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Tuesday 12pm - 5pm Wednesday 12pm - 5pm Thursday 12pm - 7pm Friday 12pm - 7pm Saturday 11am - 5pm Sunday 11am - 5pm

Fairfax County Animal Shelter

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Fairfax, VA
Fairfax County Animal Shelter

Fairfax County, VA's only open-access animal shelter. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter
Adopt! We welcome you and your comments!
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The purpose of official Fairfax County social media accounts is to present matters of public interest. We encourage you to submit your questions, comments, and concerns, but please note these are moderated online discussion sites. We recognize social media is a 24/7 medium, and your comments are welcome at any time. However, given the need to manage our staff resources (your tax dollars), we gener

ally only monitor comments and postings during regular business hours. Social Media Comments Policy: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/social-media-comments-policy

Política de comentarios en las redes sociales de Fairfax County: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/politica-de-comentarios-en-las-redes-sociales-de-fairfax-county

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The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is Fairfax County’s only open-access, municipal shelter. With 4,000 to 5,000 animals coming through our doors each year, the shelter provides a safe place for dogs, cats, and small animals like guinea pigs, rabbits and pet birds to stay while they wait for their forever families. At any given time, visitors to the shelter can choose from 40 cats and kittens, 25 dogs and puppies, and dozens of small animals, all available for adoption. We have a live release rate of over 90%, and are very proud of our excellent volunteer and foster programs, compassionate staff, progressive sheltering policies and practices, and the wonderful animal-loving community we're a part of!

06/28/2024

Join us on Sunday, July 14th, from 9 to 11 a.m. for a Volunteer Recruitment Fair!

Do you love talking about pets and how they enrich families' lives? Do you want to connect Fairfax County community members with pet resources like veterinary care and supplies? Do you enjoy spreading the word about pet adoption at exciting events? Are you a pro at organization? Then we want YOU on our volunteer team!

We’re looking for passionate individuals to:

🐾 Table at events (both onsite and offsite)
🐾 Organize and sort donations for our Pet Pantry
🐾 Lead shelter tours for both adults and kids
🐾 Assist with our Vaccination and Microchip Clinics

We also welcome individuals who are skilled in more than one language!

Interested? Stop by our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax on Sunday, July 14th, from 9 to 11 a.m. to learn about our shelter and these volunteer positions! No registration is required.

06/28/2024

A huge thank you to Lane Elementary School for hosting a supply drive for our shelter! Our lobby was overflowing with all the generous donations they collected! We're so grateful for their support. 🐾❤️

06/27/2024

Starting TODAY, June 27th, through Sunday, June 30th, adoption fees are waived for all small pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs and more, at both our shelters in Fairfax and Lorton!

Jessica is just one of our adoptable rabbits ready for a home! 🐰 She's very social and much more interested in hanging out with you than anything else! She would be a great companion to watch TV with or to keep you company while you work.

Check out her adoption profile and see all our adoptable small pets at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt-small-animal.

06/26/2024

We couldn't resist sharing more photos of Garnet at her birthday party! 🎂

Garnet is incredibly loved by all who meet her! She brings so much joy into every room she's in, often instantly rolling over for belly rubs when she meets you. She's the life of the party, whether it's her birthday or any regular day.

Stop by our Lorton Campus to meet her! You can also take Garnet, or any of our adoptable pups, on a five-day, no-strings-attached Adoption Audition. Learn more at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

06/26/2024

It's a SMALL world at The Fairfax County Animal Shelter! 🐇🐹

Are you thinking about adopting a small animal like a rabbit or guinea pig? Now's the perfect time! From TOMORROW, June 27th, through Sunday, June 30th, fees are waived for small pets at both our shelters: Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax and Lorton Campus in Lorton.

Our team is ready to match you with the perfect companion and answer all your questions about small pet care!

See all the faces waiting to join your family at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

06/24/2024

Yahtzee Update! 🐾

While Yahtzee was in our care, he took his job as a kitten babysitter VERY seriously. Now in his new home and renamed Zorro, he's continuing his important duties by watching over his adopter's roommate's kitten! His family also shared that he settled in fabulously and loves to play and cuddle. 💕

06/22/2024

We have a few seats left in our Make Your Own Snuffle Mat Class—Pride Edition happening tomorrow, June 23rd, from 12 to 2 p.m. at our Lorton Campus! You'll craft your own rainbow snuffle mat for your pet and learn about its benefits for dogs, cats, small animals and more!

