Surrender

Our goal is to keep pets in loving, permanent homes for life. We understand that situations may arise in which a pet needs to be surrendered to the shelter. We ask that you contact the shelter in advance, to discuss your situation, as our staff may have solutions that enable your pet to remain with you

  • An appointment is not required to surrender an animal to the shelter, but please call ahead to check for space availability, discuss our surrender procedure and placement options.
  • We do require the owner (owner must be 18 years old or older) of the animal be present at the time of surrender. If this is not possible please call ahead to make other arrangements.
  • We will ask you to complete a background profile on your pet. This information helps staff and potential adopters get to know your pet better.
  • Bring any veterinary records for your pet as well as the name and phone number of the pet’s most current veterinarian.

The Lowell Humane Society is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization operated independently of city, state and federal governments. Our operations are funded solely by fees for services and the generosity of individuals, businesses and grant makers.

We receive nearly 3,000 animals each year at our animal shelter. Although we provide much love and the highest standards of care for animals in our shelter, it is still an extremely stressful environment for a pet accustomed to living in a home. Matching the pets in our care to appropriate adoptive homes is our number one priority, but we are not able to place every animal into a new home. Please, consider this, and commit to working through any difficulties you may be having with your pet or find an appropriate placement for your pet. Our staff is here to assist you in this process.

Before Surrendering a Pet
Please consider these alternatives to surrendering your pet to the shelter.

Veterinary Examination and Behavioral Counseling
Owning a pet can be frustrating when they are displaying unwanted behaviors such as digging, scratching, destructiveness or house soiling.  First, take your pet to his/her veterinarian for a physical exam, the behavior may be a result of a health problem.  If a health problem has been ruled out, there is help available through certified animal behaviorists.

Spaying/Neutering
Spaying and neutering your pet is not only the responsible thing to do to help in ensuring your pets long term health,  but stops unwanted sexual behaviors in both male and female pets as they mature.

Training
Any dog and their owner benefits from obedience training.  Often times the lines of communication between owner and dog become confused and result in problems.  A professional trainer will help you communicate clearly with your dog and set boundaries.

Exercise
Just like us, pets need exercise!  A bored pet is far more likely to develop behavior problems than a happily tired pet.  Consider a having a friend/pet sitter, or doggie daycare if you are unable to adequately exercise your pet during the day.

Breed Rescues
Breed rescues can provide a wealth of information about your particular breed and may be able to assist in placing your pet if need be.

Breeder
A responsible breeder is available to you throughout the life of your pet.  If you are having a problem with your pet, contact your breeder.

Please contact the shelter regarding resources for any of the above options, our staff is here to help you have a loving and successful relationship with your pet for his/her life!