Wildlife and nature

Animal shelters and rescues

Theater and dance

Rivers, parks and trails

Hunger and food

Schools and learning

Housing and homelessness

Community health

Mental health

Mentoring and foster care

Legal help and rights

Jobs and money help

Atlanta

The Triangle

Everywhere

The Collective Workshop

Royal Animal Refuge

Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

Georgia Advancing Communities Together

Atlanta Writers Club

Cobb Collaborative

Bosleys Place

Jewish Fertility Foundation

Best Friend Pet Adoption (BFPA) is an all breed, all-foster (no physical shelter), dog and cat rescue organization, based in Wake County, North Carolina. Since our establishment in 1998, we have rescued and placed over 3,800 cats and dogs into their forever homes.
Our mission is to give rescued animals the chance to find their forever homes by providing compassionate care and support. BFPA welcomes animals with a variety of needs – including seniors and those with medical challenges. We strive for the best possible outcomes for every rescued animal, prioritizing their individual well-being and quality of life, and making thoughtful, humane decisions about medical care as they journey toward a new home.
All of our rescued animals are evaluated for temperament, examined by a veterinarian, vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered (when age appropriate). They also receive monthly flea/tick preventative while in our care. Dogs receive monthly heartworm preventative as well.
Equally important, we provide all rescued animals with the loving care of a foster home until we find them their forever home, however long it takes. We thoroughly screen potential adopters in an attempt to ensure a good fit for them and the animal involved so that we minimize mis-matches which can result in further trauma for the animal as well as the adopting family.

Join Us for Ricci Rescues in the Park

From Rescue to Remarkable

Ricci Rescues In the Park

Give

2025 BFPA Newsletter

2024-Newsletter

2023_Newsletter

BFPA 2022 Newsletter

BFPA 2021 Newsletter

2020_Newseltter

Sonia Ensenat

Michelle Kern

Stephanie Mattern

Deron Rossi

Carrie Slaughter

Missy Ward

Meet Glitch and Grommet, a special pair of rescue brothers who are looking for a family willing to make room for TWO! These boys are a package deal, and that's exactly how they'd like to keep it. Glitch has cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), a neurological condition that affects his coordination and gives him his signature wobbly movements. It doesn't stop him from being a sweet kitty deserving of all the love and comfort of a forever home. And with his brother Grommet by his side, these two have a special connection that makes their story even sweeter. Adopting a bonded pair means double the companionship, double the entertainment, and two furry friends who already have someone familiar to share their new adventure with. Glitch and Grommet must be adopted together. They're looking for a family ready to welcome both brothers and give them the love they deserve. Could you be the happy ending they've been waiting for? Apply to adopt Glitch and Grommet: https://bfpa.org/adopt/cats #AdoptGlitchAndGrommet #BestFriendPetAdoption #PawsForThanks #BondedCats #AdoptABondedPair #SpecialNeedsCats #CerebellarHypoplasia #RescueCats #AdoptDontShop #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

Today's the day! Come meet Ginny, the rescue pup who became a children's book star! Ginny has come a long way since finding her forever home through Best Friend Pet Adoption. Today, she's sharing her adventures with readers, spreading smiles, and reminding us why every rescue story matters. ❤️ And we'd love for YOU to be part of her next adventure! 🎉 GINNY'S BOOK SIGNING — TODAY! 📅 Saturday, November 7 ⏰ 3–5 PM 📍 Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Store at Cobblestone Village, Rolesville, NC Here's how to make a day of it: 🍂 Visit the Downtown Farmers Market earlier in the day (open until 1 PM), including its special Kids Day activities. 🍽️ Grab a bite at one of the nearby restaurants. 📚 Stop by from 3–5 PM to meet Ginny and local author Shearon Hardy, and check out Ginny Goes to School and her other books! 🎟️ Don't forget the $2 raffle tickets for a chance to win a basket of dog-themed prizes worth approximately $200! Proceeds benefit BFPA, and the winner will be drawn after the book signing. We're so thankful for Ginny, her forever family, and the wonderful community that continues to support rescue animals. 💜 Who's coming to meet Ginny today? 🐾👇 Can't make it? You can support Ginny & Shearon by purchasing a copy of their new book online: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/ginny-goes-to-school #PawsForThanks #BestFriendPetAdoption #MeetGinny #RolesvilleNC #RolesvilleEvents #ChildrensBooks #LocalAuthor #SupportLocal #AdoptDontShop #WakeCountyNC #RescueDogs #nclocalauthor #rolesvillefarmersmarketstore

