Forsyth County Animal Shelter, Adoption & Pets 2026: Hours, Fees, Lost Pets & Contact Guide
This guide covers the official Forsyth County Animal Shelter in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is designed for real visitors who need quick, accurate help with adoptable pets, temporary public hours, adoption fees, lost or found animals, rehoming help, animal services contacts, directions, and what to prepare before calling or visiting.
Forsyth County Animal Shelter Quick Details
Use these details before you call, visit, apply for adoption, search for a missing pet, or ask about animal services. Because the county currently labels the hours as temporary, visitors should confirm the latest schedule before making a trip.
Address
5570 Sturmer Park Circle, Winston-Salem, NC 27105.
Shelter Phone
Call 336-703-2480 for shelter, adoption, lost pet, and general animal shelter questions.
Email shelter@forsyth.cc for shelter-related questions when email is appropriate.
Temporary Hours
Tuesday through Saturday, 12 PM to 4 PM. Sunday and Monday are listed as closed.
What the Forsyth County Animal Shelter Does
Forsyth County Animal Shelter is the county shelter resource for people searching for adoptable animals, checking whether a missing pet may be in county care, reporting or asking about found animals, learning about rehoming options, and connecting with animal services in the Winston-Salem area.
A visitor usually comes to this shelter for one of four reasons: adoption, reclaiming a lost pet, help with a found animal, or guidance when keeping a pet is becoming difficult. The best experience starts with the official county pages because animal availability, fees, public hours, promotions, and stray-hold status can change quickly.
Adoptable Animals
Use the official adoptable animals page to review current shelter pets, adoption applications, and current adoption fee notes.
Lost & Found
Check the county’s lost and found resources, stray-hold animals, and report steps if your pet is missing or you found a pet.
Pet Help Resources
Before surrendering or rehoming, review official pet help and rehoming guidance to see whether support or a private rehome path is available.
How to Adopt from Forsyth County Animal Shelter
Adoption should be handled like a real household decision, not a quick checkout. The right pet depends on your home, lease rules, schedule, children, current pets, budget, and ability to manage the first few weeks of adjustment.
Start with the official adoptable animals page
Go to the Forsyth County Animal Shelter adoptable animals page. Review current animals, read the application options, and keep the pet’s name or listing details handy before calling or visiting.
Use the correct application path
The county adoption page includes separate application links for dogs, cats, and other animals. Choose the correct application type and answer carefully so staff can understand whether your home is a good match.
Confirm current hours and availability
Before driving to 5570 Sturmer Park Circle, call 336-703-2480 or check the official shelter page. Pets may be adopted, transferred, reclaimed, placed on hold, or removed from public listings.
Ask practical adoption questions
Ask about age estimate, behavior observations, spay/neuter status, vaccination notes, microchip details, medical concerns, known history, energy level, and whether the animal has been around children or other animals.
Prepare the first week at home
Set up a quiet space, plan a veterinary checkup, update ID and microchip information if applicable, keep introductions slow, and avoid overwhelming the pet with too many visitors or activities immediately after adoption.
Forsyth County Animal Shelter Adoption Fees and Cost Notes
The county’s adoption page says standard adoption rates are $125 or less for dogs and cats, $10 for small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, and also notes current dog and cat adoption fees at $5. Because specials and promotions can change, confirm the current amount directly before visiting.
| Adoption / Service Topic | Official Page Indicates | What Visitors Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| Current dog or cat adoption fee | The adoptable animals page currently notes dog and cat adoption fees at $5. | Confirm before visiting because promotions and fee specials can change. |
| Standard dog or cat adoption rate | The official page says standard adoption rates are $125 or less for dogs and cats. | Ask whether the pet you want is part of a current special or standard-fee category. |
| Small animals | Small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs are listed at $10. | Ask about care needs, housing, supplies, and whether the animal is ready for adoption. |
| Rabies contract | The county adoption steps mention completing a contract agreeing to vaccinate your pet for rabies as needed. | Be ready to follow rabies vaccination requirements and local pet health rules after adoption. |
| Promotional pricing | The county says special promotional pricing may occur. | Email shelter@forsyth.cc or call the shelter to ask about current specials. |
Lost Pets and Stray-Hold Animals in Forsyth County
If your pet is missing, act quickly. Shelter descriptions may not match your wording perfectly, and animals without identification may be given shelter names after intake. Search visually, call during business hours, and prepare proof of ownership before going in.
