**The Westport branch of the Connecticut Humane Society is completing adoptions by appointment only in order to best serve the pets in care. CHS is currently accepting online adoption applications for pets in Westport. Applications are reviewed in the order in which they are received. CHS looks forward to helping you find your best match.**

Connecticut Humane Society adoption counselors are eager to help you find the right match for your family. The first step is to view the available pets here and then visit CHS in person.

When you visit, you’ll be asked to fill out an adoption questionnaire for the pet you are interested in. The questionnaires will be considered in the order in which they are received.

If you move forward with an adoption counseling session, an adoption counselor will speak with you during your visit about what you’re looking for in a pet, the animal you are interested in, the pet’s personality, the pet’s medical care, what to expect down the road, and more. You will also have a chance to meet the pet.

If you and the pet are a match, you’ll complete your adoption paperwork, review the contract and documentation, and head home with your new pet and a couple of freebies to get you started.

If it turns out that the pet you are interested in is not the right fit for you, adoption counselors with chat with you to determine if there are other pets available that might be a better match.

It’s easy to fall in love, but a pet is a big commitment. Make sure you are ready for the changes a pet will bring into your life. Review this checklist to help you prepare.

General Adoption Guidelines:

• Be 18 years old or older.
• Visit CHS in person.
• Complete an adoption questionnaire and participate in a conversation with a counselor(s).
• Show a valid driver’s license, or state or federal photo ID with your current address.
• You may be asked to provide landlord approval or proof of ownership. Avoid inconvenience and delay by bringing this paperwork along to the adoption.
• Adopting a pet impacts the entire household. Any children under 18, other family members, and family dogs living in the home may also be required to come meet the new pet.
• CHS does not authorize giving pets as gifts. The person who will be the owner of the new pet must be present and complete the adoption process. (Gift certificates are available as an option to give the gift of adoption.)
• Read, sign and abide by an adoption agreement.

While CHS tries to make the adoption process smooth, the adoption process isn’t necessarily a quick one and may require more than one visit. Just remember, it’s time well spent—it’s all for your new family member, after all!