Consider re-homing options before surrendering your pets
(KUTV) — Surrendering a pet can be heartbreaking but there are circumstances that force the decision not to keep a pet.
While local shelters will accept surrendered pets, the Humane Society of Utah may be able to help you keep your pet at home or there may be alternative re-homing options to consider.
The Human Society clarifies on its website that an “owned” animal is an animal for which a person can provide proof of ownership through bill of sale, purchase/adoption contract, veterinary records, license and microchip.
We do not accept stray animals or animals found at large, which are the responsibility of your municipal animal shelter and should be taken to the local animal control services for the area where the animal was found. The Humane Society of Utah does not accept healthy feral or friendly stray cats for intake and recommends local Community Cat Programs.
Why are you considering surrendering your pet?
- Behavior issues
- Can’t afford care
- Domestic or disaster situation
- Moving/don’t have adequate housing
- Other re-homing options
To surrender your pet, it is important to make an appointment. The appointment may take approximately 30 to 45 minutes and includes a health exam and behavior evaluation of your pet.
What to bring to your pet surrender appointment:
- A driver's license or other government-issued ID.
- Proof of ownership - through bill of sale, purchase/adoption contract, veterinary records, license, microchip.
- Your pet’s up-to-date veterinary records.
- A pet surrender fee may cost between $30 to $90. The cost to care for and rehome pets can be hundreds of dollars or more for each animal. As a local private nonprofit organization, the Humane Society of Utah asks for a fee to help subsidize this cost. The fee is non-refundable.
Rehoming a pet is an option to surrender. The Petco Foundation has created a simple, reliable, free program to help you place your pet from your home directly to another. Click HERE for more information.
