These guidelines were established to protect both the new pet and new family. Please don't hesitate to discuss these with the shelter management for further understanding or clarification.

  • The shelter management must meet the new family in person.
  • All members of the new family must meet the pet in person prior to adoption.
  • The new family must complete an application for approval. Application will then be verified and references checked by the HFA.
  • The number and types of animals a family already has will be taken into consideration before approving the adoption of another animal.
  • The family will abide by their contract with the HFA.
    • Abide by all city, county, and state regulations.
    • Yearly vaccinations will be done at the owner's expense.
    • Refunds will be given upon request within the 2-week period.
    • If the adoption does not work out, the animal will be returned to the HFA and not taken to another shelter or given away.
      • Exception: Upon death of the owner and provisions made in the will, estate, or trust.
  • Pet will not be used for experimentation or dog fighting. Adequate care will be taken to ensure the animal will not be stolen, lost, or injured. All adopted dogs are micro-chipped before leaving the property.
  • All animals will be spayed or neutered by 6 months of age. This is covered in the adoption fee. If you adopt an animal that is not old enough, the HFA will work with you to get this done. No exceptions to this rule.

    Things to consider when adopting an adult shelter animal.
    Unlike adopting a new puppy, an adult dog will need a bit more of an adjustment period. Although you know that the dog is now safe and will enjoy a wonderful life with you and the new family, the dog will need a little bit of time to figure that out. To the dog, it's a new environment, new people, new food, new smells and no real language to understand that this is a positive thing. Strangers coming in the house, children running, phones ringing will all be new to the dog. Once the bonds have been established and the dog understands his or her place in the new family, you will enjoy many years of a very well adjusted, loyal, happy and thankful dog.