
Our Mission
Preparing pets and people for the bond of their lives.
Our Philosophy
Wayside Waifs is committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. Wayside is the largest pet adoption campus in Kansas City, serving more than 20,000 pets and people through pet adoptions, youth education, and canine training programs, and community programming, like the pet food pantry. Wayside does not euthanize adoptable animals, and there are no time limits for animals in our care. Only animals suffering from significant medical issues or those that pose a danger are humanely euthanized. Wayside Waifs is proud to be a part of Kansas City’s no kill community.
Pet Adoptions
Wayside Waifs is proud to manage Kansas City’s largest pet adoption program. Wayside has the largest selection of dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, and small mammals in the community.
Each animal is spayed/neutered before going to their new home, a key component in preventing unwanted litters and pet overpopulation. Our Waifs are also microchipped, current on age appropriate vaccinations, and have received a thorough medical and behavior evaluation.
Animal Rescue
Foster Care Program
Volunteer foster families are some of our unsung heroes. They provide in-home care for these animals for an average of 2-4 weeks. Wayside provides all medical care, medicine, food, toys, and supplies needed to care for the animal.
Contact us today if you and your family are interested in fostering a Waif!
Veterinary Care
In more serious cases, animals can recover in our private, long-term treatment rooms away from the general population. The clinic also features a specialized Parvo treatment room with its own entrance/exit, washer/dryer, and exam room.
Behavior Enrichment
The behavior modification team works with animals on issues such as food aggression, lack of socialization, resource guarding, and separation anxiety. Our dedication team consistently provides positive, one-on-one training with each animal.
We also have a 5,000 square foot, fenced agility park located on the front lawn of our campus. This 7-piece course is designed to enrich the lives of our Waifs and reduce kennel stress by providing an outlet for mental and physical exercise while building confidence.
Humane Education Programs
Wayside Waifs’ Humane Education Program delivers a wide variety of quality programs to more than 16,000 students each year. Our educators and their companion animals present curriculum lessons in the greater KC area schools to teach children the responsibilities of caring for a pet, how to safely greet a dog, and even how to prepare family pets for a disaster.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers credit their work at Wayside Waifs as one of their most rewarding experiences.
The success of our volunteer program is measured not only by hours, but also by contributions of the heart. Each year, more than 1,600 active volunteers support our mission by socializing animals, working at our events, representing us in the community, and more. We strive to create a positive, rewarding environment for our volunteers who directly impact the quality of life for thousands of homeless pets.
Events
Fur Ball Annual Gala is Wayside Waifs’ largest annual fundraiser. Raising gifts that directly support our comprehensive programs and services, this is the most popular, fun social event in KC. Learn more about the Fur Ball Gala here.
Strutt With Your Mutt is KC’s largest pet friendly 3K walk and 5K run. This gives people the chance to mingle with hundreds of pet lovers while saving lives! You can particiate as an individual or form a team. It’s fun for the whole family with activities for adults, kids and dogs! Learn more about Strutt With Your Mutt here.
Your gift today can make a difference

Schedule a Tour
From Animal Rescue to Pet Adoptions, Volunteering to Humane Education programs, Bark Park to Pet Memorial Services, Wayside Waifs is committed to placing adoptable animals in forever loving homes. This place is incredible! Want to see us in action? Contact us about signing up for a behind-the-scenes tour of our newly expanded campus.
LEARN MORE
ADOPTION HOURS Week of 8/21:
Mon.: Closed
Tues. - Fri.: 11am - 7pm
Sat. & Sun.: 10am - 5pm
3901 Martha Truman Road, KC, MO 64137
816-761-8151