Gwinnett Animal Shelter & Control: Adoption Hours 2026

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Verified Gwinnett Shelter Guide

Gwinnett Animal Shelter Guide: Adoption Hours, Fees, Lost Pets, Surrender, Control, Video & Map

Gwinnett Animal Shelter is officially Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement at the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Use this 2026 guide for official adoption hours, contact details, fees, lost pet steps, owner surrender rules, animal-control routing, video guidance and map directions.

View Available Pets Call 770-339-3200 Open Map
Official center Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center
Address 884 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Main phone 770-339-3200

Quick Answer: What is Gwinnett Animal Shelter?

Gwinnett Animal Shelter is Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement, located at 884 Winder Highway in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The main phone number is 770-339-3200. The official adoption center hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Sunday closed.

Best first step: check the official available-pets page before driving. Gwinnett County states that available dates may change and that there are no animal holds, so serious adopters should act quickly and confirm details directly.

Choose what you need today

Most people searching “Gwinnett Animal Shelter” need one specific action. Pick the closest option below.

Adopt a pet Hours, fees, process, no-hold rule and what to bring. Adoption fees Dogs, cats, seniors, livestock and small animals. Lost pet help How to check shelter pets and report a missing animal. Found a pet Stray or nuisance animal steps and safe reporting. Owner surrender Appointment-only, residency proof and $25 fee. Animal control Road operations, nuisance pets and emergencies. Watch video Large-dog adoption and foster context. Map and visit Address, map and before-you-drive checklist.

Verified Gwinnett Animal Shelter facts

Official nameGwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement
Center nameBill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center
Address884 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Main phone770-339-3200
EmailAnimalWelfare@GwinnettCounty.com
Official websiteGwinnett Animal Welfare
Source-check note: always confirm on the official Gwinnett County pages before visiting. Hours, adoption specials, available animals, intake rules, events and surrender capacity can change.

Gwinnett Animal Shelter hours: adoption, intake, surrender and road operations

Service Official hours / rule What it means for visitors
Adoption Center Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday closed Use these hours to meet adoptable animals and complete adoption steps.
First Monday each month 11:00 AM–8:00 PM Extended evening access may help working families, but confirm before driving.
Animal Intake Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sunday closed Use for intake-related questions. Owner surrender still requires an appointment.
Road Operations Daily 8:00 AM–10:00 PM Animal welfare field response is separate from normal adoption lobby hours.
Owner Surrender By appointment only Call 770-339-3200 during office hours to request an appointment.

Video Guide: Gwinnett Animal Shelter large-dog adoption preview

This video is included because many visitors searching for Gwinnett Animal Shelter want to understand adoption and foster opportunities before visiting. The selected video is specifically about Gwinnett Animal Shelter large dog adoptions, so it supports the user intent better than a generic shelter video.

How to use this video: watch it for adoption context, then use the official Gwinnett available-pets page for current animals, fees, availability dates and adoption rules. Video information can help you prepare, but official county pages are the final source.
If you want to adoptThink about your home size, schedule, dog experience, children, other pets, yard setup, landlord rules and ability to handle training or heartworm treatment needs.
If you want to fosterFostering may help dogs or cats that need temporary placement. Ask Gwinnett directly about current foster needs, supplies and medical support.

Gwinnett Animal Shelter adoption process: what to do step by step

Gwinnett County Animal Welfare lists adoptable pets online and explains that visitors should use the “view details” area to check an animal’s available date. The county also says there are no animal holds at any time, so timing matters.

Check the official shelter pets page.
Start with Gwinnett County’s official available-pets page. Look at the animal’s photo, ID, details and available date before you plan your visit.
Understand the no-hold rule.
Gwinnett County says there are no animal holds at any time. If you are serious about a pet, confirm details quickly and visit during adoption hours.
Bring family members or current pets if needed.
Gwinnett County says visitors can bring family members and current pets to the meet-and-greet, but asks people to be mindful of others waiting their turn.
Ask what is included.
Gwinnett County says adoptable cats and dogs have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Ask for pet-specific records at adoption.
Ask about medical or behavior notes.
Before paying the fee, ask about temperament, known health issues, heartworm status, current medication, exercise needs and adjustment tips.
Prepare transport.
Bring a secure carrier for cats and safe leash/collar or harness gear for dogs. Do not let a newly adopted pet ride loose in a vehicle.
Important visitor note: Gwinnett County’s Animal Welfare page states that overnight camping is prohibited under Gwinnett County Ordinance Sec. 66-7. Do not camp outside the shelter to wait for an animal.
Official Available Pets Adoption Fees

