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Adoption FAQs
To adopt from CARE, you must:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Provide a secure, stable, and loving home environment.
– Be committed to providing proper veterinary care for your adopted pet.
1. What is CARE’s Match-Making Process?
At CARE, we take a personalized, conversation-based approach to matching people with their ideal companion animals. We aim to ensure the best fit by learning about your lifestyle, preferences, and what you are looking for in a pet. We strive to create connections that enhance people's and animals' lives.
2. I'm ready! What do I do?
Great! Here’s how to get started:
– You can apply to adopt in person at the shelter or save time by completing it online beforehand. This helps us learn about your home, existing pets, and general lifestyle to ensure the best match for you and the pet.
Next Steps:
– Visit our shelter at 2700 Walnut Place, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Adoption Hours:
> Mondays – Fridays: 1 – 7pm
> Saturdays and Sundays: 1 – 6pm
3. What if I’m Not Sure Which Animal to Adopt?
No problem! Whether you have a specific pet in mind or want to explore your options, our team of adoption counselors is here to help. Please drop by the shelter, meet our animals, and let us guide you in finding the perfect companion. For a smoother experience, we recommend completing an adoption application in advance.
4. How Much Does It Cost to Adopt?
The adoption fee is $50 for all animals, including adult dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens. However, we often hold special adoption events where the fee is waived—keep an eye out for these opportunities! Adoption fees for dogs in our LifeSavers Program are always waived. Payments are often made online, but you can also pay via cash or check.
5. What paperwork needs to be filled out if I want to adopt an animal?
The initial application is online. When you find the perfect fit, we have additional paperwork that needs to be completed for adopting an animal at the shelter or in foster.
6. Has every animal had a medical exam?
Animals receive an exam and vaccinations when they come into the shelter. If they are diagnosed with a medical condition it is addressed and treated by our clinic staff. Any necessary information will be disclosed to the potential foster/adopter so they can determine if they want to move forward to continue care of the animal.
7. Are dogs tested for heartworm before being released for adoption?
Dogs are typically tested for heartworm at the time of their spay/neuter.
8. Are all animals altered before being released for adoption?
All dogs can be fostered or foster-to-adopt, but they must be spayed/neutered before the adoption is finalized. The adoption is typically finalized the same day as spay/neuter for foster-to-adopt.
9. Can I get a copy of my new pet's medical records?
Yes. At the time the adoption is completed the full medical history and microchip information will be sent to you via email. You can also request a paper copy anytime.
Important Information
Do you have questions? Please email us at adopt@icarestl.org
– Please allow up to 48 hours for your application to be processed.
– The fastest way to meet adoptable animals is to complete an online application and visit us during our adoption hours:
> Monday – Fridays: 1pm – 7pm
> Saturdays and Sundays: 1pm – 6pm
We look forward to helping you find your perfect pet match!
Our Adoption Pledge
We are committed to finding the best possible forever homes for our companion animals while maintaining the safety of our animals and the public.
To do so, we reserve the right to:
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deny any applicant; completing this application does NOT guarantee approval for adoption
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perform a home visit or request additional references
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Provide additional education and resources
CARE STL pledges complete transparency about our adoptable companion animals concerning any KNOWN OR OBSERVED behaviors in the following areas:
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their background
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their health, temperament, and/or behavioral issues