Upgrades coming to the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center

A project to renovate and expand the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center will kick off soon. The 3,520-square-foot addition will enhance animal intake, adoption services, and training spaces and add new shade structures over outdoor animal bonding areas. The project will also convert the existing K-9 unit building into specialized high-risk and quarantine isolation kennels. Expanded parking and reconfigured intake and adoption spaces will improve accessibility and streamline operations, reflecting the County's commitment to prioritizing animal welfare. The center will remain open to the public during renovations.

Treat a pup to a Dog Day Out

Looking for a fun team building or networking opportunity? Volunteer for the Dog Day Out program! Open to businesses, organizations, and service clubs, this program helps socialize shelter pets and increase adoptions. Play dates are also available to trained shelter volunteers who have logged over 50 hours of service.

Sign up today to take a canine cutie for a walk in the park, enjoy a pup-cup, or just chill on the couch with an at-home movie marathon. For more information, email AWEVolunteers@GwinnettCounty.com.

Heartworm Awareness Month in April is a great reminder to pet parents that prevention is the best medicine! Heartworms are spread through mosquito bites and can cause severe health issues. Here are some helpful tips to keep your furry friend safe and healthy:



·  Give your pets preventative medicine

·  Schedule routine veterinarian visits

·  Keep your home and yard mosquito free

Gwinnett Animal Welfare covers all necessary heartworm treatment costs for any dog adopted from us that is heartworm positive, so you can focus on getting your new pet the care they need. 

SUCCESS STORIES

Squiddy’s heartwarming rescue journey

Squiddy the pup went on an incredible journey to reach his forever home! After spending three months at the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center, this resilient boy traveled on four separate flights to unite with his new owner in Minnesota.

It was all thanks to a collaborative effort between a New Jersey pet lover, New York-based organization Fur Real Rescue, Pet Paradise in Lawrenceville, a kind-hearted pilot, and a generous sponsor. Thank you to everyone who shared and supported Squiddy on this epic adventure.

Get to know Siegfried

After arriving at the shelter, 4-year-old Siegfried was not adjusting well to his new environment. We were thrilled to find a loving foster home for this beautiful boy while he awaits adoption.

Still sensitive to his surroundings and loud noises, Siegfried is living the good life, enjoying crunchy treats, play time, and cat naps. To schedule a meet and greet, call 770.339.3200.

HELPING HANDS

Shelter pets score VIP treatment

We’ve teamed up with PetSuites Lawrenceville for a real doggie treat. Each month, PetSuites will pamper a shelter pup with a VIP stay in a classic suite, including a half day of play. Scout was the first dog to participate and loved every minute of his stay.

This unique collaboration gives our shelter dogs the opportunity to destress and boosts the visibility of our adoptable pets, helping to transform the lives of the animals in our care.



A heartfelt holiday thanks

Our holiday stockings were stuffed thanks to a generous donation from Pet Supermarket!

The center received 500 teddy bears and Peticon dog seat covers through the support of staff and customers at the Lawrenceville, Suwanee, and Duluth locations. We’re grateful for all the puppy love in our community.

Pitch in to help shelter pets thrive

Sign up for free volunteer training at the Bill Atkinson Animal Welfare Center to help exercise and socialize adoptable animals, or lend a hand with a laundry list of housekeeping duties.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. An adult must accompany ages 12 to 17 to volunteer. Learn more at VolunteerGwinnett.net.