What is Adoption?

So you have decided to add a member to your family.  There are a number of important things to think about before you come to the shelter and your heart is taken by the wonderful animals waiting there for you:

.  Cat or dog?
.  Will this animal get along with my children and any other animals I have?
.  If getting a dog, is my yard big enough and is the fence high enough / strong enough to keep it safe (if living in town)?
.  How much maintenance will this animal take (long hair, short hair)?
.  What is my physical condition and how much time do I have to devote to this animal?
.  How old an animal do I want?  Often an older animal is more mellow and their personality is defined.  And if you don't want to commit to a 10-15 year relationship, it is great to give a "senior citizen" a loving home for the rest of its life.
.  If a dog, what is its energy level (couch potato, medium, or Olympic athlete in training)?
.  Will this dog be a family dog or a working dog?

The staff at Hope's Haven Animal Shelter will be able to help you assess any animals you are interested in.  Our staff have worked with the animals and are familiar with their temperament and activity requirements.  However, it is possible an animal may react differently at your home with your family members than it did at the shelter with the staff.  We want to be certain this will be the animal's "forever home."  If the animal doesn't work out for you, we would rather you return it to us, than it be neglected, dumped, or given to someone else who may not care for it.

We reserve the right to determine and allow only suitable adoptions.

If you aren't able to find the right animal for you at our shelter, click here to find other shelters and breed rescue groups.