Santa Paws 2026: Free Pet Adoptions on November 14
31 October 2026
Baltimore County Animal Services is waiving adoption fees for every available animal at its second annual Santa Paws: Home for the Holidays event on Saturday, November 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a wonderful chance for Arbutus families to bring home a new best friend just in time for the holidays.
What is Santa Paws: Home for the Holidays?
Santa Paws is a holiday adoption day hosted by Baltimore County Animal Services and the radio station Today's 101.9. According to the county's Santa Paws announcement, the station's morning show hosts, Greg Carpenter and Gina Crash, will broadcast live from the shelter and highlight an adoptable pet each hour.
Last year's first Santa Paws helped 43 pets find homes, and the shelter is hoping to beat that this year.
When and where is Santa Paws?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, November 14, 2026 |
| Time | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
| Where | Baltimore County Animal Services, 13800 Manor Road, Baldwin |
| Adoption fees | Waived for all available animals |
| Animals | Dogs, cats, kittens and small companion animals |
| Extras | The county's Adoption Express mobile adoption center |
Baldwin is up in northern Baltimore County, so plan for a bit of a drive from Arbutus. It is worth it!
What comes with an adopted pet?
Every pet adopted from Baltimore County Animal Services is spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. That is a big head start for a new pet parent.
What if I can't adopt right now?
You can still help. Shelter staff and volunteers will share information about fostering, volunteering and other ways to support the shelter. Baltimore County Animal Services is the county's only open-admission shelter, so community support really matters. One more tip: the shelter has shorter public hours, noon to 4 p.m., on Tuesday, November 3 (Election Day) and Wednesday, November 11 (Veterans Day).
What does this mean for new homeowners?
So many of my buyers tell me a yard for the dog is high on their wish list! If you just moved into your first home in Arbutus, Halethorpe or Catonsville, this could be the perfect time to add a furry family member. Before adoption day, check that your fence is secure and think about where your new pet will sleep. If you are still house hunting, my neighborhoods guide can help you find a spot with room to roam, and my Moving to Arbutus guide covers the basics of settling in.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Santa Paws 2026?
Santa Paws: Home for the Holidays is Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It takes place at Baltimore County Animal Services in Baldwin.
Are adoptions free at Santa Paws?
Yes. Adoption fees are waived for all available animals during the event.
Where is Baltimore County Animal Services?
The shelter is at 13800 Manor Road in Baldwin, in northern Baltimore County. It is the county's only open-admission animal shelter.
What animals can I adopt at Santa Paws?
Dogs, cats, kittens and small companion animals will be available. Every adopted pet is spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.
How can I help if I can't adopt?
Ask about fostering or volunteering at the event. Shelter staff and volunteers will share ways to support the animals.
Disclaimer: This post is based on the Baltimore County Government announcement dated October 29, 2026 and the Baltimore County Animal Services page, checked on 31 October 2026. Please confirm details with the shelter before you go.
Ready for a Home With Room for a Pet?
Whether you are dreaming of a fenced yard for a new pup or a sunny window for a cat, I would love to help you find the right home. Call or text me at 443-421-6855.
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