CVHS accepts owner-relinquished animals by appointment from Orange and Washington counties in Central Vermont. We consider the unique needs of all the animals in our care and work compassionately to prepare every safe, healthy, appropriately socialized pet for a new home.

We ask people to be responsible about making appropriate end-of-life decisions (which may involve bringing your own pet to your veterinarian for euthanasia) about their ill or aggressive animals before turning those animals over.  If you are unable to afford euthanasia at your own veterinarian, CVHS is able to provide owner-requested euthanasia by appointment for a fee of $50 per cat and $100 per dog.  We reserve the right to reject any euthanasia and will only euthanize when it is medically or behaviorally the best option for the animal.  Please call 476-3811 x105 if this is the appropriate option for your pet.

We take animals by appointment only. Planning ahead also allows us to properly prepare for the incoming animal to ensure the most comfortable stay possible at the shelter. We also want to have an intake interview with you so that we can understand the animal’s past behavior, including likes and dislikes and fears which will help in the placement process.

We understand that advanced planning is not always possible and will work with you to find the best scenario for all involved. Donations are needed and greatly appreciated when you relinquish an animal, but they are not required. We recommend a $50 donation for each relinquished animal to help with some of our costs.  Average costs for CVHS to provide care for each animal equal about $500 so donations of any amount are appreciated.

Anyone relinquishing a pet must provide the pet’s vet history including vaccination certificates. This allows us to minimize over-vaccinating and make your animal available for adoption as soon as possible. Records can be brought to the appointment or faxed from your vet’s office to CVHS (prior to your appointment) at: (802) 476-7833.

Making an Appointment

CVHS takes animals by appointment only. Appointments are scheduled during our open to the public hours.

When sending an email or leaving a message, please include the following information:

Your name:
Town you live in:
Your phone number:
Number of pets to turn in:
Info about each pet:

Pet name:
Type of pet (cat/dog/guinea pig, etc.)
Age:
Sex:
Spayed or Neutered?
Breed:
Brief description of why you need to turn in your pet(s):

Phone: 476-3811 x105
Email: shelter@cvhumane.com

Example message/email: “Hi, I’m Judy from Middlesex. My number is 476-3811 and I have one cat to turn in. Fluffy is a sweet 3 year old spayed female long haired cat. I am moving to Thailand in two weeks and can’t bring her. Again, my number is 476-3811. Thank you.”

Help Us Get Your Pet Adopted
We understand that turning your animal over to CVHS may be your only option.  You probably want your pet to go up for adoption quickly and to find an incredible home.  You can help!  Here are some pointers to help get your pet ready for adoption:

• Make a trip to your vet first.  Make sure your pet is spayed or neutered (call VT-CAN at 223-0034 for low cost spay or neuter), vaccinated against rabies and distemper, and gets a full physical from the vet.  Cats can be tested for FIV and FeLV.  Dogs can be tested for heartworms and Lyme Disease.  All animals can be treated for any parasites and receive preventatives prior to coming to the shelter.    Can’t afford it all?  Do as much as you can and we can do the rest.
• Address any major medical needs like dental disease with your veterinarian prior to turning your animal in to CVHS.
• Collect records and bring them in!  Rabies certificates are particularly important, but any medical records you have available can speed the way to adoption.
• Bring photos–or email them to us!  It can be hard to get a good animal photo when a scared pet first gets to the shelter.  Send us your cutest photos so people can’t help but rush to the shelter to adopt!
• Take some time to think about what makes your pet special–then write it down.  This will help us create personality profiles that encourage adopters to meet our animals.
• Bring in your pet’s food, treats, toys, and bedding.  Even a little something special from home can help animals feel more relaxed in a strange place.
• Do some grooming or have your pet groomed.  A bath can do wonders for a smelly dog!