Adoption Fees

Standard Adoption Fees

Puppies-$375 effective August 27th, 2007
(including Homebound Hounds and SATOs)
Adult Dogs- $100 + - $ 375
(over 1 yr. - including Homebound Hounds and SATOs)
Kittens - $150
Adult Cats - $50 - $100
(1-5 yrs.)(over 5 yrs., unless you qualify for SENIORS FOR SENIORS PROGRAM)

The shelter accepts VISA, Mastercard, Discover, ATM cards or cash. We DO NOT accept Checks.

Your Adoption Fee Includes:

  • All animals are spayed or neutered at 6 WEEKS of age before leaving the shelter (average cost: $150-$300)
  • All cats leaving the shelter are Feline Leukemia/FIV tested (average cost: $50)
  • All animals will have shots up-to-date according to their age. Including Rabies over 12wks of age (average cost: $15), Distemper (average cost: $15), Wormed if necessary (average cost: $10-25 per worming). Any other necessary medical care. Average cost of shots: totals $50+
  • Pets will leave the shelter with any necessary medication/treatment/wormers (average cost $10-$100)
  • Dogs will be provided with a leash and collar and ID TAG (average cost: $20)
  • Cats will be provided with a cat carrier (average cost: $10)
  • All pets will receive a free bag of food ($10 value)
  • All animals will receive one free PHYSICAL with a VCA Animal Hospital (average cost: $40-50)

All adoption fees are subject to change without notice. The shelter reserves the right to charge more or less for purebreds, puppies, special medical conditions, etc. The shelter reserves the right to deny an adoption to anyone for any reason at any time.

You can be a Responsible Caregiver...

  • License your pet according to your local laws and have him/her wear an ID tag at all times, showing your name, address and phone number.
  • Make your sure pet is an indoor pet only! Your cat or dog should live inside where its safe.
  • Keep your dog or cat on a leash or under your control whenever you take him/her outside for exercise. This will protect your pet from injuries caused by cars, other animals or theft.
  • Spay or neuter your pet. This will help him/her healthier and will reduce the problem of dog/cat overpopulation.
  • Give your pet a nutritious diet, including constant access to clean water.
  • Provide your pet with plenty of exercise.
  • Be sure your pet receives proper vet care and keep up with the necessary vaccination.
  • Train your pet patiently and give him or her lots of praise and attention.
  • Groom your pet often to keep their coat and skin soft and shiny.
  • Have realistic expectations about your pet. Nobody is perfect. Make a commitment to work through behavior and health problems that arise. Don't just get rid of your pet!
  • Visit your local animal shelter when its time to bring a new pet into your family.

The Cost of Pet Ownership

Have you really considered the cost of pet ownership? Listed below are things you should consider before adopting a pet. Please read carefully and decide if you are ready for the commitment and responsibility of owning and properly caring for a pet! Having and loving a pet is not a right, but a privilege! The following items reflect the average costs of properly caring for a 40-50 lb. dog. Larger dogs cost a bit more, small dogs cost a bit less. This list is for information purposes only.

  • $20 per month ($240 per year) for a premium food such as Science Diet, Iams, or Pro Plan (costs based on 40 lb. bags of food, 20 lbs. consumed per month)
  • $10 per month ($120 per year) for various dog treats
  • $100 - $300 for annual vaccinations and heartworm checks and medications as preventative
  • $40 - $65 for a year's supply of heartworm prevention
  • $70+ for flea/tick prevention
  • $20+ for each grooming session
  • $14 - $50 per night for boarding the pet, or having a pet sitter come in during your vacations
  • $50 - $150 for toys and miscellaneous items (this can go much higher!)
  • $50 - $150 for a crate
  • Obedience training (highly recommended!) - $120 for an 8 week program. Some programs offer discounts for rescued pets.
  • Fencing - Actual or Electronic can cost hundreds or thousands.
  • Older dogs often have more medical expenses (just like people!)

Please use our automated phone system to answer your questions as staff is extremely limited and we don't always have time to answer the phones. Email us at: staff@sterlingshelter.org.

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