The Adoption Process

• How long does the adoption process take?

  It varies. The VHS wants to get your pet home as soon as possible. The time it takes to process an adoption may differ slightly based on the individual animal’s needs. Sometimes animals can leave the same day, or other times they may need to have a medical procedure done within a few days before leaving.
  
  Keep in mind that the VHS spays or neuters all of our dogs, cats, rabbits, and pigs prior to them going home with their new families. If you select a pet that is not altered yet, it must stay overnight for 1-2 business days to have surgery before going home. This is included in your adoption fee.
  
  If your new pet is already spayed or neutered, they can potentially go home with you the same day with approved application and payment! Some common holdups during the application process include:

  - verifying pet policies with landlords
  - receiving vet records for your current animals.

  If you can bring copies of your lease/pet policy, and current pets' vet records, it will save time!

• What do I need to bring with me to adopt?

  The only paperwork required for all adoptions is a valid photo ID and a completed VHS adoption application (see below.) A copy of a lease or pet policy for renters may be requested, along with vet records for any current animals in the home to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations.
  
  It is always important to the VHS to ensure that our animals find permanent homes. We encourage adopters to spend as much time as possible with the animal and to consider all that is involved with caring for a dependent pet before making the decision to bring one into your home. Adopters are welcome, and encouraged, to bring in children and other pets to determine compatibility. Our Adoption Counselors are trained to help you find the best match for your family and lifestyle.
  
  Lastly, be sure to bring an open mind and an open heart! You may fall in love with an animal you least expected once you arrive!

• Can I adopt from out-of-state?

  Absolutely! Anyone who can come to our facility can adopt, regardless of residency. 

  A few things to keep in mind if you live outside the area:
  
  Potential adopters must physically visit with their new family member and get to know each other before finalizing the adoption, and a signed contract is required (in person.) Adoptions may not yet be finalized over the phone or online.
  
  If your new dog, cat, or rabbit is not fixed, they must stay behind to have surgery and be picked up at a later date. This may mean you’ll have to make a couple of trips. We try to get animals fixed ahead of time, but when the Clinic has a heavy public surgery schedule this isn't always possible.
  
  If for any reason you ever can’t keep your adopted animal, they must be returned to our shelter per the legal adoption contract you will sign at the time of adoption. They cannot be "rehomed" or turned into another agency. They would need to be transported back to our building.