"If having a soul means being able
to feel love and loyalty and
gratitude, then animals are better
off than a lot of humans."- James Herriot

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Resources for Pet Owners

The best thing for your pet is to remain with the family it loves. Let us help you make that happen!  

Alternatives to Surrendering Your Pet

We have lots of resources to help you keep your pet at home and can even suggest alternative re-homing solutions. Please consider the following alternatives before surrendering your pet.

Why are you considering surrendering your pet?

Can’t afford care

Pet Food
If you’re unable to provide food for your pet, call us! (304) 342-1576 ext. 112.

Veterinary Care
The following local resources are low-cost options for veterinary care:

Fix Charleston: Lower part of the shelter building. 1246 Greenbrier Street, Charleston, WV 25311 | 304-342-5660

Help for Animals:  1 Humane Way | Barboursville, WV 25504 | (304) 736-8555

Lunchbox Foundation for Pets:  (304) 286-5553 or (304) 767-8474 | info@lbfp.org

The following national resources provide relief funding to pet owners in need:
Banfield Charitable Trust
RedRover Relief Grants

Behavior Issues

Food aggression? Destructive chewing? Trouble house breaking? Whatever the behavior is, we’re here to help you correct it (and hopefully keep your pet at home). Just give us a call!  (304) 342-1576  ext. 130

Allergies

If someone in your home has been diagnosed with allergies, consider if you can live with or manage symptoms. Children may outgrow pet allergies, while adults are often able to manage symptoms and keep their pet at home. Consider the following tips to manage  pet allergies:

  • Minimize contact with the animal and create an area free of pets, such as the bedroom.
  • Vacuum and clean floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture on a weekly basis.
  • Place a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier in the home, in addition to filters on vents.
  • Enlist the help of non-allergy suffering family members to clean the litterbox and pick up after the pet.
  • Frequently wash clothing and bedding materials, including the pet’s bed.
  • Frequently bathe the family pet.
  • Consider removing dander attracting materials such as upholstered furniture and draperies; replace carpeting with wood, tile, linoleum, or vinyl flooring that won’t harbor hair and allergen causing molecules.
  • Consult with your physician to determine the best course of action for your family to live happily with your pet.


Moving/Don’t have adequate housing

See our section on pet-friendly housing.

Pregnancy

You don’t have to give up your pet just because you’re pregnant! In fact, research has proven babies who grow up with multiple animals have fewer allergies! Pets also help children learn, be more nurturing, and more! Learn the benefits of raising children with pets here.

Concerned about bringing home a new baby? With careful planning, you can transition a new baby into your home easily. Check out these tips!

If Toxoplasmosis is your concern, please see HSUS’ article regarding Toxoplasmosis and pregnancy here.

Too many animals

Please see information below on how to personally re-home your pet.

Unexpected litter

Pet overpopulation is a serious problem in Kanawha County. Each year, we receive thousands of unwanted puppies and kittens from accidental litters. While we understand these things happen and are willing to help, we need your cooperation. We will accept accidental litters from owners who agree to spay the litter’s mother. We also require the litter to be at least eight weeks of age before intake. To surrender an unexpected litter, call (304) 342-1576 ext. 118. 

How to personally re-home your pet

  • Take high-quality, clear photos of your pet!  Outdoor lighting is best, and a great photo will get the most attention by potential adopters.
  • Create your pet’s profile by providing breed, sex, age, color, and weight information.  You should also include any commands your pet knows, and be sure to share any medical/behavior concerns with potential adopters to avoid future problems.
  • Choose a rehoming fee, and stick to it!  Waive the fee only for family or good friends.
  • Create a flyer with your pet’s information.  Distribute it at grocery stores and local high-traffic areas.  Post it on Facebook, and email it to family, friends, and rescue groups. 
  • If your pet is purebred, contact breed-specific rescue groups.  Breed-specific groups have a solid understanding of breed characteristics, and have the best chance of finding a suitable home. You can locate breed-specific groups on the Internet using search terms such as “German Shepherd Rescue” or “Pomeranian Rescue,” for example.  
  • If someone is interested, ask plenty of questions to decide if the person’s lifestyle sounds like a match for your pet. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to potential adopters if something doesn’t “feel” right!
  • Contact their veterinarian for a reference, and visit their home before making any decisions. 
  • Once you’ve found the right match for your pet, follow up after 48 hours and again after 1 week to ensure a smooth transition. 


If these alternatives don’t address your situation, please call (304) 342-1576 ext. 118 to begin the process of surrendering your pet to KCHA.