent prices. Yet, if you are considering cat grooming ask your vet, usually cats do not need grooming. Brushing is necessary and will do the trick. I am no expert, but… Read more

Do they mainly have cats and not many dogs? I went to their website but there were few adoptable dogs shown online.

They definitely have more cats than dogs but they usually have a good amount of dogs. Best way to know is to head down and talk to a volunteer or employee because they always get new animals in. It's a busy center so things are always hanging and… Read more

Donde puedo adoptar un perro?

Si senorita si

Do I have to be 21 or older to enter the center itself?

No you do not need to be 21 and over to enter the facility. You do however need to be 21 and over to adopt an animal. Remember to bring your ID ( anything government official) and the tricky thing is you have to bring a second proof of address like… Read more

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Review Highlights - ASPCA Adoption Center

Adopted a kitten during the "clear the shelters" event and could not be happier with the adoption process.

Mentioned in 30 reviews

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(217 reviews)

Astoria

Adopting our dog through Korean K9 Rescue was one of the most rewarding and supportive experiences…read more From start to finish, the team showed such care--not just for the dogs, but for the people who adopt them. The adoption process was detailed and thoughtful, with multiple steps that showed how committed KK9R is to ensuring every dog finds the right forever home. After submitting our application, my husband and I had a virtual interview with a trained volunteer who asked meaningful questions about our background and did a virtual home tour to ensure we had a safe space. We also visited weekend adoption events to meet the dogs and learn more about the organization. Once pre-approved, we joined their Patreon to participate in their Foster-to-Adopt program--and that's how we found our Bari. Bari, a sweet 2-year-old Mini Jindo mix, was rescued from a short chain in a rural area near a puppy mill. The rescue arranged for us to foster him short-term, with the option to adopt within five days. From minute one, we fell in love. The support made the Foster-to-Adopt program incredible, especially for me as a first-time dog owner. My husband had experience with rescues, but I didn't, and KK9R ensured I felt confident and equipped every step of the way. I had a direct line of communication with the staff and kept a detailed online diary about Bari's food, medication, energy, temperament, potty habits, and anything else that stood out. The staff used that diary to give us feedback, tips, and encouragement. They helped me understand basic things like how to encourage him up a flight of stairs or how much to feed him, and they were always available to help troubleshoot or celebrate progress. Interacting with the volunteers and staff was fantastic. Everyone was so friendly, kind, and genuinely invested in our success. I grew up with a fear of dogs, and it turns out that many of these pups, including Bari, come with their own fears. The support I received from KK9R helped us feel safe, confident, and ready to build trust with each other. Their care helped me become the kind of dog guardian Bari needed and helped Bari begin to feel secure in his new life. One of the things that sets KK9R apart is its required training program, which ensures every dog and adopter has the foundation they need to thrive. Training is done with professionals with experience working with dogs like Bari--dogs who may not know how to play, lack confidence, have difficulty trusting people, or need help with basic skills like crate training, leash walking, potty habits, and recall. While it may seem like a lot initially, the required sessions are invaluable. The rescue doesn't receive any kickbacks--KK9R just properly vets the trainers to ensure adopters are working with people who truly understand the unique needs of these dogs. We paid upfront at the time of adoption and quickly scheduled five sessions with a trainer who came to our home and worked around our schedule. I started out with zero experience, and those sessions helped lay a strong foundation. Training is a lifelong commitment, and I'm so grateful KK9R sets adopters up for long-term success right from the start. Another incredible part of adopting through KK9R is the rich alumni network. Since bringing Bari home, I've connected with other KK9R adopters in our neighborhood--people like me who welcomed a pup from South Korea into their lives. It's been such a gift. Bari and I have joined other alums and their dogs for pack walks in Prospect Park, dog-themed craft events, and other informal meetups. It's been a wonderful way for the dogs to build confidence and socialize and for the humans to swap stories, share recommendations for gear and services, and be in a community with people who understand the joys and challenges of adopting a rescue pup. I've made dear friendships through this network, and Bari has too. We look forward to every pack walk--it's been one of this journey's most unexpectedly beautiful parts. Because KK9R has given me so much, I knew I wanted to give back. In the spring of 2024, I began volunteering with the organization as a KK9R alum. Signing up was simple, and attending adoption events quickly became a highlight of my weekends. Even the simplest volunteer tasks--helping others learn about the rescue or watching dogs interact with potential adopters--felt incredibly meaningful. I've also conducted virtual interviews with new applicants for the past year. It's been a rewarding way to spend my free time. I enjoy guiding others through the same thoughtful process that helped me find Bari and helping them understand what it takes to form a lifelong, loving bond with a rescue pup. A year and a half later, Bari continues to thrive. He's changed our lives for the better.

I've been looking for a good local rescue organization and KK9R is the best I've found! they are…read morevery active, responsible and responsive to application and inquiries. Often times, you see organizations with adoptable animal pictures asking for application, after you submit lengthy application, often you don't hear from them, and animal is no longer available. And since application is needed for each specific animal, you have to go through the process all over again. KK9R is different; they ask for your application to vet you. You can apply for particular animal or general to get approved. They are very thorough about vetting applicants and very responsive. Then, after you get pre-approved, you can visit the animals. Which makes the process more streamlined and efficient. They do great work with local rescues as well as oversea rescues; particularly from south korea. The dogs are adorable and great quality. Some dogs are rescues from puppy mills, that sells to pet shops. They are also very honest about medical history of the dogs, and what to expect. After adoption, they also do follow ups. Spead the word if anyone is looking for furbaby!

