You did it! You decided to save a life and adopt. You’re now at your local shelter — with no idea where to start.
Adopting from a shelter is a great decision and one that saves thousands of animals at the VBSPCA Shelter every year. However, it can be a confusing process when you are faced with a mountain of paperwork and an animal that may need a little extra love.
This article will be a great guide when navigating the adoption process and what you should expect.
General Questions
Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA?
The medical care that shelter animals receive at the VBSPCA is unparalleled. Every single animal is checked out by our clinic staff upon arrival and receives a full vet exam prior to being adopted. Senior pets have bloodwork taken to give adopters a full snapshot of the animal’s health. In addition to the high level of medical care the animals receive at the VBSPCA, the staff and volunteers are dedicated to making sure every single animal receives love and attention.
Our adoption fees include a microchip, vaccines, a veterinary exam, and spay/neuter surgeries, when applicable. All puppy adoptions come with a voucher for four weeks of puppy training classes. You can find a full list of what is covered by our adoption fees here.
Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA instead of from a breeder?
Many breeders are humane and do things the right way. However, when you adopt from the VBSPCA, you are providing support to animals in need and preventing animal homelessness. When you adopt, you’re not only providing an animal a loving home, you’re making room at our shelter for another animal in need.
What should I do if I plan on moving or deploying in the future?
While moving and deployment can be difficult, it doesn’t have to be the reason you give up your friend. Make sure that you have a plan in place on how you will transport your animal if you move. If you are being deployed, our shelter staff recommends having a plan in place for pet care before coming to adopt.
Is there any specific breed experience I need before adopting my pet?
Breed does not necessarily determine temperament, but there are some traits that are stronger in some breeds. Research is your best friend in this situation, and before adopting a specific breed, make sure that you are prepared to handle their temperament before making the commitment to bring them home.
If you don’t have a specific breed in mind, our team is here to help! Our animal care technicians know each and every animal, so they can pair you with someone who will fit well in your home.
How much space do I need for my new friend?
Although you may want to give that cuddly Saint Bernard a great home, it may not be the ideal size for your two bedroom apartment. The VBSPCA team can help you find someone who will fit your home and lifestyle.
What should I bring to the shelter when I am ready to put in an application?
You should bring with you a valid Photo ID, a copy of your mortgage statement, or lease stating your landlord’s Pet Policy and your landlord’s name and phone number. If you have other pets, bring in their vaccination records and your veterinarian’s name and phone number.
Other Questions
Cats
What allergies should I be aware of?
It’s not just cat hair allergies you have to watch out for! Some people discover they are sensitive to cat litter as well. However, most cat allergies are manageable and will get better with time.
Will an older cat or younger cat be better for my living situation?
Kittens easily adapt to their new surroundings and usually adjust well to their new homes. Depending on their personality, older cats may need a specific type of household in order to thrive. Understanding what type of lifestyle you have will help in finding the right fit for your family. Our cattery team is here to help!
Dogs
Can I adopt siblings?
The VBSPCA typically does not allow siblings to be adopted together to prevent a pack mentality from forming. However, on rare occasions, we do allow bonded pairs to be adopted together due to their connection with the other dog.
Since I am adopting from a shelter, does that mean my dog will be housebroken?
Not every dog from the VBSPCA will be house trained, but many of our older dogs will often have experience in homes.
If I already have a cat, how do I make sure the dog I am hoping to adopt will get along?
We will do a cat test with either a friendly or reactive cat and determine whether that specific dog can handle having a feline friend.
Do I need to crate train?
Crate training provides a dog with a safe space and peace of mind if you need to leave your home for short periods of time. While you are not required to crate your pet, it is a great tool to use. Our kennel team can walk you through the crate training process.
Small Animals
How much noise should I be prepared for?
Small animals make a lot of noise at night! Be prepared for a lot of scurrying and scratching.
How much of a time commitment is a small animal?
Some small animals, like hamsters, do not require a huge time commitment. Rabbits and guinea pigs, on the other hand, are very social creatures and have specific needs that take up time.
How noisy is my home?
Noisy homes can stress out a small animal. Make sure your home is the right fit!
Bonded Pairs
What are bonded pairs and what should I be prepared for?
Bonded pairs are two animals that have a special connection to each after spending a lot of time together. Many bonded pairs are opposites — one is standoffish and the other is extremely friendly. There is nothing wrong with this and that does not mean they should be separated. Be willing to open up your home to both of them because that will be the ideal situation for both animals!
Last Updated: May 26, 2022 by vbspcaadmin
Questions That You Should Be Asking When You Adopt
You did it! You decided to save a life and adopt. You’re now at your local shelter — with no idea where to start.
