Adoption Process

Finding the Right Animal for You

The SFSPCA believes in an adoption approach that considers important details for finding the right fit, such as a person's home, interests and lifestyle. We then match those with an animal's social, exercise and training needs.

Unlike “pass/fail” application programs, we strive to match people and animals through education and discovery. We accomplish this through conversation to create an effective, pleasant adoption experience — and most important — to make lasting matches.
 
Each situation, adopter and animal requires a different approach. And while we reserve the right to refuse an adoption, we always make every effort to work with you to address concerns or find the most appropriate companion animal.

Please plan on spending at least one hour for the adoption process — we’re confident that you’ll agree that this small investment of time will be well worth the countless hours of enjoyment that will result from finding “the perfect match.”

Felinality: Meet Your Match

For adopters interested in a feline companion, we offer the "Meet Your Match" program that helps determine what type of cat would be best suited to your home. Learn more about Meet Your Match.

Requirements for Adoption

Before falling in love with one of our animals, please make sure that you are:

  • At least 18 years of age 
  • In possession of a valid photo ID 
  • Allowed to have a cat or dog where you live 
  • Able and willing to spend the time and money necessary to provide the training, medical treatment and proper care for the animal

We strongly recommend that the animals and people already residing in your home have an opportunity to be introduced to the animal that you are considering adopting.