There are two ways to adopt an animal from Dakin

We are open for animal adoptions Tuesday - Saturday from 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The fastest way to find a new animal friend is to visit us during open hours.

All available animals are listed on our website, which updates in real-time as animals become available and get adopted.

Animals who are listed as in foster care on our website are not available to meet at the shelter.

Visit our website to view listings of all animals currently looking for homes.

• You’ll find information on each pet’s history and preferences (when known) on their profile.
• Click the pink “Adopt Me” button on the pet’s profile and complete an adoption inquiry. You’ll receive a confirmation email with details and the next steps.
• If you have questions about a specific animal, please submit an inquiry.
• Your inquiry is saved and can be used for other Dakin pets you are interested in, in the event your first inquiry isn’t a match.

An adoption inquiry is not a hold, reservation, or guarantee on pet adoption.

Items you’ll need at the time of your adoption (available for purchase at Dakin):

• A secure carrier if adopting a cat, kitten, or small pet
• A collar and leash if adopting a dog/puppy

Housing requirements for small animals

Most small animal housing sold in pet stores is too small for them. Please carefully review our housing requirements based on small animal species. Measure your housing to make sure it meets or exceeds the requirements.

A photo of your small animal housing is required. After completing an adoption inquiry, email your photo and measurements to Springfield@dakinhumane.org.

Some small animal housing is available for purchase at Dakin. Just ask!

More Information

• Adoption fees are due after your application has been approved. We are unable to offer payment plans or accept checks.
• What's included in the adoption fee?

 

If your inquiry wasn’t selected:

If your first inquiry didn’t work out, try again! Animals are adopted by the first family we speak to whose home is a good fit for their needs. Your completed inquiry is stored and can be used for other available pets.

 

Looking for a specific breed?

If you are looking for a puppy or a specific dog breed, it’s okay to work with a responsible breeder!

It will take work and time to get the dog you’re dreaming of. Working with a responsible breeder eliminates the risk of unknowingly supporting puppy mills, where dogs live in cruel and inhumane conditions. Puppies from these mills often suffer from severe medical and/or behavioral issues. Follow these tips -

• Never buy a puppy unless you personally meet the puppy’s mom.
• Never buy a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old.
• Never buy a puppy that needs to be shipped to you, or from a pet store. These are from puppy mills and their mom and dad will live their lives in terrible conditions. Buying those pups supports puppy mills.

Click here for information about why working with a responsible breeder may be right for you, and what to look for in an excellent breeder.