Adoption Policies

Pets have become an important part of our lives and families. They have become integral family members and in many cases, are as much a part of our lives and family as children or grandchildren. Having a companion animal has rewards such as friendship and unconditional love, but also carries responsibilities such as providing nutritious food and fresh water, regular veterinary care, time for exercise and training and quality interaction.

If you have questions about what pet you should get and what being a responsible pet owner means, we are here to help. Some of the animals in our shelter were stray or abandoned. Others are animals who were simply turned in or "surrendered" by their owners for various reasons (not enough time, moving, etc.). Many of our animals are mixed breeds, yet we do have purebred animals, as well.

Our adoption counselors strive to make the best possible match between you and your new pet, to ensure a lifelong commitment. We strive to match the animal's needs and temperament with your lifestyle. In order to make the best match possible for a family and home, we suggest that all members of the household meet the new pet and this includes any current pets you have in your home.

We require that all animals adopted from The Humane Society of Weld County are spayed or neutered before they go home. This is an important measure to end pet overpopulation in Weld County. Spaying/neutering is included in the adoption fee.

Choosing the Right Breed

One of the questions we hear all the time is, “What animal is best for me and what breed should I choose?” We suggest that you carefully research and consider which breed of dog or cat will suit your lifestyle and surroundings.

Avoid choosing a breed because it is popular or “cute”, as this can lead to unhappy outcomes for you and your pet. For example, don't adopt a working dog (e.g., Blue Heeler, German Shepherd) if you live in the city unless you are prepared make sure it has daily exercise. Remember that puppies that look adorable in the cage at the shelter could grow up to be large dogs that need a lot of exercise, food and space and this should always be considered when evaluating your space restrictions. Our adoption counselors are trained to help you choose the correct breed for your lifestyle. Discuss this with them. .

Consider factors like the size of your yard, the amount of exercise you can give a pet and the type of personality and nature you want in a cat to help determine the exact breed that is suitable for you. These factors should also be considered when choosing birds, reptiles or pocket pets.

Above all, please remember that shelter animals often carry “baggage” from either life on the street, feelings of abandonment, being caged, abuse, etc, so patience is a key factor in adopting a shelter animal. See our Facts and fun page for the meaning of rescue. Additionally, we have a certified trainer on our staff available to answer questions. There are also training classes available. See our Services page for more information on training and the cost of the classes.

The Adoption Procedure

When you visit our shelter seeking a pet to adopt we first ask that you complete an Adoption Profile. Once you choose an animal you are interested in, one of our adoption counselors brings you and your potential pet together in one of our Get Acquainted Areas for some social time and interaction. These areas provide a quiet and private space to get to know each other better. During the visit, the adoption counselor may discuss any past experiences you or a family member has had with animals, current animals you have in your home, your lifestyle with regard to work schedules and the kinds of activities you enjoy and your housing situation (rent, own, the size of your yard, etc.).

ADOPTION FEES:     

10% discount for Senior Citizens

What is included in the adoption fee?

Spay/neuter
If the animal is not yet spayed or neutered: Every animal will be spayed or neutered prior to going home with adopter.

First set of vaccinations
dogs - canine distemper, adenovirus type 2, parainfluenza, parvovirus, Bordetella
cats - feline Rhinotracheitis, Calici virus, Panleukopenia, Chlamydia Psittaci, rabies

Free Veterinary Exam from participating vets (must be presented to the vet within seven days)

Health care record
A record is given of any medications given while the animal was with us and any records we have regarding the animal before it came to us.

FELV and FIV test for all cats and kittens

Free pet starter kit (subject to availability)

ID tag and lifetime registration through the shelter

Worming against hookworms and roundworms for all dogs and cats

Dog leash or cat carrier

Adoption Guidelines

We strive to place only healthy animals with who have good dispositions. If there is any question about the health of an animal, the animal will not be adopted.

We require spaying/neutering of all pets in accordance with city and county law.

We require the proper facilities to maintain and contain the pet before placement.

We require the permission of managers or landlords of mobile home parks, apartments, and rentals before placement.

We require that all pets receive proper veterinary care (annual exam, vaccinations and rabies).

We require that all pets be vaccinated and licensed.

We require strict adherence to all laws and ordinances.

We do not permit the adoption of an animal for someone else.

We do not permit the adoption of an animal by a minor.

We do not place dogs to be used solely as guard, fighting or hunting dogs.

We do not release any animal for research or experimental purposes.

We require proper identification be kept on all pets in the form of collars, tags, and/or microchips.

We adhere to the following exchange policy:

The adopter is entitled to an exchange for another pet within 30 days from the date of adoption. You are allowed 60 days to choose another pet. If a pet of lesser value is chosen, the extra money can put towards a microchip. If a microchip is not an option we will consider the money a donation, we do not issue refunds. If a pet is more expensive the difference will be paid by the patron. A patron is allowed one exchange.

For additional questions please contact the shelter.

Please visit these sites and purchase a product and the Humane Society of Weld County will receive a portion of the online profits.