Muddy Paws Rescue - "You don't want to see what happens next."

Muddy Paws Rescue

(118 reviews)

Hell's Kitchen, Midtown West

We rescued Cheesecake from Muddypaws this summer. Cheesy is the BEST senior pup!…read more Cheesecake is the HAPPIEST BOY! He bounces, skips and dances to express his happiness! Cheesecake is 10 years old and had never been neutered. The Vet team at Muddypaws are terrific! Cheesy kept getting UTIs because his prostate gland was inflamed. He went on antibiotics several times and we had to reschedule his procedure 3 times! Dr. Miller was great! He understood and accommodated our situation. Dr. Miller neutered Cheesecake on 11/13. Everything went well.

Hello Yelpers, I…read morerecently adopted a sweet little Chihuahua mix named Savannah (now Koka) from Muddy Paws Rescue, and I couldn't be happier! She's a small black bundle of love who has quickly become the heart of my apartment. When I first met her, Koka was a bit shy and timid, but with a little patience and love she's completely come out of her shell. She now goes potty outside, plays fetch, sits on command, and absolutely loves playing with her toys. She's affectionate, kind, and brings so much joy to my life every day. I first saw her on Muddy Paws' Facebook page and instantly fell in love. When I went to meet her at their clean and welcoming HQ, I was so impressed by how organized and caring everyone was. Manesha, her foster, did a fantastic job introducing me to Koka and sharing all the details about her personality and routine. Racheal, the founder, personally walked me through the adoption paperwork -- she was knowledgeable, kind, and completely transparent about the process. It's clear that Muddy Paws Rescue truly cares about every dog and every adopter. They made the entire experience smooth, warm, and deeply meaningful. I would highly recommend Muddy Paws Rescue to anyone thinking about adopting and saving a life. Koka and I are both so grateful!

Uptown Cats - Don Juan inspecting his bedding, making sure it's downy fresh

Uptown Cats

(13 reviews)

Upper West Side

Des is THE BEST…read moreAlthough we didn't get to adopt, we fell in love with a bonded pair of brothers, and we only could take care of one. He was incredible to work with in the process. You can definitely feel his passion, care and expertise with his kitties. It was a pleasure from the moment we contacted him. He was super responsive and caring. If you can't adopt, please donate to his cause. He truly cares for his cats and his work is a blessing.

We had an outstanding experience adopting a pair of kittens from Des, the director of Uptown Cats…read more He can be found outside the Barnes & Nobles on 82nd and Broadway on (most) Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Check his website for details; he's pretty good at responding to e-mails and very good at answering phone calls. Des has been great since day 1 when we adopted the kittens. He keeps in frequent touch with us and helps ensure that our kittens stay healthy, up-to-date with their vaccinations and de-worming medicine. We could not have asked for a more supportive rescue director, and most importantly, it is apparent that Des truly loves cats, especially those in his care. I feel that commenting on V C.'s review is necessary because our experience stands in sharp contrast to her's. My partner and I also work long hours, and we disclosed this during the adoption process. Needless to say, Des treated us courteously and respectfully. He was happy to discuss with us the best methods for caring for kittens despite working outside the home for the majority of the day. So, had V C. perhaps explained her profession and its time commitment to Des, I am confident that her experience would have been vastly different.

Badass Animal Rescue

Badass Animal Rescue

(35 reviews)

East Williamsburg

I adopted a Frenchie from this rescue. The process was smooth and although the application had lots…read moreof questions I understood all are intended to ensure the dog goes to the best home for her. I let my vet know they would be teaching out and that vet check went quickly and smoothly. Meet and greet was easy and everyone hog along wonderfully so the adoption was finalized and we could not be happier. I started volunteering with this rescue because I believe in the cause and the process and the people in this rescue! If I had any reservations I'd be volunteering elsewhere Most of the negative reviews are from people who were not chose for a particular dog because of the dog's specific needs or personality or because they were unsuitable adopters (dogs are not vaccinated or spay/neutered, lied on the application, etc). Sometimes people have their heart set on a popular dog and it's hard for fosters but they will pick the absolute best home possible so they have the best chance at a FOREVER home possible. Some people don't want to admit they aren't the best fit and retaliate in the reviews so please read negative reviews with a grain of salt. Talk to the volunteers who are also adopters. There is a reason for their loyalty. It's because this organization is amazing and the leaders and volunteers are as well!

I've adopted 2 Badass pups and ( about to get a 3rd) cannot emphasize enough how amazing this…read moreorganization is. They are one of the few organizations that TRULY vet out adopters to ensure the dogs get placed in the proper homes. I've volunteered with and even perused adoption events at various organizations and not one vetted me like Badass did. Also, Badass has a great community where you can connect with other folks that adopted from Badass for advice or puppy progress updates! If you want to open your home to a rescue, I highly recommend Badass :)

ASPCA Adoption Center - animalshelters - Updated May 2026

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