How to adopt an animal from a shelter: step-by-step instructions

Adopting an animal from a shelter in Calgary is not only a way to get a pet, but also an important gesture of support for the humane treatment of animals. Every year, municipal and private shelters rescue thousands of dogs, cats, and small pets, giving them a second chance at a happy life with a family. To make the process easy, safe for all parties, and promote responsible ownership, city centers and organizations have developed clear steps and conditions for adoption.

Step 1. Research and select a shelter

The first step is to familiarize yourself with the various shelters operating in Calgary. The main ones are the Calgary Humane Society and the Animal Services Centre, which work with a number of private rescue organizations and volunteer initiatives.

Check out the organizations' websites for their current adoption programs, a list of animals available for adoption, and reviews of the shelter. Most shelters have online galleries of animals with detailed descriptions of their personality, age, health, and special needs. Additional recommendations are often provided, such as advice on choosing a breed or type of animal based on your lifestyle and experience.

Step 2. Choosing an animal

After reviewing the available animals, it is time to make a choice, which is often accompanied by a consultation with a shelter employee or volunteer. You can talk to the curators and get recommendations on the compatibility of a particular animal with children, other pets, or special circumstances.

It is advisable not to rely solely on photos from the gallery, but to sign up for a personal meeting to see the animal in real life and observe its behavior. For many dogs, especially those with difficult experiences, several meetings are scheduled for gradual adaptation.

Step 3. Collect and prepare documents

To complete the adoption process, you will need:

• Passport or ID card
• Proof of residence
• In some cases, permission from your landlord or condominium to keep an animal
• Information about other pets
• Recommendations from a veterinarian (if you have animals)

If you have young children, shelters often ask you to confirm that your family is ready for a new member by completing a short interview or introductory conversation.

Step 4. Questionnaire and interview

Next, you will need to fill out a questionnaire on the shelter's website or in person at the center. The questionnaire contains questions about your lifestyle, experience caring for animals, expectations for your new pet, living conditions, attitude toward training, and the amount of time you can devote to the animal.

This is followed by an interview with a shelter employee or volunteer. Employees may ask additional questions about your daily habits and work schedule to ensure that you are the right match for the animal and that you are responsible.

Step 5. Getting acquainted and the adjustment period Most shelters offer a period of time to get acquainted with the animal, which can last from a few hours to several days. For dogs, test walks with the future owner and introductions to family members are often arranged. Some centers allow you to take the animal “for the weekend” or for a week-long trial to make sure that the family is compatible and ready.

The shelter monitors the adaptation process and provides recommendations on nutrition, routine, games, and specific characteristics of keeping the animal at home.

Step 6. Veterinary examination and final procedures Before the adoption is finalized, the animal undergoes a mandatory veterinary examination, vaccination, parasite treatment, and sterilization/castration (for most animals). All procedures that have not been performed previously are carried out at the shelter's expense. The owner receives all veterinary documents, vaccination certificates, and detailed recommendations for care and feeding.

In some cases (for chronically ill or older animals), the shelter offers partial compensation for treatment costs, support during difficult periods, or rehabilitation.

Step 7. Signing the contract and making the payment

Next, you need to sign an adoption contract, which is a legal document that certifies the transfer of rights to the animal to the new owner and sets out the basic rules for keeping the animal. It includes:

• care responsibilities,
• prohibition of further uncontrolled sale or alienation of the animal,
• requirements to inform the shelter in case of an emergency (loss, illness, relocation).

The cost of adoption varies: for kittens, puppies, adult and elderly animals, the amounts are set by the shelters, but they are significantly lower than the cost of purchasing from a breeder. Usually, it is $100-300, including sterilization, vaccination, and microchipping.

Step 8. Post-adoption support

The key value of city shelters is the support they provide to owners even after adoption. Staff members monitor the animal's adaptation, provide care advice, behavioral tips, veterinary care, and informational support. The owner can contact the shelter with questions or problems at any time.

There are support groups for owners of adopted animals: online chats, forums, local meetings, and socialization programs.

Special procedures for Ukrainian newcomers

Many shelters in Calgary are ready to provide website interfaces, questionnaires, and basic information in Ukrainian or Russian, as well as offer the services of a translator. There are additional information campaigns for newcomers to help them adapt to local care, socialization, and legal norms.

Protection of rights and responsibilities

Adopting an animal is not only a right but also a responsibility. The new owner undertakes to:

• provide daily care,
• comply with the law on responsible pet ownership,
• register the animal,
• provide veterinary care throughout the pet's life.

Shelters can take an animal back if the owner violates the terms of the agreement or shows negligence in its care.

Conclusion

Adopting an animal from a shelter in Calgary is a simple, transparent, and safe process that aims not only to find a new home for an animal but also to educate responsible owners. Each step is carefully designed to protect the animal's interests and ensure the comfort of the new family member. If you are ready to welcome a pet into your home, contact your nearest shelter, prepare the necessary documents, open your heart, and get ready for a whole new experience of friendship, love, and mutual support.