AWS Kennebunk Animal Shelter: Adoption Hours, Fees & Pet Help
This guide focuses on Animal Welfare Society, known as AWS, at 46 Holland Road in Kennebunk, Maine. Use it to adopt a pet, check hours, understand adoption fees, report lost/found animals, contact the clinic, request admissions, find animal-control routing, volunteer, foster, donate, or get Stay@Home support.
Important local split: AWS is the adoption center and impound facility for many area lost/found pets, but local Animal Control Officers are municipal. For strays, contact AWS and your town ACO when needed.
VISIT
AWS
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Which AWS Kennebunk Service Do You Need?
AWS has adoption, veterinary, admissions, Stay@Home, lost/found and volunteer programs. Animal control itself is handled through local municipal Animal Control Officers.
| Need | Correct route | Why | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adopt a dog, cat, rabbit, bird or small animal | AWS Adoption Center | Adopters can visit without a scheduled appointment to meet adoptable pets. | Go during adoption hours and arrive before the last meet window. |
| Lost or found pet | AWS + local Animal Control Officer | AWS acts as impound facility for pets from contracted municipalities, often brought by ACOs. | Call AWS and contact your local ACO if needed. |
| Surrender / rehome your pet | AWS Animal Admissions | Admissions are by appointment only and based on available space/resources. | Submit the species-specific admissions application first. |
| Low-cost vet care or spay/neuter | AWS Community Veterinary Clinic | Clinic is by appointment and has separate phone/email from adoption. | Call 207-292-2424 or use the relevant online booking route. |
| Temporary hardship support | AWS Stay@Home | Program helps qualified York County pet owners keep pets at home. | Request services before surrender becomes urgent. |
| Emergency / public safety | 911 or municipal authorities | Immediate danger is not an adoption-center call. | Use emergency services first. |
AWS Kennebunk Hours, Phones and Best Visit Windows
AWS has different hours for adoption, clinic, administration and admissions. Do not treat one department’s hours as all-service hours.
| Service | Official hours / contact | Use for | Practical tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adoption Center | Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM-12:30 PM and 1:30 PM-4 PM | Adopting dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and small animals. | Last adoption meet or scheduled appointment is listed as 3:30 PM. |
| Quiet time | 12:30 PM-1:30 PM | Kennel decompression and enrichment. | Do not plan a meet-and-greet during this closure window. |
| Closed Monday | Adoption Center closed Mondays | Staff training and extra animal enrichment. | Plan Tuesday-Sunday for adoption visits. |
| Veterinary Clinic | Monday-Friday, 9 AM-5 PM, by appointment | Clinic care, spay/neuter, wellness and related services. | Call 207-292-2424; do not use the general contact form for clinic appointments. |
| Administrative Offices | Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM | Administrative business and organization contact. | General phone: 207-985-3244. |
| Animal admissions | By appointment only | Surrender/admission requests. | Start with the species-specific admissions application. |
How to Adopt from Animal Welfare Society Kennebunk
AWS says adoption counselors guide adopters through the process, and many pets can go home the same day when it is the right match.
Check adoptable pets first
Review dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, small animals and working cats on the official AWS adoption pages.
Visit during adoption hours
Adopters are welcome without a scheduled appointment. Visit Tuesday-Sunday, outside the 12:30-1:30 quiet-time closure.
Talk with adoption counselors
Use the counselor as a matchmaker. Ask about behavior, health, introductions, household fit and go-home timing.
Bring resident dog if helpful
AWS recommends bringing dogs to meet potential new dog additions, but says it is not required. Call first if unsure.
Check housing rules
AWS does not use reference checks, but adopters should know lease, HOA or community pet rules before adopting.
Leave with records and plan
Confirm microchip registration, vaccine records, spay/neuter, parasite control, food, training resources and first-week decompression.
