Pet Adoption Events Happening in Berlin

Pet adoption events in Berlin are your best chance to meet loving animals waiting for a home and connect with people who share your passion for pets. Check out the top adoption events happening in Berlin throughout 2025 and take the first step toward welcoming a new companion into your life.

1. Berlin’s Biggest Animal Shelter Open Day

Image: berlin.de

Date & Time: Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (exact date TBA)

Location: Tierheim Berlin, Hausvaterweg 39, 13057 Berlin

Nearest Station: S-Bahn Ahrensfelde (free shuttle bus on event day)

If you want to meet dogs and other animals waiting for a loving home, the Open Day at the Berlin Animal Shelter in Falkenberg is a can't-miss event. Held at Europe’s largest animal shelter on Hausvaterweg in Lichtenberg, this day invites visitors to explore the shelter from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event offers much more than just meeting adoptable pets. You can watch the popular agility show, check out the presentation of shelter dogs, and take part in lively discussion rounds that share insights about animal care and adoption. There’s also a flea market and market stalls selling pet supplies and unique items, where every purchase converts into direct support for the shelter.

For families, there’s a host of fun, hands-on activities centered on animals and welfare, designed especially for kids. And when hunger strikes, you can enjoy vegan and vegetarian street food on-site. Getting there is easy, thanks to a free shuttle bus running from Ahrensfelde S-Bahn station to the shelter throughout the day.

This open day is your chance to connect with animals, learn more about the shelter’s work, and maybe even find your new best friend, all in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.

2. Tierheim Berlin’s Charity Flea Market – October 11–12, 2025

Image: berlin.de

Date & Time: October 11–12, 2025, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Tierheim Berlin, Hausvaterweg 39, 13057 Berlin

Nearest Station: S-Bahn Ahrensfelde (free shuttle bus on event days)

If you’re interested in adopting a pet, you might also want to connect with a community that truly cares about animals. One of the best ways to do that is at the traditional flea market held by the Berlin Animal Shelter in Falkenberg. 

It will take place on the weekend of October 11th and 12th and it features a wide variety of stalls filled with pet supplies, books, and much more, all generously donated by animal lovers.

It’s the perfect opportunity to find something special for yourself or your furry friend, knowing every purchase directly supports the shelter’s animals. And you even find a corner where you can relax and socialize with a coffee or a slice of cake while catching up with fellow attendees.

3. Berlin Animal Shelter Christmas Festival 2025

Image: berlin.de

Date & Time: December 2025

When December arrives, the Berlin Animal Shelter usually hosts a special Christmas Market for Animals. It’s not your typical busy holiday market — instead, it’s a cozy, heartfelt gathering where you’ll find mulled punch, handmade pet accessories, and donation stations. It’s also a quiet space to meet animals hoping for their forever homes, surrounded by the gentle spirit of the season.

While the exact dates for 2025 haven’t been announced yet, these events usually happen in early to mid-December. They carry a unique emotional weight — mixing the joy of giving with the chance to change a life. For many, it’s a moment that sticks with them long after the holiday lights fade.

Adoption Fees at Tierheim Berlin 

If you’re thinking about adopting a pet at Tierheim Berlin, it’s helpful to know the typical fees involved. These help cover the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, medical care, and other essentials to get your new friend ready for a happy home.

For dogs, the adoption fee usually depends on age: puppies under one year typically cost around €450, while adult dogs (one year and older) are about €350. Keep in mind, if a dog is older, has health issues, or behavioral challenges, discounts might apply — so don’t hesitate to ask.

Cats are a bit more affordable, with kittens under one year generally priced around €125. Healthy adult cats often come at about €100, while senior or chronically ill cats can be adopted for somewhere between €50 and €100. For smaller animals, fees vary widely — from as little as €3 to €50, depending on the species.

Additional Tips for Adopting a Dog in Berlin

Beyond the adoption fee, there are some important steps to keep in mind once you bring your dog home:

• Register Your Dog: Berlin requires all dogs to be registered with the local authorities. This is mandatory, so don’t skip it.
• Get Dog Liability Insurance: Known as Hundehaftpflichtversicherung, this insurance protects you if your dog causes damage or injury. It’s a must-have in Berlin.
• Pay the Annual Dog Tax: The Hundesteuer is a yearly fee all dog owners pay. Good news — if you adopt from a Tierheim like Berlin’s shelter, you might be exempt from this tax for up to five years.

When you head to the shelter to adopt, bring a valid ID and be prepared to pay by cash or EC card. If your current living address is different from your registered one, make sure to bring proof of your actual residence, like a recent mail or utility bill.

Final Thoughts on Adopting a Pet in Berlin

Adopting a pet in Berlin might not happen overnight, but it’s a rewarding journey that’s well worth every step. Whether you join a sunny summer meetup in the park, explore the shelter during open day, or find quiet moments at a winter event, each experience brings you closer to the companion you’re meant to find.

As someone new to the city, you might have plenty of questions — about pet-friendly housing, insurance, or simply navigating language barriers. That’s completely normal. These events are designed to guide you through those questions and connect you with people who understand what you’re going through.

So take a deep breath, show up, ask your questions, and open your heart. Your new best friend might be waiting for you just around the corner.

Find reliable care with A4ord Pet Care. Book trusted local professionals for one-time or ongoing services, whenever you need them.