RCHS Adoption Policies

At RCHS, our goal is to ensure the best outcomes for our animals, our adopters, and the animal population of Randolph County. With this in mind, we have created the following adoption policies:

• First and foremost, RCHS is looking for permanent, responsible homes for these animals. Thousands of pets die each year because irresponsible owners neglect them, let them breed, or just decide they no longer want their animals. Please consider the time and money required to own a pet. It's a lifetime commitment—and nothing less than that level of commitment is acceptable.
   
• You must be 18 years of age or older to adopt an animal.
   
• All animals leaving the shelter will be spayed or neutered first.
   
• All animals must be taken to a veterinarian for a health exam within seven days after leaving the shelter.
   
• If you rent or lease your house or apartment, we request written or verbal approval from your landlord before you adopt a pet. We will not adopt an animal to a person or family that is either in the process of moving or is planning to move within a month after adoption.
   
• Animals are placed as pets or companions only. We will not place dogs to be strictly guard dogs or protective animals.
   
• No animal will be adopted that will be kept strictly outside.
   
• We do not allow pets to be adopted as gifts or presents to others.
   
• If you are interested in a large dog (over 40 pounds), we strongly suggest a fenced-in yard where the animal cannot get off your property. It is the law in Elkins and in most outlying townships that your dog be on a leash at all times when in public.
   
• For the protection of the animals and citizens, cats and dogs must always wear a collar and ID tag when outside. Rabies tags are also required. The City of Elkins requires both dog and cats to wear tagged collars and be licensed.
   
• We do not recommend young puppies or kittens for families with very young children or in situations where all family members are gone for long periods each day.
   
• If, at any time, you are no longer willing or able to care for your pet, you are required to return the pet to RCHS or the closest humane society. It is not permitted to sell or give the animal to a third party.
   
• All adopters must complete an Adoption Agreement.
   
• RCHS reserves the right to refuse any adoption.

 

How You Can Help

Learn more about how you can help the animals by adopting, sponsoring or fostering a pet; donating money or supplies; or volunteering with RCHS.