LAWRENCEVILLE — The Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement has decided to start accepting online applications for adoptions and fosters.  This comes after the shelter closed to the public in March due to COVID-19.

The shelter will offer potential adopters that have completed the online application a one-hour meet-and-greet appointment with up to three available pets of their choice.  This new policy was put into place to comply with social distancing guidelines and safety recommendations issued by the CDC and the National Animal Control Association.  Appointments are available Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to practice CDC prevention recommendations which include wearing face masks.  Gloves will be provided by the shelter upon arrival.

“Our knowledgeable staff is available to help potential adopters or fosters find the perfect new addition to their family,” said Division Director Alan Davis. “We are waiving adoption fees so every pet has an opportunity to find a loving home.”

In most cases, pets can go home on the day of adoption. All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinate and microchipped. Available pets and the adoption or foster application can be found at GwinnettAnimalWelfare.com or on Facebook at @GwinnettAnimalShelter.

The shelter is available by appointment only for owner and stray surrenders.  Residents are asked to report strays by calling 770-339-3200, however, they are encouraged to hold onto the animal if they can in order to give any potential family the chance to locate their missing pet. The shelter advises anyone that finds kittens to call for specific instructions on how to handle them as mother cats typically do not abandon their young.

The Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement shelter is located at 884 Winder Highway in Lawrenceville. 

— Staff Reports