Pet Adoption Fees Revealed

Why do I have to pay for an adopted pet?

By Beth J. Bates

More likely than not, if you've adopted your pet you were asked to pay an adoption fee. These fees can range from around $50 to upwards of $350. To some folks, these fees are a little mysterious. I get asked questions like "Why do I have to pay for an adopted animal?" " Where does this money go?" "Why are puppies more expensive than adult dogs?"

The short answer is pure and simple - animal care. Let me de-construct these fees so that they make a little more sense and hopefully the need will become obvious.
First, know that It is completely acceptable to ask the rescue group or shelter what your adoption fee covers and it will likely vary from group to group. Overall, your fees should go toward the care that was given to your pet or potentially other pets that are awaiting adoption. Potential care would include:

• Spay/Neuter - Most groups will ensure that all animals are spayed and neutered before they are adopted. Estimated cost: $150-$300
  
  
• Vaccinations - Both cats and dogs require several vaccinations when taken into the rescue's care. These can include distemper, rabies, bordatella, Lyme disease, feline leukemia, etc. Estimated Cost: $100+
  
  
• Heartworm Test - Rescued dogs should be tested for heartworm prior to adoption. Heartworm can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. Estimated Cost: $15-$30
  
  
• Flea/Tick Treatment: To ensure that other animals aren't effected by fleas and ticks, all animals should be treated while in the shelter's care. Estimated Cost: $50-$200
  
  
• Microchipping - Most groups will microchip the dogs in their care to ensure that the dog is returned if it ever becomes lost. Estimated Cost: $50
  
  
• Additional Medical Treatment - Some animals come into shelters in such bad shape that they require additional medical treatment for conditions such as mange, broken bones, kennel cough, heartworm and other diseases. These animals require more funds for their care.

Puppies require a series of vaccinations to protect them from disease while their immune systems grow. There are also costs associated with puppies that were born while in the care of the shelter. As such, puppies are usually cost a little more than adult dogs.

Most animal rescue organizations have a nonprofit status with the IRS, so they should not be profiting from the adoption fees they charge. Fees should go back into the care of their animals. If you are unsure as to whether the rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, simply ask.

So, as you can see, a lot of time, money and love goes into caring for homeless animals. Remember that puppy kisses are priceless and that, no matter what the fee, you are giving a loving home to an animal that might otherwise would have been homeless and lost.