Animal Shelter

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS) is thrilled to host a "Clear the Shelters" fee-waived pet adoption event from Friday, August 23, through Sunday, August 25. This year’s event comes at a crucial time as the shelter has more than 160 animals, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, mice, and rabbits, eagerly waiting to meet their families.

This initiative, presented by NBC and Telemundo Stations, promotes pet adoption and raises awareness for animal shelters nationwide. Since its inception in 2015, "Clear the Shelters" has successfully helped over one million pets find new homes.

“We are thrilled to join in this annual celebration of finding loving homes for adoptable pets,” says Reasa Currier, shelter director. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to find their perfect match. Whether you're looking for a playful kitten or a gentle senior pet, it’s all about giving these amazing animals a chance to become cherished members of a family.”

Event Details

Dates

• Friday, August 23 through Sunday, August 25

Locations

• Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
• Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

Hours

• Friday: Noon to 7 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the adoption process and to view available pets, please visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Media Contact:

Rebecca Cavedon
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
Email: rebecca.cavedon@fairfaxcounty.gov
Phone: 571-407-4165

Photos and Videos for Media Use

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS) is thrilled to host a "Clear the Shelters" fee-waived pet adoption event from Friday, August 23, through Sunday, August 25. This year’s event comes at a crucial time as the shelter has more than 160 animals, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, mice, and rabbits, eagerly waiting to meet their families.

This initiative, presented by NBC and Telemundo Stations, promotes pet adoption and raises awareness for animal shelters nationwide. Since its inception in 2015, "Clear the Shelters" has successfully helped over one million pets find new homes.

“We are thrilled to join in this annual celebration of finding loving homes for adoptable pets,” says Reasa Currier, shelter director. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to find their perfect match. Whether you're looking for a playful kitten or a gentle senior pet, it’s all about giving these amazing animals a chance to become cherished members of a family.”

Event Details

Dates

• Friday, August 23 through Sunday, August 25

Locations

• Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
• Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

Hours

• Friday: Noon to 7 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the adoption process and to view available pets, please visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Media Contact:

Rebecca Cavedon
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
Email: rebecca.cavedon@fairfaxcounty.gov
Phone: 571-407-4165

Photos and Videos for Media Use

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is excited to announce its collaboration with the BISSELL Pet Foundation for the Empty the Shelters Fall National adoption event. From Friday, Oct. 4, through Sunday, Oct. 6, all pets will have fee-waived adoptions, thanks to the generosity of the BISSELL Pet Foundation.

"We're excited to partner with the BISSELL Pet Foundation for another Empty the Shelters event," said Reasa Currier, shelter director. "With over 125 pets currently available for adoption, this partnership allows us to maximize our efforts in connecting pets with caring homes. We invite the community to visit our shelters and meet a variety of pets ready to fall in love with you!"

Adoption fees will be waived at both locations: the Michael R. Frey Campus at 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and the Lorton Campus at 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. The shelter is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays.

To learn more about the adoption process and see the pets available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Event Details

Dates

• Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 6

Locations

• Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
• Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

Hours

• Friday: Noon to 7 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about the adoption process and to view available pets, please visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Media Contact:

Rebecca Cavedon
Fairfax County Animal Shelter
Email: rebecca.cavedon@fairfaxcounty.gov
Phone: 571-407-4165

Photos and Videos for Media Use

Head to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter from Friday through Sunday, July 26 through 28 for a special "Vintage Tails" adoption event, to find loving homes for senior pets. This weekend, adoption fees will be waived for all dogs and cats 6 years and older. With the shelter currently over capacity this event will give senior pets—one of the shelter’s most vulnerable populations—a chance to thrive in homes filled with care and affection.

Why Adopt a Senior Pet?

• Ready-Made Companionship: Senior pets often come with well-established personalities, so you know exactly what you're getting—no surprises!
• Low Maintenance: They are usually past the energetic puppy or kitten stage, less demanding and a perfect fit for families or individuals with a quieter lifestyle.
• Gratitude and Loyalty: Older pets appreciate your kindness and respond with loyalty and gratitude.
• Fulfilling Relationships: Adopting a senior pet means a second chance at happiness—comfort and security during their golden years.

In addition to waiving adoption fees, the shelter’s nonprofit partner, the Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter, is providing a $500 credit for senior bloodwork and other veterinary services at Pender Veterinary Centre, to families who adopt a senior pet during the event.

"We have many wonderful senior dogs and cats waiting for their families," said Fairfax County Animal Shelter Director Reasa Currier. "Senior pets often face longer waits for adoptive families, and we want to find them homes to live out their golden years in comfort and surrounded by love."

