Welcoming a new pet into your home can be an exciting time of joy and companionship for you and your family. For those looking to adopt a new furry family member in Salem, Oregon, there are several wonderful shelters and local organizations dedicated to connecting cats and dogs with loving families.
Oregon Humane Society
The Oregon Humane Society (formerly the Willamette Humane Society) is one of the leading pet adoption centers in the state, offering a wide range of services including pet adoption, education and training, and animal rescue. With a mission to foster an environment of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals, they strive to find each pet the perfect home. Potential adopters can view available pets online or in-person at the Portland or Salem campuses, learn about their personalities and needs, and submit an application.
Marion County Dog Services
This county-run organization focuses offers adoption services for strays and surrendered dogs. They are committed to finding forever homes for their canine residents and promoting responsible pet ownership. They also take care of dog licensing in Marion County. Visit their website to see photos and read about the dogs available for adoption.
Friends of Felines
Dedicated to the rescue and placement of homeless cats, Friends of Felines and their foster families provide a sanctuary for cats until they are adopted into loving homes. Interested adopters can browse adoptable cats online and fill out an application. The organization also provides spay and neuter services, and will be having a grand opening of their Feline Wellness Clinic in June 2024.
4 All MuttKind
4 All MuttKind is a foster-based rescue dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs in need in Salem and Eugene. The volunteer-led organization works tirelessly to ensure each dog finds a suitable and loving home. You can find their adoptable dogs on their website, and you can also inquire about volunteering or fostering!
Little Critters Rescue
Little Critters Rescue (LCR) is a heartfelt, foster-based rescue dedicated to helping dogs in Salem. As a smaller organization, LCR focuses on providing personalized care and attention to each animal, making sure they are ready for their forever homes. By operating through a network of committed foster families, LCR not only offers rescue dogs a temporary safe haven but also helps them adjust to a loving home environment, making the transition to their permanent homes smoother. Interested adopters can find adoptable dogs on their Facebook page and reach out directly about adopting.
Exploring More Adoption Opportunities
For those looking to broaden their search, Petfinder.com can be an excellent resource where you can find adoptable pets from more shelters or organizations. Whether you’re searching for a dog, cat, or a pet of another kind, Petfinder pulls in listings from numerous shelters and rescues, allowing you to search for your new companion from the comfort of your home.
A Word of Caution
While online platforms offer convenience and a range of options, it’s important to exercise caution. Before sending any form of payment or committing to an adoption, please verify the legitimacy of the shelter or rescue. Always ensure that you’re dealing with reputable organizations to avoid scams. Additionally, make sure the organization is operating ethically and treating any adoptable pets with kindness and dignity. Meeting the pet in person and visiting the facility, if possible, are good practices to ensure both the pet’s and your future happiness.
Adopting a pet is a life-changing decision that can bring immense joy and companionship. By choosing to adopt, foster, or volunteer at one of the local animal rescues in Salem, you are not only making a big impact in an animal’s life, but also making a positive difference in the community.
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Oct. 16th, 2021