Boston ACAC

Adoption Information

Thank you for your interest in adopting an animal companion from the MSPCA-Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center!

Adoption process links:

How much does it cost and what does it include?
Animals for Adoption

Here is a basic outline of how our adoption process works

Please visit the Adoption Center during our open hours to get to know the animals we have available. You do not need an appointment, and we encourage you to visit us often.

Plan to spend as much time as possible becoming acquainted with the animals in our Adoption Center. Each animal has his or her distinct personality, as do you. Our goal is to assist you in finding your best match for a lifelong companion.

We'll take you outside with the dogs, or sit with you and the kitties. Please ask questions -- that's why we're here.

Do some research and think about your lifestyle. Are you an active person? Do you want a lazy dog? Do you like certain breeds? Do you have a preference for short-hair or long-hair cats? Get to know yourself and your animal preferences. It will help us help you!

We'll ask you to fill out a brief application. An adoption counselor will discuss with you some of the particular needs of the animal you have chosen, and how that animal will fit into your particular home situation.

All animals must be spayed/neutered before they leave the Adoption Center and start their new life with you! Typically, we are able to perform the spay/neuter surgery on the next business day after your adoption. For example, if you adopt on Saturday your pet will be ready for pick-up from the spay/neuter surgery on Monday. If you find a pet that you would like to adopt that is already spayed/neutered, these animals may be able to leave the day your adoption application is approved.

We are an open-admission Adoption Center. This means that we never know what kinds of animals will be brought to us during our surrender hours. Therefore, the selection of animals we have available for adoption can change daily. If you don't see what you are looking for the first time - come see us again! Chances are, we will have some new furry friends available for adoption. 

Some Requirements:

A valid picture ID.

Homeowners:
Bring a document that proves you own your home (mortgage bill, tax bill, water bill, or deed).

Renters:
Bring a copy of your lease and the contact information for your landlord. We will speak with your landlord to verify their pet policy. We recommend you alert your landlord to this ahead of time and make sure you have clearance from them to adopt a new pet!

Other Pets?
If you have other animals, please bring information about your veterinarian (the clinic name and phone number) and a copy of your pets' current vaccination/healthcare records. This helps us ensure that everyone is healthy and ready for the addition of a new pet family member.

We want to help you make the best match for your home. This may require children, other dogs, and all household members to come meet the potential new friend. We strongly recommend that anyone who will be living with the new pet comes in to participate in our adoption process. This helps us make certain we are making a good adoption decision!

Thanks again for your interest in our comprehensive adoption program. We strive to meet your needs as an adopter while also fulfilling our obligation to the animals in our care to find them a loving, responsible home. We look forward to working with you and hope to see you soon!