Events

+ Empty the Shelters - Starting Saturday, October 1st- October 8th PAWS is partnering with the Bissell Pet Foundation to participate in Empty the Shelters! During this event, ALL adoption fees for our adoptable pets will be WAIVED. Upon adoption, you the adopter, will receive a FREE starter bag of food along with a microchip for your pet. For more information, follow us on social media @rutherfordcountypaws. 

+ FREE Pet Vaccines - While supplies last, all pet owners (18 years or older) from any county or area may bring their dog or cat to receive FREE vaccines, including distemper + parvovirus (DAPPv) for dogs and panleukopenia  (HCP/FVRCP) for cats, thanks to Petco Love! Owners of the pets must be present and complete a liability form and brief survey to receive the service. Note we only offer these services during our walk in Vet hours Monday through Friday. Visit the PAWS Facebook page to learn more.

*Recently adopt a new companion? Make sure to visit a local Petco with your adoption paperwork to receive special coupons & offers! Click here for special "new pet" tips & suggestions on items to purchase for your new pet.

Hours & Location

PAWS is located at 285 John R. Rice Boulevard in Murfreesboro, TN. 

See service hours below (some hours have recently changed):

Front Desk, Adoptions, Reclaims & Animal Viewing 
Monday-Friday, 12-1:30 p.m., 2-6 p.m. *Closed 1:30-2 p.m. for staff lunches & pet rest period.*

Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 

Sunday, By appointment only. Call 615-898-7740, select "option 5". Please leave a detailed message if prompted.

*Please arrive prior to 30 minutes before closing time to ensure proper time to complete adoption, reclaim or other front desk services. (Click here for adoption info.)*

Rabies Vaccination & Microchip Services 

(By Walk-ins Only)
Monday-Thursday 12-1:30 p.m. & 2-4 p.m.; Friday 12-1:30 p.m.

We do not offer vaccines or microchips on weekends. 

Due to the Vet being out, PAWS will not be offering vaccines or microchips October 10^th-14^th.

Pet owner must be present with their government-issued, photo I.D. for vaccinations to be administered at PAWS. Click here for more info about vet services & rabies requirements.

Pet Surrender
Animal Intake/Surrender area is by appointment only. Please call the PAWS Pet Resource Desk at 615-907-DOGS to schedule an appointment to bring in an animal(s). The pet surrender area is closed on Sundays and most holidays - animals can not be accepted at the shelter on such days. Contact the shelter's main line at 615-898-7740 for questions or to inquire about animal control coming to pick up an animal(s). For emergencies, please contact your local Police Department or the Sheriff's Office. Click here for more information about Pet Resource Desk or Animal Intake/Surrender resources & services.

Rutherford County Pet Adoption & Welfare Services is working in partnership with the community to create a safe, healthy and caring environment for both our citizens and animals through education, adoption and courteous, effective enforcement of the Tennessee Codes annotated relating to animals and the rules & regulations pertaining to control of animals in Rutherford County.