Adoption

The goal of our adoption program is to match the animals in our care with the appropriate forever home. Likewise, we are here to help you find the right pet for your needs. To assist us in the matchmaking process, we have developed guidelines and a simple adoption process for prospective adopters. Please understand that this process is not intended to frustrate anyone, but to prepare adopters for the life long commitment to their pet.

Be realistic about your expectations and time you have to devote:

• Do you work long hours?
• Do you like to get outdoor exercise or are you more of a couch potato?
• Do you have furniture or rugs that you are concerned about being soiled or scratched?
• Does anyone in your home have allergies?

It may take several months for your new pet to fully settle in. Are you prepared to give a pet this time to adjust and for training?

Adopting a pet requires a financial commitment for the life of the animal. Familiarize yourself with the costs (check with veterinarians, pet supply stores, trainers, etc.) and be prepared to commit to the animal’s care for life.

Adopting a pet is a personal decision. Because we are making a match, we do not adopt out pets as gifts or to be given to other people.

We are open for visitation and adoption:
Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun 12-4
Mondays CLOSED
All other services are by appointment only.

• You must be 18 years or older to adopt an animal. A valid ID is required
• If you own your home, please bring with you proof of homeownership; a mortgage receipt, tax bill, water bill, or deed will suffice
• If you rent, please bring with you a copy of your lease which states the type of pet you are interested in and that it is accepted or the name and phone of your landlord so we can verify the pet is allowed. Inquire with your landlord ahead of time about any size or breed restrictions they may have
• Please check with your home owner’s insurance company or landlord to find out if they have any restrictions on the breed of dog they may cover or allow
• For the health and safety of the pet you are interested in adopting and your existing pets, we ask that your existing pet(s) is current with their vaccinations and/or be under the care of a veterinarian. It is strongly encouraged that all other cats/dogs/rabbits be spayed or neutered. We are able to call your veterinarian if you do not have current paperwork available
• A new pet is a family decision and we ask that all members of your family agree on the suitability for your household and the primary caretaker should meet the animal prior to adoption

• Visit our shelter or view the  Available Pets section of our website to see all of the animals that are currently available for adoption
• If you don’t see an animal that is a good fit for your household at this time, keep checking the website regularly. We update it daily as new animals become ready for adoption
• If you do see an animal that would be a good fit for your household (please note any restrictions i.e. kids, other pets, etc.) please visit the shelter, reach out by  email or phonecall to the shelter at (978) 452-7781 to inquire
• Adoption applications will be accepted in person and via email (scanned, faxed, or photographed for upload)
• Adoptions are on a first come, first serve basis (with approved application)
• We accept backup applications for animals in case the first application falls through. You will be notified if you were first to submit, or are a backup
• We will not place a hold on a pet without you meeting the pet first (unless there are special circumstances, such as a long drive to get to our shelter or it is a pet with special needs)
• If the initial meet & greet goes well, you can typically adopt and take the animal home that day! Please be prepared to bring your new pet home if all goes well by having supplies purchased and a carrier with you

• All cats, dogs, and rabbits must be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. If the pet you are interested in is not yet spayed/neutered, they can be placed on hold for you with an approved application until their appointment
• If you are interested in adopting a rabbit, guinea pig, bird, or small caged pet, please send a photo of the enclosure/cage/pen you will be housing your pet in along with your application
• Please bring a carrier with you to take your new pet home OR purchase a cardboard carrier from us for an additional $5.
• Multiple meet and greets may apply to certain adoptions, particularly when introductions between the potentially adopted dog and existing dog in the household need to meet
• If you have any further questions about the process, please feel free to reach out: 978-452-7781. Our phone lines are open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12:00- 4 pm

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ADOPTION FEES AND WHAT IS INCLUDED

• You must be 18 years or older to adopt an animal. A valid ID is required.
• If you own your own home, please provide proof of homeownership; a mortgage receipt, tax bill, water bill, or deed will suffice.
• If you rent, please bring your lease which states the type of pet you are interested in and that it is accepted or the name and phone of your landlord so we can verify the pet is allowed. Inquire with your landlord about any size or breed restrictions.
• Please check with your home owner’s insurance company or landlord to find out if they have any restrictions on the breed(s) of dog they cover. Common breeds that may not be covered include Pit Bulls, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds.
• For the health and safety of the pet you are interested in adopting and your existing pets, we ask that you provide proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter status for pets in your home. (We may be able to call your veterinarian if you do not have a copy available.)
• A new pet is a family decision and we ask that all members of your family meet the pet and agree on the suitability for your household.
• If you already have a dog(s) in your home please bring the dog(s) with you to meet the dog you are considering to see if they are compatible.
• Talk with a staff member for more information about the animal you are considering adopting, and then fill out the adoption application which will be provided to you.