Pet of the Week is a weekly feature that highlights a pet available for adoption from D.C.鈥檚 Humane Rescue Alliance.
Take a look back at the pets of 2024.
Pet of the Week is a weekly feature that highlights a pet available for adoption from D.C.鈥檚 Humane Rescue Alliance.
Take a look back at the pets of 2024.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Bailey is a brindle beauty with a full-figure and an even fuller heart. There鈥檚 so much to love about this darling dog, and she鈥檚 hoping you鈥檒l fall for her today!
Bailey is a fun, easygoing companion who鈥檚 always a pleasure to leash up for a nice walk. She responds adorably to baby talk 鈥 her tail wags so sweetly, it鈥檚 impossible not to smile. Truly, she鈥檚 a total catch.
She was adopted from HRA a few years ago, but unfortunately, her family could no longer care for her. Now, Bailey is patiently waiting to be part of a loving home again 鈥 one where she can go on adventures, get belly rubs, and simply be cuddled.
If you like your dogs on the larger side and full of affection, Bailey is your perfect match. She鈥檚 also a staff favorite, which tells you just how special she really is. Come meet Bailey today and see for yourself!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Oreo is a classic black-and-white guinea pig with the most adorable little nose you鈥檝e ever seen! This sweet piggie is social, curious and loves both playtime and cuddle sessions in a warm lap.
Oreo might enjoy the companionship of another male piggie, as guinea pigs are very social animals and thrive in groups. When he first arrived, Oreo needed a bit of basic care 鈥 his nails were quite long 鈥 so his future home will need to be attentive to regular grooming and overall guinea pig care.
Piggies like Oreo are active and playful pets. They enjoy fresh veggies and fruits daily 鈥 favorites often include bananas, broccoli, celery and carrots 鈥 as well as unlimited hay and quality pellets. They also need large, comfortable spaces to explore, nap and play, along with safe chew toys to keep their continuously growing teeth in check.
If you’re ready to provide a loving and well-prepared home for Oreo, be sure to speak with our adoption counselors. They鈥檒l help you understand everything you need to get started with housing, nutrition and enrichment for your new piggie pal!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Looking for a dog who brings the fun聽and the snuggles? Say hello to Block Party聽鈥 a 6-year-old Jack Russel/terrier mix with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging. This sweet little guy is as affectionate as they come. His signature move? Gently nudging your hand for pets 鈥 and trust us, it鈥檚 pure cuteness overload!
Block Party came to us from another shelter, and while he鈥檚 been nothing but patient, he鈥檚 more than ready to find his forever family. He鈥檚 got just the right amount of energy, loves to be around people, and is always up for a cuddle or a stroll around the block.
If you’re ready to add a loyal, loving companion to your life, Block Party is ready to be your guest of honor 鈥 every day. Come meet this precious mini man and let the good times roll!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Pickle Rick is a handsome snake with a story that deserves a happy ending. He was sadly left in a tank outside the shelter 鈥 a tough start for such a gentle creature. But despite his rough start, Pickle Rick has proven to be curious, calm and surprisingly charming.
He鈥檚 easy to care for, enjoys exploring his enclosure and thrives with a proper heat source, hideaways and regular handling. Pickle Rick would do best with someone familiar with reptile care or ready to learn the ropes of responsible snake ownership.
If you’re looking for a unique, low-key companion and have room in your heart (and your home) for a snake who deserves a fresh start, Pickle Rick might just be your perfect match.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Rosie!
Rosie is a gentle 8-month-old puppy who is like a delicate flower. She is seeking love, kindness and fun!
Rosie is a sweet black and white little cow who arrived from another shelter in hopes of being adopted soon. She is ready to find a family and get back to “puppyhood” fast.
Rosie has been rather bashful since she arrived, but she is blooming daily. She is just a dear gal who gives charming, submissive grins that will warm your heart.
Please visit this pretty girl soon. She is waiting!
To adopt her, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Rita, a lovely, lively, and full of charm who is ready to steal your heart (and maybe your sneakers for a game of keep-away)!
Rita is the total package: affectionate, playful and whip-smart. She loves soaking up attention, leaning in for pets with those irresistible “please-love-me” puppy dog eyes.
Playtime is Rita’s jam. She’s a toy enthusiast and hopes her forever family is ready for plenty of trips to the toy aisle. Volunteers and staff adore her because she’s not only eager to please, but incredibly sharp鈥攁lways tuned in and ready to learn.
Rita thrives with active, experienced adopters who are ready for fun, mental stimulation and a bit of a workout. Like many of her breed, she has a high prey drive and prefers to be the one and only pet in the home.
