Rescue organizations and animal shelters are where to go when looking for a friendly companion — and throughout the country, there is a massive overcrowding of shelters of dogs and cats that need homes, including New Jersey. There are many shelters that house these animals looking to find a forever home in the New Jersey area, and right now, there is a serious crisis with animals being dropped off at shelters. Most of these shelters are always looking for extra hands to volunteer for them, as well as forever families and fosters. Finding a rescue nearby can be difficult, so we’ve narrowed down the search for you. Below are 10 rescue and animal shelters in the New Jersey area to find your new furry BFF.
Associated Humane Societies | 124 Evergreen Avenue, Newark
Associated Humane Societies is based in Newark, NJ catering to the welfare of animals since 1906. The shelter accepts all varieties of dogs, though the two most popular breeds are the American Bully Mix and the Pit Bull. The cats are short-haired breeds that range from young to adult ages. Those looking to adopt can visit the clinic or register online. Once registration is complete, a date will be set for prospective adopters to come in to meet the animals. The shelter is open Monday through Sunday from 12PM – 5PM excluding Wednesdays as they are closed. Volunteers can inquire by calling the shelter or by checking the website for more information.
Bloomfield Animal Shelter | 61 Bukowski Place, Bloomfield
Bloomfield Animal Shelter is a no-kill facility that is home to various dogs, cats, and other wildlife. The adoption process is solely conducted online through the organization’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Prospective adopters must fill out the organization’s paperwork to begin the adoption process and meet the animals. Interested volunteers should refer to the Facebook page or email below. The shelter is open daily from Monday through Sunday from 9AM – 5PM.
Edison Municipal Animal Shelter | 125 Municipal Boulevard, Edison
Edison Municipal Animal Shelter houses dogs, cats of all sizes, and other small furry or feathered animals. Most animals up for adoption are cats although there are a few dog breeds such as Border Collies, Huskies, German Shepards, and American Staffords. Adoption applications are available online. The shelter is open Mondays through Sundays 12PM – 4PM and closed on major holidays. Volunteers have many opportunities to get involved, such as dog walkers, cat, and kitten socializers. More information about volunteering can be found on the website.
Read More: Animal Shelters in North Jersey Looking for Volunteers
Final Hope Animal Rescue | 6 Congress Street, Jersey City
Final Hope Animal Rescue provides support to abandoned cats and dogs in the northern New Jersey area. The shelter accepts dogs but predominately cares for the approximately 40 cats that are in the rescue’s care at one time. The shelter is open on Sundays for 24 hours. Volunteers are encouraged to lend a paw and apply online or with the email provided. Several positions listed are cleaning cages, feeding, socializing with pets, vet visits, adoption events, and much more. Prospective adopters can learn more about the application process through the organization’s website.
Friends of Linden Animal Shelter | 1811 Lower Road, Linden
Friends of Linden Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter for cats and dogs looking for forever homes. The adoption process can be found on their website. Any general visit must be inquired by calling and making an appointment. Volunteers are required to apply online. Training is provided once selected and weekly shifts are mandatory at the shelter. Walking dogs, socializing with cats, and event preparation are some positions looking to be filled. The shelter is open on Mondays and Tuesdays from 6 – 7:30PM, Thursdays and Fridays from 6 – 7:30PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM – 12PM.
Humane Society of Bergen County | 221 Stuyvesant Avenue, Lyndhurst
The Humane Society of Bergen County has been providing care to all animals since 1972. The shelter not only houses dogs and cats but also birds and other wildlife. The adoption process operates in person, with the request to call ahead as the hours of the shelter may vary. The shelter is open on Mondays and Saturdays from 10AM – 3PM, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10AM – 2PM, Thursdays and Fridays from 10AM – 4:30PM, and on Sundays from 11AM – 1PM. Inquiries about volunteer opportunities should refer to the number below.
Montclair Township Animal Shelter | 77 N Willow Street, Montclair
The Montclair Township Animal Shelter seeks to protect and rehabilitate all neglected animals in their area. The shelter have a variety of dog and cat breeds to choose from as well as some smaller animals. Adoption meet and greets as well as visits to the shelter require an appointment. The shelter is open on Mondays through Sundays from 1PM – 4PM, excluding Tuesdays as the hours are from 1PM – 7PM. Information about volunteering and the adoption process can be found on the organization’s website.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter | 194 NJ-10, East Hanover
For over 50 years Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter has been providing care and finding loving homes for all animals. To adopt, applications are online through their website. Meet and greets with the animals are from Monday through Friday from 12PM – 3:30PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 12PM – 4:30PM. Regular shelter hours are Monday through Friday from 12PM – 4PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 12PM – 5PM. Volunteers can fill out an application online by creating an account with the shelter. A few jobs include a cat companion, shelter helper, and event assistant.
See More: Animal Rescues in Northern New Jersey
New Jersey Humane Society | 6412 Dewey Avenue, West New York
New Jersey Humane Society prides itself on being dedicated to protecting and rescuing all dogs and cats in their area. The animals up for adoption are best found through their Facebook and Instagram pages. Adoption services take place in person by scheduling a visit with the shelter. Shelter hours are Monday through Sunday 9AM – 5PM, Saturday and Sunday from 10AM – 2PM. Volunteers should visit or call to inquire for more information.
Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch | 528 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona
Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch saves lives by rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding homes for all the animals in their care. Dog and cat adoption applications can be found online. Once approved, interviews will be scheduled to determine if the animal is a good fit. After a match is made a meet and greet can commence at the shelter. The shelter is open on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11AM – 4PM as they are closed Sundays and Mondays. Volunteers looking to help are encouraged to read through the website before applying online.
