When it comes to pet ownership, you’ve likely heard the phrase, “Adopt, don’t shop.” Furry friends bring a certain joy to our lives that can’t be matched, and when it comes to adopting or rescuing, not only is your world changed — theirs is, too.
All across the Denver area, you can find a number of spots to adopt a pet, from dog adoption events and rescue centers to shelters specifically catered to certain breeds. Read through this guide to learn the pet adoption rules of the road, including where to adopt a dog in Colorado (or any kind of animal) and what you should consider before bringing a pet into your life.
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Before Adopting: What to Consider
Adopting a pet has endless benefits, but pet ownership is a big step that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Before heading to your nearest shelter, there are several factors to consider.
According to Humane Colorado, pet adoption can bring big changes to your lifestyle and routine, and you should take time to ensure you’re capable and prepared.
What Makes the “Perfect Pet”?
Humane Colorado says you should think through — or discuss with the members of your household or family — the characteristics you’re looking for in a pet.
While there are the obvious considerations, like preferred species and breeds, age, and color, you need to think about how this pet will fit into your day-to-day. Think about your lifestyle. Do you enjoy being active and taking frequent adventures? How often are you at home? What about the other members in your household, like roommates, children, or a significant other?
You should also consider the animal’s lifespan and energy levels. Every species and breed has unique characteristics and tendencies, so do your research.
What Can I Tolerate?
Before deciding what kind of pet to get, think about how much change you can handle. If you’re constantly crunched for time, a high-energy dog that requires hours of exercise and regular walks might not be for you. If you don’t have time to invest in obedience or potty training, you may want to reconsider adopting an excited puppy.
Humane Colorado says you should consider your tolerance for the following:
- Behavioral issues
- Housetraining
- Chewing, nipping, biting (normal puppy behavior)
- Scratching (normal cat behavior)
- Daily walks
- Cleaning a litterbox
- Anything you might find gross (poop, vomit, chewing/licking noises, etc.)
Does My Landlord/Living Situation Allow for a Pet?
You should also consider where you live before adopting. If you are renting your space, you first need to determine if you’re even allowed to have pets. If your lease agreement doesn’t lay out the rules for having pets, reach out to your landlord to find out if there’s a pet policy.
Similar to lifestyle and tolerance factors, where you live plays a big role in the type of pet you should have. For example, think about how your neighbors might handle barking if you live in an apartment complex, or how you feel about pet hair and smells if you live in a smaller space. If you don’t own your home, things like scratches and bite marks can lead to fines down the road.
Does a Pet Fit Into My Finances?
Pet ownership is exciting, but it comes with a cost! Things like vet appointments, food, treats, and supplies can add up, so it’s important to create a budget to see how owning a pet can fit into your current financial situation.
Animal Health Foundation has a guide to help you create a budget for your pets.
How Will a New Pet Impact My Household?
Consider how children or other pets will react to a new animal.
If you have a new baby or small children, you might want to consider a more laid-back pet that is tolerant of kids. While many children love the idea of having their own puppy or kitten, it can certainly bring some unexpected chaos to your home!
Similarly, consider how your current pets behave around other animals. Some species and breeds mingle better than others, and the last thing you want is a pair of sworn enemies meandering around your home.
Where to Adopt in Central Denver
Denver Animal Shelter
1241 W. Bayaud Ave., Denver
- Hours: 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday; 12:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday; 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday
- Adoption center type and services: Animal shelter (hosts cat yoga, volunteer events, education programs)
- Animal types: Dogs, cats, small animals, reptiles, and fish
Denver Animal Shelter houses over 10,000 lost or abandoned animals every year and is committed to helping them find loving homes. The shelter is run by Denver Animal Protection, which is dedicated to caring for rescue animals, enforcing animal ordinances, and educating the community about animals and their needs. The shelter hosts adoption and volunteer events, as well as humane education programs and more.
To adopt a pet from the Denver Animal Shelter, you can browse through its online database — which is updated hourly — to find a pet or two you’d like to meet. Then, if you’re ready to adopt, stop by to meet the animal! Denver Animal Shelter wants to ensure you and your potential pet are a perfect match, so you will be required to meet with an adoption counselor. All dog and cat adoptions will include spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and a one-year pet license.
Learn more about adoption fees and Denver Animal Shelter’s adoption process here.
Humane Colorado
2080 S. Quebec St., Denver
- Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Sunday
- Adoption center type and services: Animal shelter (provides rescue, adoption, training, and humane education)
- Animal types: Dogs, cats, small mammals, and equines
Humane Colorado has operated for more than 115 years, serving the Denver area with a dedication to compassion and innovation and a drive to end pet homelessness. Humane Colorado operates three locations, with the Quebec Street location being the largest. In 2025 alone, the organization welcomed over 17,000 homeless pets across its three facilities.
