Q: Are the animals you have healthy?
A: Yes – every animal that enters the Madawaska Shelter is examined by a veterinarian and receives the necessary medical care. They are also vaccinated and sterilized before adoption.
Q: I would like to meet an animal. How does this work?
A: You must first complete the pre-adoption form and send it to us. Once your application is approved, we will contact you to discuss a meeting place to see the animal in question.
Q: Why do I need to complete a pre-adoption form?
A: There are several reasons. First, this questionnaire allows us to determine if the animal is truly a good fit for you, or if another one would be better for you. For example, if you are away for long periods of time and the dog you are interested in is very anxious when left alone, we will likely recommend another dog that would be better suited to your lifestyle. The questionnaire also allows us to understand the reasons for your interest, your experience, your current and previous pets, etc. Finally, the pre-adoption questionnaire allows us to have some control over the risk of abandonment of the animal in question (such as in the case of an animal that is not a good fit for your lifestyle).
Q: Why do you charge a surrender/adoption fee?
A: The surrender fee helps us care for your pet while waiting for a permanent family (e.g., food, items such as bowls, collars, leashes, toys, etc.). The surrender fee is less than the cost of euthanasia at a veterinarian, and allows your pet a second chance at life.
As for the adoption fee, it’s the same principle—we sometimes receive animals in poor condition, pregnant dogs or cats or new mothers with their litters, animals that require significantly more medical care and/or have behavioral issues, etc. We provide them with the necessary medical care, vaccinate and neuter them, and ensure that the animal ready for adoption is in good health. All of this care and treatment is very expensive, and the adoption fee helps cover the costs incurred.