Briggs Animal Adoption Center

Rainbow Noivern (Noi)

2024-04

I was a kid when I got my first ever dog. Her name was Skylar and she came from Briggs Animal Shelter. They take amazing care of their animals, and I have recommended it to coworkers and friends when it comes to finding their next fuzzy friend! Skylar has since passed, but I hope to adopt from Briggs again in the future. I wanted to also take this opportunity to show off some of my favorite photos of Sky and her little memorial plushie from Petsies

Jason Powell

2024-03

I have adopted 4 cats from Briggs, two 15 years ago, and two last month. The dogs and cats from Briggs are well- cared-for and socialized. The adoption counselors are very good at matching pets with their new homes. They take in to consideration the personality of the animals and the circumstances of the potential homes. The animals there have been spayed or neutered, and have received all of their vaccinations and any necessary veterinary care while they have been there. I highly recommend Briggs to anyone in search of dog or cat companions.

Vickie Breitenberg

2024-04

The employees are so friendly and knowledgeable. The animals are taken care of so amazingly. We had Amber as our adoption counselor. She was amazing. We just adopted a gorgeous7 month old chocolate lab. Her name is Buttercup. Buttercup is so smart. She's loved by everyone that's met her. I can't say enough about Briggs. I highly recommend them to anyone that wants to adopt a furbaby.

Patricia Razeghi

2024-03

If you’re looking to adopt a pet, there is no better place to visit than Briggs Animal Shelter in West Virginia. The staff is passionately dedicated to the welfare of all their sheltered animals. This no-kill facility is immaculately clean and the animals have spacious enclosures, not cages, which are more like a well appointed room. You will be interviewed about your home environment and lifestyle to ensure that you and your new fur baby are a good match. You’ll have a chance to interact with the pet you choose in a large lounge area. Your pet will be spayed or neutered and will have all their initial shots. They have been well trained and you will receive a helpful packet with much information about feeding and care and a list of commands your dog has learned.Our Bella was the second dog we interacted with and it was love at first sight. We’re going on 7 years together and she is the center of our family. She gives and receives so much love! I am so happy we found Briggs and Bella!

Angelia Sprys

2023-05

Highly recommend Briggs! From the moment I walked in the door, everyone was super friendly and welcoming, all smiles and positive attitudes. I was interested in adopting a younger cat and was set up with counselor Amber whom was an absolute delight! She allowed me to interact with all the cats in their beautiful cattery. I fell in love with “Alfredo” and was soon moving forward with the adoption process. They have best practices and criteria for finding these babies the best home. After a week I was approved and able to bring home my new best friend ( Gnocchi). He found his human and I found the best fuzz ball all thanks to Briggs 💕

Sarah M

2024-02

My husband and I went to Briggs to bring a furry friend or friends into our family after recently losing a 4-legged child to cancer. I would prefer to rescue and not shop since there are so many shelter animals that are in need of good homes. I was pleased to see the facility and I appreciated that fact that they requested for an interview before taking a pet home. We discussed and selected several younger pups and a few older for a meet and greet. During the interview, they asked our availability during the day to care for a puppy. I am off all summer and my husband has a job that requires him to make appointments with clients that take between approx 2-4 hrs sporadically throughout the week. We were told that was too much time away from home and we could not take home a puppy. They offered an older dog that had Heartworms. I could not believe what I was hearing. In so many words, we were not fit to care for a puppy and yet we raised a pup from 8 weeks of age until we lost her to cancer (caring for her until she crossed the Rainbow Bridge). They did not even want to hear about our network of dog-loving neighbors who would be willing to check in on the pup during the day in the event that both of us would be away from our home (and could not take the pup with us) for more than 3 or 4 hours. We could have easily saved one or two pup from that shelter, but was told we weren't good enough. You may ask yourself, why are there so many pups in this shelter? Very heart breaking. I really hope the owners work their interviewers moving forward so that more animals can move from a home with cinder block walls to a soft & comfy couch.