To adopt her, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Gala is a sweet little snugglebug with a playful, feisty spark! She loves to explore, wrestle with her sister McIntosh, and chase after toys with all the energy and excitement you’d expect from a happy kitten.
Gala was born with a congenital eye defect and had to have one eye removed, but don’t worry 鈥 it doesn’t slow her down one bit!
She gets around just like any other kitten, full of curiosity and confidence. Gala would love a home with her sister McIntosh or another playful feline friend to keep her company. With her perfect mix of cuddles and spunk, Gala is ready to steal your heart!
To adopt her, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Zuzu wants you! This joyful, wiggly boy is bursting with love and sporting one of the most charming doggie smiles you鈥檝e ever seen.
Once part of a home, Zuzu sadly had to say goodbye due to landlord restrictions鈥攂ut he hasn鈥檛 let that dampen his spirits. Now, he鈥檚 on the lookout for a fun-loving, adventurous family聽who鈥檚 ready for endless tail wags, big-hearted cuddles, and long, frisky walks.
Zuzu is a certified good boy. He loves to lean in for pets, soak up affection, and make new friends wherever he goes. Whether you鈥檙e hiking a trail or chilling on the couch, Zuzu is all in鈥攋ust happy to be by your side. If you’re ready to welcome a sweet, social, and seriously handsome young pup into your life, Zuzu is waiting with open paws. He’s also lived well in a home with a cat before and would love聽an animal sibling.
Could he be your perfect match? Head to 聽or head to our 71 Oglethorpe St NW shelter to meet him!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Cornelius is a strikingly gorgeous corn snake with vibrant coloring and a calm, curious nature. Though he once had a home, circumstances changed and he鈥檚 now looking for a dedicated, experienced adopter who understands the unique needs of snake companions.
Corn snakes like Cornelius can live over 20 years with proper care, making them a long-term and deeply rewarding commitment. Known for being docile and even-tempered, corn snakes are a great match for both beginner and seasoned reptile enthusiasts alike.
Cornelius enjoys a calm environment where he can explore, bask, and snooze in peace. As a solitary creature, he prefers having his own space. His enclosure should be at least 40 gallons and offer a thermal gradient鈥攁bout 85掳F on the warm side and low 70s掳F on the cool side. A basking lamp or under-tank heater helps keep him cozy, and proper humidity supports his shedding and overall health.
Speaking of shedding: younger snakes like Cornelius shed monthly, while adults shed less frequently. You鈥檒l notice his eyes turning cloudy blue or green and a whitish sheen on his skin when it鈥檚 time. During these times, he might be a little grumpy鈥攂est to let him shed in peace!
Cornelius thrives on a diet of thawed frozen rodents (offered with tongs, please!) and should always have access to clean, fresh water. His habitat should be cleaned weekly to keep him healthy and happy. Suitable substrates include paper-based bedding, reptile carpet, cypress mulch, coconut husk, or aspen shavings.
If you’re ready to provide the right care, environment, and attention this handsome reptile deserves, Cornelius could be the perfect new addition to your reptile family.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Payday, Waffles, and Twix 鈥 three irresistible pittie puppies with big hearts and even bigger personalities!
Just two months old, these sweet girls were found last month abandoned in a box outside the Humane Rescue Alliance. When they first arrived, they were in rough shape鈥攂ut with loving medical care and time in a safe foster home, they’ve truly blossomed. Now happy, healthy, and full of puppy energy, they’re ready to find their forever families!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Devon is gentle and very sweet and playful. This pretty girl shared a message with WTOP’s Pet of the Week:
“Hello, my name is Devon, and I would be in heaven if you decided today to take me home without delay! I came to the shelter from a bit of a rough place and initially I was a bit shy, but I soon realized that the people here are so nice and have good treats, and so I got busy making many friends. Now, when my friends visit me, I even jump a bit because I am just sooo happy to see them. I am an expert leash walker and have already started to acquire some other skills listed in the basic manner’s curriculum, such as “sit” and “look at me” (very foundational!). So, I have a lot of potential to become your next best buddy, and I think you should not waste a moment and take me home!”
Devon had a medical condition that impacted her eye health and is just finishing up her surgery recovery 鈥 adopters will see her at our shelter in a cone, but she’s perfectly healthy and ready for her new family!
Visit to learn more about Devon.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Carmichael, Cohen and Walsh would love to be adopted together. Adopt one (or more!) and HRA will waive the adoption fee when adopting another one!
