Pet Adoption 33411
Pet adoption is the process of transferring responsibility for an animal from one person to another. Adopters agree to care for the animal for the rest of its life. [citation needed] This is known as a forever home.
Adopters can find pets by searching the databases of thousands of shelters and rescue groups across North America.
What is the adoption process?
We make every effort to ensure that each pet finds the best home possible. Adoptions are completed in person at our facility during scheduled adoption events. To expedite the process, please fill out an application ahead of time to bring with you.
We encourage you to speak openly and honestly with the Adoption Counselor about your lifestyle. All animals are looking for a family to share their lives with. Please be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to a pet. Puppies and kittens require a lot of attention in order to not become destructive or lonely. Adult pets also need to be let out during the day for exercise and socialization.
Rescues have a more flexible adopting process and may require a home visit before you can meet the animal. In addition, some rescues will have a specific list of criteria that they require you to meet before you can adopt one of their pets.
Will the pet come home with me immediately?
Many rescue groups want to ensure that the pet you choose will be a good fit for your lifestyle and family. They will ask questions about your work schedule, family members, and property to help them match you with a pet that will be happy in your home for the rest of its life. If your new pet seems clingy when you first bring it home, this is normal and usually caused by separation anxiety while at the shelter or boarding. With lots of love and reassurance, the pet will adjust quickly. We offer alternative solutions to help you keep your pets when things change, such as financial hardship or a move. These options help free up life-saving space for more injured or sick animals.
Will I have to pay any adoption fees?
Most shelters and rescue groups will charge a fee to help offset the cost of caring for pets. These fees can include initial veterinary costs (spaying/neuter, vaccinations, heartworm treatment and other necessary tests), food, transport and other expenses. This may seem like a big expense, but consider the alternative: You’re buying a pet from a pet store, which often doesn’t provide any support after you bring your new dog or cat home.
You’ll also be helping a shelter or rescue group to continue doing their good work in the community. That’s a win for everyone! Unless you’re purchasing a pet from a breeder, it’s always a good idea to take your new pet to the vet for a checkup after adoption. This will give you peace of mind that your new pet has a clean bill of health. This is another reason why it’s so important to adopt, rather than shop for your next best friend!
Will I have to take my new pet to the vet?
Bringing your new pet to the vet for their first wellness exam is important. This will establish a baseline for their health, give you a chance to discuss and set up a preventative care plan, and give them positive associations with trips to the vet.
The veterinary surgeon will also take a good look at the eyes, ears, skin, and teeth, as well as doing a full body palpation. This will allow them to feel for any inflammation, asymmetry, or abnormal lumps and bumps.
The veterinarian may need to test your pet for intestinal parasites, which can be tested using a small stool sample (about the size of your thumbnail). If the veterinarian believes that your new pet is infected with parasites, they will likely prescribe medications or wormers to treat them. It’s a good idea to bring a plastic container to hold the stool sample so it doesn’t get lost in the process. It’s also a good idea to ask the veterinarian for copies of your pet’s medical records. This will help you transfer them to your new veterinarian if you move.