AWS Kennebunk Adoption Fees and What They Include
AWS lists fee ranges because fees depend on age, sociability, breed type, species and special cases. Confirm the exact pet-specific fee before adopting.
| Pet type | Official listed fee / range | Included care | Ask before adopting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Typically $250-$600+ depending on size, age and breed type | Spay/neuter, wellness exam, rabies if 12+ weeks, distemper, kennel cough, parasite control, flea/tick preventative, heartworm testing for 6+ months, heartworm preventative and microchip. | Ask exact fee, heartworm status, dog-dog notes and training needs. |
| Puppies | Included in dog fee range; puppies may move quickly | Core adoption inclusion framework for dogs/puppies. | Ask about boosters, socialization, potty training and timing. |
| Cats | Typically $100-$300+ depending on age, sociability and breed type | Spay/neuter, wellness exam, rabies for felines over 12 weeks, distemper, FeLV testing as necessary, parasite control, flea/tick preventative and microchip. | Ask about litter habits, cat-cat fit, meds and carrier needs. |
| Rabbits | $85; bonded-pair discount may apply | Spay/neuter, wellness exam, grooming/nail trim as needed, external parasite control and a wellness/nail-trim coupon at Southern Maine Hospital for Small Mammals within eight weeks. | Ask about housing, diet, chewing and bonded-pair rules. |
| Rats | $16 | Small-animal adoption support; bonded pair/group discounts may apply. | Ask if the animal must be adopted with a companion. |
| Mice | $10 | Small-animal adoption support. | Ask about enclosure and social grouping. |
| Hamsters / gerbils | $16 | Small-animal adoption support. | Ask about cage size, wheel and handling. |
| Guinea pigs | $35 | Small-animal adoption support and possible bonded-pair discounts. | Ask about hay, Vitamin C, cage size and companion needs. |
| Chinchillas / ferrets | $150 | Small-animal adoption support. | Ask about specialized housing and vet care. |
| Birds | Finches $20, budgies $25, canary/cockatiel/conure $150; other large birds vary | Fee determined by age, size, temperament, species and quantity. | Ask about social grouping, cage size, noise and diet. |
| Reptiles | Bearded dragon $60, leopard gecko $30, snakes $60-$120; others vary | Fee depends on age, temperament, species and whether habitat is included. | Ask about enclosure, heat, lighting, feeding and handling. |
Lost, Found or Reclaiming a Pet Through AWS
AWS has relationships with area municipalities so it can act as an impound facility for pets brought in by Animal Control Officers. ACOs have 24/7 access; AWS staff check strays first thing after arriving.
If your pet is lost
- Fill out the AWS lost-pet form.
- Call 207-985-3244 if you do not have email or need help.
- Check the AWS lost-pets page regularly.
- Contact your local Animal Control Officer.
- Check Maine Lost Dog Recovery and Maine Lost Cat Recovery on Facebook.
- Update microchip and collar-tag contact information.
If you found a pet
- Call AWS at 207-985-3244.
- Contact the local ACO for the town where the pet was found.
- Do not chase a frightened animal into traffic.
- Check collar/tag only if safe.
- Take clear photos and note exact location.
- Keep the found pet separate from your pets.
To claim your lost pet
- Call AWS quickly if you recognize a listed stray.
- Bring ID and proof of ownership.
- Bring photos, microchip, license, vet records or adoption papers.
- AWS says it does not charge a claim fee.
- Some towns may charge impound fees that AWS may collect for the town.
- Bring leash, crate or carrier.
AWS and Animal Control: What Users Must Understand
AWS is not your town’s police department or municipal ACO. Animal Control Officers are employed by local municipalities, often police departments. Some investigate cruelty/neglect and handle stray, homeless, lost or found pet calls.
| Situation | Call AWS? | Call local ACO? | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lost pet may be at AWS | Yes: 207-985-3244 | Yes, especially if your town uses a different contracted shelter | AWS may have your pet, but your town’s official route matters. |
| Found stray dog or cat | Yes | Yes | AWS asks finders to call and also contact local ACO. |
| Animal cruelty/neglect concern | Not the first emergency route | Yes, use town/police/ACO route | ACO or law enforcement is the enforcement path. |
| Dog at large / bite / active safety issue | Only after safety reporting | Yes; call emergency services if immediate danger | Public-safety issues require local authority. |
| Impounded pet after ACO pickup | Yes | Maybe, depending on town fee and process | ACOs can bring pets to AWS; some towns charge impound fees. |
Animal Admissions, Rehoming and Surrender Help
AWS asks owners to explore rehoming resources first when suitable. If surrender/admission is still needed, the process starts with an application and appointment.
