If You Need to Rehome Your Pet

1. You, as the pet owner, must complete the appropriate surrender request form. Submit the completed form electronically or drop it off at HSSC.
   • Canine Rehome Request Form
   • Feline Rehome Request Form 
2. You will receive confirmation from HSSC indicating we are in receipt of the form. HSSC reviews every surrender request form. However, not all pets are a candidate for the shelter and subsequent adoption.
3. If we feel your pet is a candidate for our shelter, we will contact you and place your pet on a waiting list. Once space becomes available in the shelter, we will contact you to schedule an appointment for surrender. An appointment does not guarantee acceptance into our adoption program.
4. HSSC will notify you if we cannot accommodate your request for surrender. We may be able to recommend other facilities in the area, including those listed in the Animal Resource Guide (PDF).

If You Need to Return a Newly Adopted Pet

If an adopted animal turns out to not be a good fit, the animal may be returned to HSSC within 30 days of adoption. After 30 days, adopted animals may still be returned to HSSC, but we ask the adopter to first complete the Rehome Request Form so we have updated information on the animal, including medical records. All returns are by appointment only so we can ensure we have space available. We do not charge owner surrender fees for animals that were previously adopted from HSSC.

Read the Adoption Returns Policy (PDF)

Once You Have a Scheduled Appointment

1. An appointment does not guarantee acceptance into our adoption program. 
2. Please arrive on time and allow approximately 30 minutes for the appointment. The pet owner must be present.
3. All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier.
4. All pets are tested for communicable diseases and evaluated for suitable temperament prior to admission.
5. If your pet is deemed unfit for the shelter, the behaviorist may be able to recommend other facilities in the area.
6. If your pet is accepted into the program, you will be required to sign a rehoming form. We ask that owners rehoming their pet make a monetary donation to help support the costs of care for the animal (on average, it cost HSSC $600 per animal). If you are not able to make a monetary donation towards the animal’s care, we ask if you can donate food, treats, toys, bedding, or other items belonging to the animal. 

• Pet’s crate or carrier
• All veterinary records
• Pet’s medications
• Special treats or food that your pet needs
• Your pet’s bed, toys, leash, and other belongings from home
• Your current and valid photo ID