Question 1

What are the application steps for adopting?

Accepted Answer

Step 1
First, you want to fill out an application. We have three different application downloads, each of which is located on their respective pages. Links to the applications are below.
 
Dog | Cat | Small Animal
 
Step 2
Complete the application and upload it through the form below the application download button and pay the processing fee for dog and cat applications. (There is no processing fee for small animal applications.) Once the form is completed, a copy will be sent to our email. 
 
Step 3
Your application must be fully completed and include three references not related to you and a vet reference. NOTE: You must notify your vet that they will be receiving a call from RSM SPCA, otherwise they cannot speak on your behalf.
 
Step 4
All animals in the home must be up to date on shots, spayed, and neutered in order to be a candidate for adoption.
 
Step 5
If there are animals in the home, a meet and greet, especially with dogs, is a MUST.

Question 2

How do Meet and Greets work?

Accepted Answer

Meet and Greets are an essential step when looking to adopt while having other animals, especially dogs, in the household. 
 
To schedule a meet and greet, please contact the shelter to set up an appointment.
If planning on adopting a puppy, proof of vaccination of your pet is REQUIRED.

Question 3

Are there adoption fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, RSM SPCA does require adoption fees when completeting an adoption form.
 
For more information about adoption fees, please click here.
 
Note: Small animals do not require an adoption fee.

Question 4

Do you require appointments?

Accepted Answer

Monday - Friday, RSM is appointments only.
Weekends, walk-ins are welcome.
 
Click here for more information.

Question 5

Does my application for adoption guarantee that I can adopt?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the references and vet checks that the shelter does upon receiving your application.

Question 6

Can you hold an animal for me?

Accepted Answer

No, RSM has no requirement to hold any animal.

Question 7

What is included in pet adoption fee?

Accepted Answer

What's included:
- Microchipping (for dogs)
- Shots
- Spay and neutering
 
Exception would be when adopting a puppy: spay, neutering, and shots are done when age appropriate.

Question 8

What do I need to bring when adopting?

Accepted Answer

Please bring appropriate transportation that is compatable with animal being adopted. Example: cat carrier for cat, leash for dog, etc..
 
Please also bring your adoption payment. RSM accepts cash, card, checks (there is a fee for returned checks.) If out of state, ID is required.

Question 9

Do you allow "out-of-area" adoptions and what is required?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-family references and vet checks must pass approval by RSM.

Question 10

What if I cannot keep a pet that I previously adopted from RSM?

Accepted Answer

Per our contract, animal must be returned back to RSM shelter.

Question 11

Can I take my pet home immediately?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if preapproved after submitting the application, references, and vet pass.

Frequently Asked Questions