| Admission detail | Official AWS point | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment rule | All animal admissions are by appointment only. | Do not bring a pet without applying and being scheduled. |
| Application | Use the application for your pet’s species. | Choose dog, cat, rabbit, bird, small animal or exotic/other pet route. |
| No admission fee | AWS says there is no fee to admit your pet. | Donations and familiar pet items are welcomed. |
| Decision basis | Admissions decisions are at AWS staff discretion and based on space/resources. | Be honest about medical, behavior and urgency. |
| Care in shelter | Animals receive housing, meals, veterinary care as needed, preventatives, vaccines, enrichment and exercise. | Send records, diet, meds and behavior notes. |
| Unexpected litter | Mother Spay Program can help mother dog/cat and litter; mother is spayed at no cost when litter is 8-10 weeks and goes home with owner. | Ask AWS before surrendering the entire family. |
Stay@Home: Help Before Surrender
AWS Stay@Home supports qualified York County community members, including older adults and veterans, who need temporary help caring for pets.
Pet food and supplies
AWS partners with food pantries and community organizations, primarily in York County, to help families access pet food and supplies locally.
Behavior help
Certified professional canine trainers may help with mild behavior cases, especially when an owner risks losing housing.
Veterinary care
The Companion Program offers reduced pricing for most clinic procedures and services for qualifying pet owners.
Temporary sheltering
AWS can provide safe temporary accommodations during crisis situations such as inpatient care, rehab, fire/flood or domestic violence.
AWS Community Veterinary Clinic and Spay/Neuter Services
AWS includes a full-service community veterinary clinic because keeping pets healthy at home is part of its mission.
| Clinic service | Official detail | Practical action |
|---|---|---|
| Clinic hours | Monday-Friday, 9 AM-5 PM, by appointment only. | Call 207-292-2424 for appointments. |
| General clinic contact | clinic@animalwelfaresociety.org | Use for clinic-related written inquiries, not urgent care. |
| Spay/neuter | AWS offers affordable spay/neuter services for community dogs, cats and rabbits. | Use the spay/neuter booking route; cat appointments may be online. |
| TNR | AWS offers no-cost trap-neuter-return services for feral/free-roaming cats trapped in Maine. | Ask about current TNR process before trapping. |
| Companion Program | Companion Program pricing is 25% below Community standard rates for eligible owners. | Check pricing and scheduling page for qualification. |
| Records request | AWS has a separate records request route. | Do not use the general contact form for records if the records page applies. |
Volunteer, Foster and Youth Help at AWS
AWS offers multiple ways to help: regular volunteer shifts, foster care, youth volunteering, at-home projects and community service.
Volunteer roles
- Cleaning dog kennels and cat housing.
- Walking dogs and visiting cats/small animals.
- Making enrichment and toys.
- Assisting veterinary staff.
- Helping training classes, transports and events.
- Doing laundry, errands, sorting donations and guest support.
Foster families
Fosters provide temporary home care for pets that need time away from the shelter, including animals not ready for adoption or needing special support.
Youth volunteers
Children 15 and younger can volunteer with a parent/guardian alongside them. Ages 16-17 can volunteer individually with parent/guardian consent.
Donate Food, Supplies or Funds to AWS
AWS donation pages give clear support routes. Use current wish lists before dropping off supplies.
Biggest current need
AWS lists canned cat food and Purina dry food for cats as a major need on its food/supplies page.
Donate in person
Bring appropriate items to 46 Holland Road, Kennebunk, ME 04043 during suitable hours.
Donate by mail
Mail gifts to Animal Welfare Society, PO Box 43, West Kennebunk, ME 04094.
Development contact
Development Team phone is listed as 207-985-3244 ext. 645.
Local Insider Tips for AWS Kennebunk Visitors
Avoid quiet time
Do not arrive during 12:30-1:30 PM expecting a meet. That break is intentional kennel decompression time.
