Fees & Procedures

Adoption with the Miami County Animal Shelter is easy! 

STEP 1: VISIT OUR ADOPTABLE PETS

Come in to view our adoptable animals. 

STEP 2: SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION AND FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT

Finding that “perfect fit” is an important step in the adoption process. Applications are accepted in-person only at the Miami County Animal Shelter and must be completed prior to doing any meet and greets with the animals. You can print and complete the application and bring it with you to save time. 

We will ask you if you currently own or rent your home. We confirm homeownership through the Auditor's website and, if you are currently renting, we will need to speak directly with your landlord to confirm pets are permitted. It is our policy that a fenced-in yard is required for the adoption of some larger dog breeds. 

Looking to adopt a puppy? An announcement will be made several days before puppies are available for adoption with the application timeline. Puppies are adopted on a first-come, first-served basis from the approved applications. 

We are passionate about finding the right home for our pets so we carefully review applications for compliance with our adoption guidelines. Applications are reviewed for the best possible fit may not be able to be reviewed the same day they are submitted. To protect our animals, adoptions are not approved if anyone in the household has been involved with a crime against an animal. 

With the help of one of our great staff members, after your application has been approved you can visit with the animals in our outdoor Dog Recreation and Socialization Pavilion to make sure you have found a great fit. If you are looking to adopt a dog or puppy, we also ask that you bring any dogs already in the home for a formal meet and greet with the dog you wish to adopt. 

It can take time to find your perfect fit. It is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to closing so you have time to visit and complete the necessary paperwork. Also, as you plan your visit, keep in mind that our peak times are 3-4 pm on weekdays and 11-12 pm on Saturdays.

STEP 3: WELCOME HOME YOUR NEW COMPANION

Upon approval of your application, you will be able to bring home your new companion!

A photo ID is required on your adoption day. We are able to accept cash, checks, credit, and debit cards with a 2.7% processing fee as payment. 

All unaltered animals must be spayed or neutered within 45 days of adoption or, for our younger adoptees, by the age of 7 months. The MCAS will provide a $30 certificate for you to use towards the cost of spaying or neutering your animal with a veterinarian of your choice within Miami County.

The adoption fees are $96 for dogs and $45 for cats. These fees include:

  • The first round of vaccinations plus the first dose of deworming medicine
  • Microchip with a lifetime membership ( for dogs) 
  • One-year license (for dogs)
  • Coupon for a free health examination with a Miami County veterinarian
  • Spayed/Neutered, vaccinated for rabies, and heart worm tested**

**The Miami County Animal Shelter is working towards spaying and neutering every dog before adoption, however due to limited resources we cannot guarantee all pets will be at this time. 

Partnering with Miami County Animal Shelter

While our top priority is matching our animals with a permanent home, there are times when we will partner with local animal rescues. Certain animal rescues may be eligible to receive discounted adoption fees. Please contact the Shelter for more information.