Event Details:

• Locations: Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079
• Hours: Friday, noon to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information and to view available pets, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

Photos and Videos for Media Use

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is currently caring for a higher-than-usual number of small animals. To encourage adoptions and find loving homes for these pets, the shelter is hosting an "It's a Small World" fee-waived adoption event for all small pets from Thursday through Sunday, June 27 through 30. 

"Small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs make fantastic companions," says Reasa Currier, Director of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter. "If you are considering adding a small pet to your family, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers is ready to help you find the perfect match and provide guidance on their care." 

Adoption fees will be waived at both shelter locations: the Michael R. Frey Campus at 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and the Lorton Campus at 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. The Fairfax County Animal Shelter's operating hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The shelter is closed on Mondays. 

For more information about the adoption process and to view available pets, please visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt. 

As canine upper respiratory infections (URI) continue to spread in the community, region and nationwide, The Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS) is seeing an uptick in dogs entering the shelter's care that have been infected. 

Shelter environments and other places where large numbers of animals are housed or congregated can be ideal for illness to incubate and quickly spread. In coordination with shelter veterinarians, FCAS staff continue to employ robust cleaning protocols, monitor all dogs daily for symptoms, treat symptomatic dogs and pursue further diagnostic testing.

To help prevent the spread of canine URI and keep pets healthy, community members can take these proactive measures:

• Recognize the symptoms of canine URI and consult your veterinarian with any concerns. Symptoms include any combination of a loud cough, runny eyes, nasal discharge (often thick and green), wheezing, lack of appetite and depressed behavior.
• Avoid areas where groups gather with unfamiliar dogs, such as dog parks, daycare and boarding facilities. Canine URI is highly contagious and spreads through dog-to-dog contact, including contact with contaminated surfaces. 
• Ensure your dog is up to date on all their vaccinations. 

How can you help shelter dogs?

1. Adopt: We often have pets of every species available for adoption. Cat and small animal adoptions help, too, as fewer pets in the shelter overall allow our staff to devote more time and attention to dogs undergoing medical care.
2. Postpone surrendering: Whenever possible, FCAS aims to keep pets and families together. FCAS can provide assistance in caring for your pet, such as vaccines, food and supplies or temporary crisis care through the shelter’s Pet Resouce Center. If you need to rehome your dog, please consider self-supported rehoming options such as posting in neighborhood social media groups, utilizing Rehome by Adopt a Pet and reaching out to friends and family. If you need to surrender your dog to the shelter, please try to delay at least two weeks, and make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations to help them remain healthy once they are at the shelter. 
3. Donate to the shelter: Monetary donations to the shelter’s nonprofit fundraising partner, The Friends of Fairfax County Animal Shelter, are greatly appreciated, as they contribute to supporting the shelter's vital programs and services, including medical care. Additionally, the shelter's most needed items are always listed on its Amazon Wish List.

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter locations include the Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and the Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. Walk-ins are welcome, and no appointments are required for adoptions. The shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday: Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays.

For more information about the adoption process and to see pets available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.

• Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 8-11.
• Fee-waived adoptions for dogs 45 pounds and larger. 
• Locations: 
  • Michael R. Frey Campus: 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030 
  • Lorton Campus: 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

Get ready for an electrifying showdown! The Fairfax County Animal Shelter (FCAS) presents the Adoption Bowl, a fee-waived adoption event for dogs 45 pounds and larger, taking place Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 8-11. 

This one-of-a-kind event pits Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis against Fairfax County Fire Chief John Butler against each other in a chief vs. chief challenge. Each chief will lead a "team" of adoptable dogs and at the end of the event, the winning team will be announced based on the number of adoptions. It’s a friendly competition to see which chief can find the most homes for their canine companion squad.  

Loving Homes Urgently Needed for Large Dogs 

This fun showdown comes at a time when the shelter needs it the most. Nearly every dog kennel is full, with over 85 in its care. 

"With so many dogs in our shelters, we are excited to help as many of these wonderful dogs as possible meet their new families during this event," says Reasa Currier, Director of FCAS. "We extend thanks to Chief Davis and Chief Butler for their invaluable partnership in helping these large dogs find loving homes! If you’re looking for a loyal and loving companion, we can help you find one." 

How to Participate 

Visit either of the shelter locations—the Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, or the Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. Walk-ins are welcome, and no appointments are required for adoptions. 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday: Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays.  

For more information about the adoption process and to see pets available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt.
 

About Fairfax County Animal Shelter: 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is the open-access municipal shelter for Fairfax County, committed to providing the highest quality of care to pets. Last year, the shelter accepted nearly 4,000 companion animals and impacted the lives of over 1,000 more through community-based programs and services. With a consistent live release rate of over 90%, the shelter prioritizes the well-being and happiness of every large dog in its care. 

