Adoption

Our adoption fees take into consideration the value of adoption when all of a pet's routine medical costs are included. In most cases, the cost of adoption does not cover the costs that are incurred for an animal. We proudly fundraise to help offset the costs and to ensure that our animals get a second chance at life!

Due to an increased volume of inquiries surrounding adoptions, we have provided the bulk of information here.  We kindly ask that you reference our website before calling/emailing to get your answers quickly:

• Available animals will appear on our website when they are ready for adoption: see our cats, dogs, and small animals
• As soon as an animal is available, applications are open
• You will see the animals location beside their name: ie. Fluffy - Kitchener or Fido - Stratford.  We do not transfer animals, they must be adopted from the location they are posted.
• If you have seen an animal on our social media and they don't appear on this webpage, they are not available yet or have already been adopted.  
• We are not able to accept applications for animals that are not seen on our website and at this time, will not be responding to applicants that submit an application for animals that are not ready for adoption.  We are not able to accept applications in order of submission, that are incomplete.
• We do not know when animals will be available in advance.  When they are ready, we will post on our website. 
  
• If your application is selected to meet with an animal, please be prepared to come in to the center and finalize the adoption within 24-48 hours. 
• Please remember that animals are coming back from foster care to the centres for their meet and greets.  They will be experiencing a new environment and meeting new people, which means they may not exhibit the same behaviours they did in their foster videos or while in foster care.  
• Please note that our primary concern is the welfare of the pet. Some may have experienced emotional or physical trauma, so we do reserve the right to select the most appropriate home for each pet.
• Please note that age requirements are based off of the behaviour we see from the animal while in our centre and are set to ensure we are not setting the animal up for failure. Age restrictions are not a decision that we take lightly.
• Prior to going home with your new pet, we’ll review all health and behaviour information, including vaccines or obedience training recommendations.
• For dog adoptions: Every resident in the home (including dogs) must come in and meet the dog.

You’re ready to adopt a pet – we’re thrilled!  What should you expect from the adoption process though?  Here are a few of our most asked questions.

What should potential adopters consider before adopting a pet at KWSPHS?

Our goal is to find the best match possible for adopters and the animals in our care. We have our potential adopters complete a survey so we can be fully educated on what type of personality you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for a buddy to watch TV with, or a sidekick to run that 10k, we’re here to help you find the perfect match.

Pet ownership is a wonderful experience, but it also comes with a financial responsibility. To help you determine if pet ownership is something that you can financially manage at this time, check out these great resources from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association on the cost of owning a dog and the cost of owning a cat.

How long does the adoption process take?

We ask that you have approximately 45 minutes for the counselling process. It can take longer if you need to do a meet-and-greet with your current pets. Then we have to complete the adoption agreement and paperwork. If the pet you’re adopting is already spayed or neutered, they can go home the same day. We do allow for 24 hour holds in the event you need to get your home ready for your new furry friend. In some cases, the pet may not be ready to go home the same day of adoption, and our staff will be happy to outline when you can pick them up.

We believe taking our time and answering all of your questions is a big part of ensuring the adoption process and transition into the home is a smooth one.

Ready to apply? Great!  Please click on the site they are located and follow the next steps!

KITCHENER WATERLOO ANIMAL CENTRE                        STRATFORD PERTH ANIMAL CENTRE

Following your meet-and-greet appointment, if you and your new friend appear to be a match, please be prepared to take your new family member home with you that day. 

Equipment needed to go home

Dogs – will require a collar and leash

Cats – will require a carrier.  We also sell cardboard carriers (one time use) here at the centre should you need one.

Small Animals – an appropriate carrier depending on species. 

Should you have any questions about suitable carriers, please don’t hesitate to ask our adoption staff!

A smooth transition into your new home

Our team is happy to answer any questions you have about transitioning your pet into their new home.  We also provide adopters with a comprehensive guide in your adoption kit to help answer many of the common questions new adopters have.