Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter

Adoption Process

All dogs are adopted on a first come first adopt basis. We will not hold a dog for anyone. We strongly encourage you to stop down and pay us a visit, as we have many more dogs in our care than are listed on the website. You may visit with our dogs during our normal business hours of: Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Sunday from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.; closed on Monday.

Remember that before adopting, you must:

Be 18 years of age or older
Have identification showing your current address
Have landlord permission to own a dog if you are a tenant
Meet and greet with any resident dogs or children 9 and under

Adoption Questionnaire

Before you can spend time with a dog, there is a brief questionnaire that you will need to fill out. Our staff will review these questions with you in order to help you decide which dog is the right fit for you, your family, and your lifestyle. This information is confidential and will be used only to assist our staff in determining the best possible placement. Please spend the time necessary to make the best possible decision for you AND the dog you may adopt.

Adoption Fees
The cost to adopt a dog is $95, $170 for a puppy. This includes:

DHLP, Parvo Vaccination, Rabies Vaccination and Bordatella
Heartworm test for age appropriate dogs
Spay/Neuter surgery
Dog license
Microchip

Although dogs receive initial vaccinations from us, please make an appointment to see your veterinarian within ten to 14 days after you take your new dog home for a complete and thorough physical examination, and to continue with vaccinations as necessary.