At the Humane Society of Walden, we are committed to placing our cats and dogs into loving, responsible homes where they can thrive. Our thoughtful, multi-step adoption process ensures each pet is matched with the right family, based on lifestyle, environment, and readiness for long-term commitment.
The Adoption Process
1. Submit an Adoption Application
Your first step is completing our adoption application. Please notify your references, veterinarian, and landlord (if applicable) that we will be reaching out to them.
2. Application Review and Approval
Once your application is approved, we’ll schedule a time for you to visit and meet potential matches.
3. Meeting Your Match
To minimize stress and maintain a safe environment, shelter tours for our dogs must be scheduled in advance. However, walk-ins are welcome for meeting our cats.
For Dog Adoptions: If you currently have a dog and wish to adopt another, a supervised meet-and-greet will be arranged. A proper introduction is key to ensuring a positive start for both dogs.
4. Adoption Donation
We request the following donations to help cover the costs of care:
- $275 for dogs
- $450 for puppies
- $125 for cats
- $150 for kittens
Every adopted pet is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed, and tested as appropriate for their species.
Please note: No cat or dog will leave the shelter without being spayed or neutered.
Why We Follow This Process
At times, the shelter can get busy and lively. Following a structured adoption process helps our staff focus on finding the best match for each pet. Our top priority is the health and safety of all animals in our care.
For this reason:
- Handling or snuggling puppies and kittens that are not fully vaccinated is not allowed.
- Unscheduled tours of the dog areas are not permitted. Research — and our own experience — shows that continuous foot traffic increases stress, leading to undesirable behaviors like barking and jumping.
Thank you for helping us maintain a calm and healthy environment for our animals.
Adoption Requirements
To adopt from the Humane Society of Walden, you must:
- Be 21 years of age or older.
- Be the primary caregiver and be present at the meet-and-greet appointment.
- Provide a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, non-driver ID, passport, visa, etc.).
- Agree to the policies outlined in our adoption contract regarding the lifelong care and well-being of the animal.
- Have no prior history of animal neglect or abuse within your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to get my family member or friend a pet as a gift. Can I do that?
We do not adopt animals out as surprise gifts. Adopting an animal is a huge, years-long commitment. It is in everyone’s best interest to be involved in the adoption process, especially the primary caregiver of the animal. You can surprise your loved one and still pick out your new pet together!
Is there an age requirement to adopt?
Yes, you must be 21 year of age with a valid ID.
Still have questions?
Call us 845-778-5115 or email us contact@waldenhumane.org, and we will be happy to answer your questions.
The Humane Society of Walden reserves the right to refuse an adoption application for any reason.