An animal shelter is a facility that provides care and protection for homeless, abandoned, or stray animals, primarily dogs and cats. These shelters aim to find permanent homes for these animals through adoption programs. They often offer medical care, food, and a safe environment until the animals are adopted. Many animal shelters also engage in community outreach and education about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Some shelters work with local rescue organizations to save animals from high-kill facilities, ensuring that more animals have the chance to find loving families.