Dog Adoption Process
Adoptions at OAHS are not based on first-come-first-adopted but are based on matchmaking so it's a win-win for everyone.
*A scheduled appointment is required to visit with a dog/dogs to ensure staff availability and dedicate the time and space needed to talk to adopters and introduce dogs.* Appointments may take up to an hour or more depending on dogs shown. Our kennels are closed to walk-through traffic to reduce stress on our dog guests. Appointments are scheduled Tuesday - Saturday throughout the day. Walk-in visitors without an appointment can view photos of dogs on the screen above the dog desk and fill out an application on site. Staff availability for walk-in visitors is limited.
HOW DO I ADOPT A DOG?
Requirements:
- Adopters must be 21 years of age or older
- Any dogs currently in the household must be spayed or neutered prior to bringing the adopted dog home
- Adopters who rent their home must be aware of their rental pet policies and any related size or breed restrictions/extra fees/deposit/etc.
1. View Available Dogs and read their descriptions to get an idea of who might be a good match with your family and lifestyle. Some things to take into consideration are size, exercise needs, activity level, level of compatability with other animals, children, work schedules, etc.
2. Fill out and submit an online DOG ADOPTION APPLICATION (can list multiple dogs you are considering, one dog, or DK if you are unsure). This will give us an idea of what dogs might be a good match for your family.
3. Once your application is received and processed (typically within 5-7 business days but will depend on number of dogs/applications) a dog adoption counselor will contact you to schedule a time to visit and provide more information about available dogs. Visits can take an hour or more. Typically, up to two dogs can be shown in an appointment, depending on personality and needs of the dog.
4. If you have animals of the same species in your home as the one you are applying for, please call your veterinarian to tell them to release the veterinary records to OAHS. Doing so will make the process much faster and more efficient.
For those with another dog/dogs at home**: a separate dog-to-dog introduction appointment will be scheduled with trained staff. Your dog must have proof of current rabies vaccination. If you live a significant distance from OAHS, making multiple trips difficult, then we can discuss options.
Have questions about our available dogs? Call (920) 424-2128 ext 3 then ext 3. =
Licensing and Vaccination Requirements in the City of Oshkosh: Pet owners have the responsibility to provide pets a healthy, safe life. The City of Oshkosh has stipulated laws that govern the safety of pets and the safety of its citizens pertaining to potential animal concerns. For more information regarding the laws, licensing, rabies vaccination requirements and fees required by the City of Oshkosh visit their website HERE.