Adoption Process & Fees

Thank you for your interest in adopting a shelter pet.  Those interested in adopting from Women's Animal Center are encouraged to review this page for guidance  to ensure an efficient and enjoyable adoption process. 

If you are interested in a specific animal, it is important to act quickly.  As an open-admissions shelter whose primary mission is lifesaving, Women's Animal Center cannot hold animals for potential adopters that may or may not work out in the end. Shelter animals are available to all applicants who meet our adoption requirements.

Where to Begin:

You can start the adoption process by viewing the adoptable animals on our website and plan to visit the Adoption Center in person.  The animals you see on our website are all available for adoption.  Our website changes frequently as animals are adopted and new animals become available, so be sure to check regularly.  When you are ready to visit the Adoption Center, you may print an online application to fill out at home and bring with you, or fill out an adoption application when you arrive at the Center.  It is important to note the following: 

• Our Adoption Center staff are often busy conducting meet-and-greets in the shelter play yards with adoptable pets and meeting with adopting individuals and families.  If you reach out and can't connect with an adoption counselor right away, please be patient.  We will respond to all phone calls and emails as soon as we can.
• We cannot hold a specific animal for a potential adopter, so please be sure to be at the Adoption Center with all the requirements if you are interested in adopting.  You do not need an appointment to view our shelter animals, or to meet with them, so please stop by any time during our open adoption hours.
• Some of our shelter animals need a little more time to warm up and may require multiple meets before they’re able to be adopted. This helps increase their chances at success in a home. Please keep this in mind when visiting the Adoption Center.
• We do not accept adoption applications submitted via email or through the website; only in-person applications will be accepted. 

 Adoption Center Hours:

The Adoption Center is open to the public for walk-in visits. 

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday:  12:00pm - 6:30pm 

Friday and Saturday:  11:00am - 3:00pm 

What to Bring with you to the Adoption Center:

If you are interested in a dog, please plan to bring the following with you:

• If you rent a house or apartment, we require a copy of the documentation (such as a lease) from the property owner, stating that you are permitted to own a pet. You must provide this documentation before you meet a shelter pet. If there are specific requirements regarding weight and breed restrictions, that will need to be specified.
• We require at least one adult (homeowner or signer on a lease) and all children under 18 years of age to participate in the meet-and-greet with dogs to ensure that the animal in whom you're interested in adopting is suitable for your household.
• If there is an existing pet dog(s) in the household, they are also required to participate in the meet-and-greet to ensure compatibility, and to decrease the likelihood of an animal being returned to the shelter. 
• We have leashes available for purchase, but you are also welcome to bring your own. We use no-pull style collars and harnesses at Women's Animal Center, and recommend those to all dog adopters.  

If you are interested in adopting a cat, rabbit, or another small domestic animal, you are welcome to bring your own pet carrier to take your pet home. We have lightly used crates and hard-shell pet carriers available for purchase (first come-first served basis).   You likewise have the option of transporting your new pet in one of our disposable cardboard carriers.

Adoption Process

• Upon arriving at the Adoption Center, you will complete an Adoption Application and meet with one of our adoption counselors. The counselor will review your application; and discuss your personal situation and past pet history. 
• If you and the animal in whom you’re interested in adopting make a good match on paper, then you’ll get to spend some time together to ensure compatibility before a decision is made. Please note that some shelter animals need a little more time to warm up and may require multiple meets before they’re able to be adopted.
• When the adoption is approved, your new pet will undergo a final health evaluation. Women's Animal Center is committed to reducing pet overpopulation, and requires that all cats and dogs be spayed or neutered before they leave our shelter. In the majority of cases, your new pet will already have been spayed or neutered before you meet them.
• We offer special pricing for optional services at the time of adoption, including a combination test for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus for cats; as well as heartworm tests for dogs, Each of these tests are optional and cost $35.00 in addition to the adoption fee.
• You will receive brief counseling to guide you in transitioning your pet into their new home and providing them with proper care.
• You will complete final paperwork and pay the applicable adoption fee.
• If your pet has already been spayed or neutered, he or she will come home with you on the day of your adoption.

Adoption Fees

Fees include spaying or neutering, vaccinations, flea and tick treatment, microchip, and free and discounted services in Women's Animal Center Veterinary Hospital. These are our standard adoption fees and are not representative of special promotions or adoption events.

* MVP animals are those typically considered more desirable to the average adopter for reasons that may be related to breed, age, or general appearance. A higher adoption fee is attached to their MVP status.

After the Adoption

Your relationship with Women's Animal Center does not stop with the adoption of your pet. We are here for you and your new family member through a lifetime of care and companionship. All Women's Animal Center adopters receive:

• Free and discounted services in our Veterinary Hospital
• Discounts on our Dog Training Classes
• Access to our Dog and Cat Behavior Resources 

Don't hesitate to contact our Adoption Center (215.750.3100 or by Email) should you have any questions or concerns about your new pet or their adjustment into your home. Our goal is to ensure the best possible transition and outcome for all involved, and we are here to help with advice and guidance.

While not required, Women’s Animal Center recommends that all our new adopters consider purchasing pet insurance as an inexpensive way to plan for the unexpected and unbudgeted medical expenses your four-legged family member may incur over his or her lifetime.