Pet Adoption Policies

Adoption Policies & Procedures

The city’s Animal Adoption Center usually has a variety of available pets. Our dogs and cats come in all shapes, sizes, breeds, ages and colors, and they are all looking for good homes. Either the previous owner released these animals to the city or have become the property of the city when a pet owner did not reclaim the animals within three business days of impoundment. The person adopting a new animal from the facility must be 18 or older or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Fees & Related Services

Adoption fees are $85 for an animal over six months and $100 for an animal under six months. We periodically offer special discounts to address overcrowding and for special adoption events. The fees include sterilization if needed, rabies and other vaccinations, a microchip, and a health evaluation at a local participating veterinarian clinic.

Payments & Refunds

We accept cash, debit and credit cards except American Express. Refunds, when applicable, will come from the City of Farmers Branch Finance Department.

Redeeming a Lost Pet

Sterilized Pets

If you are picking up your lost pet, you must be 18 years or older or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The impoundment fee starts at $20 for the first day and $10 for each additional day for sterilized animals, and you must show proof of current rabies vaccination before retrieving your animal. 

Non-Sterilized Pets

If your pet is not sterilized, you will be required to have this done as a condition of release. You will need to sign a sterilization/vaccination agreement. Citations will be issued for each violation of the signed sterilization/vaccination agreement.

Microchipping

A microchip is mandatory for all impounded animals that are not already microchipped. The shelter will microchip your pet before release and you will be charged $10 in addition to impound fees.

Surrendering a Pet

Please review information about surrenders on our Surrendering a Pet page before coming to the shelter. If a little help with food or veterinary services would help you keep your pet. Please check out the Low-Cost Pet Resources page.