Carmichael, Cohen and Walsh are young red-eared slider turtles. They recently arrived at the shelter after their owner could no longer care for them. They were not in the best shape (shell shedding) but they are safe now and getting good care.
They very much need adopters who are familiar with turtle care. With proper care, good meals and better living conditions, they will heal and thrive.
They have been enjoying time swimming around in the turtle pond and getting good meals and exercise.
Turtles like to eat dried fish and mealworms. They also like shrimp and pellets. Turtles like to eat crickets, leafy greens and other veggies. They really enjoy and need a variety of foods!
Turtles can live to up to 40 years! They need to be provided with swimming water, ambient air and basking area. Water should be maintained within the range of 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit; ambient air between 80 and 85 degrees, and the basking area should be kept between 85 and 95 degrees.
These neat pets do have unique housing, dietary and set-up needs to live a long and healthy life.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Nelson!
He is a big lug of a fella with a smile that won’t quit! You might say he is a goofball, but that adds to his charm.
Nelson arrived after a rough start, but he is blooming every day! He does very well with his doggie pal Winnie and seems to find comfort hanging with other pooches.
Nelson loves receiving yummy treats and takes them so gently and sweetly. What a darling pup!
Nelson is a youngster who will thrive with folks who want to help him build his confidence. He’s making many gains and learning to walk nicely on a leash, so he’s eager to learn.
Nelson is a VERY GOOD BOY, and he hopes you visit him today.
Visit to learn more about Nelson!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Charley! She is a fantastic girlie bunny with amazing fur and a gorgeous black coat that is so soft!
Charley came to us from another shelter in hopes of being adopted soon. Charley has been a very good and patient bun as she waits for her new family. While here, she has been so sweet, playful, and inquisitive.
In her next home, she would love a big space to hang-out and would love lots of room.
Rabbits can live to up to 10-12 years and often thrive with the company of another bunny (and we can give you great info on how to do bunny introductions). They shed and daily brushings can keep their fur manageable.
Rabbits need and enjoy fresh fruits and veggies, such as blueberries, arugula, basil, cilantro, endives, carrots and carrot tops, apples and most dark leafy vegetables.
Bunnies also need proper wood toys so that they can keep their teeth in good shape.
These neat pets do have unique housing, dietary and set-up needs so be sure to ask our adoptions counselors how to get ready to bring home Charley!
Visit to learn more about Charley!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Nylee is a vision of beauty! Her sleek grey coat and alert ears make her a real head-turner. She is magnificent. She is also available to be your best friend.
Nylee was quite lost, but a kind person helped her to safety. Since her arrival, she has been an eager gal to go for fun walks and to play! She is active and frisky and adores receiving love and affection. Nylee was a bit bashful when she arrived, but after a few good shake-offs, she was ready to go!
A volunteer who recently spent time with her had this to share: “Nylee is a charming and curious girl who will steal your heart! She’s smart. She already knows “sit,” especially when treats are involved. Nylee is the perfect mix of playful and loving, making her a joy to have by your side!”
Nylee is a very good girl in need of love and affection and compassion. Can you give her the wonderful home she so wants?
If so, meet this lovely gal today! Visit to learn more.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Cherry Blossom is just a gorgeous as those pink blooms but doesn’t come with the crowds and hassle!
Can you believe someone moved and left this little cutie behind in the apartment all alone?
But Cherry Blossom is such a lovebug, she is not letting that stop her from opening her heart to a new person or family.
She is friendly. affectionate and is going to make such an amazing companion.
If you are ready to find your new furry bestie, stop by and meet our sweet Cherry Blossom today!
Visit to learn more.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Delicate little Duck Duck Goose is a precious 7-year-old Yorkshire Terrier mix seeking a gentle home where all his needs can be met.
He is a sweet little man with a strong desire to get out of the shelter and into a mellow home where he can get back to being a loving companion. Duck Duck Goose arrived at the shelter after his owner could no longer care for him.
Poor Duck Duck Goose is feeling a bit overwhelmed by this change so he would appreciate a quiet home with folks that have the time and resources to give him the care and cuddles he needs.
All he wants is to be held and cuddled. He has the type of hair that keeps growing so he needs to see the doggie groomer every few months to keep his hair free from painful mattings.
He’s a high maintenance pooch but he is worth it! Being an older pup, he needs adopters who can help him thrive!
Visit to learn more.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Lester is a darling 2-year-old bunny with the most amazing features! He has a gorgeous multi-colored coat that is incredibly soft.
Lester came to us from another shelter in hopes of being adopted soon. Lester arrived here a bit underweight, so he will appreciate proper bunny care with great meals and plenty of carrots in his next home.
