Adoption Guidelines,

Information

& Tips.....

Now that you are ready to adopt a pet, our staff wants to find one who is right for you.  This is an important commitment that should not be rushed into, since your new pet will be with you for years.

Adopting a pet from the shelter is easy!

*Come get acquainted with a pet in    our visitation room or play yard. Get an idea of what you may want from our Adoptable Pets pages.Choose several you would like to meet.

*Hours: Saturdays 2-4. Contact us for other appointments.

*Complete the information on our Adoption Form to bring when you visit.

*Be sure to get your landlord's consent if you are leasing or renting.

*Fees: Costs for adoptions average $125.00 for dogs, and $90.00 for cats. The fees charged at Clayton Animal Shelter are to cover the cost of Veterinary Care only, no profit is made by the shelter.*

Is Your Family Ready For A Pet?

Kids & Pets.....

Before you ask whether your child is ready, you should start by asking yourself whether you are ready for a pet. The ultimate responsibility for a pet is in your hands. Pets are likely to make changes in your life. Children learn from you how to be responsible pet owners.

Dogs  Puppies  Cats  Kittens Bunnies....

There are so many choices! Make sure you choose appropriately for your family's lifestyle and your child's age and personality.

Is the pet you want too rough for your children; or are your children too rough for a pet?

Teaching Your Child

about Animals....

Here are few things

to teach your child

about animals:

* Be kind and gentle with your pet.

* Never tease or provoke an animal. Talk with your child about the ways an animal tells you it doesn't like what you are doing. Just as you teach your children to listen to each other's words, ask them to listen to what the animal is telling them. should not suffer because children are learning responsibility.

* Always ask first if you can touch someone else's  pet. 

* Never touch an animal's food.

* Wash your hands after touching an animal.

* Let an adult or older sibling take care of cleaning up animal waste.

Ask yourself and your children what sort of pet is the right one.

Discuss your children's likes and dislikes, so you don't accidentally come home with a pet that frightens them.

*Young puppies and children may not mix well. Very young children may unwittingly mishandle or hurt a puppy or kitten, which are particularly vulnerable to being pulled, dropped, or picked up inappropriately.

Can You Afford A Pet?

What are the expenses after you take your new pet home?

Make an estimate...

Calculate the monthly expense of caring for your new pet - including pet food, supplies, shelter, etc. before you adopt. Smaller pets do cost less to maintain.

A smaller pet may be right for you.