What is the adoption screening process?

After you have selected an animal, you will be interviewed by a screener who will ask you questions about your lifestyle, home environment, other pets, children, etc. In some circumstances, HAHS will schedule a home visit prior to adoption approval. HAHS reserves the right to refuse adoption of an animal on any grounds if it is felt it is in the best interest of the animal. 

In addition, after the adoption, HAHS follow-up volunteers will periodically make phone calls to check on how everything is going with your new family member and to give you the opportunity to ask any questions or voice any concerns. Some adopters find our New Pet Introduction tips useful as they consider bringing an animal home.

Your Responsibilities as a HAHS Adopter

As a new dog or cat owner, you agree to not:

• abandon, neglect, abuse the animal
• neglect to act when such behavior causes or permits suffering to the animal
• experiment or permit others to experiment on the animal
• allow the animal to become a public nuisance or hazard
• use or permit others to use the animal in fighting or coursing with live bait
• use any chemical or treatment except those applied or approved by a licensed veterinarian
• permit killing of the animal by anyone other than a licensed veterinarian or humane facility
• carry, transport, or confine the animal in a vehicle in a careless or inhumane manner
• allow this animal to breed or produce offspring
• return this animal to any other shelter or humane society other than the one from which it was obtained
• give this animal away or sell this animal to another party without HAHS approval

What are my legal obligations as a new cat/dog owner?

When you adopt an animal from HAHS you agree to provide:

• wholesome food and water in appropriate forms, quantities and intervals
• comfortable and appropriate housing offering adequate protection from weather; cleanliness of the animal and its habitat
• companionship, affection, exercise and training as needed
• protection from harm by humans, other animals, and hazardous substances objects
• professional veterinary care when needed to protect health or alleviate suffering
• owner compliance with local, state, and federal laws relating to animal control and treatment
• safe, humane collar or harness for the animal with valid rabies tag and owner ID

Returning Adopted Animals

Under what conditions can an adopted animal be returned AND have a refund issued?

HAHS will take back any animal for any reason, BUT the only grounds for a refund are if within 5 working days from the date of adoption a veterinarian determines the animal was ill, injured, or medically unsuitable for adoption. A veterinarian statement is required when requesting a refund.

The Heart of America Humane Society makes no warranty, either express or implied, regarding the age, breed, health, condition, temperament or behavior of the animal described in the adoption agreement.