At Humane Colorado, you can adopt animals ranging from dogs and cats to horses and mules, with the adoption process differing depending on the type of pet you’re looking for. For pets like dogs, cats, and small mammals, the first step is visiting with an adoption counselor — bring anyone who will become part of the pet’s family. Then, if you know you’re ready to adopt, you will meet with available animals to find out which might be a good fit. Once you’ve found your perfect pet, you’ll begin the steps of completing the adoption!
Be sure to read through the adoption process in depth to learn about adoption fees, rules, and what to bring with you on adoption day. If you’re not yet ready to adopt but want to plan ahead, you can browse through the online databases on Human Colorado’s website, organized by animal type.
Looking for a large animal like a horse or donkey? Read through Humane Colorado’s equine adoption process to find out what steps you’ll need to take.
Where to Adopt in Northwest Denver
Humane Society of Boulder Valley
2323 55th St., Boulder
- Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday
- Adoption center type and services: Animal shelter (provides rescue, adoption, training, and humane education)
- Animal types: Dogs, cats, and small animals (rats, hamsters, rabbits, etc.)
Humane Society of Boulder Valley has been Boulder’s go-to resource for pet health and safety since 1902. Beyond adoption services, the organization lists plenty of helpful resources for current or future pet owners on its website, offers training and education services, and even highlights pets and families impacted by the organization’s and community’s efforts.
Before visiting the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, you should browse its online database of adoptable pets, so you have an idea of the pet you’d like to meet and, potentially, adopt. Once you’ve settled on the pet you’d like to adopt, you’re ready to make a visit. Check out the specific steps of animal adoption at Humane Society of Boulder Valley so you know exactly what to expect.
Here, you can even adopt a working cat, which is a cat that doesn’t conform to the behaviors of a companion cat, but thrives in environments like barnyards, vineyards, or garden centers. Working cats are sought after for their high prey drive and independence — essentially, their strong work ethic!
Where to Adopt in West Denver
Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies
15350 W. 72nd Ave., Arvada
- Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Sunday
- Adoption center type and services: Animal rescue and shelter
- Animal types: Dogs (golden retrievers)
Golden retrievers are beloved for their high energy and friendly demeanors, but they aren’t a match for every household. If you know a golden retriever is the pet your family needs, the team at Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies will be happy to help you find the dog that will become you and your family’s new best friend.
Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies is committed to ensuring unwanted, abandoned, or surrendered golden retrievers make it to loving homes — and has been doing so since its founding in 1996.
Unlike some shelters or rescues, Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies does not place pets on a first-come, first-served basis; instead, the rescue’s team makes placements depending on what will be best for the dog and its future owner. The process can take from a few days to several months and begins with you submitting an application. Read through the rescue’s policies and how to complete the adoption process, and check its website to see the adoptable golden retrievers eagerly waiting to join your family!
Where to Adopt in Northeast Denver
Soul Dog Rescue
1245 Factory Dr., Fort Lupton
- Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Sunday
- Adoption center type and services: Animal rescue and shelter
- Animal types: Dogs and cats
Soul Dog Rescue began in 2010 when its team recognized a need to help animals and handle overpopulation on the tribal lands in the Four Corners region. The organization soon recognized a need to provide rescue, adoption, and rehabilitation services in the area. In 2018, Soul Dog Rescue opened its adoption center and spay/neuter clinic in Fort Lupton to provide affordable spaying and neutering services and find safe, caring homes for Colorado’s animals.
If you’re looking to adopt a dog or cat in the Fort Lupton area, Soul Dog Rescue has an abundance of pets — either in foster care or its shelter — excited to find their forever home. Shelter walk-ins are welcome, but they recommend completing an application first to ensure a quick, smooth process. Soul Dog Rescue also holds adoption events every Saturday at Cosmo’s Dog Bakery in Wheat Ridge.
Browse through Soul Dog Rescue’s adoptable dogs and cats and submit an application today. Don’t forget to read through the rescue’s FAQs to learn about adoption fees, policies, and requirements, and adoption process information.
Where to Adopt in Southeast Denver
EAPL Wag N’ Wash St. Patrick’s Day Adoption Event
323 Metzler Dr., Castle Rock
- Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 14
- Adoption center type and services: Adoption event
- Animal types: Dogs and cats
The Evergreen Animal Protective League is partnering with Wag N’ Wash pet store in Castle Rock to hold a St. Patrick’s Day adoption event!
The Evergreen Animal Protective League’s mission is to aid lost, abandoned, and suffering animals through rescue, shelter, and education. Volunteers lead all rescue operations, and the organization raises its own funds through events and activities, its retail thrift store, and community donations.
To begin the regular adoption process, submit an online application. Most of the organization’s animals are actively in foster homes, so meeting your future pet will require coordination with the foster parent!EAPL regularly holds adoption events for you to meet its many available animals, which you can browse in its online database. Stop by the St. Patrick’s Day Adoption Event to find your new lucky charm!