While here, he has been so sweet, social and inquisitive.
In his next home, he would love a big space to hangout and would love lots of room.
Rabbits need and enjoy fresh fruits and veggies, such as blueberries, arugula, basil, cilantro, endives, carrots and carrot tops, apples, and most dark leafy vegetables. Rabbits can live to up to 10-12 years and often thrive with the company of another bunny (and we can give you great info on how to do bunny introductions).
Bunnies also need proper wood toys so that they can keep their teeth in good shape. Bunnies shed and daily brushings can keep this manageable.
These neat pets do have unique housing, dietary and set-up needs so be sure to ask our adoptions counselors how to get ready to bring home Lester! Lester is a complete favorite among the HRA team and is currently housed in our front lobby window rooms.
Come by our to meet Lester or go to
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Myers! He is a medium-sized, 1-year-old puppy who has blossomed in his foster home after a tough start at life. He is excited to play and has a lot of energy to burn. He really enjoys his enrichment, especially if there are treats involved, and he loves playing fetch with squeaky toys and raggedy old soccer balls.
Because he is so food motivated, he’s very easily trained and has already learned a few commands with his foster family. A total love bug who only wants to be warm and cuddled, you’ll find him on the couch or in the bed next to his person.
Myers has also done really well playing and meeting new dogs while on leash, though he is still a puppy and can become a little overstimulated and adorably jumpy. He really wants to be around other dogs, and we think he’d do great in a home with a doggy sibling. Myers seems intrigued by cats, and not in a predatory way, so he could potentially do well in a cat home.
As for children, he seems fine with them, but because he does not like being surprised or jumped at. He will thrive in a family with older children. However, Myers has a lot of love to give and will adapt pretty quickly to any family.
Myers doesn’t bark at noises outside or when someone knocks on the door but will let you know when you’re not paying enough attention to him with some well-timed barks or whines (he sounds suspiciously like a little dinosaur). Myers dislikes include rain and, oddly enough, his rain jacket.
If you’re looking for a playful, affectionate companion, Myers might be the perfect fit for you! To learn more or to set up a meet and greet, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance.)
Meet Oodles 鈥 the wiggly, affectionate pup who鈥檚 ready to find her new home! This sweet girl is all about balance. She鈥檚 got plenty of energy for outdoor adventures and zoomies, but is also a certified couch snuggler.
Oodles is great with people (kids included!) and does well in the car, making her the perfect companion for road trips and weekend adventures. She鈥檇 love a doggie sibling who matches her energy, but she鈥檇 also thrive as the only pup in a loving home.
Her ideal family? Someone who can spend lots of time with her! A work-from-home setup would be amazing. She鈥檇 love a backyard, but regular walks and sniffy adventures around the neighborhood work just as well. She鈥檚 a smart cookie, treat-motivated and a pro at solving puzzle toys.
If you’re looking for a loyal, cuddly and intelligent pup to be your adventure buddy (and your living room shadow), Oodles is your girl! To learn more or to set up a meet and greet, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Rizz! Her journey hasn鈥檛 been easy. She was found wandering in the woods and ended up at a vacant house, all alone. But despite her tough start, this sweet girl has remained kind, loyal and full of love.
Rizz has been thriving in her foster home. She gets along wonderfully with children and even the resident cats. She may be OK with mild-mannered dogs, if they’re introduced slowly and properly.
This energetic dog would enjoy a home with space to romp and explore. Rizz is always ready for cuddles and playtime. Her favorite thing? Leaning in for pets and soaking up all the love.
Rizz is so grateful for every meal, every soft bed and every bit of affection she receives. If you鈥檇 like to learn more about this special girl, visit to learn more about her.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Cordelia is the perfect mix of playful and snugly!
This sweet pup loves romping around with other big dogs 鈥 she鈥檚 having the time of her life tumbling with her foster buddy. However, she鈥檚 not a fan of cats, so she鈥檚 looking for a feline-free home.
Not only is Cordelia adorable, but she鈥檚 also super smart! She鈥檚 already mastered 鈥渟it鈥 and 鈥渃ome鈥 and is eager to learn more. After playtime, she鈥檚 all about cozying up on the couch for a well-deserved nap.
Cordelia has been waiting so patiently for a new home, and she鈥檚 ready to bring love and joy into your life.
Visit to learn more about her.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
If you鈥檙e looking for a loyal, loving companion who鈥檒l keep you smiling, Scrappy is your guy!