This is a free class for ages 12+. Registration is required, and supplies are provided! Secure your spot: bit.ly/3KGVTWo

06/22/2024

UPDATE: Adopted!

Look who's waiting to meet you today—adorable Nubby!

Curious, active and social, she previously shared her home with children and a dog, so she's used to a lively environment. All she needs is a family to dote on her!

Check out her adoption profile at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt and stop by our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax to meet her today!

06/21/2024

Adoption Audition success story! 💕

After meeting and falling in love with Apollo at our shelter, his adopters decided to take him on an Adoption Audition to see if he was the right fit for their family. It wasn't long after bringing him home that they decided to make it official and adopt him! Here's what they wrote to us:

"To say Apollo is good would be an understatement!!! Apollo has been smiling since the first moment we laid eyes on him and is the best dog we have ever owned to date!... We love him so much and hope you can find comfort in knowing that he is with a loving family that treats him as one of their own children!"

Don't forget that ALL dogs are eligible for our five-day, no-strings-attached Adoption Audition program! Learn more at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adoption-audition-program, or stop by our shelters to talk to our customer care team!

06/21/2024

Summer has arrived! With temperatures nearing 100 degrees this weekend in Fairfax County and summer festivities underway, it's crucial to keep our pets protected. Be sure to follow these tips to ensure your pet stays safe this summer. If you see an animal in distress, please call Fairfax County's non-emergency number at 703-691-2131.

06/20/2024

Did you know that in the last year, only 26% of stray pets brought to our shelters had microchips when they arrived?

A microchip is one of the first things our team checks for when a stray pet comes through our doors, and it helps lost pets reunite with their families faster.

To help more pets find their way back home and to celebrate National Microchipping Month, we're hosting a free microchip-screening walk-up event! Bring your pet to our Lorton Campus on Monday, June 24th, from 5 to 7 p.m. to make sure they're microchipped and the information is up-to-date.

Learn more: fb.me/e/1gMlupqaL

06/20/2024

Happy First Day of Summer from Diamond! 🐾🌞

Diamond enjoyed an adventurous outing with one of our amazing volunteers! After taking a quick nap in the car on the way there, she walked beautifully on the leash, showed off her manners and was an all-around happy-go-lucky girl.

You can meet Diamond today at our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax! You can also take her, and ALL our adoptable pups, on a five-day trial adoption as part of our Adoption Audition program! See her adoption profile and learn more about Adoption Auditions at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

06/19/2024

We’re closed to the public today in observance of Juneteenth. Our staff and volunteers are still hard at work caring for our pets, and Moxie is keeping an eye on things at the front desk! You can meet him and all our adoptable pets when our shelters reopen tomorrow at noon.

06/18/2024

Our shelters will be closed to the public tomorrow, June 19th, in observance of Juneteenth. If you're interested in meeting adoptable pets like Maggie, visit us today! Both our Lorton Campus in Lorton and Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax are open from 12 to 5 p.m.

Maggie hasn't met you yet, but she already loves you (full disclosure: she loves everybody instantly)! She has an unmatched zest for adventure, making her a great hiking or jogging buddy. Maggie enjoys the company of other playful pups and even knows a few tricks!

For more information about Maggie and how you can meet her, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

06/17/2024

We received this hilarious update from Peppermint’s new family about all the fun activities he's been enjoying in his new home! His new name is Jonas Fangybro and he's been VERY busy. Read the caption in each photo to see what he's been up to! 😂

06/17/2024

June is National Microchipping Month—a perfect time to check your pet's microchip!

Are you unsure if your pet is microchipped? Do you want to make sure their microchip is registered and up-to-date in case they become lost? Bring your pets to this free walk-up event happening next Monday, June 24th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at our Lorton Campus!

Learn more: fb.me/e/1gMlupqaL

06/15/2024

Do you like lying in the grass and soaking in the sun? Do you enjoy taking in the sights and smells of nature on a leisurely walk? Adoptable Emily may be your perfect match! ☀💕

At 8 years old, Emily doesn’t ask for much. She just wants a family who will love her as much as she will instantly adore you. If there are other dogs in her new home, she would like for them to be as mellow as she is!

