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?

1. Check out our adoptable cats and dogs. Decide which species of furry friend is best for your household and lifestyle.

2. Schedule an appointment to meet our adoptable animals. In advance, you can browse our website, Facebook page, and Pet Finder listings to see if any pets sound like the perfect match. Keep an open mind. You may come to your appointment thinking you know which pet you want, then fall in love with another! Read their descriptions and make sure the pet's personality and requirements best fit your lifestyle.

3. Once you have found your perfect match, complete and submit an application. Applications can be found on our website or obtained in person at the shelter. Not everyone who applies will be approved. Applications must be complete and legible. Applications can be submitted before or after an in-person meet and greet with the pet, but will not be officially approved or denied until an in-person meet and greet occurs.

4. Applications are then reviewed, including calling references. The application review process can take at least few days. We want to be sure our animals are finding their happily-ever-after, not just another temporary placement.

5. If your application is approved, we will contact you! If we have any questions or concerns regarding your application, we will discuss them with you. If you don't hear from us right away please be patient. Our days can be very hectic! We may not contact you if you are not approved. If your application is submitted incomplete, we may not contact you for missing or illegible information. Please be responsible and follow up with us.

Note: We do not "pre-approve" individuals based solely on their application, prior to meeting the pet. We require that you meet the pet with a staff member present before we will move forward with your application. This is to ensure you, and other members of your family, interact safely with the pet and that you are a good match with that pet. An application can be submitted before or after meeting the pet in person, but will not be approved or denied until the in-person meet and greet occurs.

Realistically, there are instances when a potential adopter is not the best fit for an animal. Be mindful that the staff and volunteers of WOASH know the shelter animals best and want to be sure the best choice is made for their health and safety. We do deny applications for a variety of reasons so that our pets can have the best lives! We may recommend you meet other animals that better fit you age, lifestyle, and home environment. WE MAY OR MAY NOT CONTACT YOU IF YOU APPLICATION IS DENIED FOR ANY REASON.

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

After your application is approved we will schedule a day and time for you to pick up your new family member. Adopters will sign an Adoption Agreement contract and submit the adoption fee. We provide you with copies of medical records and paperwork for the pet.

For cat adoptions, please bring a comfortably sized cat carrier. We do not allow cats to go home without a secure carrier.

For dog adoptions, you are welcome to bring a leash, collar, and/or harness and we can help place it for you.

After all of the daunting human tasks are complete you get to go home and shower your new best friend with patience, love, and adoration. Be sure to give your new pet TIME and PATIENCE when adjusting to their new home.

What if I have unexpected questions or concerns with my pet after I adopt?

You are always welcome to contact us at WOASH with questions or concerns. We have a team of knowledgeable individuals who will help you and your pet adjust.

It is also recommended that you contact your preferred veterinarian to discuss concerns and seek advice.