ADOPT

​We are so happy you're considering adoption! Our adoption process was established to help find the best possible fit for both adopter and animal. Please feel free to call (440.224.1222) or email ([email protected]) if you have any questions about adopting!

AVAILABLE PETS

Make a difference for an animal in need by providing a loving, forever home for them! We have many adoptable animals awaiting a family within our shelter. 
Browse our Adoptable Dogs, Adoptable Cats, and other Small Pets to find your fit.

Adoptable Dogs

Adoptable Cats

Adoptable Small Pets

ADOPTION PROCESS

1. Fill out an Adoption Application online or in-person at the shelter
2. Schedule an appointment or walk-in during our public open hours to meet potential matches. We suggest scheduling an appointment to reduce your wait time. 
3. Schedule a Dog Meet n' Greet if you are planning to adopt a dog and already have a dog(s). We require a Dog Meet n' Greet prior to adoption to ensure your dog(s) are compatible with the dog you plan to adopt. This can be done as a second appointment after your initial meet and greet.
4. Decide if you would like to officially adopt the animal. This is not a “for now” decision, this is a “for the life of the pet” decision. See "Things to Consider Before Adopting" below. If you cannot make this commitment to the pet, please hold off on adopting. Almost all of our dogs and cats had a family once; we want to see them go to a family for life.
5. If the pet you plan to adopt is not yet fixed, (ALL pets must be spayed or neutered prior to being officially adopted) in some cases we can coordinate a Foster-to-Adopt contract and send the pet home with you; however, you will need to return the pet within 2 weeks for spay/neuter before proceeding with adoption.

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​THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ADOPTING

Pets are a multi-year commitment! 

• The average lifespan for an indoor cat is 10 - 20 years 
• The average lifespan for a small dog is 10 - 15 years 
• The average lifespan for a large dog is 9 - 12 years

But each of these animals can live much longer than the average lifespan!

Who will care for your pet if...

• You take an extended vacation?
• You move to a residence that doesn't allow pets?
• You become seriously injured or pass away?

Financial Responsibility
Besides paying a one-time adoption fee, adding a pet to your family is a financial commitment. Pets require food, bedding, toys, litter (cats), and sometimes grooming, training, medicine, and supplements. They also need to visit a veterinarian regularly for check-ups or may need emergency medical care. 

• The ASPCA recommends you budget $53 per month to spend on owning a cat.
• The ASPCA recommends you budget between $42 to $87 per month (depending on size) to spend on owning a dog.

Time, Energy, and Emotional Commitment
It's very important to spend time with a pet(s) and give them plenty of attention. They need and deserve to feel like they are wanted and loved, and it's crucial that you put effort into building and maintaining a relationship with your pet. 

You can do this by:

• Playing with your pet (toys don't have to be expensive!)
• Taking your dog on a walk
• Petting and cuddling them
• Talking to them calmly and lovingly
• Creating routines for feeding, playing, walks, nap time, etc.
• Building trust by being emotionally & behaviorally consistent with your pet and reinforcing positive pet behaviors
• Caring for them by providing high-quality food, clean water, grooming, and getting them to the vet when they're sick

ADOPTION APPLICATION

POST-ADOPTION INFO

RODENT RANGERS