It's back-to-school education week at HSVC! We have so many exciting new things happening at the shelter. What better time to share with our animal-loving community than the start of the new school year? Each day this week we will be educating the public on a different element of shelter life. From new policies and programs to resources and behaviors, we can't wait to share all the excitement with you!

Did you know HSVC is now performing open adoptions? It's true! Like many shelters, we recently updated how we perform adoptions to make the process more accessible and welcoming for those looking to adopt. This approach involves removing barriers that may prevent people from adopting pets and creating a non-judgmental environment. We have replaced the formal application process with a simplified interest form and more flexible adoption policies. Our staff provides quality one-on-one counseling and resources to set animals and their new owners up for success. These changes were put in place with the hopes of encouraging more people to adopt animals in need! 

The Open Adoption Process:

View our live feed of available dogs, cats, and other animals on our Adoption Page to get started, or stop by the shelter any time during visiting hours Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Below are our three easy steps to bringing a new furry friend home!

1. Come visit us! No appointment or application is required. Those interested in adopting will be asked to fill out a simple interest form to help us match you to your new family member. Note that you must be 18 years or older to visit the animals without a parent.
2. Meet with our Animal Care Associates and visit the animals
3. Bring your ID and proof of address for same-day adoptions. 

Please keep in mind that adoptions for all animals are first come, first qualified, and we do not accept deposits to hold animals. 

General Counseling Topics Covered During Open Adoption Process: 

Our open adoption process focuses on bringing people and animals together. Animal Care Associates are on-site ready to help connect you with the pet of your dreams. Once you've found your perfect match, our Client Service Representatives will help you complete the adoption process and answer any further questions. Below are some of the topics that will be covered to help match adopters to the pet of their dreams:

Dogs + Cats:

• Food transition 
• Transition into the home: 3-3-3 rule (3-days, 3-weeks, 3-months)
• Introduction with animals established in the home
• Temperament: Discussion to see what the desired temperament is for adopter
• Cats: Litter box, scratching post, indoor suggested, nail health, appropriate play time (wand toys not hands)
• Puppies: Socialization and exposure, basic obedience, potty training

HSVC Adoption Requirements:

• Age Requirement: Adopters must be at least 18-years-old
• Interest Form: Those interested in adopting will fill out a short interest form providing personal details and details about the animals/people in the home, type of homestyle, and type of temperament they are interested in adopting
• Identification: Proof of identity, such as a valid ID
• Adoption Fee: An adoption fee to help cover the costs of caring for the animals. Fees vary based on the animal's age
  • Fees for every dog adoption include the first DHPP shot of the series (if age allows),  a rabies vaccine (if age allows), a wellness check good for up to three days from participating veterinarians, implanting an identification microchip with registration, spay or neuter surgery, if necessary, as well as a collar, ID tag, and a leash
  • Fees for every cat adoption include the first FVRCP shot in the series, a leukemia test (if age allows), rabies vaccine (if age allows), a medical exam good for up to three days from participating veterinarians, deworming, implanting an identification microchip, registration of microchip, spay or neuter surgery if necessary as well as a safety collar, ID tag, and a cardboard carrier.

What We Provide With Each Adoption:

• Medical:
  • Spay/Neuter
  • Dewormer
  • Flea Medication
  • DHPP + Bordetella for dogs
  • Rabies (given at 3 months old)
  • FELV/FIV testing for cats
  • FVRCP for cats
• A free pet exam for adoption animals at local veterinarians
• A supply of dry and wet food to help transition the animal into their new home
• Cats: litter for/cardboard transportation box
• Dogs: leash + collar