Who We Are
The Washington-Wilkes Animal Shelter exists to serve both the animals and people of our community.
As a local, nonprofit shelter, we provide a safe haven for lost, abandoned, neglected, and surrendered animals while working to help them find loving forever homes.
We believe that every pet deserves compassion, dignity, and a second chance. From the moment an animal enters our care, our team and volunteers are committed to providing shelter, nourishment, medical attention, and the love they need to thrive.
As a small-town shelter, we understand the special bond between people, pets, and community. That's why we work closely with local families, volunteers, businesses, and rescue partners to improve the lives of animals throughout Washington, Wilkes County, and the surrounding area.
Happy Tales...
Hambone Heads Home
My name is Hambone, and I recently completed what humans call an adoption. Personally, I prefer to think of it as a highly selective interview process where I chose my new staff. During my stay at WWAS, the accommodations were excellent, the food arrived on schedule, and the belly rubs met my professional standards.
After reviewing a number of applicants, I finally selected this young man. His qualifications included strong arms for carrying me, a willingness to share couch space, and the wisdom to recognize that I am an exceptionally handsome dog. The shelter staff said they were helping me find a forever home, but the truth is they helped my new human find me. 
Dipsy's 5-Star Review
Would recommend WWAS to any dog currently seeking: Unlimited snacks Dedicated belly-rub personnel A warm bed that technically belongs to someone else Humans who immediately fall in love with you
Petey Finds His Best Friend
My name is Petey, and after years of searching, I finally adopted my best friend. The shelter said he was looking for a dog, but it’s pretty clear I was the one making the important decisions.
So far, he’s doing great. He provides transportation, snacks, ear scratches, and lets me listen to my favorite road trip playlist in the back seat. I’d highly recommend adopting a human through WWAS. Just be prepared to spend the rest of your life being told you’re a “good boy” when everyone knows you’re the one running the operation. 🐾
From Shelter Spud to Spoiled Pup
My name at the shelter was Shivering Potato, which, if we’re being honest, was a fair assessment at the time. I was small, nervous, and pretty sure the world was a very big place. Thankfully, the wonderful people at WWAS took care of me until the perfect person came along.
Now I have a forever home, a warm lap, a soft bed, and someone who looks at me like I’m the best thing that’s ever happened to them. Turns out I wasn’t a shivering potato after all. I was just waiting to be loved. 🐾
Skisit And His Boy
The moment I saw him, I could tell he was special. He smiled at me, talked to me, and looked at me like I already belonged. The grown-up may have signed the papers, but we both know who made the final decision. Thanks to WWAS, I found more than a forever home. I found a little boy to grow up with, to share adventures with, and to love for the rest of my life. Every dog dreams of finding their person. I was lucky enough to find mine. 🐾
