Frequently Asked Questions
Shelter or Rescue? What’s the difference? Which are you?
We are a rescue. There are many differences between shelters and rescues, but it should be noted that both types of organizations have the same goal: to find as many unwanted pets a new and loving home. Generally speaking, a rescue is usually a non-profit organization run by a few people, and a shelter is usually government funded and staffed. A rescue usually has a small number of pets available, mostly due to their limited space; shelters usually have more space, and therefore more animals to choose from. Adoption from a rescue is going to be personal, detailed and more expensive than a shelter. Click here for a great article on rescue vs shelter.
Why are you always full?
We are always full because we endeavor to do the most that we can for the abused, neglected, and unwanted pets in the region. As soon as one pet is adopted, we take another one in. We waste no space; an open space represents a pet in need that is not getting help. We have a limited amount of space at our shelter, and overcrowding causes stress and anxiety among the pets (and the staff) that can quickly escalate to a dangerous and unhealthy environment. Having people foster pets in fact saves two lives, the pet you foster, and the unwanted pet that can be rescued in its place.
Are you really no-kill? Some places claim to be, but really are not.
We are as no-kill as you can get. Pets that reach us are guaranteed life, until their quality of life diminishes to the point that euthanization is humane thing to do. Pets that have come to us as puppies and kittens have stayed with us for many, many years before their right match comes along; Jimmie is a good example of that. We do not euthanize any pet at our shelter because they have been here too long, or they are not perfect, or they are the wrong color, or they are too old, or just to make space. Jondo and Twain are two more examples of our long term residents.
What do you charge to adopt a pet?
Our adoption fees start at $125 for cats, and $250 for dogs. That fee helps cover the cost of preparing the pet for adoption. Every pet we adopt has been spayed or neutered, dewormed, is current with all of their vaccinations, been tested for heartworms and has been microchipped.
What if I move and cannot take the pet with?
While that would be tragic and heartbreaking, know that you can return your pet to us, no matter what. That could be after 1 day, or 1 week, or a year or 10 years. If you cannot keep a pet you adopted from us, we will take it back unconditionally. Leon was one of our returned pets, read Leon’s story here. Our full return policy is simple and short.
Can I adopt a pet today?
We do not do same day adoptions or fosters. You first need to fill out an application, and our staff will need time to review it. For more about the application process, please click here.
What can I do to help?
There are so many ways you can help. You can become a volunteer, or you can make a donation, or you could consider becoming a foster for one of our pets. Contact us to find out more, and see where you can help.
I have stuff I want to donate, where can I bring it?
There are any number of ways you can get your donations to us, including having us come and pick them up. Please contact us to let us know what you have to donate and when we can arrange a time to do it.
How much does it cost to have a pet?
There is no easy answer to that question, because each pet’s needs are different. As you consider the cost of owning a pet, be sure to count the obvious stuff like food, heartworm and flea medication, treats, toys, and annual visits to the vet. Then add in the cost of collars and leashes (yes, leashes for cats, I have personally seen it), beds, dog training classes, boarding or pet sitters, and most importantly, the cost of an emergency vet visit, which can be quite costly. There is so much more cost to owning a pet than just the adoption fee.
It must break your heart each time you adopt out a dog or cat. How do you do it?
There is no denying that we get attached to each of these pets. Like people, they all have distinct personalities, and you get to know and love each one as an individual. And, yes, when the day comes to send them to their forever home, it is difficult and met with mixed emotions. While it is hard to see a friend leave forever, we have the knowledge that the family taking the pet has been thoroughly checked out so we know it is going to be safe, loved, and well cared for. And every dog or cat we adopt out, opens a space for another one to be rescued.
