Co-Founder Francesca together with Labrador Toni.

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Over 100,000 pets each year never find a new home. Make a difference - adopt one today!

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Find Cats 🐈

Baklava (f)

1 year

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Meri (f)

9 years

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Mäuschen (f)

10 years

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Sucuk (f)

1 year

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Vayu (m)

3 years

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Done (m)

10 months

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Find Shelters

Tierheim Burg/Schartau

Ausbau 2a

39288 Burg (bei Magdeburg)

Tierschutzverein OHV e.V.

Blumenower Straße 3

16798 Fürstenberg/Havel

+19

Tierheim Aschaffenburg

Wailandtstraße 15

63741 Aschaffenburg

+24

Tierschutzverein Tierfreunde Filderstadt e.V.

Eichholz

70794 Filderstadt

+13

Tierschutzverein Markdorf und Umgebung e.V.

Muschelweg 25

88697 Bermatingen

Sonnenhof für Mensch und Tier, eine Einrichtung vom Deutschen Tierschutzbund e.V.

Hochkreit 8

82401 Rottenbuch

+12

Tierschutzverein Pfotenhilfe

Heinestraße 22

29410 Salzwedel

Tierhilfe mit Herz e.V.

Bartholomäusweg 21

53501 Grafschaft

Tierschutzverein Landkreis Landshut - Cats & Dogs in Not e.V.

Finkenweg 13

84095 Furth

+19

Tierheim Berlin

Hausvaterweg 39

13057 Berlin

+160

Tierschutzverein-Kamp-Lintfort

Peter-Vischer-Straße 7

47447 Moers

Sonnenhof für Mensch und Tier, eine Einrichtung vom Deutschen Tierschutzbund e.V.

Hochkreit 8

82401 Rottenbuch

+12

Find Small Animals 🐰

Farbratten (f)

1 year

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Toupet (m)

4 years

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Sunny und Luna (f)

4 years

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Matze (m) und Schnuffel (w) - Riesenschecke

Matze (m) und Schnuffel (w) (m)

5 years

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Yayla (m&f)

9 months

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Kornnattern (m&f)

6 years

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Only verified shelters: How to find your new best friend with Balu

Balu is the exclusive digital partner of the German Animal Welfare Association. Browse thousands of dogs, cats, and other animals from verified shelters near you.

Four steps to forever

From finding your match to welcoming them home — the adoption process on Balu is straightforward and transparent.

4 reasons to choose Balu

What makes Balu different — and why thousands of adopters trust us.

Adoption myths debunked

Lea from the German Animal Welfare Federation answers common questions about shelter adoption, animal welfare, and how Balu helps.

Find a dog that fits you

Happy dog and cat duo showcasing their friendly bond, ideal companions for adoption through Balu's pet rescue platform.

Knows cats

Golden retriever dog sitting proudly with a friendly expression, ideal for families seeking a loyal and loving companion.

Knows children

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a cute face, perfect for older people looking for a loving pet.

Suitable for seniors

Playful puppy walking towards the camera with a curious expression, ideal for families looking to adopt a loving companion.

Neutered

Happy chocolate Labrador Retriever with a joyful expression, perfect for active families seeking a loyal pet.

Suitable for beginners

Two mixed-breed dogs with playful expressions, resting comfortably. Perfect companions for anyone seeking love and joy in their home.

Guard dog

Needs Experience

Golden retriever dog peacefully sleeping, embodying warmth and affection. An excellent choice for families and individuals looking for a loving pet.

Loner

Two dogs sharing a moment. Perfect for families looking for unique companionship.

Group animal

Happy English Springer Spaniel with a playful demeanor and bright eyes, ideal for active families seeking an energetic companion.

Hunting instinct

Two adorable Labradoodle puppies with fluffy coats and curious expressions, ideal for families looking to adopt a playful and affectionate pet.

Gets along with females

Two male dogs, showcasing the bond of friendship among dogs. Great for families seeking companionship.

Gets along with males

Cheerful beagle dog with a happy expression, perfect for families looking for a friendly and playful pet.

City

Our Ambassadors

Elena Carrière

& Fraley

Model & Actress

elenacarriere|465K followers

Balu is exactly what the shelter industry needs! A smartly designed platform that brings together all animals looking for homes across the country. It means so much to me to be able to support this project and raise awareness about animal welfare in my community.

— Elena Carrière

Find a cat that fits you

Two orange cats nuzzling each other affectionately, symbolizing love and companionship. Ideal for cat lovers looking to adopt.

Compatible with cats

Dog and cat lying together peacefully, showcasing the beautiful bond between different pet species. Great for families considering multi-pet households.

Knows dogs

Thoughtful orange tabby cat with bright green eyes, representing warmth and affection, perfect for families looking to adopt a loving companion.

Family friendly

Suitable for seniors

Two cats embracing in a loving moment, perfect for families seeking companionship and love in their homes.

Neutered

Curious grey cat looking back with striking orange eyes, perfect for families seeking a unique and affectionate feline companion.

Suitable for beginners

Grey cat resting peacefully with eyes closed, ideal for individuals seeking a calm and affectionate feline companion.

House cat

Playful white cat with orange markings, showcasing a curious expression. An ideal choice for those wanting a lively and loving pet.

Free roaming

White cat sleeping peacefully with its paw over its face, representing tranquility and comfort for potential adopters.

Loner

Two cats playfully grooming each other, representing affection and the joy of pet companionship.

Pair/group housing

Cat with protective cat neck cone, showcasing a cat that needs special attention.

Special requirements

Our Blog ✨

Medicine8 min read

Epilepsy in Dogs – with Dr. Deborah Wimmer: Milo’s Story

Awareness10 min read

Dogs vs. Cats – Frequently Asked Questions about Differences, Similarities, and Living Together

Care & Behavior10 min read

Frequently Asked Questions About Cats – Care & Behavior

Adoption Guide8 min read

Adopting a Cat in Germany: Process, Costs & Essential Tips (2026)

Care & Behavior10 min read

Frequently Asked Questions about Dogs – Care & Behavior

Adoption Guide9 min read

Adopting a Dog in Germany: The Complete Guide (2026)

Success Stories

Every adoption is a success story. Help us create more by adopting or supporting shelters. Find cats and dogs for adoption in your area for free and get in contact with shelters today!

See all adopted pets