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Owner Surrender

We understand that surrendering your pet is never easy. Please remember that your pet relies on you to make the best possible decision for their future and well-being.

As an open-admission shelter, we accept all animals in need. This means we are often at capacity, caring for many homeless and unwanted pets in our community. While we work hard every day to increase adoptions and reunite pets with their families, space and resources can be limited.

Our team is deeply committed to saving as many lives as possible. We prioritize all healthy, treatable animals, as well as those who exhibit behavior that supports successful placement in a home. However, due to the high number of animals in our care, pets entering a county shelter may be at risk of euthanasia based on medical or behavioral needs. Because of this, we strongly encourage pet owners to consider surrender as a last resort.

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Options to Consider

Before you make this heartbreaking decision, we gently ask you to explore the options below. They may give you a way to keep your pet safe, cherished, and still by your side:

Rehoming

Before surrendering your pet to a shelter, consider reaching out to the person or organization you originally adopted them from. 

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Many breeders are willing to assist in finding a new home or may even take the pet back to rehome themselves. Likewise, rescue organizations often include a return policy in their adoption contracts, requiring that the pet be returned to them if you’re no longer able to provide care.

Reconnecting with the original source can help ensure your pet transitions more smoothly into a new, suitable home.

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Behavior Support

Struggling with unwanted behaviors? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Many common behavior challenges can be improved with the right guidance, patience, and consistency. Our team is happy to provide resources and support to help your dog or cat succeed and remain a happy part of your home.

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Tips for Success

  • Stay consistent: Use clear, consistent cues and routines to help your pet understand expectations

  • Reward positive behavior: Reinforce good habits with treats, praise, or playtime

  • Increase enrichment: Provide toys, puzzles, and regular exercise to reduce boredom-related behaviors

  • Create a safe space: Give your pet a calm, comfortable area to relax and decompress

  • Be patient: Behavior change takes time, and small improvements add up

Helpful Resources

  • Contact local trainers and obedience classes

  • Behavior helplines and virtual training support can be found on various websites

  • Online guides for common issues like house training, chewing, scratching, or anxiety (YouTube) 

  • Recommendations for enrichment toys and activities (PetSmart, Chewy, and various other in-store or online options) 

Moving

Planning a move? We understand that relocating can be stressful, but your pet doesn’t have to be left behind. Many rental homes and apartments are pet-friendly, and with some planning, you can find housing that welcomes every member of your family. Be sure to start your search early to give yourself the best chance of securing a place that fits both your needs and your pet’s.

Taking the time to plan ahead can make all the difference in keeping your pet safely by your side.

Busy Schedule

Short on time? You’re not alone, and many pet owners juggle busy schedules, but there are simple ways to make sure your pet still gets the attention they need.

Dog walking services and doggy daycare can be great options for keeping your pet active and engaged while you’re away. Even just 15–20 minutes of daily playtime or mental stimulation can make a big difference in reducing excess energy and preventing unwanted behaviors.

Affordable Vet Care & Pet Food

Financial challenges happen to all of us, and your pet’s care shouldn’t have to suffer.

We can connect you with low-cost veterinary services and pet food resources to help keep your pet healthy. No one should have to choose between paying bills and caring for their beloved companion. We’re here to help you keep your pet happy and healthy, even during tough times.

If you have explored all other options and are still unable to keep your pet, please follow the steps below to surrender your animal.


Please note: This shelter accepts surrender requests only from Cherokee County residents.

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Appointments and Fees

Intake Appointments

An intake appointment is required for all pet surrenders. Please note that scheduling an appointment does not guarantee adoption. At intake, our team will carefully evaluate your pet’s medical and behavioral needs to ensure they receive the most appropriate humane care. 

  • To schedule a surrender, please complete the Owner Surrender Questionnaire by selecting either the dog or cat form. A separate questionnaire must be submitted for each animal you wish to surrender.

  • After submitting the questionnaire, you will receive an email to schedule our next available surrender appointment. Please note that, due to the high volume of animals in our care, most appointments are currently 60–90 days from the date of submission.

Surrender Fee

  • There is a $50 surrender fee. This fee helps cover the cost of housing, feeding, and veterinary care.

  • To release an animal, you will need to present a valid Driver’s License or State ID. Please note that the shelter can only accept pets from Cherokee County residents.

Animal Return Policy

Pets adopted from Cherokee County Animal Shelter may always be returned to us if needed. We kindly ask that you provide notice whenever possible so we can ensure space is available and make the transition as smooth as possible for your pet.

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