Exit 25 route
From Maine Turnpike Exit 25, AWS says the trip is about one mile. Follow campus signs; the driveway is one-way.
Bring resident dog wisely
For dog-to-dog fit, bringing your dog can help, but call first if you are unsure whether it makes sense.
Check lease rules
AWS does not do reference checks, so you must know rental, HOA or community pet rules before adoption.
Lost-pet double check
If your town does not contract with AWS, file with your town’s contracted shelter too.
Admissions are not walk-in
For surrender/admission, submit the species-specific form and wait for an appointment.
Map and Directions to AWS Kennebunk
Animal Welfare Society is at 46 Holland Road in Kennebunk, Maine. The campus includes the Adoption Center, Community Veterinary Clinic, Canine Training Classroom, wooded trails and walkways.
Check adoption hours and current pet listings, especially if driving for one specific animal.
Arrive outside quiet time and before the 3:30 PM last-meet window.
Use appointments. Do not treat adoption walk-in hours as clinic or surrender hours.
Copy/Paste Call Scripts
Adoption
Hi, I’m interested in [pet name/species] listed by AWS. Is this animal still available, what is the exact adoption fee, and would today be a good time to visit before the last meet window?Lost pet
Hi, I lost my [dog/cat] in [town/location] on [date/time]. The pet is [description] and may have [microchip/tag/collar]. Should I file the AWS lost-pet form and also contact my town’s Animal Control Officer?Found pet
Hi, I found a [dog/cat] near [exact location/town]. The animal is [safe/injured/scared]. I have photos. Should I call the local ACO, bring the pet to AWS, or follow another route?Admissions / surrender
Hi, I need help rehoming or admitting my [pet type]. I understand admissions are by appointment only. Which species application should I complete, and are there Stay@Home resources I should try first?Official Links for Final Action
This guide includes the useful details, but use official pages for live pet availability, current fees, applications, appointments and policy updates.
Related Animal-Shelter.org Guides
AWS Kennebunk Animal Shelter FAQ
Where is AWS Kennebunk Animal Shelter located?
Animal Welfare Society is located at 46 Holland Road, Kennebunk, ME 04043.
What is the phone number for Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk?
The main AWS phone number is 207-985-3244. The Community Veterinary Clinic phone number is 207-292-2424.
What are AWS Kennebunk adoption hours?
The Adoption Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM to 4 PM. The 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM closure is quiet time for the animals, and the last adoption meet or scheduled appointment is listed as 3:30 PM.
Can I visit AWS without an appointment to adopt?
Yes. AWS says adopters are welcome to visit the Adoption Center without a scheduled appointment to meet adoptable pets, including dogs, cats, birds and small animals.
How much are dog adoption fees at AWS?
AWS says dog adoption fees typically range from $250 to $600 or more depending on size, age and breed type. Confirm the exact fee for the specific dog before adopting.
How much are cat adoption fees at AWS?
AWS says cat adoption fees typically range from $100 to $300 or more depending on age, sociability and breed type.
What do AWS dog and cat adoption fees include?
Dog and cat adoption fees include spay or neuter surgery, a wellness exam, age-appropriate vaccines, parasite control, flea and tick preventative, and a microchip registered to the adopter at the time of adoption. Dogs also include heartworm testing for animals 6 months and older and heartworm preventative.
What should I do if I lost a pet near Kennebunk?
Fill out the AWS lost-pet form, call AWS at 207-985-3244 if needed, check the AWS lost-pets page regularly, and contact your local Animal Control Officer or contracted shelter if your town does not contract with AWS.
Does AWS take owner surrenders?
AWS handles animal admissions by appointment only. Owners should submit the species-specific admissions application first. AWS says there is no fee to admit a pet, but admissions decisions depend on staff discretion, space and available resources.
Does AWS offer help before surrender?
Yes. AWS Stay@Home offers support for qualified York County pet owners, including pet food and supplies, behavioral assistance, reduced-cost veterinary care through the Companion Program, and temporary emergency sheltering during certain crises.
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.