Adopting from Us

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ADOPTING A DOG OR CAT?

We have lots of wonderful animals to choose from here at Dawson County Humane Society, and when you’re ready, we hope you will give our precious furbabies all the consideration possible.  We’re a little biased, but we think rescue animals make the BEST pets!!!

                   Adoption Fees:

                               Canine:

                               Puppies – $150

                               Adults Dogs – $85

                              Feline:

                              Kittens – $90

                              Adults Cats – $70

Adoption fee includes:

-All animals eligible for adoption have been spayed/neutered and received their initial vaccines and dewormer.

-Dogs over 6 months old have been tested for heartworms and are on monthly heartworm preventative.

-Cats have been tested for FIV/FeLv.

-Please note: Any vaccines required post adoption will be at the owner’s expense.

-All of the dogs (and some of the cats) have been micro-chipped and initial registration provided.

-Pet Insurance is also available through the microchip company.

-Cardboard carrier (for cats only).

Where to Adopt:

We have two main options for pet adoptions.  You may, of course, come to the shelter any time during business hours and visit with as many pets as you like.  We know it can take time to find a good match, so relax and enjoy your time with us.  You may also come visit with us during an off-site adoption event.  Check the Events Calendar to see where we’ll be next.  We do encourage meet and greets whenever possible, so feel free to bring your dog(s) with you.

Basic Requirements for Adoption

-Adopters must be 18 years old with valid ID.

-Everyone in the household needs to be in agreement on taking on the responsibility of a new pet.

-Adopters must complete an adoption questionnaire and an adoption contract.

-We do not require meet and greets for all animals, but certain cases may be deemed necessary by DCHS staff.

DAWSON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE ADOPTION TO ANYONE FOR ANY REASON.

Before You Adopt:

Please consider the following before making the decision to bring a new pet into your life and home.

Why do you want a pet? It’s amazing how many people don’t ask themselves this simple question. Adopting a pet just because it’s “the thing to do” or “the children have been wanting a puppy” can be a mistake. Having a pet is not something to be entered into lightly, and is a commitment of 10, 15, or even 20 years.

Do you have time for a pet? Dogs, cats and other animals require food, water, exercise, care and companionship every day. Many animals in our shelter are here because their owners didn’t realize how much time it took to care for them.

Is your pet a good fit with your family? We ask that you bring your entire family to the shelter to meet with an adoption counselor.  We will discuss your lifestyle (activity level and so on) to help match you with a pet that will suit your family. Please bring your children as well as any canine family members (when meeting new dogs) as well.

Can you have a pet where you live? Pets are not allowed in many rental communities, while other communities may have certain restrictions. Make sure you know what your rental property’s policies are before bringing a companion animal home.

Have you considered the costs associated with pet ownership? The adoption fee is just the beginning of a lifetime of expenses. For example, every dog can benefit from training. Not only does it help to establish a lasting bond, but it also helps your dog understand what you expect from him or her.  You also need to consider both routine and unexpected medical expenses, as well as food, toys, bedding and more.

Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet? Is your routine changing because of a new job, new house or new member of the family? Waiting until you settle down is wise. Pets, like children, thrive with a predictable routine.

Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind? Animal size is not the only variable to consider. It is important to also consider the animal’s age and temperament as well. For example, some small dogs, such as terriers, are very active, requiring a great deal of exercise to be calm. On the other hand, some big dogs or older dogs are quite content to lie on a couch all day.

THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING ADOPTING A SHELTER RESCUE PET!