If you’ve been contemplating a furry addition to your family, NYC’s shelters are full of adorable, loving dogs in need of a home. In a lot of cases, dogs are surrendered to shelters not because they’re “problem dogs” but because their families become unable to care for and financially support them. While there are many organizations doing the wonderful work of rescuing and finding homes for abandoned dogs, the ones listed below have the added convenience of online listings.
Animal Haven
animalhavenshelter.org
200 Centre Street, Chinatown
Founded in 1967, Animal Haven finds homes for abandoned cats and dogs throughout the Tri-State area. At their shelter in Manhattan, you can meet cats and dogs of all ages who need a loving home. Animal Haven requires a personal reference and for dog adopters, they need proof that your building allows dogs. The adoption fee of $275 per dog or $375 for puppies under 1 year old includes a collar and leash and helps support this non-profit organization’s operation costs. Animal Haven lists available dogs and cats on their website so you can browse before going to the shelter to meet your potential new best friend.
Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition
barcshelter.org
253 Wythe Avenue, Williamsburg
The Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition, or BARC, provides food, shelter, medical attention, and care to abandoned dogs and cats. The adjoining BQE Pet Food store carries food for a variety of dietary needs and helps to fund the shelter. BARC asks for two personal references and proof that dogs are allowed in your building. They also have a sponsorship program for those who are not ready to adopt but who want to help a dog or cat in need.
Bideawee
bideawee.org
410 East 38th Street, Murray Hill
Bideawee started as a one-woman operation back in 1903, and initially took in all kinds of strays – including farm animals! Bideawee was officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1906 and has since expanded to include two locations in Long Island. At the Manhattan location, expert “Matchmakers” will help you find a pet that fits your lifestyle to ensure a long-lasting relationship with your new furry friend. Along with the adoption consultation, Bideawee requires a $150 fee for most adult dogs ($200 for small-breed or $350 for puppies) or $125 for adult cats.
In Our Hands Rescue
inourhandsrescue.org
Yorkille
In Our Hands relies entirely on fostering, as they don’t have a physical shelter space for the time being. However, this non-profit has many other services, including discounts on training, grooming, boarding, and more. In Our Hands asks for personal references as well as a vet reference and requires a home visit before approving an adoption. Adult dogs can be adopted for $400 – $500, and the fee for adopting a puppy is $450 – $550. In Our Hands also coordinates a program called Miles for Mutts, which connects New York City runners with rescue dogs currently in foster care.
Once you’ve adopted a dog, you might be in need of dog walking or pet sitting services. Again, NYC has an overwhelming amount of options available to pet owners. Here are some of the best dog walking and pet sitting services NYC has to offer:
Club Pet NYC
clubpetnyc.com/
Rates vary
Named the “Best Dog Walker in New York City” by New York Magazine, Club Pet serves dogs all throughout Manhattan, from Battery Park to the Upper West and Upper East Side. Club Pet dog walkers do not walk dogs in large packs, limiting groups to 2 to 4 dogs (solo walks are available at an additional charge). They are happy to accommodate dogs with special needs and to reinforce training techniques during walks. Club Pet also provides house-sitting services for those who don’t wish to board their dogs. Rates for walks and house-sitting vary, so call or email for a free consultation if you’re interested in hiring Club Pet NYC.
New York Dog Nanny
newyorkdognanny.com
$25.95 for 20 minutes
If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, New York Dog Nanny has a variety of packages including day care, boarding, walking, bathing, training, grooming, and more. The daycare space is decorated like an apartment – complete with couches, dog beds, and other furnishings – to help your pup feel at home. Private dog walking is available in many Manhattan neighborhoods, and the Lexington Avenue daycare space is staffed by experienced behaviorists, groomers, and licensed experts. You can schedule a consultation online to find the right nanny or walker for your dog.
BarkBud
barkbud.com
$17.99 for 30 minutes
BarkBud provides private walks with GPS tracking so you can keep an eye on your pup while he or she is out on the town. All of BarkBud’s walkers are experienced dog owners trained in dog walking, and they provide detailed reports (including fun notes and adorable pictures) throughout the walk. Online scheduling and phone alerts make BarkBud a convenient way to schedule walks. Your dog will have the same walker every time, and they’ll happily provide training reinforcement. For an additional charge, you can request a longer walk and a trip to the dog park – see BarkBud’s website for details on pricing.
Swifto
swifto.com
$25 for 30 minutes
Swifto also provides GPS-tracked private walks with certified walkers. They also provide complimentary feeding and medication and flexible scheduling, including holidays and evenings. Swifto also does not require regularly scheduled walks, so you can request sporadic or emergency walks even if you don’t have a set schedule. You can also request pick ups and drop offs for the vet, groomer, day care, or boarding.
Rescuing an abandoned dog is a truly rewarding experience, not just for the dog but for you as well! In exchange for your love and care you’ll get wonderful companionship in return. Hopefully this list helps you keep your pup pampered and well-exercised even if you have a busy schedule.
