Love & Let Live
Every animal deserves a second chance at love — and life. We invite you to be part of the solution and give back to the animals who give us so much.
Bringing a new cat or dog into your family is a big decision — so we’re honored you’re interested in adopting from HSHC. We realize there are many places you could go to adopt, or purchase, a new pet. So here’s a few reasons why we hope you’ll choose a companion from us:
As an open admission, no-kill shelter, we are depending on more animals getting adopted each day than those who arrive. Yes, we are no-kill. However, that doesn’t mean the animals in our care don’t need you. Every time you adopt an animal from HSHC, not only do you give someone a second chance, but you create an opening in a cage or kennel for another animal who may be at risk for euthanasia to get their second chance. You see, HSHC rescues hundreds of at-risk animals in other Indiana shelters every year…but only if there is space at HSHC.
How old do I have to be to adopt a pet?
The minimum age for adoption is 18.
Do I have to be a homeowner to adopt?
We must be able to either verify home ownership or have approval from your landlord. Regardless of age, if you live with a parent, he or she must be present at the time of adoption.
What identification will I need if I want to adopt?
We require you to have up-to-date contact information and a valid government-issued ID.
What if I already have a pet at home?
If you currently have a dog, we require they be introduced to the dog you are interested in adopting. The shelter has a play yard to assist with new introductions.
If you currently have a cat, and you would like to adopt a dog, we will conduct a complimentary “cat test” with your prospective pet.
If I have young kids, is pet adoption right for us?
We require that ALL family members, regardless of age, meet a potential pet. This requirement may be waived for some cat adoptions.
May I give a pet as a gift?
Because choosing a pet is a very personal – and lifelong – decision, we do not allow pets to be adopted as gifts. The exception to this rule is adopting a pet for your dependent children.
Do my current pets have to be spayed/neutered before I adopt?
Approximately 3 million animals are euthanized in U.S. shelters every year.
Please note there is a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance for Hamilton County residents. For more information on this and other Hamilton County Animal Ordinances visit this page.
To learn more about the health and behavior improvement benefits of spaying/neutering your pet and low-cost vet resources visit this page.
We got Pinky-Pie (formerly Salty) 1 1/2 years ago during a difficult time in our lives. He has been the best medicine for our whole family and is our daughter’s best friend! I can’t say enough about how amazing the staff were in finding the perfect match for us. This little fur ball has been a blessing!