Have you been considering adopting a new furry pal? With dog-friendly coffee shops, bakeries, bars and parks, Cincinnati is a great place to be a pet owner. While there are many good boys and girls looking for their forever home, there’s a lot to think about when making the decision to bring home a pet. What kind of breed is right for you and your lifestyle? What adoption agencies should you look at? If you’re serious about making this life step, adopting a pet is very rewarding — for you and the pet that gets a new home.

We’ve compiled a list of available pets from a few local adoption programs to help you on your mission of finding the pet that’s right for you. This is just a small glimpse into each agency’s list of adoptable pets. If you are interested in seeing what else they have to offer, visit their websites to learn more. Also, keep in mind that each program has their own application process and some take longer than others.

If you’d like to help out the cause but aren’t able to adopt right now, you can always donate to one of these rescues or a number of other local pet adoption organizations.

*Some pets in the slideshow may have pending adoptions. Please contact the rescues for more info. **All caption information taken from pet listing.

Renaissance Age: Adult / Breed: Pit Bull Terrier / Sex: Female / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “Renaissance (or ‘Reni’ as her friends call her) has given birth to her last litter of pups and is ready to reinvent herself! She is an enthusiastic player, preferring rough and tumble play with a dog her size, so her new best friend can keep up with her. She tends to have a bit of trouble making friends because not everyone wants to play with a wiggle butt body slamming into you, but when you have as much energy as this fun girl, thats the BEST way to play! Do you think that you (and your existing doggo, if you have one) are strong enough, both physically strong and strong willed, to be part of Reni’s new family?” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Fred Age: 3 Years / Breed: Treeing Walker Coonhound / Sex: Male / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Fred is a 3 year old Treeing Walker Coonhound. He’s a tall boy, but is still working on adding some weight to his 75 lb frame. Fred is crate trained and is working on his house training. This gentle giant is good with dogs of all sizes and honestly doesn’t have a mean bone in his body. He has one of the sweetest dispositions his foster mom has ever seen and is a happy boy who is constantly wagging his tail. He’s blissfully unaware of his size and can be a bit of a klutz, he will need a patient adopter as he acclimates to a home environment. For a coonhound, Fred is surprisingly quiet with the exception of when he smells critters nearby. Fred loves human affection and is ready for his full-time head-scratcher.” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Penelope Age: 1.5 Years / Breed: Shepherd Mix. / Sex: Female / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Looking for your new exercise buddy? Penelope is the girl for you. This 1.5 year old, 53 lb., shepherd mix is looking for an active couple to take her on adventures and teach her what it means to be a dog. She is a bundle of energy and loves to play! She would prefer to be the center of attention, but will happily go to her crate when it is time to chill. She is very intelligent and loves showing off her tricks such as sit and shake, but would love a family willing to teach her some manners. Penelope still has lots of puppy energy and would do best in a home without cats or children and needs slow introductions to dogs as sometimes they just can’t keep up with her energy! She may come off a bit bossy, but will win your heart over with her cuddles and kisses” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Leslie Knope Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “Leslie has been the best mom cat to her 7 kittens- so patient and so loving but is now ready for her forever home. She loves humans and would love to be next to you (not a lap cat). She is a natural hunter and likes to chase toys. Leslie is a little chatty. She will talk back with you and let’s you know of her presence. Leslie needs to be an only cat. She has great litter box habits but would do best with a high sided box as she likes to dig. Leslie needs to be the only pet in the household – no other cats or dogs please” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Elvis Age: 2.5 Years / Breed: Saint Bernard / Sex: Male / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “Elvis is a 2.5 year old Saint Bernard looking for a special adopter who is familiar with the breed, their specific needs, & is willing to help him learn how to “dog.” Elvis had a rough neglected start to life and as a result is very under socialized. He is a goofy, sweet, lovable oaf but has no idea that he is a 130 lb dog. Elvis is learning everything from scratch; he still isn’t totally sure what a leash is or how to use stairs. He has mastered house training & loves to roll around in the yard. He is great with other dogs, sweet with kitties, & doesn’t need to be crated. Elvis is nondestructive (as long as drool doesn’t count ) and likes to lounge around for most of the day. We are