adoption information
dogs, cats, & critters

Due to COVID-19, Emerald City Pet Rescue and Emerald City Kitty Harbor adoption centers are closed to the general public. Appointments for adoption meet and greets with individual animals are being scheduled in advance.

This process applies to our dogs, cats, and critters. To learn about the process for horses and farm animals, see our Equine Adoption Information page.

Thank you for your interest in adopting a new family member! We are excited to go through this process with you and answer any questions. Please review the information on this page IN FULL before proceeding.

Our adoption process includes an adoption survey, meet and greet, references, and a home check to ensure the home and family are compatible with the pet’s needs and our requirements.

ELIGIBILITY

Potential adopters must be 21 years old or older, a US resident, and live within a three-hour driving distance of our adoption facilities.

checklist

Government-issued ID

If you rent: Copy of the pet policy or landlord verification

Contact information for 3 references (personal, professional, veterinary clinic)

If you have a dog: Spay/neuter and vaccination records (Rabies, Distemper/Parvo, Bordetella, Lepto), or medical waiver from a licensed veterinarian

If you have a cat: Spay/neuter and vaccination records (Rabies, FVRCP), or medical waiver from a licensed veterinarian

ADOPTION STEPS

1. Adoption SurVEY

The first step is to conduct a survey with us via phone by calling us at 206-557-4661. We want to get to know you and your lifestyle so we can help you find the best match for your family.

2. MEET AND GREET

After completing the survey, if you are a potential match, we will either schedule a meet and greet, or place you on the animal's waitlist. The first part of the meet and greet is scheduled as a phone call with everyone who lives in the home to ensure that the pet would be a good match. If that is determined, we then schedule an in-person meet and greet.

For the in-person meet and greet, be prepared to bring your entire human household (resident dogs included if meeting another dog), as well as the items listed on the Adoption Checklist.