This tri-pawed dynamo gets around like a pro on three legs. He loves to run and is an absolute joy on the leash. His foster describes him as 鈥渙ne of the sweetest dogs I鈥檝e ever met,鈥 and we couldn’t agree more.
Scrappy is a true toy enthusiast, especially when it comes to balls and durable chew toys. He鈥檚 always up for a game of tug-of-war, and he鈥檒l happily carry a ball on his walks or play with his favorite stuffed animals.
This gentle, affectionate soul adores people, especially kids, and greets everyone with tail wags and a big smile. He鈥檚 fantastic with other playful dogs and even gets along well with cats and other small pets!
Scrappy is also quick to learn new commands and is eager to impress. He knows sit, stay, lay down and more! He鈥檚 looking for a family who鈥檒l enjoy teaching him even more fun tricks.
Whether it鈥檚 a walk, a run, or just some good old playtime, Scrappy would thrive in a home where he can be an active, loved member of the family.
To learn more about adopting Scrappy, visit to learn more.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Artemis (a.k.a. Artie) 鈥 the dog, the myth, the legend!
Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, would be proud to have such a noble canine named after her. Artemis has a striking brindle coat that is sure to captivate all who behold him. Together, you can explore the great outdoors, communing with nature like Artemis of old.
Found as a stray, Artie has been showing his power to adapt, meeting new people and enjoying some time in the presence of other pups. Artie is well behaved and really good on walks.聽After a long stroll, he enjoys a nice cozy nap. But this active boy is always ready for more play!
Hunting for a canine companion who loves treats and playing fetch? Meet Artie today and your heart is sure to soar to the top of Mount Olympus. Visit 聽to learn more.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
If you鈥檙e ready to “Open Your Heart” to a furry friend, Madonna is waiting for you! Found as a bashful stray, this “Lucky Star” is now blossoming into a confident, happy-go-lucky pup.
With her velvety brown coat, Madonna will “Dress You Up” in her love! This 10-month-old playful pup loves to “Express Herself” with lots of snuggles and doggy kisses. She’s got the smarts, too 鈥 she knows sit, appears to be potty-trained, takes treats like a pro and walks nicely on a leash.
Plus, Madonna is great with kids, loves other dogs and may even be cool with cats! She鈥檒l make a “True Blue” companion that any family would cherish. To learn more or set up a meet-and-greet, visit .
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Meet Peppa, the most dapper dog you’ll ever see! With her unique brown and white markings, she’s always dressed to impress.
Peppa is a curious one-year-old pup who knows how to have a good time and entertain herself. She adores being close to her humans for snuggles, making her the perfect mix of active and chill 鈥 ready for adventures and long naps alike.
This sweet girl is a quick learner and eager to please! In just one week at her foster home, she mastered commands like sit, down, leave it, and come. Imagine all the other amazing tricks and skills she鈥檒l pick up with your guidance.
Peppa鈥檚 a social butterfly, too! She hit it off with the resident dog at her foster home and made fast friends with pups she met on walks.
Ready to sprinkle some Peppa into your days? Learn more about her or set up a meet-and-greet at聽.
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
Notty is a happy-go-lucky pup who鈥檚 ready to leave his adventurous past behind, and start fresh with a loving family. This ruggedly handsome boy was found alone in a stolen car (don鈥檛 worry, he鈥檚 innocent of any wrongdoing!) and has been charming everyone he meets ever since.
Notty鈥檚 playful energy makes him the perfect companion for an active home. This 1-year-old pup loves long walks and is learning good leash skills. He鈥檚 a food-motivated superstar who already knows 鈥渟it鈥 and is eager to learn more commands.
Notty is a social butterfly who enjoys making new human (and canine) friends. To learn more about him, visit .
Adoption fees are just $25 for all animals through January, so now is a great time to bring home a new furry family member!
(Courtesy Humane Rescue Alliance)
If you鈥檙e looking for a sweet and silly companion, Delaney is your guy!
When Delaney first met our animal control officer, he trotted over like he鈥檇 been waiting for his ride home all along, and hopped right into the car. How this amazing boy ended up as a stray is beyond us, but we just know his perfect family is out there!
Delaney loves kids but would do best with older ones since he can be a bit exuberant. He also prefers being the only pet, so he can soak up all the love and attention. His favorite activities are curling up on the couch, playing with toys, and heading out for walks. Delaney鈥檚 making great progress with his manners 鈥 he鈥檚 learning to sit, stay, and be patient when he鈥檚 excited. At around 80 pounds, Delaney is a big, strong boy with an even bigger heart. He鈥檚 a low-maintenance guy who just wants to chill with his humans, and be the best companion he can be. To adopt him, visit .
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