Event Details

• Dates: Thursday through Sunday, February 6-9.
• Special Offer: Fee-waived adoptions for dogs 45 pounds and up.
• Locations:
  • Michael R. Frey Campus: 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Lorton Campus: 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079

Get ready for an electrifying showdown! The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is thrilled to announce the return of the Chief vs. Chief Adoption Bowl for the second year in a row! This exciting adoption event, featuring fee-waived adoptions for dogs 45 pounds and larger, runs from Thursday through Sunday, February 6 to 9.

This unique event brings a fun twist to adoption. Fairfax County Fire Chief John Butler and Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis will each lead a "team" of adoptable dogs. The winning team will be determined by the number of dogs adopted during the event. It’s a friendly competition with a serious mission: finding loving homes for as many large dogs as possible.

A Shelter Full of Large Dogs in Need of Loving Homes

This event couldn’t come at a better time. The shelter’s kennels are nearly full, and large dogs typically wait the longest to be adopted.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Chief vs. Chief Adoption Bowl back for the second year,” says Reasa Currier, Director of Fairfax County Animal Shelter. “We have so many amazing dogs in our shelters, and this event will help these MVPs score a touchdown into a loving home. With Chief Butler and Chief Davis acting as ‘coaches’ for each team, large dogs will take center stage in this fun and friendly competition. We’re incredibly grateful to the Fairfax County Fire and Police Departments for their support.

How to Participate 

Visit either of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter campuses — the Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, or the Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. Walk-ins are welcome, and no appointments are required for adoptions. 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday: Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed Mondays.  

For more information about the adoption process and to see pets available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt. 

About Fairfax County Animal Shelter: 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is the open-access municipal shelter for Fairfax County, committed to providing the highest quality of care to pets. Last year, the shelter accepted nearly 4,000 companion animals and impacted the lives of thousands more through community-based programs and services. With a consistent live release rate of over 90%, the shelter prioritizes the well-being and happiness of every animal in its care. 

Fairfax County Animal Shelter wants all shelter pets to find loving homes for the holidays, so it’s partnering with BISSELL Pet Foundation for the “Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope” adoption event. Thanks to the foundation’s generous support, the shelter will offer fee-waived adoptions for cats and dogs from Friday through Sunday, Dec. 8 through 10. 

“We're thrilled to partner with BISSELL Pet Foundation for the 'Empty the Shelters – Holiday Hope' event,” said Reasa Currier, Director of Fairfax County Animal Shelter. “Our goal is to help as many shelter pets as possible find a home of their own for the holidays. Whether you’re looking for an affectionate lap cat or an adventurous dog, our expert team is ready to help you meet your perfect match!” 

The event will be held at both shelter locations—the Michael R Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and the Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. Fairfax County Animal Shelter is open Tuesday through Sunday: Tuesday and Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays. 

For more information about the adoption process and to see which pets are available for adoption, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt. 

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is partnering with the BISSELL Pet Foundation for the Empty the Shelters Spring National adoption event. Thanks to the foundation’s generous support, the shelter will offer fee-waived adoptions for all pets from Thursday through Sunday, May 2 through 5. This collaboration comes at a critical time, as the shelter is currently over capacity with dogs, and has many small pets and cats looking for homes. 

"We're thrilled to partner with BISSELL Pet Foundation for the Empty the Shelters Spring National event,” said Fairfax County Animal Shelter Director Reasa Currier. “We want as many pets as possible to find loving homes during this event. From playful dogs and tiny hamsters to affectionate senior cats and adorable rabbits, we can help you meet your match!” 

Fees will be waived at both shelter locations—the Michael R. Frey Campus, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030, and the Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Rd., Lorton, VA 22079. Fairfax County Animal Shelter is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed Mondays.  

For more information about the adoption process and to see available pets, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt. 

Pets Available for Adoption

Honey, 10 years old

This green-eyed beauty is not only stunning but also incredibly loving and attentive. Honey's favorite pastime is ensuring you're never short on forehead boops! She is a professional at purring, making air biscuits and offering endless affection. Honey has asthma, so she needs a family who can help manage her condition with daily medication. She takes her meds like a champion and keeps her space free of floral or fragranced products.

Buttercream and Marshmallow, Two years old

Buttercream and Marshmallow are a delightful pair of bonded adoptable bunnies, each with a personality as sweet as their names suggest. They will make you laugh with their playful antics and larger-than-life personalities! These two bunnies are inseparable. You will often catch them grooming each other or seeking comfort in one another's company. 

Tiger, 9 years old

Tiger not only has stunning stripes but is also incredibly kind and has been described as a big mush. He has excellent leash manners and will impress you with all his tricks (sit, shake, down and turnaround). Tiger likes going for a walk and will even chase the tennis ball a few times, but he is also a certified couch potato and appreciates a good nap!

Tiger is also eligible for our Adoption Audition program, a five-day, no-strings-attached adoption trial for select shelter dogs! Learn more about Adoption Auditions.