Meet Jett, a sweet American Staffordshire Terrier/French Bulldog mix with soulful eyes, a playful personality, and a serious appreciation for cuddle time. Jett's story began with a difficult loss. His mother died when he was born, and he was lovingly bottle-fed to give him the chance he deserved. And just look at the wonderful little dog he's becoming! Jett can be a little cautious when meeting someone new, but once he feels comfortable, his affectionate and playful personality comes shining through. He's the kind of pup who loves having fun and then settling in close to his favorite people. Jett has done well with other dogs, cats, and children. He's also crate trained and housebroken, and he's been working on his leash manners. He doesn't necessarily need a fenced yard, so apartment living could be an option with appropriate activity, companionship, and exercise. One thing to know about Jett? He's not afraid to use his voice when he's excited or needs a potty break! This little guy has already overcome so much, and now he's ready for the one thing every rescue pet deserves: a family of his own. Jett's beginning may have been difficult, but his future could be filled with belly rubs, playtime, and someone who loves him unconditionally. Could that someone be you? 🐾 Apply to adopt Jett: https://bfpa.org/adopt/dogs/ #AdoptJett #BestFriendPetAdoption #PawsForThanks #RescuePuppy #AmStaffMix #FrenchBulldogMix #AdoptDontShop #RescueDogs #SecondChances #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

Tomorrow's the day! Ginny is ready to meet YOU! ❤️ Our favorite four-legged children's book star is making a special appearance in Rolesville tomorrow, and you're invited!\ Ginny, a former BFPA rescue pup, has inspired a whole series of children's books written by her adopter, local author Shearon Hardy. Now you can meet the sweet pup behind the stories and celebrate her latest adventure, Ginny Goes to School! 🐾 📅 Saturday, November 7 ⏰ 3–5 PM 📍 Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Store at Cobblestone Village, Rolesville, NC 🎟️ PLUS, don't miss the raffle! Just $2 per ticket gives you a chance to win a prize basket worth approximately $200, filled with dog goodies, signed books, a custom hand-painted pet portrait, and more! 💜 Raffle proceeds benefit Best Friend Pet Adoption! Make a day of it! Enjoy the farmers market's Kids Day activities earlier in the day (market closes at 1 PM), grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, and then come meet Ginny from 3–5 PM! 🐾 Who's coming to say hello to Ginny? Let us know in the comments, and tag a friend who loves dogs and books! Can't make it? You can support Ginny & Shearon by purchasing a copy of their new book online: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/ginny-goes-to-school #PawsForThanks #BestFriendPetAdoption #MeetGinny #GinnyGoesToSchool #RolesvilleNC #RolesvilleEvents #SupportLocalAuthors #RescueDogs #ChildrensBooks #SupportAnimalRescue #WakeCountyNC #ncauthor #nclocalauthor

