BIG DOGS = BIG HEARTS!
Large breed dogs are often overlooked by potential adopters and stay in shelters approximately 1.5 times longer than other breeds. To help our big dogs find homes for the holidays, we’re waiving the adoption fees of all dogs over 50 lbs (or puppies that will be over 50 lbs as adults). This adoption campaign and our waived fees will end Friday, December 20 at 6:30 p.m., after which the fees will return to their regular price.
Things to Consider Before You Adopt
- Are you looking for a companion for your child or a dog to exercise with? Why you want to adopt can help you determine the species and breed that will fit your lifestyle.
- When you adopt a pet, you are making a commitment to care for the pet for the rest of its life. This can be up to 20 years. For a shorter commitment, consider adopting an older pet.
- How much time and space you have. Dogs and cats need exercise, play and companionship every day.
- Food, veterinary care, pet licence and other supplies will be a consistent expense.
- There are important information you should consider when adopting pets from overseas to ensure animals and humans are protected against diseases. Learn more about Adopting & Importing Pets from Overseas.
Fees and What to Bring with You When You Adopt
What to Provide
- A driver’s licence or identification with your current address
- Payment of the adoption fee in cash, debit, Visa, Mastercard or American Express
Whenever possible, all family members should come into to the shelter to select a new pet.
Adoption Fees
View available animals.
| Animal/Pet |
Adoption Fee |
| bird (budgie, finch) |
$5 |
| bird (cockatiel) |
$20 |
| bird (small parrot) |
$50 |
| bird (large parrot) |
$100 |
| fish |
$5 |
| cat |
$75 |
| dog (male) |
$185 |
| dog (female) |
$215 |
| rabbit |
$40 |
| mammals |
$40 |
| rodent |
$5 |
Preparing Your Home for a New Pet
- Have all necessary supplies ready for your dog or cat – food, bowls, leash or harness, collar, brush, toys, scratching posts, bed, crates, litter box.
- Put away household chemicals such as cleaners, insecticides and antifreeze.
- Place houseplants out of reach – some are poisonous to animals.
- Keep potentially harmful household items out of reach including garbage, medicine, pins, elastics, thread, needles, etc.
- Have separate areas for your new pet and existing pets. Pets need to be introduced to one another slowly.
- Keep doors closed including the doors to your washer and dryer, closets and cupboards.
If Your New Pet is the Wrong Match
- Pet adoptions are usually successful.
- If the adoption is not a good match for the new owner or the pet, you can return the pet to the shelter. Please call us first to make arrangements: 416-338-7297.
Thank you to Hill’s Science Diet and PetSmart Charities of Canada for their generous donation to our adoption program.