Gwinnett Animal Shelter adoption fees 2026

Gwinnett County lists standard adoption fees by animal type. Specials, long-term pet promotions and policy updates may change the amount, so verify the current fee before adopting.

Animal type Official listed fee What to ask before adopting
Cats / kittens $30 or $20 for two Ask about age, litter habits, temperament, vaccination records and adjustment tips.
Dogs / puppies $45 Ask about size, energy level, leash behavior, heartworm status and dog/cat compatibility.
Senior pets, ages 7 and older Free Ask about mobility, medication, dental care, diet and long-term vet planning.
Long-term shelter pets, 30 days or more Free Ask why the pet has stayed longer and what home type would help it succeed.
Cattle / swine $50 Ask about transport, property requirements and local livestock rules.
Equine $100 Ask about handling history, health, transport and safe housing requirements.
Fowl, livestock or exotic $10 Ask about care needs, zoning and legal ownership restrictions.
Reptiles $10 Ask about enclosure, heat, diet and species-specific care.
Domestic mammals $10 Ask about housing, bedding, diet and handling needs for guinea pigs, hamsters or similar pets.
What is included for cats and dogs: Gwinnett County states adoptable cats and dogs are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. County notices also describe heartworm treatment when needed. Confirm exactly what applies to the specific pet you adopt.

Before you visit Gwinnett Animal Shelter: adoption checklist

Check availability firstUse the official shelter pets page and note the animal ID and available date.
Bring IDBring government-issued identification and current contact information.
Bring decision-makersIf possible, bring the adults who will be responsible for the pet.
Plan for a meet-and-greetIf you already have a pet, ask whether a meet-and-greet is recommended or needed.
Bring transport suppliesUse a secure cat carrier or safe dog leash/collar/harness setup.
Ask practical questionsAsk about feeding, heartworm status, vaccines, behavior, decompression, training and first-week safety.

Lost pet in Gwinnett County: what to do first

If your dog or cat is missing, do not rely only on photos shown online. Gwinnett County explains that photos of injured animals are not posted due to graphic nature, and if you do not see your lost pet online, you should call 770-339-3200 with the pet description and last-seen location.

Search the official shelter pets page.
Look for pets that match your missing animal, but remember that not every animal photo may be posted online.
Call Gwinnett Animal Welfare.
Call 770-339-3200 and give the pet’s color, breed or mix, sex, size, collar, microchip status and last-seen location.
Check microchip records.
Use the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup and update your phone and email with the correct registry.
Check nearby vets, shelters and local lost-pet groups.
Pets may be taken to a vet, another shelter, a rescue or held temporarily by a finder.
Visit in person if needed.
Descriptions can be wrong. A scared pet may look different in a kennel than at home.
Bring proof of ownership.
Bring photos, vet records, license records, microchip information or adoption paperwork when reclaiming a pet.
Search Shelter Pets AAHA Microchip Lookup

Found a stray or nuisance animal in Gwinnett County

Gwinnett County’s lost-pets guidance says residents experiencing a nuisance domestic animal on their property can call 770-339-3200 to have the animal removed and transported to the center. If a homeowner legally captures an animal, the animal must have adequate food, water and shelter until transported.

Do not keep a found pet without checking ownershipThe animal may be lost, microchipped and actively searched for by its owner.
Share owner informationGwinnett County says any information about the owner must be shared with staff.
Use safe handlingDo not handle aggressive, injured, sick or frightened animals if it puts you at risk.
Call for nuisance domestic animalsUse 770-339-3200 for Gwinnett Animal Welfare guidance.
Found-pet script: “Hi, I found a dog/cat near [street/intersection] in Gwinnett County. The pet is [color/size/breed], has [collar/no collar], and I can provide photos. What is the correct next step?”

