Valentine’s Day is a great way to express your love for animals by adopting a puppy. Adoption saves an animal and helps the community at the same time. There are several adoption agencies in the DC area that can match you with the perfect canine companion.

Hours: Click here for weekly adoption events

A Forever Home is an all breed dog rescue group. The adoption agency hosts weekly adoption events in Chantilly, VA. It makes a valiant attempt to encourage community outreach and participation. AFH has found numerous ways to raise funds for the rescue, including partnering with Phones 4 Charity. Its adoption process will insure the dog you choose will fit your lifestyle.

Hours: Sat; 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun; 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

 Friends of Homeless Animals’ shelter is situated on 40 beautifully wooded acres in Aldie, VA. The shelter is open on weekends, so plan accordingly. FOHA offers a laid back and stress free environment for a family to spend time and bond with a new puppy before adoption.

Related: Best places to take your dog in D.C. 

Hours: Click here for adoption events

Homeward Trails is a great organization to adopt a puppy from in Arlington. It has numerous adoptions events in the area to give you an excellent opportunity to find your special dog. It has partnered with Fur Get Me Not to offer a free training consult within 30 days for anyone who chooses to adopt from it. Homeward Trails has rescued more than 9,000 animals in nine years.

Hours: Click here for adoption events

Lucky Dog Animal Rescue is a 100 percent volunteer run nonprofit organization. It hosts various adoption events in the DC metro area. This animal rescue group works with the adopting family from start to finish. It has resources available to make the dog’s transition to its new home smooth. Lucky Dog encourages child involvement through the Lucky Kids Club, which allows children to learn about rescuing abandoned and homeless dogs.

Hours: Daily; 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Hours: Mon – Fri – 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Sat to Sun – 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Washington Humane Society was founded in 1870  and is the only welfare animal agency chartered by the U.S. Congress in the country. This organization has made inroads in legislative matters by lobbying to make animal cruelty a felony. WHS offers the adopting family a starter kit, which consist of food and other goodies. Additionally, a new pet owner receives the opportunity to attend the learning center for classes and seminars. Fun events and fundraising abilities have made it the go to group for puppy adoptions.

Related: Best places to hang with your dog in the the D.C. area. 

Carly Mannava is a freelance writer living in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.