Due to predicted inclement weather, the shelter will be closed Tuesday, February 9. Please check our website or call the shelter to find out if we will be open on Wednesday, February 10. During this closure, Animal Control will respond to emergencies through the Alexandria Police Department's non-emergency dispatch line which is 703-838-4444.

The AWLA staff, volunteers and residents send their condolences to the family, co-workers and friends of Jennifer Fay. Jenn’s love and compassion touched the lives of so many human and animal companions. To make a donation in her memory, please click here and indicate that your gift is in her honor.

Our Mission:
"To inspire compassion for all living things, to provide shelter to animals in need, and to promote adoptions, animal welfare, and responsible pet ownership in our community."

Whether you want to adopt a new best friend, need advice about deterring wildlife, find an injured cat, want your scout troop to learn about animals or want to have your dog neutered, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is a full-service resource for our community.

Dedicated to the welfare of both animals and people in our community, the League operates the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter and cares for unwanted and homeless animals, places animals in permanent, loving homes, and also offers many programs and services to help animals and their companions. Please see our new Shelter video on our 'About the League' page.

4101 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22304
703-838-4774 (phone)
703-838-4862 (fax)

The shelter is closed for all animal viewing and adoptions on Wednesdays.

We are open for surrendering owned and stray animals and other emergencies from 9:00am to 8:00pm Monday-Friday and 9:00am to 5:00pm Saturday-Sunday.