Process Overview

There is no need to make an appointment before visiting our shelters. First, look through our website and get to know our available animals.

Para obtener información sobre nuestro proceso de adopción en español, haga clic aquí.

How to Meet an In-Shelter Animal

  1. Confirm which location the animal is at. Our adoptable animals reside at our Redwood City shelter, our Palo Alto shelter, and in foster homes. If you have your eye on someone special, be sure to check their profile on our website and confirm which location they are at. View our business hours and locations here.

  2. Visit our shelters. Make sure to bring everyone in your household with you. If you are interested in adopting a dog and currently have a resident dog, please bring him or her as well. It is not required, but to help expedite the adoption process, consider filling out an adoption application before visiting. Please note that an adult must accompany all visitors under the age of 18. We look forward to seeing you soon.

How to Meet an In-Foster Animal

  1. Fill out and submit an adoption application. Si desea nuestra solicitud de adopción en español, envíenos un correo electrónico a info@petsinneed.org.

  2. Once your application is submitted, one of our adoption specialists will contact you within 48 hours to set up an appointment for you to meet the animal.  

Adoption Fees

+ Cats

  • Under 6 months: $175
  • 6 months - 5 years: $130
  • 5+ years: $50
  • Two-for-one: $175

+ Dogs

  • Under 6 months: $300
  • 6 months - 5 years: $175
  • 5+ years: $75

+ Other

  • Rabbits: $20
  • Small Animals: $10

No Fee Adoptions

+ Pets for Vets

Adoption fees are waived for military veterans in accordance with the Pets for Vets Act. Valid military identification must be presented at the time of adoption. All adoption requirements will still apply.

+ Seniors for Seniors

Adoption fees are waived for adopters 60 years and older who adopt an animal that is 5 years or older.

Additional Fees

+ Carriers / Leashes

  • Dog leash: $10
  • Cardboard carrier: $10. All cats must leave the shelter in a carrier. Please bring your own carrier or purchase a cardboard carrier.

+ Dog licensing

Fee varies by length of licensing period. Dog adopters who reside in Palo Alto, Los Altos, or Los Altos Hills will be required to pay a licensing fee and complete a licensing application. Learn more about licensing.

+ Hold deposit*

  • $25 for 24-hour holds for residents of Palo Alto, Los Altos, and Los Altos Hills.

  • $100 for 24-hour holds for non-residents.

This deposit is non-refundable and will be applied toward your final adoption fee.

 

*Resident fees are for residents of Palo Alto, Los Altos, and Los Altos Hills who adopt from the Pets In Need Palo Alto shelter.

Rehomed pets from Adopt-a-pet

We’ve partnered with Adopt-A-Pet to feature more animals in your area looking for new homes. See available animals on Rehome.

 
 

Contact Us

Palo Alto Shelter
infopa@petsinneed.org
(650) 496-5971

Redwood City Shelter
info@petsinneed.org
(650) 367-1405