Adoption Process

One of the most frequently asked questions that we hear at the Humane Society is, “How do I go about adopting a dog or cat?” It is a question we love to hear and never tire of answering. For those of you who have come online for that answer, this is our basic adoption process:

 

1.       Adopting a new pet is not a decision that should be made lightly. So before going to the Humane Society for a new dog or cat, you should have an idea of what type of new pet you are looking for (what size, temperament, age, etc…best fits your lifestyle). This will help to narrow your options, and the adoption counselor will be informed enough to make a match that will meet both your and the pet’s needs best. 

2.       If you see a dog or cat that you are interested in adopting, you will then fill out an application for adoption. Keep in mind that all adoptions are subject to approval, and can be a case by case approval process. For example, in addition to having your other pets up to date and well cared for, you also have to meet any special needs of the specific pet you are interested in. 

3.       If all the stars are aligned in your favor, we can process adoptions the same day that you apply, though this is not always the case. Be prepared to wait for approval for some adoptable pets in the cases of special medical needs, several applications on same pet, or simply time to properly process your application by contacting the required references.

4.       If you are approved for adoption (and the dog or cat is at least 6 months of age), you do have the option of fostering the pet before finalizing the adoption. What does this mean? This type of adoption fostering is simply a trial period. It is an additional $20 to take advantage of this option, and potential adopters can take the dog or cat home for up to one week to see if this is the best fit for them and their family.

5.       Adoption fees vary with each dog or cat. Typically, this adoption fee is determined by how long the animal has been at the shelter, though other variables are factored in as well (such as age, adoption fee sponsorship, etc). On average our adoption fees are as follows:

 All dogs available for adoption are:
Spay/Neutered
Up to date on vaccinations
Microchipped
Tested/treated if needed for heartworm disease

Dog Adoptions also include:
Six months of heartworm preventative free 

 All Cats Available for adoption are:
Spay/neutered
Up to date on vaccinations
Microchipped
Tested negative for FELV/FIV