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Welcome Friends

What to Expect during your visit

Step One

Meet new friends!

A greeter will meet you at the front desk, ask you to sign-in and will help you find the animals you are interested in. Feel free to explore our adoption spaces at your leisure. We’re happy you stopped by to meet the animals!

We ask that you wash your hands before and in between each animal that you interact with.

When meeting the dogs, please do not open or stick hands through any kennels. Ask an adoptions counselor if you would like to meet with a particular dog and we will set you up in a bonding room with your new friend.

When meeting the cats, please only allow one cat out in each room at a time. Kittens under six months cannot go on to the floor since they are not fully vaccinated yet. For the best experience, please do not pick up any cats that do not want to be held. Ask an adoption counselor for help when needed.

When meeting rabbits and pocket pets, please ask an adoption counselor before handling. For health and safety, do not place any pocket pets on the ground.

Please observe all signage on the animal kennels, some animals require special care. The orange cards will give you basic information about each pet (name, age, sex, and more).

Step two

Fall in love with your new best friend!

Tell an adoption counselor which pet you are interested in. They will then meet with you to review behaviour and medical history of the animal you have chosen to ensure the right fit for your home.

You can place a hold on an animal if you need time to think or prepare for a new family member. The hold is a $20 donation and will last until the next business day. The cost of the hold does not apply towards the adoption fee, rather goes toward the care of the animal.

Step Three

Complete the paperwork.

Fill out the application and receive adoption packet. You must be 18 years old with a valid ID to adopt a pet.

We will go over post-adoption services and answer any questions to help get you ready to bring your pet home. You will sign a contract agreeing to take ownership of the animal, though you are able to bring them back to us at any time if needed.

Step Four

Complete payment at the register. You’ll have the option to donate back to Columbus Humane and buy merchandise at this time as well.

  • Dogs and puppies: $175-350

  • Cats: $75

  • Kittens (under six months): $100

  • Rabbits: $50

  • Guinea pigs: $15 each/$30 pair

  • Rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils: $5

  • Other: Please ask

Step Five

Begin a new journey with your best friend!

A new leash and collar are included in your dop adoption fee and you get to pick those out at check-out. Cats and small animals must go home in a carrier to ensure their safety. You can bring one from home or we are happy to provide a cardboard carrier for $5. If your new pet is still waiting to get their spay/neuter surgery, they will stay here with us until the day after the procedure. We will schedule a time for you to pick them up during your adoption.