GBHS Adoption Process
Adopting a companion pet from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society is a simple process if you know what to expect. Here are some of the things you should know before you come to adopt one of our very special pets.
Adopting a pet from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society
Our adoption process is designed to ensure you (and your family) and the pet are a good match for each other. Remember, your choice will result in a commitment of fifteen or more years.
In order to help us match the perfect pet for you and your family, please be prepared to:
- Spend plenty of time viewing, selecting, and asking questions about a pet that interests you.
- Spend ample time visiting with your potential pet. This process could take thirty minutes to an hour, or longer if you are interested in multiple pets. This visitation is critical before making your final decision.
- Before adopting, be certain the pet will be allowed in your home. If you rent, we expect you to resolve any landlord related issues before you come to adopt.
- Be a responsible pet owner. A responsible pet owner purchases many items for their pet over time. Some of the common things you will need include: a crate/kennel, carrier, leash, collar, ID tags, litter box, litter, scratching post, food, bowls, flea and tick preventative, heart worm preventative, and much more. Take a moment to review our list of recommended supplies. Additionally, regular vaccinations, health exams and possibly emergency medical treatments will be required throughout the life of the pet. These expenses can add up, so you must be able to provide for a new pet now and for the rest of its life.
- Bring your existing dog(s) if you are adopting another one. We want to make sure your current dog(s) are compatible with the dog or puppy you want to adopt. Meeting on neutral territory can make the selection and introduction process that much easier. While this is not a guarantee they will get along in your home, it is a good indicator.
- Bring current vet records for any pets in your home or be prepared to present your veterinarian’s contact information for verification that all pets are current for their vaccinations, heart worm preventative, and other medical needs.
- Bring any and all family members or roommates with you. Some small children can be allergic to cats and dogs, but their parents are unaware of this condition. Some of our dogs are hard for the elderly or young children to handle due to their size and activity level. Bringing everyone that is part of the household can be critical to the success of the adoption and a long and wonderful life for the pet.
- Be willing to give a pet a permanent home. We do not want this pet to be displaced again, so think of all the reasons you might not be able to keep the pet for the rest of its life.
- Be prepared to show your Drivers License or photo ID card.
- Be prepared to pay our adoption fees.
- Kittens and puppies under six months are $150.00.
- Dogs less than 15 lbs (any age) are $150.00.
- Dogs and cats over six months are $75.00.
- Ferrets are $75.00.
- Rabbits are $50 for one or $75 for a pair.
- Guinea Pigs and Hamsters are $10 for one or $15 for a pair.
- Horses and Donkeys Varies - $300.00 and up
- Others (goats, chickens, etc.) Vary by type
Begin the process today by downloading (PDF) and printing the appropriate adoption application:
Once you have completed the "Standard Adoption Application", bring it with you when you come to meet the pets at our Snow Drive facility. This will help reduce your wait time.
If you are interested in adopting one of our horses or other farm friends, please complete the "Barnyard Friends Adoption Application" and fax the completed application to us at 205-942-1213. If you have a particular horse you are interested in meeting, please write his or her name on the application. Once we have reviewed your application, someone will be in contact with you to arrange a meeting with the horse(s) that you are interested in meeting. |