Owner surrender at Gwinnett Animal Shelter

Owner surrender is appointment-only. Gwinnett County says the owner must be a Gwinnett County resident, show proof of ownership and residency, and pay the $25 owner-surrender fee per animal. The county also notes that at peak seasons, the shelter may not accept surrendered pets due to lack of space.

Important surrender rule: do not show up expecting a guaranteed drop-off. Call 770-339-3200 during office hours and request an appointment.
Residency proofPrepare proof that you are a Gwinnett County resident.
Ownership proofBring veterinary records, adoption paperwork, photos, microchip registration or other ownership proof.
FeeGwinnett County lists a $25 owner-surrender fee per animal.
Capacity warningThe shelter may not accept surrendered pets during peak seasons or space shortages.
Try rehoming firstGwinnett’s surrender form encourages owners to attempt rehoming through family, friends, coworkers and rescue groups first.
Be honestShare bite history, behavior issues, medical needs, diet, medications and the real reason for surrender.
Owner Surrender Info Appointment Request

Animal control, cruelty reports, bites and urgent concerns in Gwinnett

Gwinnett County’s shelter function and animal welfare enforcement function are connected through Animal Welfare and Enforcement. However, emergencies should not be handled like routine adoption or surrender questions.

Immediate dangerCall 911 for life-threatening situations, active attacks or cruelty in progress.
Road operationsGwinnett lists animal welfare road operations daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Nuisance domestic animalCall 770-339-3200 for removal guidance.
Pet poisoningCall ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435. A fee may apply.
Rabies concernAvoid animals behaving unusually and contact the proper local authority or health department route.
Non-emergency shelter questionUse Gwinnett Animal Welfare’s contact page, phone or email.
Safety reminder: do not try to capture a dangerous, injured, aggressive or possibly rabid animal if it puts you or others at risk. Use emergency services or animal welfare enforcement guidance.

Foster, volunteer, donate and support Gwinnett Animal Welfare

Gwinnett County Animal Welfare relies on adopters, fosters, rescue partners, donors and community support to reduce shelter crowding and help pets leave the shelter safely.

FosterAsk Gwinnett Animal Welfare about current foster needs, pet supplies, medical support and return expectations.
DonateGwinnett County provides an online donation option for the Animal Welfare and Enforcement shelter.
Adopt senior or long-term petsSenior pets and long-term shelter pets may have free adoption fees, helping reduce barriers for qualified homes.
Rescue supportRescue groups can help animals that need special placement, medical support or foster homes.
Donate Online Animal Welfare Page

Call scripts for Gwinnett Animal Shelter

Use a clear script so staff can route your question quickly.

Adoption script: “Hi, I’m interested in animal ID [number] from the official available-pets page. Can you confirm the pet’s available date, current status and what I should bring to meet or adopt?”

Lost pet script: “Hi, my [dog/cat] is missing near [street/intersection]. The pet is [description], may have [collar/microchip], and was last seen at [time/date]. Can you check whether a matching pet is at the center?”

Surrender script: “Hi, I’m a Gwinnett County resident and need owner-surrender information. I have proof of ownership and residency. Can you explain appointment availability, the $25 fee and any alternatives I should try first?”

Gwinnett Animal Shelter map and visit planning

Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement is located at 884 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Use the map below for directions, but confirm hours before visiting during holidays, weather events, adoption specials or shelter-capacity changes.

Arrival tip: if you are adopting, bring ID, transport supplies and enough time for a meet-and-greet. If you are surrendering, call first because owner surrender is by appointment only.

Official Gwinnett Animal Shelter links

Animal Welfare homepageGwinnett Animal Welfare
Animal shelter hoursAnimal Shelter page
Contact pageContact Animal Welfare
Available petsShelter pets
Adoptions and feesAdoption fees
Lost petsLost pet help
Owner surrenderOwner surrender
DonateDonate to the shelter

Common mistakes that slow people down

Assuming pets can be heldGwinnett says there are no animal holds at any time.
Not checking the available dateUse the “view details” area on the official shelter pets page.
Showing up for owner surrender without appointmentSurrender is by appointment only and requires Gwinnett residency and ownership proof.
Relying only on online photos for lost petsPhotos of injured animals may not be posted, so call with a description.
Camping outside for an animalGwinnett County says overnight camping is prohibited.
Using old fee screenshotsAdoption fees and specials can change. Recheck the official adoption page.

