Paws and Claws Humane Society of Rochester MN, strives to promote and provide humane protection and shelter for abandoned or lost companion animals, and seek adoptive homes for companion animals under their protective care.

Policies

Paws & Claws Humane Society Adoption Information & Guidelines

1. Paws & Claws Humane Society (PCHS) is a non-profit, volunteer organization that advocates humane treatment and care of animals. We rescue and shelter homeless animals and strive to educate the public with regard to animal welfare laws and proper pet care. Adopting an animal is a lifetime responsibility and commitment to that animal.
2. The adoption fee ranges from $100.00-$150.00 for cats, and $125.00-$300.00 for dogs depending on the individual animal. This money only partially covers the veterinary expenses incurred by our organization. In addition, there is a $35.00 deposit required when adopting an animal that is not yet neutered or spayed, which is reimbursed upon proof of completed surgery. All animals adopted from PCHS must be altered within the time specified.
3. We require all adopters living within the Rochester City limits purchase a city animal license at the time of adoption. License cost is $8.00 for altered animals and $12 for unaltered animals.
4. NO animal will be adopted as a gift to be given to another party. Gift certificates are available for purchase to be given so the recipients may choose their own companion animal. .
5. The intent of PCHS is to provide good "matches" between pets and people. To help us make the best matches, we ask everyone to fill out a questionnaire. PCHS may refuse to adopt an animal if it is not in the best interest of the animal to be adopted by this individual and/or family.
6. After submitting an application, there is generally a processing period of 1 - 3 days in order to complete all adoption paperwork before taking possession of an adopted animal.
7. Puppies and kittens under four months of age, and dogs under 15 pounds (especially toy breeds), will not be placed in homes where there are children under six years of age. Health and humane authorities agree that a young child usually cannot be expected to handle a puppy or kitten properly. Mishandling is likely to result in injury to the animal, child, or both. PCHS understands that this may be a very difficult policy for some people to accept, but when injuries occur, it is a very sad situation for all involved.
8. All prospective adopters must show (at the time of adoption) a valid driver's license or other acceptable identification to verify their name, address, and age. Adopters must be 18 years of age.
9. Landlord approval is necessary for approval of any adoption if the adopter lives in an apartment, rental home or property, a trailer court, or condominium.
10. All cats will be adopted as strictly indoor pets. All dogs are intended to be companion animals and must have adequate shelter, the majority of PCHS dogs are adopted as indoor pets.
11. As a rule potential adopters are required to have all existing pets spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccinations before being approved for an adoption of a PCHS animal. PCHS staff will check with your current veterinarian for confirmation before approval of an adoption.
12. PCHS cannot guarantee the health and temperament of any animal.

If you have any questions regarding these policies, please ask to talk to a Paws & Claws Representative. Thank you for considering adopting your next pet from Paws & Claws!