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Adoption Services
The Houston SPCA always has many great animals looking for new homes. Our adoption program places more animals into loving homes than all other area shelters combined!
Click on the links below to see all of the animals waiting for adoption in our shelter...
(Please be aware you may experince a longer wait time during weekends/evenings)
How do I adopt a pet?
We suggest that you first stop at the shelter adoption center. Highly trained adoption counselors will help you in making the perfect match.
What do I need to bring in order to adopt?
In order to be considered as an adopter:
- You must be 18 years of age or older
- Have legal identification showing your present address
- Have the knowledge and consent of all adults living in your household
- Have the adoption fee in either credit card, cash or check (If paying by check, you must have a valid Texas Drivers License. Address on Drivers License must match address on check for check acceptance).
How much does it cost to adopt?
Puppies/Small Dogs in the Spot Peabody Room - $195
Purebred Dogs - $195
Large Dogs - $95
Kittens - $95
Cats $65
Ferrets- $75.00
Rabbits - $30.00
Guinea Pigs- $15.00
Small Rodents- $3.00
Cockatiel- $35.00
Parakeets- $10.00
Finches (common)- $5.00
For dogs and cats, your adoption fee includes:
- Your new companion
- Health Evaluation
- Microchip
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Initial set of vaccines
- FeLV/FIV testing ($25 additional fee)
- Rabies vaccination (three months of age or older)
- Deworming
- Heartworm testing for dogs (six months of age and older)
- One
adoption gift courtesy of Hill’s Science Diet for all cats & dogs
- Free first exam with VCA Animal Hospitals
What if I see an animal I like?
Hanging on each cage is a clear plastic pocket containing some paperwork. The animal's age, sex, breed and sterilization status are listed. Inside the pocket you may find a "Pet Personality Profile." Previous owners are asked to complete a profile on the animal's behavior, personality and medical background.
What if I don't see an animal I like?
Don't give up. We get new pets in all the time, and you're bound to find that perfect match.
What about Spaying and Neutering?
The Houston SPCA is working hard to prevent pet overpopulation. Last year the HSPCA received more than 39,000 dogs, cats and other animals. All animals must be spayed or neutered before they leave the shelter.
Why do I want a pet?
This may seem like an obvious question, but please seriously consider why you wish to adopt a pet before visiting our shelter. Is it because the children are crying for a cat, and you want to pacify them? Is it because a friend just adopted a dog, and it looks like fun? Make sure that you and your family are prepared to make a serious, lifetime commitment to the animal you choose. Remember, this commitment may last 15 years or more!
What kind of lifestyle do I lead?
Do you travel frequently, or work late hours? Companion animals require constant care and cannot be ignored. Many animals require exercise and outdoor activity. Can you make the time to provide for the health of your new pet? Do you have the patience to deal with raising a puppy or kitten?
Can I afford a pet?
Owning a pet requires a financial investment as well as an emotional one. Your pet will need food, annual vaccinations, toys, grooming supplies, regular veterinary treatment, flea & tick prevention, and much more. You also need to consider the expenses if your pet gets sick. The total annual cost for your pet may be more than $500 per year!
Does everyone in my household agree with adopting a pet?
Bringing a companion animal into your home requires the commitment and cooperation of the entire family. The HSPCA discourages the practice of "surprising" someone with the gift of a living creature (Gift Certificates are an available alternative). Remember, too, that children cannot be considered the primary care-giver for the pet. Ultimately, it is the parent or adult guardian who must be responsible for the well-being of the animal.
Am I prepared to deal with potential behavior problems?
Housetraining, barking, biting, digging, scratching on furniture, litterbox "accidents", spraying, and general misbehaving are just a few of the problems you might encounter. Are you patient enough, and willing to take the time to train your new companion to be a good pet citizen? The HSPCA strongly recommends professional training to prevent and correct behavioral problems. Are you able to afford this type of financial, emotional, and time commitment?
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