Adoption Process

Choosing a Pet, the Steps

  • See available animals online or come into the shelter.
  • Come into the shelter and meet the animals.
  • When there is an animal you are interested in, fill out an application. Filling out an application does not mean the application is approved, it is a starting place. We provide adoption counseling to make the best possible placement based on the needs of both your family and the animal. Your request may be denied.

Adoption Requirements

  • All members of the household must visit with the animal prior to adoption. Once the animal has passed its behavior assessment, interested parties may visit in one of our get acquainted areas.
  • Shelter dogs must also visit with all dogs that are already in the home.
  • No one under 18 years of age may adopt an animal. Valid identification is required.
  • Adoption fee is payable at the time of adoption. Since fees are collected for services rendered prior to adoption, all fees are non-refundable.
  • If the animal has not yet been spayed or neutered, it will be scheduled for the next available surgery date and released once it has recovered. The cost of surgery will be included in the adoption fee.
  • Landlord approval is required in writing at the time of adoption.
  • Homeowners outside of Fremont, Newark, or Union City must provide proof of ownership such as property tax or mortgage statement.

Black Lab Puppy

Ginger Cat

Rabbit outside on grass

Waiting Lists

The shelter does not maintain a general interest list for any type or breed of animal. References to local private rescue groups (many breed-specific) can be provided by shelter staff. Online adoption sites such as Adopt-A-Pet, PetHarbor, and PetFinder can be helpful in searching for specific animals.

Prior to the first date the animal is available, interested parties may apply for the individual animal’s waiting list by visiting the shelter.

No adoption reservations will be taken by phone. 

In person adoption reservations are limited to one per household, and one animal at a time. This step does not apply if the animal is already available, and does not guarantee the animal will be adoptable. No holds will be made on available animals and adoptions are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Have you found an animal you would like to adopt? Fill out an application and come into the shelter.