What if just $2 could help rescue pets AND give you a chance to win $200 worth of goodies? 💜 Shearon Hardy, author and Ginny's mom, is generously donating an amazing raffle basket absolutely packed with goodies! For just $2 per ticket, you'll have a chance to win a basket filled with approximately $200 worth of prizes, including: 🐶 Dog toys and treats 📚 Signed copies of Ginny's books 🎨 An 8×10 hand-painted acrylic portrait of your pet 🦴 A hidden-treat dog toy 🎁 And more surprises! Best of all, raffle proceeds will benefit BFPA, helping us continue caring for rescue animals waiting for their own happy endings. ❤️ 📍Make plans for Saturday, November 7, from 3–5 PM at the Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Store in Cobblestone Village, Rolesville, NC. Meet Ginny, visit with local author Shearon Hardy, explore her children's books, and join in the raffle fun! Can't make it? You can support Ginny & Shearon by purchasing a copy of their new book online: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/ginny-goes-to-school 🎟️ Who wouldn't love a custom portrait of their pet? Tag a pet-loving friend who needs to hear about this! #PawsForThanks #BestFriendPetAdoption #RescueFundraiser #SupportAnimalRescue #RolesvilleNC #ShopLocalNC #DogLovers #PetPortrait #CommunityGiving #RescueDogs #nclocalauthor

You showed up for Katy, and we couldn't be more grateful! 💜 Last month, we held a special T-shirt fundraiser to help cover medical expenses for Katy, one of our BFPA rescue dogs. Thanks to your incredible generosity, we raised $1,800 toward Katy's medical care! To everyone who purchased a shirt, shared our fundraiser, or helped spread the word — THANK YOU! Every dollar raised helps us continue providing Katy with the care she needs, and we're so thankful to have such a supportive community behind her. As we celebrate our Paws for Thanks theme this November, this is a perfect reminder of just how much we can accomplish when we come together for rescue pets. From Katy and all of us at BFPA, thank you for making a difference! #PawsForThanks #BestFriendPetAdoption #ThankYou #RescueDogs #CommunitySupport #AnimalRescue #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

Small hands, BIG hearts, and a whole lot of love for rescue animals! ❤️ A HUGE thank you to @chesterbrookacademycary for organizing a pet food and supply drive to benefit Best Friend Pet Adoption! Thanks to the generosity of the students, families, and staff, our rescue pets received much-needed food and supplies to help keep them happy and healthy while they wait for their forever homes. And a very special shoutout to Miss Gayle's first-grade class for creating that adorable, hand-decorated collection bin! We absolutely love the creativity and care that went into making it. What a wonderful reminder that you're never too young to make a difference! We're so grateful to have a community that comes together to support animals in need. Every donation, big or small, helps us continue giving rescue dogs and cats the care and second chances they deserve. Thank you, Chesterbrook Academy, for your kindness and generosity! 🐾 Want to make a difference for rescue pets, too? Visit https://bfpa.org to learn how you can help! #BestFriendPetAdoption #PawsForThanks #CommunityKindness #KidsMakingADifference #PetFoodDrive #SupportAnimalRescue #RescueDogs #RescueCats #CaryNC #RaleighNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

Looking for a cat who might fit right into your whole family? Meet Emmy! This pretty tortoiseshell girl has a lot going for her, starting with that beautiful tortie coat and her ability to get along with just about everyone! Emmy is comfortable with cats, dogs, children, and adults. That's a pretty impressive list for one little kitty! Whether your home already has furry family members or you're hoping to welcome a new feline friend, Emmy could be a wonderful addition. She's spayed and ready to find a family to call her own. And while we all know torties are famous for their colorful coats and personalities, Emmy is ready to write her own story with someone special. Could your family be the next chapter in Emmy's story? Apply to adopt Emmy: https://bfpa.org/adopt/cats #AdoptEmmy #BestFriendPetAdoption #PawsForThanks #TortoiseshellCat #TortieLove #AdoptACat #RescueCats #AdoptDontShop #RaleighNC #CaryNC #ApexNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