recommending he have a fenced in yard in his forever home. Because of his size & (sweet but clumsy) puppy-like demeanor he should not live with small children. ” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Bianca Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Save the Animals Foundation “This delightful social butterfly is ready for her debut! Bianca has it all: this gray and white kitty is not only beautiful but outgoing with every person she encounters, finds being held a treat, and loves to play up a storm. What more could you desire in a feline companion? Bianca and her two kittens, Beatrix and Bentley, were brought to us at STAF by a couple that had found the adorable little family abandoned outside their home. Already social, these cats quickly won the hearts of many STAF volunteers. Bianca, however, was more enthusiastic about all the people who were fussing over her than she was about her kittens. This wonderful cat would love to be your be-all-and-end-all, so apply to adopt her today!” Photo: Save the Animals Foundation
Gidget Age: 2 Years / Breed: Labrador Retriever / Feist Mix / Sex: Female / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “For those of you who don’t remember, Gidget came into saap as a stowaway with her pregnant friend. Gidget was underweight at 22lbs and came with a limp that was found to be an untreated injury. She underwent whats called FHO surgery to repair her injured hip. Within days post-op, Gidget was sitting and walking more comfortably which speaks to how much pain she had to have been in before her operation. This 2yo is recovered now and weighs about 35lbs. She is happy, loving, and extremely playful. She loves any toys, appreciates being with you and sits for attention, at doors, and for treats. Gidget is a loving girl that would enjoy a playful mate in her home.” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Gwyneth Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: OAR “Gwyneth is a sassy lady who likes things to be her way and isn’t afraid to make that clear to you! Let her approach you and guide your time together while visiting her at OAR! While she is particular, we think she just needs some love from the right household. Might be best as the only cat in a home. Come schedule time to meet this Queen!..” Photo: OAR
Harper Age: 3 Years / Breed: German Shepherd Dog & Australian Shepherd Mix / Sex: Female / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “Harper is a beautiful 3 year old Shepherd mix. Harper stays true to her breed and tends to guard those claims as hers which can make new 4 legged friend interaction difficult but foster mom is taking it slow. She is for the most part pretty laid back and would do with or without a yard” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Louise Age: 3 Years / Breed: Pit Bull Terrier / American Bulldog Mix / Sex: Female / Rescue: Lucky Tales Rescue Inc. “Hi there, I’m Louise! I’m a 3-year-old pitty who is simply darling although I’m a little shy. Right now, I need to gain a little weight since I’m only 45 lbs., so I’m thoroughly relishing this whole “treat” thing. I’m good with other dogs and cats and my foster mom thinks I’d be ok with kids given my gentle disposition. I’m also crate trained and housebroken. Here’s another mark in the win column. I like to go on walks and I do well on my leash. Car rides are aweeeeeeeesome and, side note, I *LOVE* my foster sister, Bailey. My foster mom calls us Thelma and Louise. (Bailey’s middle name must be Thelma). I’m a little bit of a chewer and my foster mom thinks that might be because I never had toys or chews before.Toys are so cool, I like to play tug of war with Bailey. I’m not going to lie to you kind folks, I counter surf, most likely because I was never sure where my next meal was going to come from so my foster mom is teaching me that I’ll never have to go hungry again and to stay off the counters.” Photo: Lucky Tales Rescue Inc.
Lucas Age: 1.5 Years / Breed: Chihuahua / Pug Mix / Sex: Male / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Hi I am Lucas! Are you looking to fill you heart and your home with a Chug (Chihuahua/Pug)? Look no further! I am 1 1/2 yrs old and weigh about 11 pounds, I am house and crate trained. I am currently fostered with a large dog and 2 cats and children. I love everyone I meet. I love playing, some of my favorites toys are nylabones & stuffed animals. Don’t let my small size fool you I am a tug of war champ. I really enjoy going for walks and I am still getting used to being on a leash. Weather you like to be active or curl up on the couch I am your man. I have never found a lap I don’t like to sit on.” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Luke Age: 10 Months / Breed: Labrador Retriever Mix / Sex: Male / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Meet the pup with a heart of gold – Luke! Luke is a 10 month old chocolate lab that weighs 50lbs. He would do well with an active to semi-active family to help keep him busy. For the most part, he’s a laid back dog that will follow your lead, with a few spurts of energy in between. He loves all animals and has enjoyed wrestling and tug with his foster sister. He’s a big fan of belly rubs and any kind of toy he can get his paws on. He can sometimes be timid when it comes to trying out new places, but adapts quickly once met with friendly faces. He’s an old soul at heart who loves kisses and his daily naps. He is potty trained and somewhat crate trained. He does just fine if left in an enclosed area during night time.” