Adoption Requirements

(Scroll down for link to Adoption Applications)

• You must be 21 years of age or older.
  
  
• The adoption fee for dogs in the state of Louisiana is $200 for dogs and $100 for cats. The fee covers up to date vaccinations and preventions, spay/neuter, heartworm treatment if needed, deworming, as well as a microchip that is registered to you by us.  Should you want to donate more, it will be gratefully accepted!

• A securely fenced yard is required for most dogs. If your yard is not fenced, please provide a description of your property when completing the application. 

• Dogs must be indoor only homes. NO EXCEPTIONS! The use of chains and runners are not permitted. Dogs being kept outdoors only, or in outdoor kennels, are not permitted.
  

• You must fill out our online adoption application for dogs or cats.

• A background check will be conducted. This may include a home check, a veterinarian check, personal references, etc.
  
  
• All of your animals must be spayed/neutered, on monthly heart-worm prevention, and up to date on all vaccinations.
  

• You must uphold state laws.

• If you rent, a letter from your landlord showing approval may be required. 

• Cats will not be declawed. Indoor homes only. Indoor/outdoor homes considered on case by case basis, depending on the cat and location of the home.
  

• You must sign and abide by our adoption contract.
  
  
• You must agree to provide lots of tender loving care.

Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Adopt:

• Are you willing to make a lifetime (12-18 year) commitment to caring and loving this animal?
  
  
• Are you financially prepared for expenses involved in pet ownership (emergencies, food, litter, shots, vet visits, shelter, grooming)?
  
  
• Does everyone in your household want and agree to adopt this pet?
  
  
• Puppies require a lot of time and special attention which can sometimes continue for more than two years. If you are adopting a puppy, are you committed to the time, training and consistency required to raise a healthy dog?
  
  
• Have you confirmed that nobody in your household is allergic to the kind of pet you are considering adopting?
  
  
• Is there any kind of circumstance that would cause you to give up your pet, return it to the shelter or abandon the pet to fend for itself?
  
  
• Are you preparing for a major life-changing event such as a move, marriage or new baby that would make the addition of a pet in the household too overwhelming?
  
  
• Is your home ready to accept a pet? For example: do you have a fenced yard? If you rent, do you have approval for a pet? Have you kitten or puppy-proofed your home so that all of your furniture, shoes, wall, etc. are ready for kitties and puppies that are teething?
  
  
• To assure your new pet is a good fit for your family and other pets already in the household, have you considered AAVA foster-to-adopt option?