Adopting a New Friend
SO.......... You want to become a pet guardian and adopt an animal from Heart of the Valley. First off we say "Way to go!"
You are making a lifelong commitment and it should never be taken lightly. The ownership of a new pet can be costly, and comes with all kinds of new adventures but, once the decision is made, your journey will be filled with wondrous love and commitment from a loyal friend who will be there for you through thick and thin.
Considering the whole picture.
The first step to pet adoption is to make sure you, your family and your home are ready. Think about the kind of pet you want. If you are thinking about a certain breed, look it up and learn what the particular animal was bred to do. If you are unable to take a dog walking daily (sometimes several times a day), then a Terrier may not be the breed for you. A Siamese cat would not be the choice for a person wanting a quiet companion. Your research may lead you to the perfect breed.
Next, make your home "pet friendly". Make sure you have beds, bowls, toys, litter boxes for cats, and any other supplies on hand before adopting. Determine the right place for these items in your home. Just like humans, animals do better with a structured living space where they know where their dishes and beds will be on a consistent basis.
Make sure chemicals and insecticides are up out of reach. Antifreeze can be deadly to animals who ingest its sweet syrupy flavor. Fix your fencing and make sure your gates are secure.
Check your local animal ordinances and make sure you are not exceeding the animal limit. Speak to your landlord and make sure you are not violating your lease. A little footwork prior to the adoption will often save a lot of heartache later.
Talk to your family or household members and make sure everyone knows their jobs. Do you have enough pooper-scoopers to go around?
Complete your adoption application and personality survey (cats only) before coming in to Heart of the Valley. By clicking on the link below you can have your application and survey ready when you come to the shelter and it will give you some helpful insights into things you should consider before adopting. Or, fill out your application electronically, and email it back to adopt@heartofthevalleyshelter.org., or fax it to (406)388-2877.
Adoption Application [PDF]
Personality Survey (cats only) (PDF)
Now come visit us and find that perfect friend.
See the animals waiting for you!
You can view adoptable animals on the website by clicking here. Please bear in mind that animals are arriving and going to new homes every day, so even if you have found the pet of your dreams online, try to stay flexible until you get to the shelter and meet your new friend in person.
Finding the right pet is always an adventure, whether the pet is an addition to an already fur and paw occupied home, or is a new addition. We welcome the chance to show you our best.
The best way to find that perfect friend is to come into Heart of the Valley (click here for directions) and meet your pal in person. Pictures only tell part of the story. Warm wet licks and the sound of a sigh of contentment as your new adoptee places his or her head in your lap can’t compare.
Our hours of operations for adoptions are:
Monday through Saturday 11:30am-5:30pm. Adoptions and dog kennels close at 5:00 pm.
Fees
As a non-profit, we charge a nominal fee for all adoptions. The bargain of adopting from Heart of the Valley is one of the benefits. In exchange for your adoption fee, all animals:
- Are spayed and neutered
- Are fully vaccinated for common diseases
- Have received a medical exam
- Are micro chipped
- All cats are tested at the time of entry for FIV and FeLV. (Please note that FIV and FeLV testing at the time of entry does not guarantee the cats will be free of the disease.)
- Receive 30 days free pet health insurance [PDF]
- Go home with valuable coupons from local animal-friendly organizations
- Have a 30-day 'no questions asked' money-back return guarantee
Most importantly, you have the satisfaction of knowing that you helped re-home an animal that needs the love and care only you can provide.
Adoption Fees
- Adult Dogs (over 25 Pounds and over 9 months) $100
- Adult Dogs(under 25 Pounds and over 9 months) $150
- Puppies (under 9 months) $150
- Adult Cats (over 9 months) $35
- Kittens (under 9 months) $135
- Outside Cats (non-litterbox trained) $30 ($20 for each additional outside cat)
- Rabbits $45
Senior pets (8 years old and older) adopted by senior people (62 years and older) are free. Williams Plumbing is the proud sponsor of the Senior Pet for Senior People Program, greatly improving the lives of our senior friends.
Post Adoption Help
We want the experience of owning a shelter pet to be rewarding for both you and your new four-legged friend. Our staff is friendly, helpful and willing to help with your new owner jitters. We can offer help for any situation. If you have problems or concerns before or after taking your forever friend home, please call and talk with one of our staff members.
Please feel free to call us for helpful suggestions anytime.
(406) 388-9399 ext 110 for Canine Questions
(406) 388-9399 ext 111 for Feline or Rabbit Questions
Local libraries hold many books, CD’s and tapes on animal behavior and training. Check it out! You will be amazed.
There are local kennel clubs, trainers, and yes animal psychologists. Or perhaps check with your veterinarian. These pet care professionals know your community and can help you find the right person to offer aid. Visit our Pet Links page.
One of the best resources is the internet. Surfing for answers can be fun and educational. We have included some of our favorite links on our Pet Links page.
We love to hear your success stories too!
E-mail us photos of you and your shelter pet anytime: info@HeartoftheValleyShelter.org
Or fax them to (406) 388-2877