This affectionate and easygoing girl is ready to go home with you today at our Michael R. Frey Campus! You can also take her on a five-day, no-strings-attached Adoption Audition. Find out more information about Emily and Adoption Auditions on our website: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

06/14/2024

Join us on Sunday, June 23rd, from 12 to 2 p.m. at our Lorton Campus for a free Snuffle Mat Making Class—Pride Edition! 🏳️‍🌈

We'll teach you how to create your own rainbow snuffle mat and celebrate by sharing facts about the intersectionality of Pride history and animal welfare. Snuffle mats provide great physical and mental stimulation for dogs, cats, small animals and even pigs!

This class is for ages 12+. Registration is required, and supplies are provided! Secure your spot: bit.ly/3KGVTWo

06/14/2024

With hot weather in the forecast for today and this weekend, we want to remind our community not to leave pets in cars, even if it’s cooler in the morning.

Temperatures inside cars can rise rapidly, and despite the windows being cracked, it can be deadly for pets within minutes. If you see a pet in a hot vehicle, please call Fairfax County's non-emergency number to reach the Animal Protection Police at 703-691-2131.

For more tips and information about keeping your pets safe in the heat, check out our June e-newsletter: bit.ly/45nrypq

06/14/2024

Gracie is pure love! ❤️ She'll let you pet her for days and cherishes those quiet moments spent together, watching TV right by your side. She's also quite playful, especially when she has a wand toy to chase!

Is there room on your couch for Gracie? Stop by our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax to meet her. Learn more: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt

06/13/2024

Sammy had a blast while visiting our friends at Aquatic Paws!

It was his first time there, and he picked up walking on the water treadmill in no time. He was easily motivated by treats and was an excellent passenger in the car on the way to and from his outing.

Sammy is an intelligent boy who's looking for a home where he can play all the games of fetch that his heart desires. He's also been working really hard on his leash-walking manners and would love to continue his training in his new home!

Check out his adoption bio on our website! fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt

06/12/2024

Manny and Chase are two of the pets who recently found homes through our Adoption Audition program!

If you're thinking about adding a pet to your family and want to ensure it's the right fit, try our Adoption Audition program! Here's how it works:

🎥 Visit our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax or Lorton Campus in Lorton during open hours.

🏡 Take an adoption audition candidate home the same day for a 5-day trial!

💌 After 5 days, we'll check in to see if you're ready to make it official or if the pet will head back to the shelter for their next audition.

Right now, ALL dogs are eligible for the program. Two bonded pairs of rabbits (Marshmallow and Buttercream, Handsome and Momma) are also adoption audition candidates!

Learn more: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adoption-audition-program

06/11/2024

ARREST MADE IN STUFFED BEAR INCIDENT: Mimi was arrested today following several eyewitness reports that she was “batting around” the victim’s stuffing. After a thorough search of her cat condo, we found insurmountable evidence tying her directly to the crime. Investigators also believe she may have had an accomplice—Amelia the rabbit.

If there's room in your home for these hardened criminals, please visit fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt to learn more about them!

06/11/2024

In light of new evidence, Bentley's name has officially been CLEARED! 🎉 Chief Davis even stopped by to state Bentley's innocence and confirmed that the only thing Bentley’s guilty of is being the best boy!

Chief Davis also selected Bentley as this month's ! At four years old, Bentley is a certified extrovert who adores everyone he meets. He has perfect manners while walking on a leash and has been friendly with other pups he's met while in our care.

If you'd like to meet Bentley, visit our Michael R. Frey Campus! You can also take him on a five-day, no-strings-attached trial adoption through our Adoption Audition program! Learn more: https://bit.ly/3R3AoC2

Fairfax County Police Department

06/10/2024

Our team is dedicated to reuniting all different species of pets with their loving guardians! 💕🐦

When Iris, a beloved parakeet, went missing from his home, he was thankfully brought to our shelter. Identifying parakeets by their physical appearance alone can be challenging, so when Iris's mom came to see if it was him, we had to find a creative way to confirm it.

When he was home, Iris had a unique habit: he loved to sit on his mom's head as she moved around the house. To confirm his identity, we secured a safe room and released the parakeet. Sure enough, Iris flew straight to his mom's head, just as he always did! His mom was thrilled to be reunited with him!

