Adoption Process

Thank you for choosing to adopt!

Adopting a new furry friend is an exciting time, but please remember that a dog or cat is a 10-20 year commitment. They are family members that are expected to remain with their adoptive family for the rest of their days. Be sure you are ready to commit before applying.

I'm ready to commit! So, what's the process?

Adoption Process

Browse Our Adoptable Pets
Explore our available cats and dogs to see which species is the best fit for your home and lifestyle. Visit our website, Facebook page, or Pet Finder listings to view available pets. Keep an open mind, as the pet you think you want might not be the perfect match after meeting others in person!
Schedule an Appointment
Once you've identified a potential match, schedule an appointment to meet our adoptable pets. During your visit, you’ll interact with the animals, and we encourage you to read each pet’s description carefully to ensure their personality and needs align with your lifestyle.
Submit an Adoption Application
If you’ve found your perfect pet, complete and submit an application. Applications can be found on our website or obtained in person at the shelter. Please ensure your application is thorough, complete, and legible. Keep in mind that not all applications will be approved. Applications can be submitted before or after the meet-and-greet, but approval or denial will only happen after you’ve met the pet in person.
Application Review Process
Once your application is submitted, we will review it and contact your references. This process can take a few days, as we want to ensure that each adoption leads to a long-term, loving home for our animals.
Approval & Next Steps
If your application is approved, we will reach out to you. If we have any questions or concerns, we will discuss them with you directly. If you don’t hear from us right away, please be patient, as we may be busy. If you are not approved, or if your application is incomplete or unclear, we may not contact you, so please follow up with us.

Important Notes:

Meet and Greet Required: We do not pre-approve applicants before the in-person meeting. You must meet the pet with a staff member present to ensure both you and the animal interact safely and to determine if it’s a good match for your family.
Best Fit for the Pet: Occasionally, a potential adopter may not be the best fit for a particular animal. Our staff and volunteers know the animals well and are dedicated to ensuring each pet is placed in a safe, loving home. If we feel another animal may be a better fit, we may recommend meeting with other pets that suit your home, lifestyle, and preferences better.
Application Denial: We may deny an application for various reasons to ensure the best outcome for the pet. If your application is denied, we may or may not contact you. Please respect the decision, as our goal is to match animals with the best possible homes.

This all sounds great! What do I do after I find out my application was approved?

Adoption Pickup & Final Steps

Once your application is approved, we will schedule a day and time for you to pick up your new family member. At that time, adopters will sign an Adoption Agreement and submit the adoption fee. You will also receive copies of your pet’s medical records and any relevant paperwork.

For Cat Adoptions:
Please bring a securely sized cat carrier to transport your new pet safely home. For safety reasons, we do not allow cats to leave the shelter without a proper carrier.

For Dog Adoptions:
Feel free to bring a leash, collar, and/or harness, and we’ll be happy to assist you in fitting them before you leave.

Once the paperwork is complete, it’s time to take your new best friend home! Remember to be patient and loving as your new pet adjusts to their new environment. Give them plenty of time and space to settle in comfortably.

What if I have questions or concerns after adopting my pet?

If you have any questions or concerns after adopting your pet, we’re here to help! You can always reach out to us at WOASH, and our knowledgeable team will assist you in helping your new pet adjust to their new home.

We also recommend contacting your veterinarian for additional advice or guidance on any health or behavior concerns.