Adoption Services

The Houston SPCA always has many great animals looking for new homes. Our adoption program places more animals into loving homes than all other area shelters combined!

* Please note that we are making system updates. Not ALL adoptable animals in our shelter will appear on online So, come on by the shelter to see all the animals looking for a new home. All of our adoptable animals are list on Petfinder, however photos are not available yet. Thank you for your patience during this transition.

How do I adopt a pet?
We suggest that you first stop at the shelter adoption center. Here, highly trained adoption counselors will help you complete your survey and assist you in making the perfect match. Once you have been approved for adoption and received an approval slip, it's time to visit the kennels, find a best friend and get acquainted.

What do I need to bring in order to adopt?
In order to be considered as an adopter:

• You must be 18 years of age or older
• Have legal identification showing your present address
• Have the knowledge and consent of all adults living in your household
• Have the adoption fee in either cash or check (If paying by check, you must have a valid Texas Drivers License.  Address on Drivers License must match address on check for check acceptance).

How much does it cost to adopt?

Large Dogs - $65.00
Small Dogs and Puppies - $95.00
Cats - $65.00
Kittens - $75.00
Rabbits - $30.00

For dogs and cats, your adoption fee includes: 

• Your new companion
• Health Evaluation
• Spay/neuter surgery
• Initial set of shots
• Rabies vaccination (three months of age or older)
• Deworming
• Feline Leukemia testing for cats
• Heartworm testing for dogs (six months of age and older)
• I.D. tag and lifetime membership in the HSPCA Lost Pet Identification Program

What if I see an animal I like?
Hanging on each cage is a clear plastic pocket containing some paperwork. The animal's age, sex, breed and sterilization status are listed. Inside the pocket you may find a "Pet Personality Profile." Previous owners are asked to complete a profile on the animal's behavior, personality and medical background. Remember; in order to visit with an animal you must have completed your adoption interview and received an approval slip.

What if I don't see an animal I like?
Don't give up. Your adoption approval slip can be kept on file for up to six months.

What about Spaying and Neutering?
The Houston SPCA is working hard to prevent pet overpopulation. Last year the HSPCA received more than 39,000 dogs, cats and other animals. All animals must be spayed or neutered before they leave the shelter.

Why do I want a pet?
This may seem like an obvious question, but please seriously consider why you wish to adopt a pet before visiting our shelter. Is it because the children are crying for a cat, and you want to pacify them? Is it because a friend just adopted a dog, and it looks like fun? Make sure that you and your family are prepared to make a serious, lifetime commitment to the animal you choose. Remember, this commitment may last 15 years or more!

Are pets allowed where I live?
Check your lease, and be certain you have landlord approval before you bring Fido or Fluffy home. The HSPCA Adoption Staff will always confirm this information with your landlord before allowing an adoption. Never try to sneak a pet into a rental situation. Not only is this against HSPCA policy, but according to Texas law, you and your pet may find yourself facing eviction.

What kind of lifestyle do I lead?
Do you travel frequently, or work late hours? Companion animals require constant care and cannot be ignored. Many animals require exercise and outdoor activity. Can you make the time to provide for the health of your new pet? Do you have the patience to deal with raising a puppy or kitten?

Can I afford a pet?
Owning a pet requires a financial investment as well as an emotional one. Your pet will need food, annual vaccinations, toys, grooming supplies, regular veterinary treatment, flea & tick prevention, and much more. You also need to consider the expenses if your pet gets sick. The total annual cost for your pet may be more than $500 per year!

Does everyone in my household agree with adopting a pet?
Bringing a companion animal into your home requires the commitment and cooperation of the entire family. The HSPCA discourages the practice of "surprising" someone with the gift of a living creature (Gift Certificates are an available alternative). Remember, too, that children cannot be considered the primary care-giver for the pet. Ultimately, it is the parent or adult guardian who must be responsible for the well-being of the animal.

Am I prepared to deal with potential behavior problems?
Housetraining, barking, biting, digging, scratching on furniture, litterbox "accidents", spraying, and general misbehaving are just a few of the problems you might encounter. Are you patient enough, and willing to take the time to train your new companion to be a good pet citizen? The HSPCA strongly recommends professional training to prevent and correct behavioral problems. Are you able to afford this type of financial, emotional, and time commitment?