06/10/2024

Our pets had an incredible day at the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy! 🐾🚓 They experienced a variety of training, from agility courses and paw printing to ride-alongs in police cars and classroom sessions. They're officially ready to serve and protect (your heart)! 💙🐶

Adoptable pups Beau and Bentley are ready for loving homes, while Apollo found his this weekend! 🏡🐕 If you're ready to add a furry hero to your family, learn more about Beau and Bentley at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Fairfax County Police Department

Address

4500 West Ox Road
Fairfax, VA
22030

Opening Hours

Tuesday	12pm - 5pm
Wednesday	12pm - 5pm
Thursday	12pm - 7pm
Friday	12pm - 7pm
Saturday	11am - 5pm
Sunday	11am - 5pm

Telephone

+17038301100

Website

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/

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Videos

Bart is a staff and volunteer favorite! His adoption fee, along with the fees for all our small pets, is waived at both our shelter campuses today through Sunday, June 30th. 🐰 Learn more on our website.

All Garnet wants for her birthday is a home! Meet her today at our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Rd.). You can also send her a birthday gift by purchasing an item from our Amazon wish list, which we recently updated with a bunch of fun enrichment items! Visit the "Donate" page on our website for the link.

Our adoptable pets LOVE all the donations we've received from our Amazon Wishlists! 🐾 Thank you for your support! We recently updated them with tons of new, fun items just in time for summer. Visit fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/donate to see our wishlists!

Check out this easy enrichment idea from our animal care team, just in time for summer! ☀️

🚨 Breaking News: On Sunday, June 9th, at approximately 1500 hours, an 8-inch bear toy was tragically found ripped apart. Our prime suspect, Bentley, has been brought in for further questioning. Please stay tuned for further updates on this active investigation!

Some of our pups have been feeling a bit sniffly lately due to an increase in canine upper respiratory infections in our dog population. Don't worry—they're on the mend, and our dedicated animal care team is taking great care of them—even crafting some fun (and tasty) enrichment!

We have nearly 70 dogs available for adoption right now, and these are just a few of them ready for homes! Learn more about our adoptable pets on our website.

It’s official…the catios at our Lorton Campus are OPEN! These covered and enclosed outdoor spaces offer our cats a safe space to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Adoptable Maxine especially enjoyed getting some fresh spring air! Meet her today at our Lorton Campus.

Please enjoy 13 seconds of adoptable Spooky being absolutely adorable. She's just over a year old and loves to play and get belly rubs. Come meet her today at our Lorton Campus today! You can also take her on a 5-day trial adoption. Find her adoption profile on our website to learn more.

Watch to see which adoptable pup aced the "hands in" challenge! 🤣 #dogchallenge #handsintrend #dogtrends #adoptadog

Scott Sterling also enjoys hanging out with other playful pups! Learn more about him at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Learn more about Patrick and all our adoptable pets on our website!

Learn more about these pups and all our adoptable pets on our website!

Learn more about our 5-day, no-strings-attached Adoption Audition program for select shelter pets at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Adoptable Honey after dark. 😎 During the day, she's the affectionate and easygoing feline we all know and love. At night, she's the life of the party! 🎇 If you have room in your home for this party animal, come meet her today at our Michael R. Frey Campus in Fairfax! See her adoption profile at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt."

Some adorable behind-the-scenes moments from our recent trip to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Academy and visit from the Fire Station 21, Fair Oaks crew! 💕 We're sending a huge thank you to the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department for helping us promote our adoptable pets!

BEGINNING TODAY: Adoption fees are WAIVED for all pets (including the adorable faces in this video) through Sunday, May 5th as part of BISSELL Pet Foundation's #EmptyTheShelters! Visit our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Rd. in Lorton) and Michael R. Frey Campus (4500 West Ox Rd. in Fairfax) to see who's waiting to go home with you. Check out all our adoptable pets on our website: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

In case you haven't heard...IT'S GONNA BE MAY! 👀 That also means we're just a few days away from our #EmptyTheShelters fee-waived adoption event! Thanks to the BISSELL Pet Foundation, we're offering fee-waived adoptions for ALL pets starting Thursday, May 2nd through Sunday, May 5th. Learn more about our adoptable pets at fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt. #itsgonnabemay #itsgonnabeme

Spin Trick (Kanga's Version) Kanga is a complete sweetheart! She can be nervous when she meets new people, but with the help of some treats and patience, it won't be long before she's (politely) asking to lie on your lap! Come in and meet her at our Lorton Campus! Learn more about her: fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt