MetroPets Online is one of the best area resources for pet lovers.

Petfinder  lists pets available for adoption in your area. They have a big list with photos and you can select a breed.

Washington Humane Society's list of area shelters

Spay, Inc. offers low cost spaying and neutering

Alley Cat Allies can help you humanely deal with colonies of feral (wild) cats in your neighborhood.

Rikki's Refuge is a 330 acre animal sanctuary about 80 miles from Washington. If you've been looking for a place to do some volunteer work and get away for the weekend, this might be it. You can adopt an animal from them, but not the same day.

Wildlife Rescue League can help if you find an injured or orphaned wild animal.

Animal welfare groups in the area