If your pet is missing
- Check the official animals with stray-hold status page.
- Look at photos carefully, not just names or breed labels.
- Call 336-703-2480 during normal business hours if you see an animal that may be yours.
- Bring recent photos, vet records, microchip information, license details, and proof of identity.
- Check daily because intake and status can change.
If you found a pet
- File a report with Forsyth County Animal Shelter by calling 336-703-2480.
- Take a clear photo of the pet to include with your report when possible.
- Bring the pet to a nearby veterinarian, rescue, or FCAS during normal business hours for a microchip scan.
- Talk to neighbors because many found pets live close to where they were found.
- Do not put yourself at risk with an injured, frightened, or aggressive animal.
Animal Services, Found Pets and Safety Calls
Not every animal issue is handled the same way. Some questions are shelter questions, while others may need Animal Services or a 24/7 non-emergency response. Use the right number based on the situation.
Shelter Questions
Call 336-703-2480 for shelter, adoption, lost/found, and general shelter questions during business hours.
Animal Services
The county lists Animal Services at 336-727-2112.
Citations or Ordinances
For questions about a citation or county ordinances, the county lists 336-917-7750.
Rehoming, Surrender Help and Pet Support Options
If you can no longer keep a pet, review official rehoming help before making a shelter intake decision. Some animals may be better served through a safe private rehoming path, temporary support, or pet help resources instead of immediately entering the shelter system.
Start with the county rehoming page
Review the official Forsyth County rehoming guidance. This page helps owners think through responsible rehoming and what to do when they find a stray.
Ask whether support could keep the pet safe
Before surrendering, consider food help, temporary placement, family or friend placement, medical assistance, behavior support, landlord conversations, or local rescue guidance. A stable home solution is often less stressful for the animal than shelter intake.
Do not assume drop-off rules
Call the shelter first if you are unsure what to do. Open hours, intake capacity, emergency rules, and animal condition can affect the correct next step.
What to Bring When Visiting Forsyth County Animal Shelter
Whether you are adopting, reclaiming a missing pet, asking about a found animal, donating supplies, or discussing animal services, preparation reduces stress and prevents extra trips.
For Adoption
- Government-issued photo ID.
- Payment method in case fees apply.
- Rental, landlord, or HOA pet approval if relevant.
- Safe ride-home plan, carrier, leash, or collar.
- Questions about health, behavior, and transition needs.
For Lost Pet Reclaim
- Recent photos of your pet.
- Microchip number or registration record.
- Veterinary records or vaccination paperwork.
- License or tag information if available.
- Proof of identity and address.
For Found Pet Reports
- Clear photo of the found animal.
- Exact location and time found.
- Description of collar, tags, condition, and behavior.
- Whether the animal is safely contained.
- Any microchip scan result if already checked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using old hours
The county currently labels the shelter schedule as temporary. Always confirm hours before visiting.
Confusing NC and GA
This page is for Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Forsyth County, Georgia has a separate pet resource facility.
Forgetting proof
If reclaiming a pet, bring strong proof of ownership. Photos, vet records, and microchip details matter.
Arriving too late
Public hours are limited. Give yourself enough time to speak with staff and complete the reason for your visit.
Rushing adoption
Choose based on lifestyle fit, not only a photo. Ask about behavior, medical notes, and long-term care needs.
Handling unsafe animals
Do not personally handle aggressive, injured, or frightened animals. Use official animal services contacts.
Forsyth County Animal Shelter Map and Directions
Use the map below for directions to 5570 Sturmer Park Circle, Winston-Salem, NC 27105. If you are visiting for a specific animal, call first because animals may be adopted, reclaimed, transferred, or placed under a different status.
Official Forsyth County Animal Shelter Resources
These official links are the safest places to confirm current shelter details. Pet listings, public hours, adoption fees, donation needs, and service guidance can change.
Nearby Shelter Guides and Related North Carolina Resources
If you are comparing public shelter systems in North Carolina or checking options outside Forsyth County, you may also want to review the Raleigh Animal Shelter guide. For a broader comparison of county shelter planning, the Jackson County Animal Shelter guide can also help readers understand how adoption, lost pet rules, and visitor requirements vary by location.
Forsyth County Animal Shelter FAQ
Where is Forsyth County Animal Shelter located?
Forsyth County Animal Shelter is located at 5570 Sturmer Park Circle, Winston-Salem, NC 27105.
What is the phone number for Forsyth County Animal Shelter?
The shelter phone number listed by Forsyth County is 336-703-2480.
What are the current public hours for Forsyth County Animal Shelter?
The county lists temporary public hours as Tuesday through Saturday from 12 PM to 4 PM. Sunday and Monday are listed as closed.
Where can I see adoptable animals from Forsyth County Animal Shelter?
You can view available animals on the official Forsyth County Animal Shelter adoptable animals page. Pet availability can change quickly, so call or email before planning around a specific animal.
How much are adoption fees at Forsyth County Animal Shelter?
The official adoption page says standard adoption rates are $125 or less for dogs and cats, $10 for small animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, and currently notes dog and cat adoption fees at $5. Confirm current pricing before visiting.
What should I do if I lost a pet in Forsyth County?
Check the official animals with stray-hold status page, call 336-703-2480 during normal business hours if you see a possible match, and bring proof of ownership such as photos, vet records, microchip information, and license details.
What should I do if I found a pet in Forsyth County?
Forsyth County’s found pet checklist says to file a report by calling 336-703-2480, take a photo when possible, bring the pet for a microchip scan during normal business hours, and talk to neighbors.
Who do I call for animal services in Forsyth County?
The county lists Animal Services at 336-727-2112. For questions about a citation or county ordinances, the county lists 336-917-7750.
What number should I call for after-hours aggressive or injured animals?
Forsyth County’s rehoming guidance says after-hours aggressive and injured animals should call 336-727-2112.
Is this the Forsyth County shelter in Georgia?
No. This guide is for Forsyth County Animal Shelter in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Forsyth County, Georgia has a separate Pet Adoption and Resource Center.
Final Takeaway
Forsyth County Animal Shelter in Winston-Salem is the key local resource for adoption, lost and found pets, stray-hold animal checks, pet help resources, rehoming guidance, donations, volunteering, and animal services questions. The most important first steps are to check the official adoptable animals or stray-hold pages, call 336-703-2480 when you need current confirmation, and use 336-727-2112 for animal services or after-hours aggressive and injured animal concerns.
Before visiting, confirm current public hours, adoption fees, animal availability, and the correct process for your situation directly with Forsyth County. That one step can save time, reduce confusion, and help you make the safest decision for the animal and your household.
Animal Shelter Action Planner: Lost Pet, Found Pet, Adoption, Reclaim & Surrender Helper
Use this free tool to create a practical next-step plan before visiting or contacting an animal shelter, humane society, rescue, or animal control agency. It does not search a live shelter database, but it helps you prepare the right documents, questions, safety steps, and official-source searches.
Build a USA-wide shelter action plan
Select your situation and location. The tool will create a general action plan, search links, call questions, and a copyable checklist.
Lost pet recovery checklist
Check the steps you have completed. This helps you stay organized during the first urgent hours and days.
Found pet safety decision helper
Use this when you find a stray or loose pet and need a safe next step.
Adoption readiness checker
This helps adopters prepare before visiting a shelter or rescue. It is not a guarantee of approval.
Pet reclaim document checklist
If your pet may be at a shelter, prepare proof before visiting. Exact requirements and fees vary by agency.
Owner surrender preparation helper
Surrender rules vary. Many shelters require appointments, proof of residence, behavior/medical information, and may offer alternatives.
Animal control contact decision helper
Choose the situation and get a general USA-wide contact path. Local rules may differ.
Adoption and first-month budget planner
This is a planning guide, not a shelter fee database. Always confirm adoption fees and included services with the shelter.
Your generated shelter plan
Your action plan, search links, call script, checklist, or budget guide will appear here.
Start with the Planner tab
Select your state, city/county/ZIP, pet type, and goal. The tool will create a practical USA-wide shelter action plan.
Privacy note: this tool runs in your browser. It does not send your entries to animal-shelter.org.