The Adoption Process
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1
Submit an Application
Applications may be submitted online before you visit or in-person during you visit. By submitting an application online you are not applying directly for a specific animal. Applications are not processed until you have met one of our adoptable animals in person and spoken to our adoption counselors. Your online application starts the process, but you must meet with the shelter pet in person to continue the process.
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2
Meet the Shelter Pet
All members of the household are required to meet with a BHS Adoption Counselor and their desired animal during normal business hours.
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3
Speak with an Adoption Counselor
Adoption counselors can review your application with you and provide more information about the pet of your choice.
Adoption Requirements
18+ Years Old
You must be at least 18 years of age with a valid form of identification
Background Check
Applicants must pass a background check and have no history of violent charges, abuse or neglect
Pet Vaccinations
Cats and dogs living in the home must be up to date on their rabies vaccination, as required by state law
Primary Caretaker
The primary caretaker of the pet must be present to complete the adoption process
Adopting a Specific Animal
If you are interested in adopting a specific animal, you must come in and meet our furry friend in person before you can select the animal for your application.
First Come, First Serve
Applications for a specific pet are taken on a first come, first serve basis after meeting with the pet of your choice. We do not hold animals and we reserve the right to refuse adoption to anyone for any reason.
Be Prepared
To expedite the process, bring your current pets’ vet records with you.
Applications Valid for 90 Days
General applications are good for 90 days until you decide which animal you would like to adopt.
Approval and Introductions
Applicants must be in contact within 48 hours of the initial approval or applications for a specific pet will be cancelled. Any current dogs in the home must come in for a scheduled dog introduction.
Adoption Pricing
Thank you for considering adopting a pet from the Baltimore Humane Society. You’ll find our prices listed below for the various types of pets we adopt. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us. All prices are subject to change without notice. You can also check out our additional free or discounted adoption programs.
Dogs
26 pounds or more
$150
Small Dogs
25 pounds or less
$275
Puppies
6 months or younger
$275
What's included
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Heart worm tested (if age appropriate)
- Vaccinations appropriate for the age and species
- Microchip with free registration
- GoodPup Dog Training: 1 FREE week of training + 20% Off for Life
$50 discount for seniors citizens (60+)
50% discount on animals age 7 and older
Only one adoption fee applies to a bonded pair.
Cats
7 months or older
$80
Kittens
6 months or younger
$125
What's included
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Vaccinations appropriate for the age and species
- Microchip with free registration
$50 discount for seniors citizens (60+)
50% discount on animals age 7 and older
Bonded pairs: Adoption fee waived for one of the two
Rabbits
$60
What's included
- Pre-adoption health exam
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Microchip with free registration
Ferrets
$60
What's included
- Pre-adoption health exam
Guinea Pigs
$20
What's included
- Pre-adoption health exam
- Neuter surgery for males
Rodents
Mice, Gerbils, and Hamsters
$15
Foster a Shelter Animal
We’re continuously looking for caring and devoted individuals to provide temporary homes for animals in need. Fostering a shelter animal is a wonderful and rewarding experience but requires time and dedication. Although previous experience is not required, the ideal foster parent will have basic knowledge of animal care. Foster volunteers are especially needed during the spring/summer kitten season.
Learn More