Adoption
How long does it take to get my application approved?
It generally takes 1-2 days to make the appropriate phone calls in order to verify information on the applications. Things that will hinder the approval process include current pets not being up to date on vaccinations or the inability get a hold of any of your references.
What happens if the pet I am interested in gets adopted by someone else?
We can often get multiple applications in for the same animal and we go in order of applications that get approved first NOT which ones get submitted first. If the pet you are interested in gets adopted and your application has been approved it will stay on file for three months in the circumstance that we get in another pet that you may want to meet.
Why are the adoption fees so "high"?
All of our animals come with age appropriate vaccinations (distemper, kennel cough, rabies), have been tested for either heartworm or FIV and Feline Leukemia, are preemptively treated for fleas and intestinal parasites, are microchipped before going home and, when feasible, are fixed before adoption. Adoption fees help to cover most if not all of these things. See all of our adoption fees here.
What is microchipping?
A microchip is a radio-frequency identification transponder that carries a unique identification number, and is roughly the size of a grain of rice. When the microchip is scanned by a vet or shelter, it transmits the ID number. There's no battery, no power required, and no moving parts. It is essentially a form of ID that the pet cannot lose. They are most often placed in between the pet's should blades.
Do you adopt out of state?
Yes, we do adopt out of state but with a few restrictions. Any animal being adopted across state lines must already be fixed before adoption, no exceptions. Adopter must also understand that the adoption contract states that a pet must be returned to our facility if they are unable to keep it for any reason.
Surrenders
Does it cost anything to surrender an animal?
No! We understand that giving up your pet can be one of the hardest decisions you may have to make so we do not charge a surrender fee. Donations are always welcome, at the discretion of the owner.
Do I need to call ahead before surrendering?
Ideally yes, but it is not mandatory. Calling ahead of time ensures that we have the space to take in the animal and a clean, sanitized kennel is ready and waiting.
Do you take in stray animals?
No, all stray animals must be relinquished to animal control or Webster County pound. There they will be placed on a stray hold where they can be claimed by an owner or, once the stray hold has passed, they will then be transferred to Almost Home for adoption.
Do you take in feral or aggressive animals?
No we do not. For the safety of the staff we do not knowingly house feral cats or animals with a history of aggression towards people.
Daily Operations
What does my donation pay for?
Almost Home is a privately run shelter meaning we do not receive any monetary assistance from the city or county. Donations help us to pay for ongoing costs such as electricity, water, heating & cooling, maintenance to the building and grounds, medical supplies and vet bills.
How often do you clean?
Kennels and cages are cleaned every single morning. The process takes about 2-3 hours to complete while smaller chores and spot cleaning happens throughout the day.
Do you have a pet food bank?
While we do not have a formal pet food bank, if someone is in need of a small amount of pet food we will help in whatever way we can
Do you have a foster program?
Yes we do! It is a small program thus far but we are working on building it up. We utilize foster homes for animals that are not old enough for adoption, ongoing medical cases or for pets that just need a break from shelter life.
Medical Services
Do you spay and neuter on site?
No, we do not have a dedicated medical team on staff. We utilize the assistance of our local vets. You can find a list of local clinics here.