Question 1

How does the adoption process work?

Accepted Answer

If you are looking for a certain type of pet, first check our website (it is updated several times a week) or visit MCHS in person to browse through the adoptable cats, dogs, puppies and kittens. When you see a pet you like, you can proceed to the front desk to receive more information on your selected dog or cat and fill out an adoption application. The potential pet will then be taken out so the two of you can interact. If you currently own a dog and are looking to adopt another dog, we strongly recommend a pet introduction prior to adoption. Home visits are also available upon request.

Your pet application will be reviewed by one of our MCHS staff members. If you decide you’d like to adopt your new furry friend, and your application shows you to be a good match, you’ll be able to pay the adoption fee and begin life with your newest family member.

Question 2

What types of pets are available for adoption?

Accepted Answer

Dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are available for adoption.

Question 3

How do I know if a pet is still available for adoption?

Accepted Answer

Once an animal is adopted, they are removed from our website listing within 1 business day. You may also contact the shelter directly to inquire about a specific animal.

Question 4

Do you allow pet introductions prior to adoption?

Accepted Answer

If you need to introduce your pet(s) to our pet: We recommend visiting an animal first to make sure that it is a good candidate for your home. If you decide you would like to proceed with a meet and greet, please bring your dog to the humane society and staff will assist you.

Please do not bring your dog into the kennel area. Instead, have someone you trust hold onto your dog and notify a staff member that you are here for the introduction, or you can leave them in your car if it is weather appropriate. MCHS staff will let your dog and our dog greet each other naturally.

Please plan on separating your newly adopted dog from your current dog on your drive home (in a kennel, for example), unless you have assistance.

Question 5

I'm thinking about adopting a pet as a gift to a friend. What do you suggest?

Accepted Answer

We feel very strongly that the choice must be made by the person caring for the pet. Quite a few of our dogs and cats have been relinquished because the person was given the pet as a present. Because pets are a lifelong commitment, it is very important that there be a bond between pet and owner. It is standard procedure that the primary caregivers meet the pet before we approve the adoption.

Question 6

Can I foster an animal from MCHS?

Accepted Answer

The Marion County Humane Society does not currently have a fostering program.

Question 7

How does MCHS get the adoptable pets?

Accepted Answer

MCHS pets come from a variety of sources, such as strays, transferring from other shelters to relieve overcrowding, as well as owner surrender. Pets are relinquished by their owners for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is because of a move, allergies or a lifestyle change.

Question 8

If I need to give my pet up for adoption, what do I do?

Accepted Answer

Call us at 641-828-7387 to discuss the available options with our experienced staff.

Question 9

Do you take pets on a temporary basis?

Accepted Answer

MCHS does not take pets on a temporary basis. We hold stray animals (animals that do not have an identified owner) for seven (7) days. After this seven day holding period, any stray animal can be put up for adoption, transferred to another shelter, and in rare cases, euthanized (only if serious medical issues exist).

The Marion County Humane Society charges $25.00 for the first day of impound and $10.00 for each additional day.

Question 10

Are all of your workers volunteers?

Accepted Answer

No, but our paid staff is dependent on the help of volunteers to care for all the adoptable pets. They walk, bathe, socialize and help them feel more at home while they are here. We also have volunteers during weekend hours at the front desk to help with paperwork and phones.

If you would like to volunteer, click here for more information.

Frequently Asked Adoption Questions

Frequently asked questions