How to Adopt a Pet
Adoption Process
- Complete an online dog or cat application form and submit or submit an application in person, at the shelter.
- If completing a critter application for a rabbit or other small, caged animal, please download the application below and return a completed copy to adoptions@eriehumanesociety.org.
Download Critter Adoption Applications
Rabbit Application
Rat/Mouse Application
Our Process
Adopting a pet is an involved process because of the importance of finding good matches between animals and people. Everything we do is in the best interest of the animals.
If you’re serious about bringing an animal into your home, here’s what you should know:
Filling out an application does not guarantee any adoption.
The application process is the first step in helping us assist you with the appropriate pet for your lifestyle. We are looking out for each animal's best interest as well as yours. We choose homes based on specific needs of each animal. The animal you choose to meet may not be the best fit for your activity level, the time you have to commit, or your living situation.
Animals are placed with the best possible fitting home -- adoption is not first come, first serve.
The Erie Humane Society's number one priority is the best interest of our shelter pets. Our goal is to match each animal with the best possible fitting home for their needs. We often receive multiple applications for certain pets. Adoption is not based on first come, first served. Applications will be carefully screened and reviewed by management, who will determine the best fit for the pet. The Erie Humane Society reserves the right to place an animal on Adoption Pending Status in such instances.
An adoption is a partnership between the shelter and the adopter.
We depend on your cooperation to figure out the best situation for you and your family, as well as the animal. We will not sponsor an adoption in which we are not confident and we reserve the right to deny any adoption for any reason.
When you adopt from a shelter, you are adopting an animal with history.
Sometimes that history is bright and happy; other times it is not. All animals will go through a period of adjustment when they enter a new environment. We ask that you seriously think about the challenges involved with adopting a shelter pet. It is a life-long commitment and we urge you to make a responsible decision.