Silas Jenkins

2023-07

We had an excellent experience with Briggs. We adopted our puppy there and couldn’t be happier with their business. The facility was clean, the animals were well cared for, and they go above and beyond to ensure that the animal gets a good home. They clearly put the animal first here and I find that to be a wonderful way to do business.

Matt Yates

2022-05

If you are looking to add a new furry member to your family, then I HIGHLY recommend adopting from the Briggs Animal Adoption Center. I am never one to write reviews; however, my experience in adopting my new little kitten Archie (formerly "Snuffles") deserves to be shared.First, the facilities were wonderful--extremely clean, a lot of space, and such friendly staff members that were there and happy to help with a big smile every step of the way. One of the biggest things that stood out to me was how they had a designated kitten room, which was right beside an even larger adult cat room (which had indoor and enclosed outdoor space) with not a single cage in sight! The kittens and cats weren't kept in metal cages or small spaces--they were all happily mingling and playing with each other, and the volunteers/staff--with plenty of room to run around and have a high quality life while waiting to be adopted.After arriving, I was asked to fill out fairly detailed and extensive application paperwork which, again, was a positive. The paperwork and staff both emphasized, multiple times, that their priority is to make sure each animal is matched with the family that is best suited for the animal. And I think that is a really amazing policy and speaks volumes about how much they care and put the animals and their wellbeing first!After completing the application, a wonderful staff member named Sylvia met me and reviewed my paperwork to ask any clarifying questions. She was so kind and thorough, while also being extremely knowledgeable in answering any/all questions I had. Sylvia then took me back to the "kitten room" where I got to play with some of the sweetest kittens I've ever met--all of them were so friendly and socialized.Sylvia explained that Archie and his siblings were rescued from a high-kill shelter and fostered until old enough to adopt. It is clear that their foster did an incredible job raising and socializing all six kittens in his litter as they were all the sweetest and so playful. If you can't tell by this point, I just really had an all around fantastic experience and really do hope that you heed my advice and adopt from Briggs.Sylvia and all the other staff members--thank you for everything you did to unite little Archie and myself! He is honestly the sweetest little nugget of love that just snuggles and purrs all day long! I am so grateful for you and your organization and have, and will continue, to recommend it to anyone I know that is looking to adopt in the area!Sending my love and gratitude!Matt

Wanda Franklin

2023-09

Thank you for allowing my sister Brenda Huff and her husband Raymond Huff to adopt Stacie , now named Molly . Molly has definitely filled a empty spot in their hearts since losing their dog Bear .. Bear . God bless you all !

Wayne Barrow

2024-04

Was a really good time. Kali really enjoyed it.

Craig Nail

2023-11

Absolutely rude staff who acted like they did not want to help us. We went to every shelter in a 40 mile radius and this shelter, along with the Berkeley County shelter, were the worst.We ended up adopting a dog from the Mineral County (WV) Humane Society, who were wonderful.*Every other shelter in the area - in Frederick County VA, Warren County VA, Clarke County VA, Hampshire County WV - the staff were very nice and helpful.

Tracy Keiger

2022-05

I love how they made a place for all the cats and kittens to play and use as visitors can come in and play with the animals. They're is one problem at seems they have this guy that comes in with his daughter happened to know everything that's going on. He knows about the kittens. But, his young daughter is to ruff in holding a kitten if it doesn't sit she grabs to hard in the back of there head slams it right in her lap till it lays and can't move. The kittens you want to hold the man has at least 3 with him and sits there like want's up. I would like to see those kittens. I was there for a hour. Waiting for him to put them down so I can play look them over and the little kids to were waiting. I don't like is everytime I see a new kitten on line and won't to visit. Guess who the same man and daughter is there. I like the place it is so clean.

