Before committing to adopt a pet, ask yourself:

1. Are you ready to make a long-term commitment?
Cats and dogs can now live anywhere from 10 to 20 years, even more, depending on the individual, the species, and breed. Consider what your situation might be in five, ten and twenty years. Many owners abandon their pets due to relocation, divorce, pregnancy or newborn, financial concerns, employment changes, illness, and etc. Choosing to adopt a pet is a long-term responsibility.
2. Do you live alone? With a partner? do you have children?
The decision to adopt an animal affects all family members. Include everyone before making a decision. If you adopt an animal at the request of a child or teenager, be prepared to take care of the animal. We all know that a child's promise can be short-lived, and most often parents end up taking care of the pet.
3. Are you ready to change your lifestyle?
Any new pet will require a change in your lifestyle. All pets need attention and care. If you are not prepared to adapt to a new pet, this option may not be for you.
4. Do you have enough space?
Every animal has different needs a certain amount of physical space. Cats often adapt more easily to a small space and living indoors. Dogs generally require more room and a space to exercise. Consider space when choosing your pet.
5. Do you rent or own your home?
If you rent, check with your landlord before adopting. The clause "No pets allowed," when used by a landlord is considered discriminatory, however, pet ownership is not an absolute right. It is a privilege given on two conditions: "it will not cause serious predjudice to the landlord" (such as property damage) and "does not disturb the normal enjoyment of other tenants" (e.g., a dog barking and disturbing the neighbors).
6. Are you ready to accept that there might be slight damage to your property?
Once you bring your pet home, allow time for it to adapt to its new environment. Understand that it could cause some damage during this period. Be patient.
7. Do you suffer from allergies?
Check with family members about allergies before committing to adopt a pet. Many people adopt an animal without realizing that a family member suffers from allergies. If your aren't sure how severe an allergy problem can be, consider becoming a foster home. We often need families who can take in an animal for a short period. Some animals need time to grow a little or heal from an illness. Fostering allows you to have a pet without having to commit long term.
8. Are you financially prepared to take care of an animal?
The initial adoption fees are only part of the expense of a new pet. Consider the cost of food, litter, various care and hygiene products (brush, leash, collar, cage, toys), the kennel and veterinary cost (annual vaccinations and exams, sterilization, illness).
9. Who will care for your animal if you go on vacation or become ill?
Plan and budget for those periods when you might not be able to care for your pet. Consider a boarding kennel, pet sitter, friend or relative. Choose carefully because many animals escape from the person entrusted with their care and are lost.
10. Can you spend quality time with your pet?
Do you have the time and energy to spend with it every day? Animals can suffer from boredom just like humans. A bored animal can become depressed or develop behavioral problems. Most love to play, run, be talked to and be cuddled. It is important to take time to be with and keep them stimulated. A happy pet will be well adjusted and provide lots of enjoyment.
11. Cat or Dog?
When choosing between a cat or a dog, consider their quality of life in combination with your lifestyle. A dog is a social animal who needs daily exercise and that has difficulty with solitude. Cats are more solitary. They can adjust more easily to a small space and indoor living. How might those requirements vary with age, size, or breed?
12. Do you have other pets?
If you already have other pets, how will new addition fit in? Cats may not be thrilled with a new cat. Dogs generally adjust well to a new canine member, but may not be happy if you bring home a cat. Before adopting, think about the other non-human members of your family and the adjustments they and you will have to make.

Adoption Contract

We use a very simple adoption contract which is usually filled out at the time of adoption. You may review the contract by clicking on Adoption Contract below. Note: filling out this application will not reserve any animal for you. We will only reserve an animal for the lenght of time it takes you to get the shelter or their total adoption fee has been paid.