Adoption Policies

How Pet Adoption Works

To Find the Right Forever Pet for You:

  • View our available dogs and cats online or visit with them in person at our shelter.

  • We are open to the public seven days a week, click here for our hours.

  • Adoptions must be made in person, we do not have an online application.

Hold Policies:

  • We offer two kinds of holds: a standard hold and an early-bird hold

  • Standard Hold: A $20 fee, paid when adopters have already met the pet in person and need time to think. 24-hour hold on the pet, through the end of the next business day. The $20 will be applied to the pet’s adoption fee if the adopter decides to adopt. If not, the $20 will be saved as an adoption fee credit for a future adoption (NOT another hold).

  • Early-Bird Hold: A $20 fee, paid when adopters have not yet met the pet. 24-hour hold on the pet, through the end of the next business day. The $20 is considered a donation and will not be applied to the adoption fee. The $20 will not be saved for a future hold and is considered a donation if the adopter chooses not to proceed or does not arrive to meet the pet within the 24-hour window.


Adoption Fees (vary depending on age of pet)

  • Dogs: $200 puppies under 6 months | $100 adult dogs | $50 seniors (7+ years)

  • Cats: $100 kittens under 6 months | $50 adult cats | $25 seniors (7+ years)

Additional Policies

  • All pets adopted from Second Chance are microchipped, spayed or neutered, and will have age-appropriate vaccinations.

  • Please bring a valid, government-issued ID

  • For RENTERS, we require landlord approval prior to adoption! Please bring proof when you come to adopt (e.g, a signed lease with a clear pet policy. The name must match the name on your government-issued ID.)

  • Be prepared to bring your new pet home.

  • All adopted dogs will need a collar and leash. We have them available to purchase, or you can bring your own. ID tags are also available.

  • Cats will need a carrier to go home with you.

  • Check out our Trial Adoption program.

A black cat lying on its side on a blue towel with yellow eyes, a Second Chance volunteer’s hand gently petting its head in the background.

“The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.“

– Mahatma Gandhi

Contact Us with Questions
Adding a Pet to Your Home