How Does Adopting a Dog or Cat Work?

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 4 sources

Short answer

To adopt a dog or cat, search adoptable pets online or visit a shelter, submit the organization's application, provide references (and landlord approval if you rent), meet the pet, allow a home visit if required, then pay the adoption fee and sign the adoption contract. Shelters can often complete adoptions the same day; rescue groups usually approve your application before you meet the pet.

US shelters and rescues adopted out about 4.2 million dogs and cats in 2025, according to ASPCA figures. Here's how the process works, step by step.

Step-by-step adoption process

  1. Search. Browse adoptable pets online (Petfinder and similar sites, and shelter websites) by species, breed, age, sex and location.
  2. Know who you're adopting from. - Shelters have a physical location and visiting hours (names often include "Humane Society," "SPCA" or "Animal Shelter"). - Rescue groups usually place pets in volunteer foster homes and may have only a mailing address.
  3. Check how to meet pets. Shelters may need an appointment; rescues typically require an approved application first.
  4. Apply. Applications vary; some are long. Answer in detail.
  5. Provide documents and references: ID, personal and veterinary references, and proof that pets are allowed if you rent.
  6. Meet the pet. Bring family members and, if asked, your current dog for a meet-and-greet.
  7. Home visit (more common with rescues), to confirm the home is safe.
  8. Pay the fee and sign the contract. The fee usually covers spay/neuter, vaccines and often a microchip.
  9. Go home, with medical records and the microchip number to register in your name.

Shelter vs. rescue

Shelter Rescue group
Where pets live At the facility Often in foster homes
Meeting pets During open hours or by appointment After application approval
Speed Often same day Slower
Fees Often lower Can be higher
Knowledge of the pet Staff observations Foster family's day-to-day knowledge

After you adopt

  • See a vet within the first few weeks.
  • Register the microchip in your name.
  • Get a license if your city or county requires one.
  • Give your new pet a quiet space and time to settle.
  • Ask the organization about post-adoption support if problems arise.

See how long adoption takes, what adoption agencies look for and find animal shelters near you.

Sources

  1. Petfinder Foundation: What to expect when you're adopting (2022)
  2. PetSmart Charities: How adoption works
  3. Petfinder: What is included in an adoption fee?
  4. ASPCA: US animal shelter statistics (2025)

Find animal shelters & rescues near you

Thinking about adopting a dog or cat, or need to surrender or report a lost pet? Compare local animal shelters and rescue groups by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.

Animal Shelters & Rescues by state

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Tap your state to see listings by city.

This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.

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