Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or have shared your home with animals before, we’re thrilled to be part of your adoption journey. At the San Francisco SPCA, we believe that adopting an animal is just the beginning—and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Caring for a new cat, kitten, puppy, or dog is an exciting adventure filled with love, learning, and a few surprises along the way. That’s why we’ve created these helpful handbooks to provide you with trusted, practical guidance as you and your new companion settle into life together.
For cat and kitten parents
Whether you adopt a curious kitten or a confident adult cat, you’re in for a wonderful journey of companionship. Cats are full of personality and thrive in homes that offer consistency, enrichment, and plenty of affection (on their terms, of course!).
To help you get started, we’ve created two dedicated guides full of helpful information:
These handbooks cover everything from litter box basics and nutrition to playtime, scratching behavior, and how to ease your pet into a new home. You’ll also find tips on building a routine, understanding feline body language, and creating a cat-friendly environment.
For dog and puppy parents
Bringing home a new dog or puppy is a joyful, life-changing experience. Whether your new best friend is a wiggly puppy or a wise adult dog, we’re here to help you build a strong, loving bond from day one.
To get started, explore our adoption guides packed with expert advice:
From housetraining and crate basics to socialization, leash skills, and managing common behaviors, these resources are designed to guide you through the early days and beyond. Our Puppy Parent Orientation Video is especially helpful for navigating those first few weeks with a young pup!
As you discover the joys and challenges of pet parenthood, remember that the SF SPCA is always here with guidance, support, and a community of animal lovers.