Compatible adoptions
Make a match that’s best for you and your family – in three simple steps. While we have streamlined the adoption process for your convenience, we ask that you do not rush through it. We take this responsibility very seriously and do reserve the right to refuse any application for adoption if we determine the placement is not in the best interest of the pet. HSMC allows a minimum of 24-48 business hours to process an adoption application. This time frame may be extended if a pet receives multiple applications or if sterilization surgery is pending. Our adoption process is not done on a first come-first served basis; we strive to determine which applicant can provide the best suited home for each pet on an individual basis.
Steps
*Applications are required to be submitted ahead of visiting with adoptable animals. Applications are available on the website or in person at the shelter and stay on file for up to 90 days.
- Visit with us. It’s not just about seeing the available animals – but determining what each animal needs from you and whether you can offer it. Everyone (we’re talking humans) in the household is required to visit with the pet you are interested in adopting.
- Please note that if you are looking to adopt a dog and currently have a dog at home, your dog must come to the shelter to visit to ensure safe compatibility with the dog you are interested in adopting. We like to start our dog to dog introductions with a walk outside the building so please dress appropriately! Based on the interaction between the dogs we do have other spaces available to accommodate extended visits or off leash time; please note there may be space or staffing restrictions during your visit- we appreciate your patience! The additional areas include an indoor visitation room or other large space and an outdoor, fenced play yard. Our team will work with you to determine what options are available and what time will allow. Repeat visits may be encouraged. *If you are coming to do a visit with your dog, you must have proof of vaccination records with you or we will not be able to do the introduction. Be advised this is for the safety of your pet and ours, thank you!
- Provide proof of address if you own a home, such as a tax bill, mortgage statement, homeowners insurance or deed. If you rent, we require a landlord signature on a Landlord Permission Form that is available at the shelter and the option to be able to speak with the property owner or rental agent during the adoption process.
- If you are 18 years of age or older, you are eligible to adopt. You may complete an adoption application in person at the shelter or by filling out our online form here:
Please note that only complete applications will be considered, be sure to answer all of the questions to the best of your ability. HSMC does not hold animals, nor does the submission of the adoption application entitle you to any particular animal. - HSMC requires proof of vaccinations for any other pet already in your household. State statute requires rabies vaccination and license for any dog 4 months of age or older and several local municipalities require cats to be rabies vaccinated and licensed as well.
Why are there fees?
These fees are the primary source of funding needed to pay for the supplies and veterinary costs to care for the homeless, injured, abandoned and unwanted animals that come through our doors each year.
Adoption fees*
We accept the following forms of payment: cash, credit card or check. The adoption fee includes:
- initial vaccinations and de-worming (applicable to dogs, cats, puppies and kittens)
- an identifying microchip inserted under the pet’s skin (applicable to dogs, cats, puppies and kittens) with free registration for your pet
- surgical sterilization (applicable to dogs, cats, puppies, kittens and rabbits)
- Flea/tick prevention (cats and dogs)
Be sure to ask about our “Seniors for Seniors” program. Dogs and cats 8 years or older are available to qualifying applicants 65 or older for a 50% discounted fee!
Special pricing for black animals and those that must be the only pet in the household.
Cats and Kittens
- Male cats $60.00
- Female cats $100.00
- Senior cats (age 8 or older) 1/2 off
- Special pricing offered for bonded pairs
Dogs and Puppies
- Puppies 6 months and under $250.00
- Adult dog under 25 pounds $200.00
- Adult dog over 25 pounds $175.00
- Dogs 8 years and older $125.00
Ferrets, rabbits, reptiles and exotic birds
- Male rabbits $60.00
- Female rabbits $100.00
- Ferrets $50.00
- Birds $5.00 for small songbirds; more for larger birds as directed by avian rescue recommendations
- Reptiles vary by type
Rabbits are spayed/neutered at HSMC expense.
Mice, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs and small birds $5.00
Your pet will receive initial vaccinations that are age appropriate, which includes the rabies vaccination for all adult cats and dogs. HSMC will not give a rabies vaccination to any pet that is under 3 months of age. If you are to adopt a pet that has not reached the age of 3 months, the rabies vaccination will be arranged in coordination with HSMC and their veterinary partner at no cost to you. HSMC cannot reimburse you for any medical bills you incur. There will be no refunds or exchanges unless your veterinarian has deemed, in writing, that the animal is unadoptable due to health or behavior within the first 30 days of the adoption.
All cats and dogs must be spayed or neutered to stem the epidemic of pet overpopulation. Also, please note all cats and dogs 8 weeks and older will be spayed or neutered prior to going to his or her new home.
Additional pet care options*
- SNAP Feline Triple test for cats $25.00
- SNAP 4DX test for dogs $25.00
*Please note that state taxes are applicable to all adoption fees and pet care options.
