Check out potential pets online or visit the shelter to meet a few of your favorites. The website is updated in real-time and is where each animal’s “Available for Adoption” date (subject to change), based on their stray hold, is shown.

All adoptions or fosters are handled on a first-come/first-served basis. Visitors may sign in during office hours, but may not visit potential pets until the Adoption Center opens.

Because some of our pets are highly desirable, particularly small dogs and puppies, some pet adoptees feel their best chance is to begin waiting before the shelter opens. While we don’t condone waiting in line outside before the Animal Shelter opens (overnight camping in public places violates County ordinances), you may want to arrive early to sign in on the specific animal’s “Available for Adoption” date.

Remember to bring your form of ID and a leash, collar, or a cat carrier when you come for your meet and greet! You are able to bring home your new furry family member the same day!

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.

Change an animal’s life through fostering! Some animals that come through our doors need a little extra care before they’re ready to find their adoptive home. Some animals are too young or small, need time for an injury or illness to heal, or need to learn better behavior or socialization skills prior to adoption. That’s when our dedicated foster team steps in.

Animals are placed in loving foster homes and all essential supplies and the animal’s continued medical care are provided. Sign up today to join the foster team!

Check out the details in the Animal Foster Handbook, then complete the online preapply to foster a pet. After a home check and completion of the required forms, you'll be matched up with potential foster pets who need help. To learn more about the program and your fostering availability, please email AnimalFoster@GwinnettCounty.com or call 678.226.7225.

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.