Meet Cali, a sweet, smart girl who seems to have mastered the art of being a wonderful companion! Cali absolutely LOVES people. New friends? Yes, please! Attention and affection? Even better! This girl has a heart full of love and genuinely enjoys making her people happy. But there's so much more to Cali than her friendly personality. She's housebroken, crate trained, knows her basic commands, and has done exceptionally well in training classes. She's also comfortable relaxing in her crate during a normal workday, making her a great possibility for someone who works outside the home. And when it's time for fun? Cali is ready! She loves walks, does beautifully on a leash, and enjoys exploring the yard. She's also a relatively quiet girl who doesn't need to be the center of attention every minute. Cali has previously lived happily with other dogs and young children, including kids ages 3 and 5. She could be an only dog or enjoy having a canine companion. Her experience with cats is unknown. A fenced yard would be wonderful, but it's not required as long as she gets regular walks and exercise. Cali isn't looking for anything fancy. Just a family to love, a place to belong, and someone who will love her right back. Could she be the missing piece of your family? ❤️ Apply to adopt Cali: https://bfpa.org/adopt/dogs/ #AdoptCali #BestFriendPetAdoption #PawsForThanks #AdoptDontShop #RescueDogs #DogAdoption #ForeverHomeWanted #RaleighNC #CaryNC #ApexNC #WakeCountyNC #TriangleNC

From rescue pup to children's book star... Ginny has quite the story to tell! ❤️ After finding her forever home through Best Friend Pet Adoption, Ginny became the inspiration for a series of children's books written by her adopter, local author Shearon Hardy. Her latest adventure, Ginny Goes to School, is now available, and we're inviting you to come celebrate with them! Ginny and Shearon love meeting readers at local festivals and farmers markets, where Ginny happily greets people of all ages. And now, this sweet girl is working toward an exciting new chapter—training to become a therapy dog! 🐾 ✨ Come meet the real-life star behind the stories! 📅 Saturday, November 7 | 3–5 PM 📍 Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Store, Cobblestone Village, Rolesville, NC It's also Kids Day at the Downtown Farmers Market earlier that day, so bring the family, enjoy the activities, explore the nearby restaurants, and come back for an afternoon with Ginny! 🐶📖 We'd love to see you there! Can't make it? You can support Ginny & Shearon by purchasing a copy of their new book online: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/ginny-goes-to-school #PawsForThanks #GinnyGoesToSchool #BestFriendPetAdoption #ChildrensBooks #LocalAuthor #MeetTheAuthor #RolesvilleNC #FamilyFriendlyEvents #RescueDogs #nclocalauthor

❤️ Who rescued whom? Sometimes, the answer is BOTH. 🐾 Meet Ginny, a former Best Friend Pet Adoption pup whose story didn't end when she found her forever home. In fact, that was just the beginning! When Ginny was adopted, she came with some medical challenges. But those challenges never stopped her from loving people or wanting to be part of every adventure. Her adopter, local author Shearon Hardy, says Ginny is one of the most loving dogs she's ever known—and that this special pup has helped bring her out of her shell. That love inspired something wonderful: a series of children's books featuring Ginny's adventures! 📚🐶 This November, as we celebrate Paws for Thanks, we're especially thankful for second chances that turn into stories worth sharing. And here's the exciting part... you can meet Ginny and the author behind her adventures! 📚 Ginny's Book Signing 📅 Saturday, November 7 ⏰ 3–5 PM 📍 Downtown Rolesville Farmers Market Store at Cobblestone Village, Rolesville, NC Come meet Ginny, hear about her adventures, and celebrate the difference rescue can make! 💜 Can't make it? You can support Ginny & Shearon by purchasing a copy of their new book online: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/ginny-goes-to-school #PawsForThanks #BestFriendPetAdoption #RescueDogStory #HappyTails #AdoptDontShop #RolesvilleNC #WakeCountyNC #RescueDogs #ChildrensBooks #NCLocalAuthor

🐾 Meet Katy. She's little, she's loved, and she needs our help.❤️ Katy is a 14-pound Chihuahua mix who came to Best Friend Pet Adoption in May with a serious injury to her back leg. She has a chronic fracture in her heel bone and damage to the tendon attached to it. Now, Katy needs a major medical procedure to give her the chance at a comfortable, pain-free future. ❤️ And that's where YOU come in! We're hosting a special t-shirt fundraiser with a goal of raising $1,500 toward Katy's surgery, follow-up care, and recovery. 👕 Choose from black or purple crewneck shirts. 🐾 Support Katy's medical care. ❤️ Help a little dog take a big step toward healing. Every shirt purchased makes a difference! 🛍️ Order yours by October 30: https://tinyurl.com/bfpa-katy Please share Katy's story and help us spread the word! #BestFriendPetAdoption #HelpKatyHeal #RescueDogs #DogRescue #FundraiserForACause #AdoptDontShop #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #TriangleNC