My Google

2023-11

The receptionist was very nice. The adoption counselor supervisor was very dismissive and rude. First thing, she denied me adopting a puppy less than 7 months old because I have a job! Well shame on me! Had she ever bothered to even call my previous vets, she may have found that I have a good amount of experience with puppies and take the best care of my animals. She spoke to me like I had never owned a puppy in my life. Such a shame to automatically eliminate an adoption of a puppy simply because the person works for a living. There are a lot of loving homes that could be provided to these animal if they weren’t so rude and judgemental of employed people. THIS is why many people turn to breeders. We think we are doing a good thing by helping an animal in need, but then deal with people like this. Shame on you, Briggs.

Trina

2022-05

I got my sweet puppies Bella and Spike from Briggs and they were so professional and understanding, they worked with me so I could get both of my babies! They even delivered them to me!

Ralph Morrison

2023-12

I have been there twice first time receptionist was rude went to look at dogs cast of the dog was good with kids they said they didn't know because the dog came from Mississippi and I told him I had a little fenced in yard filled out my application and then they came back and said that the dog was not good with kids and I do not have a fenced in yard what don't you get about I have a little fenced in yard and it was a medium sized dog it's a wonder why they have so many dogs they are racist against long-haired people because I have long hair

eliz_sherry van-read

2023-11

Exemplary place....safe, clean, well-nourished rescued animals. Spacious, well maintained buildings and grounds. Very friendly and welcoming staff. Best humane rescue site I have EVER visited.

Jennifer Barrett

2023-07

This is review is for a new family before you go to Briggs. Please make sure you call and understand the whole process. Website and application are generic but the facility’s expectations are numerous. The website is not up front about being aligned with all pets in your house being spayed or neutered. We wasted our time driving there just to be told sorry we won’t adopt a dog to you because you have an 8 yr old cat that hasn’t been spayed. Our cat lives indoors and why would I put her through an unnecessary surgery.I’m guessing the reason they aren’t more forthcoming on their application is they want to say “gotcha “ at your counseling interview. It’s a poor way to do business and they are losing good homes that love their animals.

Hilary Legge

2018-05

I adopted my cat, Hermione, from the Briggs Animal Adoption Center in May 2017. Were it not for the incredible staff at Briggs she would likely not be alive today. When she arrived at Briggs she was injured and underweight. The staff vet took an x-ray and discovered bullet fragments in her skull. One eye and part of her jaw were severely injured from the bullet wounds and ended up being removed. But thanks to this organization's dedication to saving every life they can, my sweet little girl is now happy and healthy and will spend the rest of her life being loved.Yes, their process is more involved than most. Because they are a private organization they are able to be more thorough in their vetting of adopters. They want to make sure that the animals in their care are going to homes where they will be cared for and loved for the rest of their lives--not stuck back in a shelter kennel when an adopter tires of them in a few months.

Kathryn C

2019-05

Briggs truly sets the gold standard for pet adoption centers and I cannot say enough good things about them. I adopted "Gonzales" (now Bandit-Gonzales) in April 2012, and took great pleasure in volunteering there numerous times when I lived in WV. I appreciated the thoroughness with which they screen prospective owners. Given the evil people do to animals, (one poor little dog had cigarette burns all over his face and neck!) I was NEVER offended by the questionnaire, interview and short home visit prior to adopting little Bandit-Gonzales. They do this to be certain the animals are going to good, safe, forever homes! I certainly wish they had the same vetting process at the local shelters here in SW Florida, where sadly, any low-life can walk in and adopt. Kudos to Sandy, Jim, and the entire staff!

Matthew Sharpe

2023-05

We love Briggs. Our kid loves collecting donations and going out and visiting with their cats in the Cattery. Staff is friendly and animals well looked out of.Our child has her birthday party out here and had a great time. Room was already decorated and ready to go, we simply brought our games and food to play. The red panda facts (our kids favorite animal) that were spread around the room was a great bonus for the kid, she loved it.

