Best Animal Shelters in Erie, PA

Updated September 2026 · 6 businesses · Erie guide

Looking for animal Shelters in Erie? Below you'll find 6 local options with their address, phone number, website and opening hours, plus practical advice on choosing the right one.

What they do: Animal shelters and rescues for pet adoption, surrender, lost pets and volunteering. Adoption fees usually include spay/neuter and vaccines.

This guide lists 6 animal Shelters in and around Erie, spread across 4 ZIP codes. 6 have a phone number you can call directly from this page, 6 link to their own website, 5 are open on weekends. Listings are organized so you can compare them at a glance and contact them directly.

Top 6 Animal Shelters in Erie

Listings are shown in no paid order: no business can pay to appear or to rank higher on this page.

5 Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary and Adoption Center

Open weekendsZIP 16505
Opening hours
MonClosed
TueClosed
WedClosed
Thu6-8 PM
FriClosed
Sat11 AM-1 PM
Sun11 AM-1 PM

CallDirections

How to choose animal Shelters in Erie

  • Visit first and check that the space is clean and the animals look healthy.
  • Ask about staff experience and training.
  • For vets, find out which emergency hospital they use after hours.
  • Remember that Pennsylvania requires dogs 3 months and older to have a county dog license and a rabies vaccination.
  • Compare prices for routine services and ask about wellness plans.

Local tips for Erie

Lake-effect snow means Erie homeowners and drivers rely heavily on snow removal, winter tires, roof maintenance and heating services, and many local businesses keep extended hours during storms.

Many Erie-area businesses are located in neighboring Millcreek Township, especially along Peach Street, so the best option for you may technically sit just outside city limits.

Erie is in Erie County, and local phone numbers use the 814 area code. Popular areas include Downtown, Bayfront, Little Italy, Frontier, Glenwood, Academy, East Erie, West Erie.

Frequently asked questions

Which animal Shelters in Erie are open on weekends?

According to their listed hours, these are open on Saturday or Sunday: Erie Humane Society, Anna Shelter, Erie Animal Network, Orphan Angels Cat Sanctuary and Adoption Center, Erie Area Rabbit Society & Rescue. Hours can change on holidays, so call before you go.

Which areas of Erie do these animal Shelters cover?

The animal Shelters on this list are located in ZIP codes 16505, 16506, 16508, 16511. Many businesses also serve nearby neighborhoods and suburbs, so ask when you call.

Do dogs need a license in Pennsylvania?

Yes. All dogs 3 months and older must have a current license, which you can buy from your county treasurer, and must be vaccinated against rabies.

Where can I find an emergency vet in Erie?

Ask your regular vet which emergency hospital they refer to, and save the number before you need it. Several 24-hour animal hospitals serve the Erie area.

Is it better to adopt or buy a pet?

Adopting from a shelter or rescue gives a home to an animal in need and usually includes vaccines and spay/neuter. If you buy, use a reputable breeder and ask to meet the parents.

Information is collected from public sources and may change. Please confirm hours, prices and availability directly with each business. Business owner? Ask us to update your listing.