Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting time, and pet shelters in Los Angeles are wonderful places to find your new furry family member. Los Angeles pet shelters are dedicated to connecting animals in need with loving homes. When you adopt a dog or cat from one of these shelters, it’s important to understand the processes and policies in place to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new pet. This guide will walk you through what to expect when adopting from La Pet Shelters, focusing on the health and well-being of your newly adopted companion.
Understanding Your Adopted Pet’s Health
Often, pets arrive at shelters with unknown medical histories. To help you understand the health status of your new dog or cat, Los Angeles pet shelters provide important resources and information.
Animal Health Awareness Report
If the pet you are adopting is currently undergoing treatment for an illness or injury, the shelter will provide you with an Animal Health Awareness Report, also known as Form D-300. This report summarizes the treatment your pet received while staying at the animal shelter. It’s crucial to review this information carefully to understand any ongoing care your pet might need.
Free Veterinary Examination
To further support the health of adopted pets, the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA) offers a valuable program. Within three working days of your adoption date, you are entitled to a free medical examination for your newly adopted dog or cat at any participating SCVMA veterinary office. Your adoption packet includes a certificate for this free health exam. Remember to bring your Adoption Receipt to your veterinarian appointment as proof of adoption. While this service is currently not available for rabbits, it is a fantastic benefit for dog and cat adopters. To find a participating veterinarian, consult the yellow pages or online directories for SCVMA veterinary offices in your area. It’s always a good idea to call the veterinarian’s office beforehand to confirm their participation in the SCVMA program and schedule an appointment.
This free exam is a wonderful opportunity to establish care with a veterinarian and get a professional assessment of your pet’s health right after adoption. Keep in mind that only the examination itself is free of charge. Any further diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, medications, or additional vaccinations recommended by the veterinarian will be your financial responsibility as the new pet owner.
Limited Medical History
It is important to be aware that most dogs and cats in animal shelters do not have documented medical histories prior to their arrival at the shelter. This means that you and your veterinarian will be starting fresh in understanding your pet’s long-term health. The initial free exam is a critical first step in establishing a baseline for your pet’s health and addressing any immediate concerns.
Post-Adoption Support and Policies
Los Angeles pet shelters aim to ensure successful adoptions. Understanding the post-adoption policies is essential for a smooth transition.
Return and Reselection Policy
If, unfortunately, your adopted dog or cat is found to be physically unfit or unsuitable for your home after the free veterinary exam, Los Angeles pet shelters offer a return and reselection policy. You have a 10-day period from the adoption date to return the animal. Following a return, you are given the opportunity to select another dog or cat within 31 days from the date of the original adoption. It’s important to note that while you can reselect, the initial sterilization fee and microchip fee are non-refundable and will need to be paid again at the time of reselection.
If the adoption fees for your reselected pet are higher than what you initially paid, you will be responsible for paying the difference. Conversely, if the fees for the new pet are lower, no refund will be issued. This policy ensures fairness and supports the shelter’s resources for animal care.
Important Considerations for New Pet Owners
Adopting a pet is a significant commitment. Beyond health considerations, there are behavioral and adjustment factors to keep in mind.
Behavioral Issues
Shelter environments can be stressful for animals, and behavioral issues may not always be apparent during their stay at the shelter. Your newly adopted dog or cat may exhibit behavioral problems once they are in a home environment. These issues might range from anxiety to house training difficulties. As the adopter, addressing and managing any behavioral problems becomes your responsibility. This may involve training, behavioral therapy, or patience and understanding as your pet adjusts to their new life.
Quarantine Period
For the health and safety of your new pet and any existing pets, a quarantine period is strongly recommended. Due to the incubation period of certain diseases, it’s advised to keep your newly adopted dog or cat separated from other animals for up to two weeks. Avoid taking your new pet to public places where they could encounter other animals during this initial two-week period. This precaution helps minimize the risk of disease transmission and allows your new pet to adjust to their new home in a safe and controlled environment.
Liability Release
By proceeding with the adoption and signing the adoption receipt, you agree to release the City of Los Angeles, its employees, and agents from any liability or claims related to your adoption, ownership, or disposal of the adopted animal. This is a standard clause in adoption agreements and is important to understand as part of the adoption process.
Adopting a pet from LA pet shelters is a rewarding experience. By understanding these key aspects of the adoption process, including health considerations and post-adoption policies, you can be well-prepared to welcome your new companion into your life and provide them with a loving and supportive forever home. Remember to reach out to Los Angeles pet shelters and the SCVMA for further information and support as you embark on this wonderful journey of pet ownership.
