Adoption Fees and Information

The adoption of an animal should never be impulsive, but rather a well thought out decision made by the entire family/household and always with the best interest of the animal in mind.  The goal of the Henderson Animal Center is to place animals into permanent, responsible homes.  

The Animal Center Director reserves the right to refuse an adoption to any applicant if it appears it is not in the health, safety, and welfare of the animal or the public.

Canine Adoption Fee | $100.00

Adoptees receive:

• $10 voucher toward rabies vaccination
• $25 toward spay/neuter and microchip services

Canines have received at least (1) DAPPV (Distemper-Adenovirus-Parainfluenza-Parvovirus), Bordetella vaccine, heartworm test, dewormer, heartworm prevention and flea control treatment. 

*All adopted animals at least six months old must be spayed/neutered with (30) days of adoption. 

Feline Adoption Fee | $80.00

Adoptees receive:

• $10 voucher toward rabies vaccination
• $15 toward spay/neuter and microchip services

Felines have received at least (1) HCPCh (Feline Rhinotracheitis-Calici-Panleukopenia-Chlamydia psittaci) vaccine, heartworm test, dewormer, heartworm preventative and flea treatment. 

*All adopted animals at least six months old must be spayed/neutered with (30) days of adoption. 

Getting Your Newly Adopted Pet Used to a New Home

Living in a shelter is stressful for any animal; it’s full of sights, sounds, smells and tastes that are strange to new arrivals. Many pets were used to having the run of the house and/or yard, but in a shelter are confined to a cage for much of the day.

Regardless of whether a pet has been removed from an unsafe situation or it has found itself in the shelter due to the death or relocation of its beloved owner, it will feel sad and scared. When you adopt a pet, you are providing it with a stable, loving home. But keep in mind that moving to your home will be another big change for your pet and will leave it feeling apprehensive and nervous. 

What can you do to help facilitate your pet’s transition to its new home? 

1. GIVE YOUR NEW PET ITS OWN SPACE. Whether it’s a small crate or an entire room, your pet needs a quiet place to retreat from you, other people and any pets you may already have. Make their retreat comfortable by stocking it with treats, toys and perhaps a blanket.

2. STIMULATE THEIR SENSES ONE AT A TIME. Wait to invite friends and family over to meet your new dog or cat. Give pets time to get used to your family first, then introduce it to your other pets. Remember, animals have a powerful sense of smell, so allow your new pet ample time to sniff around your home and get accustomed to the smells there.

3. INTRODUCE THEM TO YOUR OTHER PETS SLOWLY. Keep your pets leashed when you first introduce them or put a barrier between them such as a gate or screen. This helps minimize injuries. Give your pets time to get used to each other. Don’t force or rush their relationship — this could have unintended, long-lasting consequences. 

5. START TRAINING IMMEDIATELY. The sooner your animal knows how to behave, the happier both of you will be. One of the main reasons pet owners give for surrendering their animal is their inability to control them. Animals look to us for guidance and leadership. Stock your house with nutritious treats before you bring your new pet home and use them as rewards for good behavior. Your pet will quickly learn what is expected of it. Always refrain from punishing an animal, especially after the fact — they won’t understand. Only use positive reinforcement. Reward your pet right away for good behavior so that they connect the two experiences.

LOCAL VETERINARIANS

• Henderson Animal Care Hospital (903) 657-9212
• Town and Country (903) 657-6549
• Animal Medical Center (903) 657-7120
• Kilgore Veterinary Associates (903) 984-4462
• Animal Protection League (903) 753-7387
• Tyler Animal Emergency Hospital (903) 534-0459
• East Texas Pet Emergency Clinic (Longview) (903) 759-8545