Gwinnett Animal Shelter FAQs

The main phone number for Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement is 770-339-3200.

The Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center is located at 884 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045.

The adoption center is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and closed Sunday. The first Monday of each month is listed as 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Animal intake hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Friday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and Sunday closed.

No. Gwinnett County states there are no animal holds at any time.

Gwinnett County lists dogs and puppies at $45. Senior pets age 7 and older and long-term shelter pets 30 days or more are listed as free.

Gwinnett County lists cats and kittens at $30 or $20 for two. Senior pets and long-term shelter pets may be free.

Search the official shelter pets page and call 770-339-3200 with a description and last-seen location. Do not rely only on online photos because injured animals may not be posted.

Owner surrender is by appointment only. You must be a Gwinnett County resident, show proof of ownership and residency, and pay the $25 owner-surrender fee per animal.

No. Gwinnett County states that at peak seasons, the shelter may not accept surrendered pets due to lack of space.

Gwinnett County states adoptable cats and dogs have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

No. Animal-Shelter.org is an independent directory guide. The official source is Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement on gwinnettcounty.com.

Emergency routing and independent-site disclaimer

Life-threatening or in-progress cruelty: call 911. Pet poisoning: call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435; a fee may apply. Crisis for the handler or owner: call or text 988. For urgent wildlife or emergency animal help, use a qualified emergency veterinarian, municipal authority or Animal Help Now where appropriate.

Animal-Shelter.org is an independent animal shelter and animal control directory. We are not Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement, not animal control, not an emergency dispatcher, not a shelter, not a humane society, not an SPCA, not a veterinarian, not a wildlife rehabilitator, not a microchip registry, not a pet poison hotline, not police and not an attorney. Always confirm current hours, fees, policies, animal availability and emergency instructions with the official organization.

Final summary

For Gwinnett Animal Shelter, start with the official available-pets page, call 770-339-3200 for direct questions, confirm adoption hours before visiting, and remember that Gwinnett County says there are no animal holds. For surrender, call first because owner surrender is by appointment only and may be limited by space.

USA-wide shelter helper • adoption, lost pets, found pets, surrender and animal control

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.

Lost Pet PlanSearch, microchip, shelter checks, flyers
Found Pet HelpSafety, scanning, reporting, holding
Adoption PlannerReadiness, questions, supplies, budget
Visit ChecklistDocuments, call script, official links

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.

Important: Shelter rules vary by city, county, agency, and animal type. Always confirm hours, intake rules, fees, appointment requirements, and proof-of-ownership rules with the official shelter or animal control agency before visiting.

Lost pet recovery checklist

Check the steps you have completed. This helps you stay organized during the first urgent hours and days.

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Found pet safety decision helper

Use this when you find a stray or loose pet and need a safe next step.

Safety first: Do not approach an aggressive, injured, trapped, or traffic-endangered animal if doing so could put you or others at risk. Contact animal control, emergency services, or a qualified professional when needed.

Adoption readiness checker

This helps adopters prepare before visiting a shelter or rescue. It is not a guarantee of approval.

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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.

Helpful reminder: Ask the shelter about pet food pantries, low-cost vet care, behavior support, temporary foster options, and safe rehoming resources before making a final decision.

Animal control contact decision helper

Choose the situation and get a general USA-wide contact path. Local rules may differ.

Emergency warning: If there is immediate danger to a person, a serious bite, traffic hazard, or active attack, contact local emergency services or animal control according to local rules.

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.

USA-wide Shelter user intent Official-source focused

Privacy note: this tool runs in your browser. It does not send your entries to animal-shelter.org.

Independent shelter-help tool. Not affiliated with any animal shelter, humane society, rescue, animal control agency, city, county, state agency, veterinarian, or microchip company. Always confirm current rules, hours, fees, and requirements directly with the official organization.