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Merlin Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Male / Rescue: OAR “Merlin doesn’t need to use sorcery to show you why he’s so awesome! This boy is an adventurous wizard who LOVES a good toy session. Merlin’s tastes in toys are varied (wand toys, stuffed bird, any ball with lights or sounds), so he’s easy to please! One of Merlin’s other gifts is climbing onto ledges, shelves, so a cat tree would be a real treat for him. He’s a very sweet guy who also loves to explore his surroundings and see what’s shaking. Find out today if Merlin will cast a spell over you!” Photo: OAR
Morris Age: Adult / Breed: Somestic Shoty Hair / Sex: Male / Rescue: Save the Animals Foundation “When you hear the name Morris for a feline, you immediately think he is orange and must be ready for an advertisement to represent a cat product. Well, our Morris is of course the perfect kitty and he is ready for a home! Morris came to STAF several years ago, and although we knew he was FIV positive, we did not know that he had some other medical issues for which he required surgery. Morris was a very shy guy and was not always interested in receiving attention. But those days are long past since he has had his painful ear polyps removed and now he can breathe with great ease. He has truly evolved into a friendly guy that is first to look for a hand to pet him, first to show off his handsome looks, and first to prove that with the proper medical care, he can thrive. Now when we look at Morris, we simply think he is selling himself so he can have a permanent lap to lie in, and he will show you that he is a perfect guy for your home!” Photo: Save the Animals Foundation
Nelly Fur-tado Age: Adult / Breed: Domesitc Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Meet the mom of the one hit wonder litter, Nelly Fur-tado. Nelly (a DSH) came into rescue with her kittens when they were about 2 weeks of age and she has been the best mom! She loves humans and will sit for petting for as long as you will allow. Nelly is estimated to be a little over a year old and is litter box trained. Nelly has been great with her kittens but met a foster sister and the two did not get along. We are unsure if this is because she was caring for very small kittens at the time or not. So, Nelly would be great as an only cat or great in an environment where she and any other cats can have slow introductions and their own personal space when needed. Nelly has met two calm dogs who did not try to give chase to her and the trio did well! She loves to play, her favorite is a laser pointer! Nelly loves her humans and would be a wonderful lap cat! She hopes you have a little room in your lap for her!” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Peep Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Save the Animals Foundation “If you can get her to stay still long enough, the first thing that will strike you about Peep is her orange eyes, which seem to match the orange parts of her coat perfectly! This little girl is of very slight build, so she appears to look like a kitten. Then when you see her running and playing, her demeanor sure emulates that of a kitten and it makes it hard to believe she is inching toward adulthood. When she tuckers out, Peep goes for a good snuggle. Peep was rescued from a colony site where she just showed up and “peeped” her head out of a nearby barn. When the caretakers saw her, they at first thought that she must belong to someone. When she stuck around for several weeks, it was clear she did not have a home and that the rough barn was not a proper home for this sweetie. At the vet for her first exam and scheduled spay, it was discovered that she was healing from a bite wound to the back end; thankfully she had been able to get herself quickly out of harm’s way. Since luck doesn’t usually last in the outside world, Peep was brought to STAF and is now completely healed. We will be hard pressed to figure out if she or her new owner will be the luckiest when this cutie pie finds her forever home!” Photo: Save the Animals Foundation
Perci Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Male / Rescue: OAR “Perci is a gorgeous brown tabby fellow who is looking for his furever home! This mellow guy not only loves people but also loves other cats. Some of Perci’s favorite things include snuggling with his people, playing with the other cats in his foster family, and purring up a storm! While Perci isn’t a fan of energetic dogs, he doesn’t mind being held; you might also find him spending his mornings sleeping in and hitting the snooze button! One of his special talents is finding the perfect hiding spot and popping his feet out playfully at you, showcasing his ninja skills! Perci is an extra special guy since he has diabetes. Thankfully, his diabetes is easily managed by insulin shots (which he takes like a champ twice each day!) and a special diet. To help make sure Perci finds the perfect home, OAR will cover the cost of Perci’s supplies and medical care related to his diabetes! Are you the right person to give our boy a home to call his own? ” Photo: OAR
