The Adoption Process

Adoption Requirements and Fees

To adopt a pet from GIHS, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.

• Have a U.S. government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID.

• Verify that you are allowed to have a pet of the breed and size where you currently live.

• Be able to spend the time and resources necessary to provide the training, medical treatment and proper care for your pet.

• Bring along all family members (including children) to meet your new cat or dog. Be sure to bring any resident dogs if you are adopting a dog. 

• If pet is ready, be able to take the pet home on the day of adoption.

• Be available to spend up to an hour with an Adoption Counselor to discuss the responsibility of owning a pet and making a lifetime commitment.

• Spay or neuter any resident pets before you adopt. This is the most important thing you can do to help stop pet overpopulation, and also gives your pet many health and behavioral benefits!*

*We understand there are some responsible reasons why you might choose to not spay or neuter your pet. If that is the case in your home, please bring along the related veterinary records and ask to speak to a manager who will help determine whether we are able to approve your application to adopt.