Effective immediately, the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) will temporarily suspend all dog intakes due to a significant uptick in Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) cases over the past six to eight weeks. Unfortunately, some cases are not responding to treatment and have progressed to pneumonia, requiring extensive treatment and isolation. BARCS medical team will reassess this decision after two weeks.

As we ease into 2025, we find ourselves reflecting on the countless individual stories behind the animals who came through our doors last year. Every intake is more than a number—it’s a life that matters. A cat surrendered due to housing issues. A dog rescued from an uncertain future. Each animal represents a family’s heartbreak, a lost home, or an unexpected crisis. They come to us in need, and we strive to be their bridge to a future filled with love and belonging.

BARCS is excited to launch a brand new foster incentive program to help alleviate shelter space and save more lives. Our goal is to place 50 dogs into month-long foster homes within a 5-day period.

Foster families who commit to caring for an eligible dog for four full weeks, or until the dog gets adopted (whichever comes first), will receive a $200 Visa gift card upon completion of the foster period.

Three years ago, Sophie, formerly Ellie at BARCS, sparked love when she nestled her tiny head on her new mom, and from that moment, their bond became unbreakable.

Did you know that your pets can benefit your health? They take care of us as much as we take care of them. Pets can make a huge difference for our health, both physically and emotionally. 

BALTIMORE, MD — April 2024: BARCS Animal Shelter is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a lifesaving $100,000 investment from Petco Love. This generous funding will be used to directly support lifesaving efforts at BARCS, the largest animal shelter in Maryland and the only open-admission shelter serving Baltimore City animals and their residents.