Adoption Process
Everything you need to know about adopting from PAWS.
Thank you for your interest in adopting a PAWS Animal Rescue dog or cat! Visit us Saturdays 11am–1pm at our shelter (1530 N Lowell Avenue, Pierre, SD) or email Pets4adoption@yahoo.com with any questions or concerns.
Please note that it may take a few days for us to review your application, check references, and set up appointments.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BEFORE APPLYING!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is our adoption process?
Submit an adoption application, making sure to complete each question thoroughly. Once submitted, the following steps will take place:
- Vet Reference — Please call your vet and let them know we will be reaching out, and that it is okay to give us information about your pet history.
- Landlord/HOA Reference — If you have a landlord or HOA, we will contact them to make sure the animal we place with you fits within their guidelines.
- Personal References — We call each reference just to get a feel for what type of dog might be best for your family!
- Pre-Adoption Home Visit — EVERYONE THAT LIVES IN THE HOME MUST BE PRESENT FOR THE HOME VISIT. We are simply making sure the home is safe for a PAWS pet, as each animal has different needs and personalities. We are not here to judge your home, just trying to ensure the safety of our animals and making sure it is the proper fit! PLEASE NOTE, WE DO NOT BRING ANIMALS ALONG TO HOME VISITS.
- Results of References & Home Visit — Results will be submitted to our Adoption Team, who will then reach out to you as well as the foster of the dog(s) you are interested in to set up a time to meet your family. We encourage you to meet on neutral ground if you have other dogs in your home and are adopting a dog. The application, as well as the home visit, must both be completed and approved before a dog can be met.
- Adoption is final! — Please note, adoption fees are non-refundable if the dog needs to be returned for any reason.
What are our adoption fees and what is included?
All adoption fees include tax. Here's what's included:
Cats — $100
Includes Leukemia/FIV testing, vaccines (distemper, rabies), deworming, flea/tick/mite treatment, and spay/neuter.
Dogs (1 year and older) — $175
Includes vaccines (Parvo, Bordetella, rabies if age-appropriate), deworming, flea/tick prevention, and spay/neuter.
Puppies (under 1 year) — $220
Includes same vaccines, deworming, flea/tick prevention, and spay/neuter. A deposit is required if the spay/neuter has not been completed at the time of adoption.
Adoption fees are non-refundable if the pet needs to be returned for any reason.
What happens after my application is approved?
Our adoption team will reach out to coordinate meeting the pet. They will work with both you and the foster family to find a time and place that works for everyone.
Other FAQ's?
Contact us at Pets4adoption@yahoo.com and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Ready to Apply?
Start the process today and take the first step toward welcoming a rescue pet into your family.