How & Cost to Adopt

Rescue first!
Adopting a pet from SCHS is a great way to reduce the number of homeless and stray animals in Santa Cruz County. The more animals we find homes for, the more space we have to take in surrendered animals and animals scheduled for euthanasia by Santa Cruz County Animal Control. When you adopt a pet, you save a life.

Our adoption process is simple:

1. Complete a successful interview with SCHS staff
2. Review and complete a Pet Adoption Agreement
3. Pay the adoption fee:

  • Dog Adoption – Fees range from $100- $175
  • Cat Adoption – $50

Discounts are available when you adopt multiple pets.

Included in the cost of the adoption fee are:

  • all basic vaccinations
  • de-worming
  • spay/neuter surgery
  • micro chipping (dogs only)

Spay/neuter is a requirement for adoption. A licensed veterinarian (Roberto Rojas, DVM) performs the sterilization surgery.

Adoption Discount for Seniors. If you are a 60 years old or older you my be eligible for the Pets for the Elderly program, which entitles you to $50 off adoption fees.

To qualify for this offer, you must:

  • be 60 years old or older
  • provide a valid driver’s license or state ID
  • agree to having your photograph taken with the adopted dog or cat

Adoption Discount available for service personnel.   If you are an active member of the military or of law-enforcement, a school staff member, or a nurse, you my be eligible for an adoption discount, which gives you $50 off adoption fees.

Ready to adopt? Check out our current adoptable furry friends!

The more animals we find homes for, the more space we have available to bring in dogs and cats from County Animal Control.
Sparky finds a home!