Warning: Apricot may become your permanent shadow. 🧡 This sweet, affectionate pup loves being wherever his people are. Whether you're heading out for a walk, relaxing on the couch, or working from home, Apricot is happiest by your side. He's house-trained, crate-trained, eager to learn, and comes with 12 free one-on-one training sessions to help him and his new family start off strong. With his goofy personality and loving heart, Apricot is ready to become someone's best friend. Could that someone be you? 🐾 Learn more at bfpa.org/adopt/dogs #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #RescueDog #PuppyLove #DogLover #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #AdoptADog

Looking for a quieter kind of companionship this fall? Senior pets have so much love to give. They're often already house-trained, settled into their personalities, and happiest spending time with the people they love. Whether it's a cozy afternoon nap, a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, or simply sharing the couch, older pets remind us that life's sweetest moments are often the simplest. This October, don't overlook the adults and seniors waiting for their forever families. Your perfect companion might already be past the puppy or kitten stage—and ready to fill your home with unconditional love. 🐾 Visit bfpa.org to meet our adoptable dogs and cats. #BestFriendPetAdoption #FallInLoveWithRescue #SeniorPets #AdoptDontShop #RescueDogs #RescueCats #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCountyNC #NorthCarolinaRescue

This Saturday, October 17th, Best Friend Pet Adoption is joining Ricci Rescues in the Park, a community pet adoption event hosted by @riccilawfirmnc at Midtown Park at North Hills in Raleigh. Come meet adoptable dogs, browse vendor tables, and spend part of your Saturday morning celebrating all things animals alongside other local rescue groups. It’s free to attend, and we’d love to see you there. 📍 Midtown Park at North Hills, 4011 Cardinal at North Hills St., Raleigh, NC 🕙 Saturday, October 17th, 10am – 1pm

Need someone to narrate your entire day? Soot has that job covered. 😹 Soot is a professional conversationalist who believes every moment deserves commentary. She'll happily follow you from room to room, supervise everything you're doing, and insist on being your favorite cuddle buddy. She loves people, kids, cats, dogs...pretty much everyone. She's playful, affectionate, endlessly entertaining, and happiest when she has another feline friend by her side. If your home could use a little extra personality (and a lot of love), Soot may be your perfect match. 🐾 Meet Soot at bfpa.org/adopt/cats #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #RescueCat #ChattyCat #CatLover #AdoptACat #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #RescuePets

Some dogs steal your heart quietly... Jett is one of them. Jett may be a little shy when you first meet him, but every day he grows a little braver—and watching his confidence bloom is something truly special. He loves praise, belly rubs, hikes, car rides, and snuggling close to his favorite people. Once Jett knows he's safe, his affectionate, playful personality shines through, making him the perfect companion for adventures and cozy nights alike. All Jett needs is someone willing to give him a little patience. In return, he'll give you his whole heart. 🐾 Meet Jett at bfpa.org/adopt/dogs #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #RescueDog #AdoptADog #SecondChances #DogLover #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty

🍁 There are two kinds of people in the fall... those who head outside, and those who stay cozy at home. Which are you? 🐾 If you asked our adoptable pets, we'd probably get a different answer from each one! 🍂 A. Enjoying hot coffee on the porch 🥾 B. Taking a fall hike 📖 C. Cozying up with a good book (and your cat!) 🎃 D. Visiting the pumpkin patch 🔥 E. Having a bonfire with your bestie 👇 Tell us your letter in the comments—and if your pet has a different favorite, we'd love to hear theirs too! #BestFriendPetAdoption #FallInLoveWithRescue #FallFavorites #PetLovers #DogLovers #CatLovers #AdoptDontShop #RescuePets #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #ApexNC #WakeCounty #NorthCarolinaPets

