What are the Requirements and the Process to Adopt?
- Minimum age: You must be 21 years old to adopt. Only adults can legally enter into an adoption contract.
- Valid photo ID: A government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport to confirm identity and age.
- Proof of residence and housing suitability: Especially if you rent, written landlord permission or a lease showing pets are allowed.
- Adoption application: A form covering your living situation, household members (including children and other pets), work schedule/time available for the pet, past pet ownership experience, and plans for care. Honesty matters more than a perfect profile.
- References: Personal references and/or a veterinary reference (if you’ve owned pets before).
- Meet-and-greet: Staff discuss your lifestyle and expectations, then observe how you and family members interact with the animal.
- Adoption fee: The fee can vary. It covers the cost of a basic health check, spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, deworming, topical flea treatment, microchipping, and, in some cases, lab testing.
- Signed adoption contract: You agree to provide proper care (food, shelter, veterinary attention, etc.). Cats will be indoor-only unless otherwise specified, and the pet will be returned to Sunshine’s Friends if the adopter cannot keep them. The adopter agrees that all existing pets and future pets will be spayed/neutered and vaccinated.
