Animal Shelter & Adoption Guide

Animal shelters provide a safe haven for abandoned, lost, or surrendered pets. Adopting from a shelter not only gives an animal a second chance at a loving home but also makes room for shelters to help more animals in need.

Why Adopt from a Shelter?

You're saving a life and giving an animal a second chance
Most shelter pets are already spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped
Adoption fees are much lower than buying from a breeder
Many shelter animals are already house-trained
You can find pets of all ages, not just puppies and kittens
Many shelter pets are mixed breeds, which often have fewer health problems
Shelter staff can help match you with the right pet for your lifestyle

Did You Know?

Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. shelters every year. By adopting, you're helping reduce this number and saving a life!

Meet Some Adoptable Pets

Here are just a few of the wonderful animals waiting for their forever homes:

Buddy

Dog 2 years old Golden Retriever Mix

Buddy is a friendly, energetic boy who loves to play fetch and go for long walks. He's good with children and other dogs.

Meet Buddy

Mittens

Cat 3 years old Calico

Mittens is a sweet, gentle cat who loves to curl up in your lap. She's litter-trained and enjoys window watching.

Meet Mittens

Rex

Dog 5 years old Shepherd Mix

Rex is a loyal, intelligent dog who already knows basic commands. He would make a great companion for an active family.

Meet Rex

Luna

Cat 1 year old Domestic Shorthair

Luna is a playful young cat who loves toys and climbing. She gets along well with other cats and would love a home with plenty of places to explore.

Meet Luna

The Adoption Process

Visit the shelter and spend time with available animals
Fill out an adoption application with your information and housing details
Meet with adoption counselors who will help match you with the right pet
Pay the adoption fee which typically covers spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping
Bring your new pet home and give them time to adjust to their new environment

Adoption Tip!

Before adopting, make sure your home is pet-ready with appropriate food, bedding, toys, and a safe space for your new furry friend to adjust.

Preparing Your Home

Before bringing your new pet home, make sure you have these essentials:

For Dogs:

Food and water bowls
High-quality dog food
Collar, ID tag, and leash
Dog bed
Toys for chewing and playing
Grooming supplies
Crate or gate (if needed)

For Cats:

Food and water bowls
High-quality cat food
Litter box and litter
Cat bed or cozy space
Scratching post
Toys for entertainment
Carrier for transport

How to Help Animal Shelters

Even if you can't adopt right now, there are many ways to help animal shelters:

Volunteer your time to walk dogs, socialize cats, or help with events
Foster animals temporarily to help prepare them for adoption
Donate supplies like food, blankets, toys, or cleaning products
Contribute financially to help cover medical costs and operating expenses
Spread the word about adoptable pets on social media
Participate in shelter fundraising events

Find a Shelter Near You

Ready to adopt or want to help? Find a local animal shelter using these resources:

Petfinder.com - Search for adoptable pets and shelters by location
ASPCA - Find shelters and rescue groups in your area
Humane Society - Information on pet adoption and shelters