What to Expect
To help us match pets with the best possible homes, we ask all adopters to complete an application. Please select the application that best fits the pet you’re interested in adopting
Once your application is submitted, our adoption team will review it and contact you to discuss next steps. Submitting an application does not guarantee adoption but helps us ensure the best fit for both you and the animal.
Adoption FAQs
What is the adoption process?
Nevada SPCA is a walk-in shelter, and adoptions are based in first come, first served. The adoption process typically takes about an hour. During this time, you'll meet the pet and speak with our knowledgeable staff to ensure that they're a good fit for your home and lifestyle. If it's a good match, you can complete the application and bring your pet home the same day. You must be 18+ years of age to adopt and provide a valid photo ID with current address. A meet-and-greet with any current household dogs is required for some dogs. If you are renting, you are responsible for checking your lease agreement for any pet restrictions including and not limited to breed and size.
Am I responsible for veterinary care once this pet is adopted?
Once the adoption is finalized, you are responsible for establishing care for your pet at a veterinary clinic of your choice. We will provide you with the pet's current medical records at the time of adoption.
What is an FTA?
FTA stands for Foster to Adopt. Any animal with "FTA" listed after their name is part of our Foster to Adopt program. Nevada SPCA's Foster to Adopt program allows pets - typically young puppies and kittens who are not yet old enough or large enough to be spayed or neutered - to go into loving homes before their surgery. These animals stay with their foster family until they are ready for their procedure, at which point the adoption is finalized. This program is crucial because it keeps young animals out of the shelter during their critical developmental months and allows Nevada SPCA to help more pets in need by freeing up shelter space.
How does the Foster to Adopt (FTA) process work?
When you participate in the FTA program, you will pre-pay the adoption fee, which covers the pet's vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter surgery. You will take the animal home to foster until they are old enough or large enough for their sterilization surgery. You must return the pet to Nevada SPCA for their scheduled spay/neuter appointment. Once the surgery is completed, the adoption is officially finalized. Until the surgery is complete, the animal remains the property of Nevada SPCA. If you are unable to attend your scheduled surgery appintmnet, it is very important that you contact Nevada SPCA staff in advance to reschedule. Please note: The adoption cannot be finalized until the surgery is completed. Multiple missed appointments may result in the pet being reclaimed by Nevada SPCA. This process helps ensure the health of our animals while allowing them to grow and thrive in a home environment.
Can I take my FTA to an outside vet?
While you are fostering, we will provide any necessary veterinary care for the pet until the adoption is finalized. If you decide to take your FTA to an outside vet, you will be responsible for the cost.
