It is our policy at SMAWL to place each of our rescued animals in a home that is well suited to their needs. We work at matching our animals to adopters by considering temperament, special needs, and personalities. Our goal is for each animal to find their forever home.
If the adopter is, at any time, unable to keep or continue to maintain the animal for any reason, the animal may not be sold, given away, or otherwise transferred. Per our contract, the animal must be returned to us.
Adoption Fees subject to change:
- under 2 years: $125.00
- over 2 years: $75.00
About Our Adoption Process
Animals Available For Adoption
What to Expect During this process
Step #1: The Adoption Application
This is the initial step in our adoption process, which can be completed online or in-person. The Adoption Application must be completed in its entirety, including vet references, and two personal, non-family references. Your application will be reviewed by one of our volunteers, and your references and veterinarian will be contacted. We are checking with your veterinarian to make sure that your current (or recently deceased) pets are properly cared for. This means being current on all vaccinations and spayed/neutered. To expedite the process, please contact your veterinarian and let them know to expect our call.
Step #2: Personal Interview
You will be interviewed by a SMAWL board member or volunteer by either phone, email, or in person. This is an opportunity to learn more about you, your family, your pets, and the type of pet you are looking for. At this point, we may suggest that you consider a different animal that may be more suited to your specific situation. If you are completing your application in person, this will be done then.
Step #3: The Home Visit (Dogs Only)
After the interview, we will schedule a home visit. A home visit is required to ensure that your home is everything you say it is on the adoption application. All pets and family members should be home at this time.
Step #4: Meeting Your Adoptee
Following the home visit, arrangements will be made for you to meet your new family member. As a courtesy to our foster families, we do not ask them to meet with potential adopters until the application has been approved. If you have other animals, we recommend a neutral meeting place, such as a local park to ensure all animals are compatible outside of their own territory.
Step #5: Finalizing the Adoption
At this point we will contact you to finalize the adoption. This is where you will sign the adoption contract and pay our adoption fee.