Applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Not be a full-time undergraduate student living in student or similar housing

• Provide contact information to confirm the landlord allows pets, if renting.

• Be up to date on vaccinations, including rabies, for all dogs and cats in the home. We will contact your veterinarian to verify records.

You must have a fully processed and approved adoption application before visiting with an animal.

Most applications are processed within 24–48 hours.

We accept up to three approved applications per animal. Our goal is to place animals in loving homes as quickly as possible while ensuring the best match.

No. Approval allows you to be considered for adoption, but CNYSPCA staff reserve the right to decline an adoption if they feel the match is not in the best interest of the animal.

No. Once you select an animal, they receive a final veterinary exam before going home. This includes:

• A health check

• Final flea treatment

• Verification that vaccinations are current

• Preparation of medical records for your veterinarian

Once completed, we will contact you to schedule a pickup appointment.

Yes. All cats, dogs, and rabbits are spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter.

Yes. All adopted dogs must be licensed with your town before leaving the CNYSPCA. An adoption counselor will provide additional information.