Founded in 1978, Friends of Strays is St. Petersburg’s oldest no-kill shelter.
They moved into their original Lealman brick-and-mortar 36 years ago, and dog adoptions are still held there. In 2024, they expanded with a brand-new facility for cat adoptions and administrative offices, which, despite some hurricane damage, is open to the public and thriving.
Thousands of cats and dogs enter Friends of Strays’ shelters every year on their way to new, loving homes. Additionally, thousands more are fostered or trapped/vaccinated/altered/returned. Through partnerships with other organizations, such as St. Petersburg Free Clinic, Daystar Life Center, and Pets for Patriots, Inc., Friends of Strays ensures animal companionship is accessible to all – offering free pet food and supplies and waiving adoption fees for Veterans.
“In addition to pet adoption,” Friends of Strays says on their website, “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.” Thanks to generous donations and thousands of volunteer hours, this top-rated nonprofit succeeds and treats every animal they encounter with utmost love and care.
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Friends of Strays is located in Lealman with dog adoptions at 2911 47th Avenue North and cat adoptions at 3015 46th Avenue North. They are open 7 days a week from 10am-6pm and closed on Federal holidays. To reach the shelter or staff, call 727-522-6566 or email info@friendsofstrays.org. Learn more at https://www.friendsofstrays.org/ and follow them on socials @friendsofstrays.