Pinto Age: Adult / Breed: Domstic Short Hair / Sex: Male / Rescue: OAR “Are you looking for an independent roommate? Pinto might be your guy! This curious, energetic lad will happily greet you and keep you company, but also loves his own space. He likes to do things on his own terms. He is wary of hands until you are in his good graces, but he will show you plenty of love by rubbing against your feet, knees, and legs. He’ll even flop down next to you, occasionally allowing you to brush him- a high honor! Pinto prefers to have full ownership over his territory so would be best in a single-cat household. If you are looking for a companion who sees himself as your equal and might even think he is human himself, come meet Pinto!..” Photo: OAR
Cosmo Age: Adult / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Male / Rescue: Save the Animals Foundation “His name is Cosmo, which perfectly suits his personality as he out of this world! (He is from a galaxy far, far away….) The planets are aligned with Cosmo, as he is perfectly harmonious with other cats and would make an incredibly wonderful and easy pet in your home. Our handsome black kitty is prime for playing at any time. He is the first to greet at the door in hopes that his volunteer friends will have something fun for him to chase, or they will perhaps even have time for tummy rubs. Spending time with Cosmo elicits thoughts of, “Wow, this super friendly guy belongs in a household with lots of action and fun to be had.”” Photo: Save the Animals Foundation
Poundcake Age: Puppy / Breed: Labrador Retriever / German Shepherd Dog Mix / Sex: Female / Rescue: Lucky Tales Rescue Inc. “Hello! My name is Poundcake. When I first arrived at my foster home, I was a little shy. My foster said you could hear Sarah McLachlan playing in the background. Since then I have completely come out of my shell and found out what life is really about. I love playing with my brother (Pancake) and playing with all of my toys and running around outside. I am living life to the fullest now. I do know how to jump the baby gate in my foster home, but who can blame me? I just want to be where the action is. I am a puppy so I am not yet house trained.” Photo: Lucky Tales Rescue Inc.
Sonya Age: 1 Year / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “Hi there! My name is Sonya, and I am a one-year-old Domestic Shorthair. My favorite activities include playing with my feather toy, looking out the window, and snuggling with my foster mom. I am litter box trained. I get along with other pets, but dogs make me a little nervous and I might hide from them. However, I get along great with humans and I am good with children. I hope to meet you soon and find my forever home!” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue
Sydney Age: 4 Years / Breed: Beagle / Sex: Female / Rescue: Three Sisters Pet Rescue / Ohio Hound Rescue “Sydney is a sweet but timid soul that has been known to run and hide. She needs a secure home with people who understand this. ~ 4 years old. 25lbs. Loves to snuggle, once she lets down her guard. Would recommend no young children, as she may have a tendency to slip out an open door. Has been OK with cats in the past. Has proven to be housetrained in a home with a dog door and secure fence.” Photo: Three Sisters Pet Rescue / Ohio Hound Rescue
Willie Wonka Age: 5 Years / Breed: Beagle / Sex: Male / Rescue: Sweet Dream House Rescue “Say hello to WILLIE WONKA, a handsome mixed breed fellow looking for a furever home. We see some beagle in there, the rest is anybody’s guess with his brindle face and curly tail. Plott Hound? Foxhound? Pointer? He’s a 5 year old medium-energy boy. Willie Wonka looks like he’s been spending a little too much time at the chocolate factory, so he’s on a diet plan. He’s currently 48 lbs, he should be about 40 lbs. Willie Wonka needs a home with a fenced yard so where he can run and sniff.” Photo: Sweet Dream House Rescue
Woodstock Age: Adult / Breed: Australian Cattle Dog / Blue Heeler / Sex: Male / Rescue: Stray Animal Adoption Program “Woodstock is a stunning heeler/hound mix searching for an active forever family. Woodstock is good with dogs and cats! He is house trained & nondestructive. Woodstock whines a little when crated but settles quickly and sleeps through the night. He is a typical herding breed so he needs to keep active (or have a “job”) and have boundaries as he will quickly get entitled in the household. Older children/teenagers are best for Woodstock. He is a sweet guy who loves attention & knows basic commands. He is incredibly smart, food motivated, and would be an ideal pup to take hiking or do agility training with!” Photo: Stray Animal Adoption Program
Zoya Age: 18 Months / Breed: Domestic Short Hair / Sex: Female / Rescue: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue “This is Zoya, an 18 month old black female cat. She is the mom to 3 kittens. She came into the rescue pregnant and had to have an emergency C-section shortly after arriving. She has been an exceptional mom. She is an extremely sweet cat, who loves to be with you and loves to play. She will make a great companion cat, but would also do well with another cat in the house” Photo: Louie’s Legacy Animal Rescue