GBHS Adoption Process

Adopting from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society is a simple process if you know what to expect. Our adoption process is designed to make sure you, your family, AND the pet make a great match!

Here is some advice to make the process easier on you AND your new forever friend!

• Research: What is your ideal animal? Will it get along with your animals? Will it get along with your children? What is adopting a puppy like? What are the benefits of an older animal? What challenges should I expect?
• Time: Expect to spend time with the animals. This process could take anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour.
• Landlords: Make sure the animal is allowed in your residence. Go ahead and tie up loose ends on your end before taking a companion home.
• Be responsible: Animals require regular food, vaccinations, and possibly emergency medical treatments. We look for forever families, so you must be able to provide for a new pet now and for the rest of its life.
• Prepare: Your animal needs more than a new owner. Some of the things you will need can be found in our gift shop at lower than retail prices. Every dollar you spend in our gift shop will directly benefit the homeless pets in our care.
• Meet and Greet: If you are looking to adopt another dog, bring yours with you! We want to make sure your current animals are compatible with the dog or puppy you want to adopt. Meeting on neutral territory will make the selection and introduction process that much easier.
• Vet Records: Bring current vet records for any pets in your home, or be prepared to present your veterinarian’s contact information. We want to ensure that your animals are up-to-date on their vaccinations.
• Your Family: Bring the whole gang! 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 in your household is critical for the success of the adoption and a long and wonderful life for the pet.
• Be prepared to pay our adoption fees.
  
  • Kittens and puppies six months and under: $100.00
  • Dogs and cats over six months: $75.00
  • Rabbits: $25.00
  • Ferrets: $50.00
  • Guinea Pigs & Hamsters: $10 for one or $15 for a pair
  • Horses & Donkeys: varies, $300.00 and up
  • Others (goats, chickens, etc.): vary by type

Once you have completed the Standard Adoption Application, bring it with you when you come to meet the pets! This will help reduce your wait time.

For horses and other farm friends - fax completed Barnyard Friends Adoption Application  to 205-942-1213. 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.