GENERAL ADOPTION FAQS

AAR uses a partial “open” adoption policy. Although we have adoption applications, we focus on conversation-based adoptions designed to help you find your next best friend. All potential adopters fill-out an adoption application and interview with an AAR adoption volunteer. The adoption volunteer will conduct a meet-and-greet session with as many pets as wanted. If an adoption is approved, the adopter fills out an adoption agreement, pays the fee, and goes home with a new family member!

Because it can be devastating to the animal when adoptions don’t work out, we work in the animal and the adopter’s best interest in determining the best possible match. The potential adopter’s age, home situation, other animals in the home, and other factors (including pet deposit for renters, and fenced yard) are considered before an adoption is approved. We encourage the entire family, particularly if there are young children, to be a part of the adoption process.

Yes. All AAR cats and dogs have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated as age appropriate, de-wormed, and micro-chipped. In addition, dogs are tested for heartworm and treated if needed. Cats are tested for Feline Leukemia (FeL) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV); only cats that test negative are put up for adoption.
Because AAR never euthanizes a treatable or manageable animal, we may have cats or dogs with diabetes, partial blindness, food allergies, or other medical conditions that with the proper care have many good years ahead of them. Animals with manageable behavior issues may also be designated as ‘special needs.’ If you decide to give a special needs pet a loving home, you will be advised of these conditions and how to manage them.
Although we make every effort to temperament test cats and dogs, sometimes a change in environment will affect an animal’s behavior. But, during the adoption process, AAR will let you know everything we know about a pet’s personality.
You will be given the pet’s medical history for its time at AAR and any medical history supplied by the person who surrendered the animal to AAR.
AAR is committed to being open about an animal’s history. How much we can tell you is dependent on whether the animal was a stray or owner surrendered.
We do not hold or keep a waiting list on adoptable animals.
Yes. If space is available, AAR will take the pet back. If space is not available, AAR will work with you as needed. A return/handling fee will be deducted from any authorized refund.
All AAR pets have been cleared by AAR’s veterinarian. But most of the pets were strays; there could be conditions that did not manifest while at AAR. The adoption contract states that upon paying the fee, the adopter takes full responsibility for the pet. If you need financial help for a pet, please contact [email protected] to see if you qualify for a veterinary assistance grant.

DOG ADOPTION FAQS

Dogs under 6 months are $200.
Dogs 6 months and older are $175.

Please visit our Adopt a Dog page to see available dogs.

Yes. AAR’s Sit-to-Stay program is a multi-faceted plan that includes doggy playgroups to encourage socialization, basic training on leash walking, sitting and staying, and behavioral training as needed. Key AAR dog volunteers have attended seminars, attended dog training courses and work regularly with well-known dog trainers and behavior experts.

Yes, we prefer for you to bring your own dogs and may “hold” approving an adoption pending the dogs meeting. You will have to sign a form releasing AAR from any liability due to the dogs’ behavior with each other.

AAR adoption volunteers are familiar with the dogs’ temperaments and personalities and will work with you to find the dog that best fits your family and your circumstances.

Yes. AAR can answer questions about a dog’s behavior at the shelter, and can refer you to qualified trainers and experts in behavior rehabilitation.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

  • What will your life be like in 5 or 10 years?
  • Will you be adopting the pet by yourself or with someone?
  • How much time can you dedicate to your pet each day?
  • How much household destruction can you handle?
  • Can you afford to own an animal?
  • Can you afford an emergency vet bill of $1,000-$2,000?
  • Do you have support from others when working late or traveling?
  • What do you hope for from having a pet?
  • Do you have the time and resources for proper training?
  • Can you provide a stimulating environment for the pet?

CAT ADOPTION FAQS

Kittens under the age of six months are $75, and cats over six months old are $50. Please visit our Adopt a Cat page to see our available kittens and cats.

No. We do not declaw cats at AAR and we discourage the practice in nearly all cases. Declawing is painful, unnatural, and often leads to a variety of difficult to solve behavioral issues.
No. The cats in our cattery are not suited to being barn cats. At times, we may be able to provide information to help you locate a cat that might be suitable to life in a barn.
No. We do not encourage this in our cattery. We will, however, provide information on which cats may be most receptive to the existing pets in your household. We will also provide tips on making positive introductions.
AAR adoption counselors are familiar with each cat’s temperament and personality. They will work with you to find a cat that best meets your family and your circumstances when ever possible.
Yes. AAR can often answer questions about an adopted cat’s behavior while in foster care or in the cattery. Our information concerning background is often limited, however. Our knowledgeable cat volunteers may also be able to provide insight and suggestion that may be helpful when dealing with various cat behaviors and issues. Consulting your veterinarian or noted websites, such as Jackson Galaxy is also recommended.
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