Admissions Process

WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED TO SURRENDER YOUR PET

You have a number of choices, and just one of them is surrendering your pet to Wayside Waifs. If you have exhausted alternatives to relinquishment, here is how our admissions process works.

WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT

Wayside Waifs will accept the surrender of animals by appointment only. If we have space available in our shelter, we will schedule an appointment for you. This could take between 1 week to 2 months depending upon the type of animal and the time of year. To be considered for Owner Surrender, all animals must be current on required vaccinations. Copies of medical records must be presented as verification at the time of your appointment.
For Dogs: Rabies, DH2PP and Bordetella
For Cats: FVRCP

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

First, complete the online apppointment application.

Wayside Waifs staff assesses the amount of space available in the shelter as animals find homes through the Adoption center. Based on the number of adoptions and available kennels, a staff member will call you to schedule your appointment. You will be required to pay a $20 non-refundable deposit, over the phone or in person to confirm your appointment time. The deposit will be applied to your assessment fee, due at the time of your appointment.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARRIVE

Your cat will be tested for feline leukemia, or your dog over 6 months of age will be tested for heartworms.
A staff member will evaluate the temperament of your pet.
Once your pet has been assessed the Wayside Waifs behavior team will discuss the results with you and other options if your pet does not pass
An appointment for assessment does not guarantee that Wayside Waifs will accept your pet.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED TO SURRENDER YOUR PET TODAY

If you opt not to wait for space to become available at Wayside Waifs, you may want to consider other options.

Find a new home for the pet yourself with friends, neighbors, family or co-workers.

Place your pet temporarily with friends, family or possibly a boarding facility until space becomes available at Wayside Waifs.

Surrender your pet to your county or city animal control. Agencies may vary, so please ask them about their adoption practices and their policies surrounding the surrender of owned pets. A shelter should be your last resort.