In 2007, the Charlotte Humane Society took in close to 1,500 homeless or surrendered animals. But 100 of those went unadopted. That’s 100 furry friends without a place to call home. Without a backyard to chase squirrels. Without an owner to snuggle with on the couch. Luckily, Charlotte has several adoption agencies with dedicated volunteers whose (unpaid) job is to find homes for these lovable pets. Here’s a look at some agencies helping.
The Animal Adoption League provides temporary homes and veterinary care to abandoned animals, but doesn’t let them go home with just anyone. Applicants for an AAL cat or dog are reviewed to ensure they’re prepared and able to care for a pet, but also that the pet feels comfortable with the potential adopters and its new home. The adoption fee is $250, which covers foster and vet costs.
Crossroads Animal Rescue is another foster-based rescue that uses the Web and adoption events at local pet stores to help find homes for pooches and kitties alike. Like the Animal Adoption League, Crossroads wants to make sure potential owners are ready to adopt. It allows applicant owners to take in their potential pet for a week to determine if they are ready for the responsibility and if the animal does well in the new environment. The cost for Crossroads is $175. Compare that to more than $1,000 for a purebred dog from a breeder!
Project HALO rescues homeless and abandoned dogs and makes sure they stay healthy by providing sterilization, shots, and heartworm treatment. A prescreening application with vet reference checks is required to screen potential owners. Project HALO volunteers evaluate the application before contacting the applicant. An online search option is available for potential dog owners. The shelter’s mentoring program provides exercise, leash training and social skills for the dogs. HALO asks for a $200 donation for puppies ten months or younger, $150 for dogs ten months to six years, and $200 for dogs six years and older. There are currently about seventy-five dogs available for adoption. HALO also posts “courtesy” listings for more dogs and cats on their Web site when they are unable to take in a pet.
Recycled Pets finds homes for pets that come from high kill shelters, owner abandonment, and owner surrender. Animals receive veterinary care, including sterilization and testing. And, if you’re worried about your new pet being lost, the organization gives each cat or dog an American Kennel Club registered microchip. Each Sunday Recycled Pets shows available pets for adoption at the PetSmart in Rock Hill (1110 Hospitality Dr., Rock Hill). However, Recycled Pets does not do same day adoptions and an application process is required. The adoption fee, which must be paid in cash, is $175 for mixed breed dogs, $200 for purebreds, and $150 for cats. An adoption contract is required.
RescuedMe has a mission to match families with dogs who have no homes. Qualifying families must be able to provide nutritious meals, walks and training for the dog. Applicants undergo a four-step process including an application, interview, meeting, and twenty-four hour waiting period. RescuedMe prepares the dog for the transition to its new home through foster care and basic obedience training. Adoption donations depend on the age and size of the dog ranging from $150-$250.
SPCA Alliance does not have a traditional shelter, but tries to match homeless animals with loving homes through their Web site. Adoption forms are available online along with literature about how to choose the right pet.
