Where to Adopt a Pet

You’ve researched the type of pet who’s the best match for your lifestyle, read up on training, pet-proofed and prepped your home, and even tossed around a few name ideas. Your schedule for the next few weeks is open. You are ready to adopt a pet, and maybe you’ve even searched on Adopt a Pet for local shelters, humane societies, and pet rescues. But before you click on an irresistible furry face, how do you know which type of pet adoption organization is right for you?

Although they will vary from community to community, here’s some information about the different types of pet adoption organizations out there. Because knowing what to expect creates a better adoption experience for everyone.

Adopting from a shelter 

Adopting a pet from your local shelter gives you a chance to make a huge difference in an animal’s life. Shelters typically house a variety of pets: from kittens and puppies to senior cats and dogs, and sometimes even other small pets such as guinea pigs or rabbits. 

When you make a trip to the animal shelter, you’ll usually start by filling out an adoption application. Many shelters will let you peruse the kennels on your own to see which animals are available. If you have an idea of what you’re looking for, you can also speak with a staff member or a volunteer. They may be able to recommend a pet who fits your description. 

• Adoption fees: Typical shelter adoption fees can vary based on your location, but they tend to be lower than rescues or Humane Societies. Costs when adopting from a shelter usually range from $50 to $250 and help cover essential services such as vaccinations, spaying-neutering, and microchipping.

Adopting from a Humane Society or SPCA

Humane Society and SPCAs are trusted places to adopt a wide range of pets, usually with more extensive facilities and resources (thanks to grants and other funding), compared to smaller local shelters. 

The adoption process here is similar: Complete an application and meet with different pets, by either walking through the kennels on your own or setting up a meet-and-greet with a staff member. You can also attend a sponsored adoption event where they may offer adoption discounts or even waive fees entirely. 

• Adoption fees: Adoption fees tend to be a little higher at these facilities, ranging from $75 to $350, covering any necessary vet treatments, vaccinations, and spay-neuter services.

Adopting from a rescue 

Rescues offer a more personalized adoption experience. Some rescues are breed-specific, giving adopters the option to find a certain type of dog or cat. Other rescues take on a wide variety of dogs or cats, sometimes focusing on high-risk animals who would have a harder time being adopted in a shelter environment (including seniors, large litters of very young puppies, dogs or cats with medical issues).

A rescue’s adoption process will likely be more involved and include filling out detailed applications, providing references, and sometimes requiring an in-home visit. Rescues usually have fewer animals in their care, and many pets live in foster homes while they wait for adoption. This gives adopters a great advantage of getting to know a pet’s personality in a home setting. The process can sometimes take longer, but their thorough screening lowers the chances of a pet being returned and makes sure you and your pet are a great match.

• Adoption fees: Rescue pet adoption fees vary from $100 to $600, depending on the breed and care the pet has received while with the rescue. Adoption fees cover medical treatments, vaccinations, and usually some training.

Using Adopt a Pet

Adopt a Pet is a powerful platform that simplifies your search. You can search for pets by location, breed, age, and even size. Whether you’re looking for a puppy, kitten, or an older pet, Adopt a Pet will connect you with local shelters, rescues, and Humane Societies that have animals available for adoption. After filtering results based on your preferences, you can browse through available pets and even get alerts when another pet matching your criteria is newly listed. 

Adopt a Pet isn’t directly involved in the adoption process itself — it acts as a matchmaker, helping you find pets in your area. Once you find a pet you’re interested in, you’ll be directed to the shelter or rescue’s website to learn more information and set up a meet and greet.

Adoption tips: best practices and red flags

Going into an adoption process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time adopters. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Tips for finding a good pet adoption organization

• Look for organizations with clear policies, straightforward adoption processes, and a good reputation. Check online reviews or ask friends or vets for recommendations, if you aren’t sure where to start.

• Don’t hesitate to ask questions. A reputable organization will happily provide information about a pet’s medical history, behavior problems or training, and what to expect during the adoption process.

• Visit the facility and spend one-on-one time with the pet if possible, or ask to meet the pet in a foster home environment if adopting through a rescue. Getting to know them ahead of time and seeing how they interact with you or other animals will give you a good idea of what you’ll experience if you bring them home. 

Using social media 

Social media can be a powerful tool in your search for a pet. Many shelters and rescues post regularly on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to advertise their adoptable pets. You can follow rescues or shelters to stay up-to-date on available pets and upcoming adoption events. Just be cautious about adopting from unofficial sources — stick to known adoption organizations for a trouble-free experience.

Red flags to look out for 

• Be wary of any organization that has unclear or overly complicated adoption fees. Legitimate shelters and rescues are upfront about costs and what goes into their fees.

• Avoid places that won’t provide information about the pet’s medical history or seem reluctant to answer questions. Again, reputable shelters or rescues will happily disclose any information about the pet, including behavioral and medical issues.

• Watch out for “puppy mills” or sketchy online ads. They can look like normal organizations but are focused on profit over the well-being of the animals. It’s not uncommon to discover that the pet you adopted from one of these places is very sick.

Commonly asked questions

How do shelters and rescues help animals?

Shelters and rescues provide essential pet services like veterinary care, vaccinations, and spaying-neutering to homeless animals. They work to find forever homes for these pets, often providing behavioral support and resources for new adopters. Many rescues specialize in specific breeds or animals who have special needs, are on the euthanasia list, or are considered high-risk and may not be easily adopted.

Can I adopt if I rent my home? 

Yes. Many shelters and rescues allow renters to adopt, but you may need to provide proof that your landlord permits pets. Always check your lease for any breed or size restrictions before adopting. If you aren’t sure or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your leasing office or landlord. 

How to find a reputable pet rescue? 

Start by looking for organizations that are registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits. It may not seem necessary, but this gives them a level of accountability and legitimacy. You can also ask for recommendations from veterinarians, many of whom are associated with local rescues or shelters. Don’t forget to check online reviews, too, and ask questions about the rescue’s adoption process and the care they provide to animals.

How much does it cost to adopt from the Humane Society? 

Adoption fees tend to be a little higher at the Humane Society than at a local shelter. This is usually because of their extensive facilities and ability to offer more resources to adopters. Fees usually range from $75 to $350, covering initial vet treatments, vaccinations, and spay-neuter services.

References

Adopt Your Best Friend

Adoptions: Asheville Humane

Adoption Fees: Contra Costa

Adoption Process: Humane Society of York County

Adoption Fees: Independent Animal Rescue

Adoption Fees: Onslow County

Adoption Fees: San Diego Humane Society

Adoption Program

Adoption / Viewing Events

Events: Greater Charlotte SPCA

Your Pet Adoption Journey Starts Here