Adoption Center Hours
Our Adoption Center is now open to the public! You are invited to visit our adorable, adoptable animals between 10am–6pm (Mon–Wed, Fri–Sun) and 1pm–6pm (Thu). Adoption Counselors are onsite to answer questions and help you connect with the right animal. Please know that some days/times are more popular and there may be a short wait.
The Adoption Process
The SF SPCA brings people and animals together. Our goal is to connect animals with adopters who love them and to inspire a lasting bond for all. We have an open adoption process and will help match your preferences to a pet who will fit them best.
Adoption Requirements
- Adopters must be at least 18 years old
- Valid government issued photo ID must be provided
- Proof of address must be provided
If you have a resident dog, we do not require dog to dog introductions. However, if you wish to conduct one, please bring your dog to your appointment and we will be happy to accommodate.
In some instances we may ask for all household members to attend. Written landlord approval, or proof of home ownership may also be requested.
Adoptions Fees
Standard Dog Adoption Fees
- $175 dogs*
- $400 puppies (under 5 months)*
*At the time of adoption, San Francisco residents pay a $28 San Francisco dog license fee.
Standard Cat Adoption Fees
- $125 cats over 5 months
- $200 kittens under 5 months (fee waived for 2nd kitten adopted within 30 days)
- All cats 7 years and up (seniors) have fee-waived adoptions!
Summer of Lovin’ Adoption Special:
Free Adoptions for Adult Dogs and Cats 5+ Months
- Adult dogs Free*
- $400 puppies (under 5 months)*
*At the time of adoption, San Francisco residents pay a $27 San Francisco dog license fee.
- Adult cats Free
- $200 kittens under 5 months (fee waived for 2nd kitten adopted within 30 days)
The Life of Riley Fund
Supporting free adoptions for seniors! The Life of Riley Fund encourages people over 65 to easily adopt animals from the SF SPCA by underwriting adoption fees for seniors. Additionally, the fund will match adopters first year of enrollment in the Sido program.
We celebrate our veterans every day by making adult animals free for adoption! Proof of veteran status is required.
Pre-Adoption Paperwork
If you are interested in adopting a specific animal, please click on this link and complete a quick form. We will then email you information on our adoption process, FAQs, and details on how to confirm your interest in adopting.
New Adopter Assistance
- The SF SPCA provides a free, first medical exam at our veterinary hospital for new adopters who adopt from the SF SPCA or one of our Bay Area rescue partners. The free medical exam is a health examination only. Guardians are responsible for post-adoption expenses related to medications, vaccines, diagnostics or treatments.
- Download our Cat Adoption Handbook, Kitten Adoption Handbook, Dog Adoption Handbook, or Puppy Adoption Handbook.
We’ve partnered with Purina to help new adopters and pet guardians find the right food for their pet. Try the Purina Pet Food Finder.