DKG

2023-05

I appreciate that they check references and place animals in good homes. They gave us time to spend with the cats and our cat came to us and picked us to go home with while we were with all of them. She is a sweet delight of a cat. Very happy. Amber gave us an excellent education on guidance on our new fur baby.

Ariel Murdock

2023-11

Keisha is the KINDEST and BEST person to be helping these animals find their forever homes! She is very informational and is great w the animals! Great experience 🐾

Brittany Myers

2023-09

We took in 4 stray kittens for shelter that were on our cul-de-sac and the Momma cat (although she'd only ever stay in our home long enough to feed the kittens- then she'd run out the door). We sold our house & were in the process of relocating to NC & would be staying in an airbnb- so taking Momma cat & her littles was just impossible. We tried EVERY humane society in Berkeley & Jefferson and they flat out refused to take them. We tried animal control. We tried smaller/private cat rescues to no avail. Briggs was our last stop and since the kittens had colds- they graciously took Momma & her Littles. We left & immediately made a $200 donation as a Thank You! Thank you again Briggs! My heart was so worried about this Momma cat & her babies but thanks to you guys- I know they'll go to wonderful homes! 💗

Jennifer Snyder

2022-05

Went with my two sons to see the animals for adoption. The parking area is easy to get into and completely flat (so would work well for a handicapped individual). The main area was set up nicely with a large welcoming desk and staff person. We signed in and were provided a tour by another very welcoming staff person. The dog area was clean and the rooms for each dog had a glass paned door so you could easily see inside. This door also softened the noise level which is a huge plus for anyone with sound sensitivities. There was a staff person cleaning the dog area while we're were there and he was very considerate of our visit. The cat area is wide and open with ledges and a huge cat climbing gym in the middle. There were cats in closed off rooms and a screened in cat porch. It was very clean as well. We have allergies and weren't triggered once. The staff in the cat area was pleasant and I was pleased to see an alert posted about cats that may scratch. Very helpful. Overall, we really enjoyed our visit and would definitely go back to adopt.

Paula Frater

2020-05

My Sister and I adopted little Misha. Briggs is a very clean place and the people that works there really care about the animals. The ladies also make sure the animals get good homes.

Debbie Sexton

2023-05

I spend time with the dogs here as a volunteer. A kennel environment is not what anyone would wish for any dog, but I can tell you that this place and the staff here is as good as it gets. Every single person on staff is kind and loving to these dogs. They get play time in large fenced areas, and walk time on their extensive grounds as much as possible, and loved and spoken to kindly every day. They get food, treats, and care based on any special needs they may have. The kennels are cleaned daily and these dogs are clean and healthy looking because of the great care they get. Many come from neglectful or even cruel situations, so arrive scared and stressed and a kennel environment can add to the stress. All are looking for loving forever homes from someone like you. Don't judge the dog by what you see when you walk by them in the kennels - they are usually much different than what you see in that moment. If you see one that you like the look of, take the time to visit them individually in one of the rooms or outside, even visit several times before deciding. These are good, good dogs.

Kathy Hager

2023-11

Nice ppl n they take good care of the animals. Had 2 ferral kittens spay n neutered, very good. Came bk no problems

Kyndle Dixon

2024-04

The peeps I've interacted with are just lovely, very nice indeed 💞

abby plaine

2023-09

Absolutley beautiful center, clean and spacious. You can tell right away that the staff here really care about the animal's health, level of comfort, and overall happiness. Excellent work. It's great to see.

mone Marie

2023-06

I’ve applied at this place four times and without fail I haven’t been offered the job. I didn’t think too much into it but as a person of color you sadly learn when people feel uncomfortable around you because of the color of your skin. As soon as I step through the doors they put on their fake smiles and did their pleasantries but I could tell they were uncomfortable having a black person there. I’ve never even seen a person of color inside the place. Working there or even just looking at the animals.