Pinellas County Community Pet Resources

Before you Surrender

Pinellas County Animal Services wants to help you make the most informed, compassionate choice. Sometimes the support you need to keep your pet is closer than you think. Please explore these resources first.

Rehoming Assistance

Before surrendering your pet to a shelter, consider find a different home for your pet. While they may not be the right pet for you, they may be perfect for a friend, family member or neighbor. Here are some resources to help with finding a new home:

• Rehome.AdoptAPet.com
• Humane Society of Pinellas Home-to-Home Program
• Call us for a list of local rescue groups that may be able to help

Pet Food Assistance

The cost of food can be difficult for pet owners in difficult financial situations. If food insecurity is leading you to consider surrendering your pet, look to the below resources to help you make ends meet in tough times:

• Pinellas County Animal Services: Pet Food Bank for cats and dogs by front entrance when available. Call ahead to ensure food is available.
• SPCA Tampa Bay: Pet Food Bank available Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Call 727-324-4999 ahead to ensure food is available.
• Humane Society of Pinellas: Apply online.

Behavior Help

Behavioral issues are common, especially for pets in a new environment. Before you consider surrendering a pet for behavioral concerns, try to give the pet time to acclimate to their surroundings. If you’re still having issues, consider professional training or local dog clubs to help, including the resources below:

• GoodPup Virtual Training: Certified trainers available. Call us for details.
• Humane Society of Pinellas: Email behavior@humanepinellas.org for advice or to sign up for in-person classes.

Local Dog Clubs:

• St. Petersburg Dog Club
• Upper Suncoast Dog Training Club (Clearwater)

Medical and Financial Assistance

Unexpected medical issues can make pet ownership difficult, but there are resources, including vouchers and reduced-cost providers, that can help you afford medical support.

Vouchers: Veterans disabled/low-income

• St Petersburg: 501 1st Avenue North, Suite 514 Phone 727-582-7828

• Clearwater: 2189 Cleveland Street, Suite 263 Phone 727-464-8460

Veterinary costs/expenses: Reduced-cost providers

• PetPal Animal Shelter
• Operation SNIP
• SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Together)
• Harmony Nonprofit Vet Care
• Animal Health Care Clinic
• Friends of Strays- Pinellas Cats Alive Program (Trap Rentals, Free TNVR Surgery)
• Pinellas County Animal Services (Offers low-cost rabies vaccines and microchips every Wednesday from 1 PM to 3 PM (appointment required)
• Red Rover Resources (Emergency situations, domestic violence and medical)

Need Additional Support?

SPCA Owner Surrender Program

SPCA Tampa Bay’s Intake Program is available 6 days a week by appointment. Pinellas County residents receive priority scheduling. To schedule an appointment before visiting, please contact SPCA Tampa Bay at intake@spcatampabay.org for the quickest response, or call 727-586-3591 ext. 150. You will receive a call back within 48-72 hours.

Pinellas County Animal Services

Pinellas County Animal Services has limited space for owner surrenders as we prioritize strays, sick and injured. Pinellas County Animal Services only accepts owner surrenders on a case-by-case basis. Please call first before coming to the shelter, so we can talk through your situation and help guide you to the best outcome for your pet.

Still Need to Surrender?

You’re not alone. We know this is a difficult decision. Our team is here to provide guidance, compassion, and practical help — whether that means keeping your pet with you or finding the safest path forward.  Call Pinellas County Animal Services today to explore your options or speak with someone who cares.