Planning Your Visit
& The Adoption Process

Adoption Process:

1. Browse our adoptable pet profiles

Check out our adoptable pets to see which pets you are interested in meeting. Feel free to call (919.241.8438 ext. 103) or email (adopt@paws4ever.org) with any questions you may have. We’d love to tell you more about our pets!

You can also download our Adoption Guide to learn more about how to pick out the right pet for your home and how to prepare for your new pal. Together with the members of your household, talk through this list of Things to Consider Before Adopting.

2. Fill out an adoption form

Click here to fill out a dog adoption form or cat adoption form (or click the “Adopt Me” button on any pet’s profile). The form is an opportunity to let us know which pets you are interested in, as well as an opportunity to help us get to know you and your home. Your form answers will help us match you with the right pet for your home and guide you through the process of adopting.

2. Make an appointment to visit

You must contact us via email (adopt@paws4ever.org) or phone (919.241.8438 ext 103) ) to set up an appointment to meet the animal before we consider you for adoption. At that point, your application will be considered ACTIVE. 

We will accept up to 3 inquiries for each animal. Once your application is active, you will be notified if there are other surveys received for the animal you are interested in adopting. We accept inquiries on a first-come, first-served basis and you must meet the animal in person in order to proceed with the adoption process. 

3. Meet adoptable pets

Adoption Center visits are by appointment only.

Covid Notice: Masks are now optional indoors. Social distancing and frequent hand washing are encouraged. *We ask that you do not visit if you have any illness symptoms, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or know that you have been exposed recently to someone who is ill*

We encourage you to bring all members of your household to meet any animals you are thinking about adopting.  You can visit with our cats directly in their community cat rooms. Our Animal Care staff will bring out any dogs you are interested in meeting. You are welcome to take them on a short walk, spend some off-leash time in one of our fenced yards, or spend time with them in our office.

If you currently have any pets at home, proof of current Rabies vaccinations is required. Please plan to bring your current pets’ Rabies vaccination record to your appointment. 

4. If you are adopting a dog and have other dogs in your home, you must schedule a “Meet & Greet” to make sure your dogs are a match for each other.

Note: This will be a separate appointment. Do not bring your dog with you on your first visit.

5. If your application is approved, you will visit with an adoption counselor to review your new pet’s needs in detail and sign the adoption contract.

Bring payment for the adoption fee (cash and major credit cards only, no checks).

6. Take your animal home!

If your adopted dog or cat is already spayed/neutered, your new pet will go home with you right away!  If your adopted dog or cat is not yet spayed/neutered, your new pet will stay at the shelter for surgery and you will get a call for pick up when your new pet is ready to go home.

All dogs must leave the shelter on leash and collar. Cats must leave in a carrier. Collars, leashes, and cardboard carriers are available for purchase at the shelter. 

7.  Ask us for help any time!

Adopting a pet can be a big adjustment for you and your new buddy. Paws4ever is always here to answer your questions and offer support. Call or email us with any concerns or questions you have.  We’ll be in touch with you to check in as well.  If you adopt a dog, remember to use your free coupon to the Paws4ever Dog Training Program!