Our Mission

Preparing pets and people for the bond of their lives.

Our Philosophy

As Kansas City’s largest and most comprehensive no kill pet adoption campus, Wayside Waifs is committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. We serve more than 27,000 pets and people every year through pet adoptions, youth education, canine training programs, and community outreach. We do 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. We are proud to be a part of Kansas City’s no kill community. Wayside is a private nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity with regional and national reach.

 

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
Wayside Waifs partners with more than 62 shelters, animal welfare, and law enforcement agencies to save thousands of animals from dire situations such as hoarding cases or puppy mills. Along with rescuing animals in our community, Wayside’s FEMA certified Animal Rescue & Response Team regularly partners with the ASPCA to provide support and medical care for animals in times of natural disasters, hoarding, and dogfighting ring seizures.
Foster Care Program
Wayside Waifs’ Foster Care Program nurtures animals that are not yet ready for adoption. Often these animals are too young or sick or just need some time out of the shelter environment to feel good again. Some are also in need of training, socialization, or behavior modification.

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
Wayside Waifs is extremely proud of the high level of veterinary care we are able to provide the shelter animals. Our surgery suite features four surgerical stations that allow our veterinary staff to perform spay/neuter surgeries as well as life-saving surgeries. Dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays are also given if needed.

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 & Training
At Wayside Waifs, behavior modification is a crucial part of our complete circle of care. Our goal is to bring out the best in every animal so they can be successful with their new families.

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.

Youth 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.

Wayside Waifs

3901 Martha Truman Road
Kansas City, MO 64137
816-761-8151

Adoption Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Friday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

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