How do I adopt an animal with the NHS?

Interested in Adopting? Here's What to Do Next - Check out our Adoption page!

Can I come into the shelter to visit the animals?

For Cats: You can visit our adoption room to meet all our adoptable cats, daily from 12:00PM - 4:00PM We’d love to help you find your new feline friend! *CAT AREA IS CURRENTLY CLOSED

For Dogs: For the safety and comfort of our animals, the dog kennels are not open to public access. All of our available dogs are listed on our website and on the notice board at the shelter’s reception area. We also welcome walk-in meet & greets during our regular business hours - feel free to stop by and meet your potential new furry friend!

How much are adoption fees?

Adoption fees vary depending on the animal. You can see all of our fees on our Adoption page

What if I have difficulties with my new pet when I bring them home?

If you are having challenges post-adoption, please contact the NHS and speak with one of our trained staff members. Please call the shelter at 905 885 4131.

How long does the NHS hold stray animals before they are available for adoption?

At the NHS, our first goal is to always help lost pets find their way home. By law, we are able to hold stray animals for a minimum of 72 hours to give families a chance to be reunited with their beloved companion. If no one comes forward during that time, the animal officially transfers into our care. This is when their journey to a new loving home begins! We make sure each pet is given the love, care, and preparation they need to thrive in their next chapter.

How do I surrender an animal to the NHS?

We understand that making the decision to surrender an animal can be the most difficult decision you have to make as a pet owner. More information can be found here.

Does the NHS offer spay/neuter or Rabies vaccination services to the public?

While the NHS does not provide spay/neuter or rabies vaccination services, there are excellent local resources available, such as:

• Peterborough Humane Society

• Ontario SPCA Centre Veterinary Hospital (Stouffville)

• Southeastern Ontario Spay Neuter Clinic (Trenton)

These groups offer trusted and affordable care to keep your pets healthy and safe.

Does the NHS pick up or take in injured wildlife?

The NHS does not have a wildlife rehabilitation license, facilities, or staff trained to handle wildlife concerns. Please contact the Ministry of Natural Resources, toll-free: 1-800-667-1940 or Ontario Wildlife Rescue to find wildlife rehabilitators.

Who do I call if I suspect animal neglect or abuse?

The NHS cannot investigate animal abuse or neglect situations. If you suspect a case of abuse or neglect, please contact Provincial Animal Welfare Services, 1-833-926-4625 report it.

Does the NHS euthanize animals?

At the NHS, our mission is to provide every animal with a chance at a happy, healthy life. Euthanasia is only considered in rare and exceptional circumstances, such as an animal suffering from a untreatable medical conditions and cannot be saved, or in cases of extreme aggression where there is a serious risk to public safety. These decisions are never taken lightly and are always made with the animal’s well-being and the community in mind.