animal shelter

American  

[an-uh-muhl shel-ter] / ˈæn ə məl ˌʃɛl tər /

noun

1. an establishment, maintained by local government or supported by charitable contributions, that provides a temporary home for dogs, cats, and other animals that are offered for adoption, and puts to sleep homeless animals that have been deemed unsuitable for adoption.

   The animal shelter is requesting donations of old towels, blankets, and other linens.

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Etymology

Origin of animal shelter

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

He was adopted from the renowned London animal shelter, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, when he was believed to be about four years old.

From Barron's • Feb. 15, 2026

Also in 2020, a Belgian Malinois named Maximus attacked a woman who was feeding him a treat before transporting him from an L.A. animal shelter to an Arizona rescue facility.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

A health store worker and animal shelter volunteer, Ms Cordingley was well known, and well loved, by the local community and her death caused an outpouring of grief across the state of Queensland.

From BBC • Dec. 8, 2025

They encouraged people to honor her memory by donating to a food bank or animal shelter.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 15, 2025

Then, together, the two heroes carefully nudged the soggy box back to the animal shelter and safety.

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein