Adopters MUST complete the Adoption Application in person at the shelter, be approved by one of our experienced Adoption Counselors, and be at least 21 years old. Adopters must also be allowed to have a pet where they live and be willing and able to spend the time and money necessary to provide training, medical attention, and proper care for their new pet.  Applications can not be emailed and are not available on the website.  Our primary focus is finding a FOREVER home for the life of the dog/cat and matching the environment to the animal.  

Adoption fees vary. Currently, Kittens under 1 year-$85, Cats-$75, Puppies under 1 year-$300, young adult dogs (1-2 yrs. old)-$250, adult dogs-$200. Purebred or Senior dog prices may vary. Please check the specific pet’s kennel card or ask at the shelter if there are any questions about fees.

We are unable to "hold" any pets or take deposits.  We want all of our pets to have the best opportunities to find the perfect home for their needs.  

As much as we’d like to, we unfortunately don’t have the resources to keep up with potential adopter’s requests. Our animal population changes frequently, so the best thing to do is keep checking our Adoptable Pets page, our Facebook page, and Instagram feed. If there is one who strikes your fancy, come on down and get acquainted!

We screen all of our adoption applications and check all references carefully, therefore it will take a day or so before you can take home your new pet.

When a potential adopter already owns a dog, our Adoption Counselors schedule a “Meet and Greet”  with your current pets to determine if the animals are a good fit for each other. If you currently own only a cat and/or are adopting a new cat, a “Meet and Greet” is generally not required.

All of our cats and dogs are spayed or neutered before leaving the building. Every animal will be as up-to-date on their vaccinations as age permits and will be microchipped. All details regarding medical and vaccination history will be provided at adoption.

We love updates! Send photos, tell us your stories … and with your permission, we also love to share your email updates and digital photos on our Facebook page, Instagram feed and website! Send updates to info@hslwr.org or to your Adoption Counselor.

If an adopted animal needs to be surrendered back to the HSLWR, it must be done by appointment only and the original Adoption Fee will not be refunded. If you have any questions, please refer to your Adoption Contract.