Adoption Process

Dog Adoptions

Our adoptable dogs are housed both at the shelter and in foster homes throughout Delaware County. Each dog’s profile on our website will say where they are located.

Dogs in Foster Care

To adopt a dog currently in foster care:

Submit an application (available on our website or in person).
After submitting, email us at dog@hsdcohio.org to let us know what dogs you are interested in.
Once your application is approved and we receive your email, we’ll connect you with the dog’s foster family to arrange a time and place to meet the dog. Most meetings are done at the shelter, but the location is up to the foster and potential adopter.

Dogs at the Shelter

To adopt a dog housed at the shelter:

Submit an application (available on our website or in person).
Visit us during open hours to meet our available dogs. Our canine staff will meet with you, bring out the dogs you’re interested in, and answer any questions you may have.

Please note: We stop showing dogs 30 minutes before closing and our kennel area is not open to the public. Instead, we introduce dogs in a quiet, comfortable space to help ensure the best possible match and give you time to speak one-on-one with our staff.

Cat Adoptions

To adopt a cat:

Visit the shelter during open hours to meet our adoptable cats. They’re housed in various rooms throughout the building—just ask the front desk if you need help finding someone!
Spend time with the cats you’re interested in—we recommend at least 30 minutes with each cat. Toys are available, and our feline staff are happy to answer questions and help you find the right match.
Once you’ve made your decision, let the front desk know. They’ll walk you through the adoption process.
Fill out an application (online or in person). You’re welcome to complete it in advance— cat applications are valid for any cat.

Need Help Choosing a Cat?

Email hsdcfelinestaff@hsdcohio.org with a brief description of:

The kind of cat you’re looking for
Your home environment

We’re here to help you find your perfect feline companion!

Adoption Requirements

Must be 18 years or older
Valid photo ID with current address
Adoption application must be completed
Plan to spend at least 30 minutes meeting an animal (more time may be needed to complete the adoption)
Out-of-state adoptions are not permitted (We recommend checking with shelters near your area)
Adult dog must have a meet-and-greet with your current household dog(s)
Adoptions are done first come, first served, best fit. We do not hold animals.
We expect all adopted pets to be housed indoors, unless they are part of our working cat program.
All dogs must leave on a leash and collar, and all cats must be in a carrier. Cardboard carriers are available for purchase for $10. For everyone’s safety, animals may not be carried out by hand.