Protecting vulnerable kittens starts long before adoption. 🖤 Siren was found behind a Cary fire station with her sister. Sadly, her sister didn't survive the night. It's a heartbreaking reminder of why TNR programs and rescue organizations are so important. Every spayed and neutered community cat helps prevent more kittens from facing uncertain beginnings. Siren survived. Now she's looking for a family to give her the future every kitten deserves. 🐾 Meet Siren at bfpa.org/adopt/cats #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #RescueKitten #BlackAndWhiteCat #KittenLove #SecondChances #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #CaryNC #RaleighNC #WakeCounty #AdoptACat #RescueCatsRock

There's a reason our adoptable pets come with more than just a cute photo. At Best Friend Pet Adoption, our dogs and cats live in foster homes where they're loved, cared for, and truly known. That means when you're looking for your next best friend, we can share more than just the basics. Our foster families get to know each pet's personality, favorite activities, daily routine, and the kind of home where they'll thrive. Those real-life insights help us make better matches—and that's one of the reasons foster-based rescue works so well. Finding the right pet isn't just about choosing a face you love. It's about finding a companion whose personality fits your family and lifestyle. ❤️ That's how forever homes begin. 🐾 Learn how to become a foster family for a cat or dog in need: bfpa.org/foster 🐾 Ready to meet your perfect match? Visit bfpa.org to see our adoptable dogs and cats. #BestFriendPetAdoption #FosterBasedRescue #AdoptDontShop #RescuePets #ForeverHome #PetAdoption #DogAdoption #CatAdoption #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCountyNC #NorthCarolinaRescue

Brains, beauty, and loyalty... Winnie checks every box. ❤️ Winnie is the kind of dog who quietly becomes your shadow. Smart, loving, and incredibly well-mannered, this beautiful shepherd thrives on routine, enjoys daily walks, and is happiest spending time with her people. She's house-trained, respectful, affectionate, and even gets along with cats! Whether you're relaxing on the couch or heading out for a stroll, Winnie is ready to be your faithful sidekick. If you're looking for a devoted companion with a heart as big as her intelligence, Winnie is waiting to meet you. 🐾 Learn more at bfpa.org/adopt/dogs #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #GermanShepherdMix #RescueDog #DogLover #ForeverHome #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #AdoptADog

That gorgeous coat isn't the only thing that'll steal your heart. 🩶 Winston's unique smoky gray coat with warm orange undertones might catch your eye—but his sweet personality is what you'll fall in love with. He's a gentle boy who takes a little time to warm up, but once he trusts you, he loves being held, snuggling beside you, and soaking up all the affection. Winston would love a home with another friendly cat to help build his confidence and would also do well with cat-friendly dogs. If you have a little patience, Winston will reward you with a lifetime of love. 🐾 Meet Winston at bfpa.org/adopt/cats #BestFriendPetAdoption #AdoptDontShop #RescueCat #CatLover #ForeverHome #RescueCats #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #AdoptACat #PetAdoption

Thinking about adding a furry family member? Fall might just be the perfect time. ❤️ There are so many reasons autumn is a wonderful season to welcome a new pet into your home: ✔️ Cooler temperatures make walks more enjoyable. ✔️ Cozy evenings are perfect for bonding. ✔️ New routines help pets settle in more easily. ✔️ Holiday memories are even sweeter with a four-legged best friend. Whether you're looking for a playful hiking buddy or a professional couch cuddler, your perfect match could be waiting right now. 🐾 Meet our adoptable dogs and cats at bfpa.org #BestFriendPetAdoption #FallInLoveWithRescue #AdoptDontShop #AdoptAPet #RescueDog #RescueCat #ForeverHome #SecondChances #PetAdoption #TriangleNC #RaleighNC #CaryNC #WakeCounty #NorthCarolinaPets

Collective

Collections

Account

Events

Upcoming events

2026