Adoption Process

Please visit the shelter;  we have more dogs available for adoption than are posted on this website.  We’re open Tuesday – Saturday 10:30 am – 4:30 pm, closed Sundays and Mondays.

 

Adoption Fees

The cost to adopt a dog is $90. This includes:

  • DHLP, Parvo Vaccination & Rabies Vaccination
  • Spay/Neuter
  • Adoption Kit with 5 free pounds of Bil Jac™ Dog Food
  • A Cuyahoga County dog license

Also…Dogs are treated for roundworm if indicated.  All dogs will be spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter.  If surgery is postponed because of the dog’s health, you MUST return the dog for surgery when designated by the shelter. Every attempt is made to bathe and groom dogs while they are housed in our kennels. Although dogs are initially vaccinated, you should contact a licensed veterinarian for a medical examination and further shots as needed (such as rabies or boosters).

 

In addition to the adoption fee, a $30 spay/neuter deposit is required for dogs who, for health reasons, are unable to be altered before leaving the shelter. A refund check will be mailed after the surgery. If a spay/neuter deposit is required and you wish to pay by check, a separate check, in the amount of $30, will be required for the spay/neuter deposit. Your check will be processed and a County check will be issued for your refund AFTER the spay/neuter.

 

Adoption Considerations

Adopting a dog is a lifetime commitment. The cost of food, toys, veterinary care, and other items can easily reach $300 or more per year.

 

Many dogs are destroyed for behavior problems. You must be prepared for house-training, and dealing with normal behavior problems such as chewing, barking, digging, etc. Please be sure that you have considered the financial and emotional commitment required in owning a dog.

 

Adoption Questionnaire

Our staff will ask these questions in order to correctly place the right dog with you. This information is confidential and will be used only to assist our staff in determining the best possible placement. Please spend the time necessary to make the best possible decision for you AND the dog you may adopt.

 

Remember that before adopting, you must:

1. Be 18 years of age or older
2. Have identification showing your current address
3. Have consent to own a dog from your landlord (if you are a tenant)