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Friends of Strays Animal Shelter is St. Petersburg’s oldest no kill animal shelter. Founded in 1978, our top priority is to connect animals in need of rescue with people who will love them. With thousands of cats and dogs entering our shelter every year, Friends of Strays’ staff and volunteers provide the utmost love and care for every animal that comes through our doors.
Through our outreach, advocacy, and services we strive to ensure that animal companionship is accessible to all. In addition to pet adoption, we seek to create a better world for pets and people by focusing on life saving programs promoting pet retention, community empowerment, and humane pet ownership education.
Friends of Strays receives no government funding, and our lifesaving success is only possible by the support of friends like you. Please consider an individual, business or planned giving gift to provide compassionate care to pets and the people who love them. We realize that our efforts on behalf of the animals would not be possible without you by our side.
You help us make a difference in their lives.
The Latest

Shelter closures: first Tuesday of the month
Jul 29, 2025
Moving forward, Friends of Strays will be closed the first Tuesday of each month for staff meetings and deep clean days. Friends of Strays will be closed: Aug. 5, Sept. 2, Oct. 7, Nov. 4,...

Friends of Strays celebrated 727 Day!
Jul 21, 2025
As St. Pete’s oldest no-kill shelter, Friends of Strays is celebrating 727 Day with an adoption special! On Sunday, July 27, adoption fees for adult cats will be reduced by $25, and fees for...

Join our Christmas in July fundraiser!
Jul 7, 2025
It’s Christmas in July – for us and you! This July, your generosity is making a real difference.This spring and summer, our...
Stray Thoughts

Prepare now for July 4 pet safety
Jun 30, 2025
While many people may enjoy the excitement and thrill of watching a fireworks show, for pets it can be very scary and traumatic. More pets are reported missing after July 4 than any other holiday....

Loving and living with a FELV cat
Jun 25, 2025
So you're considering adopting an FeLV cat or kitten. Thank you! Adopting a cat with FeLV is an act of love. Friends of Strays is one of few shelters who save them; we believe that FeLV cats...