Adopting from a shelter is a great decision and one that saves thousands of animals at the VBSPCA Shelter every year. However, it can be a confusing process when you are faced with a mountain of paperwork and an animal that may need a little extra love.
This article will be a great guide when navigating the adoption process and what you should expect.
General Questions
Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA?
The medical care that shelter animals receive at the VBSPCA is unparalleled. Every single animal is checked out by our clinic staff upon arrival and receives a full vet exam prior to being adopted. Senior pets have bloodwork taken to give adopters a full snapshot of the animal’s health. In addition to the high level of medical care the animals receive at the VBSPCA, the staff and volunteers are dedicated to making sure every single animal receives love and attention.
Our adoption fees include a microchip, vaccines, a veterinary exam, and spay/neuter surgeries, when applicable. All puppy adoptions come with a voucher for four weeks of puppy training classes. You can find a full list of what is covered by our adoption fees here.
Why should I adopt from the VBSPCA instead of from a breeder?
Many breeders are humane and do things the right way. However, when you adopt from the VBSPCA, you are providing support to animals in need and preventing animal homelessness. When you adopt, you’re not only providing an animal a loving home, you’re making room at our shelter for another animal in need.
What should I do if I plan on moving or deploying in the future?
While moving and deployment can be difficult, it doesn’t have to be the reason you give up your friend. Make sure that you have a plan in place on how you will transport your animal if you move. If you are being deployed, our shelter staff recommends having a plan in place for pet care before coming to adopt.
Is there any specific breed experience I need before adopting my pet?
Breed does not necessarily determine temperament, but there are some traits that are stronger in some breeds. Research is your best friend in this situation, and before adopting a specific breed, make sure that you are prepared to handle their temperament before making the commitment to bring them home.
If you don’t have a specific breed in mind, our team is here to help! Our animal care technicians know each and every animal, so they can pair you with someone who will fit well in your home.
How much space do I need for my new friend?
Although you may want to give that cuddly Saint Bernard a great home, it may not be the ideal size for your two bedroom apartment. The VBSPCA team can help you find someone who will fit your home and lifestyle.
What should I bring to the shelter when I am ready to put in an application?
You should bring with you a valid Photo ID, a copy of your mortgage statement, or lease stating your landlord’s Pet Policy and your landlord’s name and phone number. If you have other pets, bring in their vaccination records and your veterinarian’s name and phone number.
Other Questions
Cats
What allergies should I be aware of?
It’s not just cat hair allergies you have to watch out for! Some people discover they are sensitive to cat litter as well. However, most cat allergies are manageable and will get better with time.
Will an older cat or younger cat be better for my living situation?
Kittens easily adapt to their new surroundings and usually adjust well to their new homes. Depending on their personality, older cats may need a specific type of household in order to thrive. Understanding what type of lifestyle you have will help in finding the right fit for your family. Our cattery team is here to help!
Dogs
Can I adopt siblings?
The VBSPCA typically does not allow siblings to be adopted together to prevent a pack mentality from forming. However, on rare occasions, we do allow bonded pairs to be adopted together due to their connection with the other dog.
Since I am adopting from a shelter, does that mean my dog will be housebroken?
Not every dog from the VBSPCA will be house trained, but many of our older dogs will often have experience in homes.
If I already have a cat, how do I make sure the dog I am hoping to adopt will get along?
We will do a cat test with either a friendly or reactive cat and determine whether that specific dog can handle having a feline friend.
Do I need to crate train?
Crate training provides a dog with a safe space and peace of mind if you need to leave your home for short periods of time. While you are not required to crate your pet, it is a great tool to use. Our kennel team can walk you through the crate training process.
Small Animals
How much noise should I be prepared for?
Small animals make a lot of noise at night! Be prepared for a lot of scurrying and scratching.
How much of a time commitment is a small animal?
Some small animals, like hamsters, do not require a huge time commitment. Rabbits and guinea pigs, on the other hand, are very social creatures and have specific needs that take up time.
How noisy is my home?
Noisy homes can stress out a small animal. Make sure your home is the right fit!
Bonded Pairs
What are bonded pairs and what should I be prepared for?
Bonded pairs are two animals that have a special connection to each after spending a lot of time together. Many bonded pairs are opposites — one is standoffish and the other is extremely friendly. There is nothing wrong with this and that does not mean they should be separated. Be willing to open up your home to both of them because that will be the ideal situation for both animals!
Category: Uncategorized, VBSPCA News Tags: Cat, Dog, Small Animal
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