Adoption Procedures

Please note that in order to adopt from the VBSPCA, you must live within 75 miles of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

1. Upon arrival at our shelter, you will be asked to fill out a matchmaker profile to aid our shelter team in finding you the best animal for your lifestyle. Once completed, you will be directed to the cattery or kennel where a staff member will assist you.
2. Once an animal of interest has been identified, our team will remove the animal from the kennel and escort you to a visitation room.
3. Spend some time interacting with the animal and asking questions. Be sure this is the right animal for you.
4. If you decide that you would like to adopt the animal, let a staff member know and they will assist you with the application process.
5. Once the application is completed, take it to the front desk for review.
6. Once the application processing has begun, you will have 48 hours to fulfill all adopter requirements as listed below:
   • Adopters must provide a mortgage statement or your landlord’s contact information to make sure there are no breed restrictions in your home.
   • ALL household members must visit with the animal before the adoption can be finalized.
   • Anyone wishing to adopt a dog or puppy who currently has a dog or puppy at home must do a dog introduction at the shelter. This is arranged AFTER the vet and residence check have been completed.
7. All animals adopted from the VBSPCA will be spayed or neutered. If your pet requires spay or neuter surgery, this will happen prior to completing the adoption process. After surgery, you will attend a brief post-op care class. After class, your animal will be released into your care.
8. You must have a collar and leash for your adopted dog or a collar and carrier for your new cat/kitten before leaving the shelter. These items are available for purchase at the VBSPCA shelter.

What to Bring With You

• Valid Photo ID
• If you own your home: A copy of your mortgage statement
• If you rent: A copy of your lease stating your landlord’s Pet Policy or your landlord’s name and phone number
• If you have other pets: Vaccination records and your veterinarian’s name and phone number. What we require is the following:
  • Cats: FVRCP and Rabies vaccine (up to date)
  • Dogs: DHPP and Rabies vaccines, heartworm test and heartworm prevention (up to date). Bordetella is not required but highly recommended