Adoption Policy
Bright Eyes Animal Shelter, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to animal care and protection. Our goal is to promote responsible animal ownership within the community and to assume those responsibilities when others are unable or unwilling to do so. All of the programs that we offer are supported by contributions from the public and members of our organization.Those programs include pet adoption, humane education, pet therapy, obedience training, and any information requested by pet owners.
Prior to adopting a pet, please consider the cost of food and health care as well as the time you have available to spend with your new companion. If you have not already done so, consider the needs of your animal as well as your own and the advantages and disadvantages of pet ownership.Please take your time in choosing a pet.
Pets are easily confused by drastic changes in their lifestyles. Habits may change from owner to owner. We ask that you allow a minimum of 21 days for any pet to adjust to a new home. At first they are not sure where they are or how long they will be there. If you cannot commit to providing a lifetime home for a pet, then do not adopt it. Animals need supervision and companionship. Dogs should be secured to prevent them from becoming a nuisance in the community. Chained dogs are often barkers, diggers, and full of pent up energy. Fenced yards are highly recommended. All pets need a secure, loving home where they will be cared for and given the proper nutrition,
water, exercise, shelter, and medical care.
The staff of Bright Eyes is trained to assist you in selecting the right pet. Feel free to ask any questions. If you have any problems concerning your companion animal in the future, please don’t hesitate to contact us. If we don't know the answer we will research it and get back to you. Placing animals in new homes is a responsibility we take seriously. You must read and complete the adoption application and sign a legal adoption contract if you wish to adopt a pet from our facility.
The Bright Eyes Animal Shelter’s goal is to place companion animals in safe, loving, lifetime homes. To meet these goals, we must have basic requirements to help alleviate pet over-population and ensure responsible, caring pet ownership.
Congratulations on your new family addition. Have fun and take advantage of the health support and unconditional love they will give you.
ADOPTION AGREEMENT
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Animals must be adopted primarily as household companion animals. No dog will be placed as a guard or attack dog, and no cat as mouser only.
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Only healthy animals that show no aggressive tendencies or other serious behavior problems will be placed.
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As of 10-01-97, Montana State Law requires all canines and felines adopted from a shelter or pound be altered. This requires that all dogs/cats must be spayed or neutered by a licensed veterinarian. All juveniles in the center will be sterilized prior to leaving with a new owner. You may not adopt an animal too young to alter.
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If adopters circumstances change, the adopted pet may be returned to the shelter.
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No puppies or kittens under 8 weeks of age will be adopted. Puppies and kittens must be at least 4 months old to be placed in a home with children under 6 years.
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No animal will be adopted to anyone with a known history of cruelty complaints against them or previous violations of our contract of policy.
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All adopters must be 18 years or older. Identification will be required.
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If an adopter resides in a rental unit, we must have landlord’s name and phone number and also his/her approval to a pet living on the premises.
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Animals cannot be adopted as gifts. Animals shall not be given away or sold to another individual. They must be returned to the shelter if the adopter can no longer keep and care for the animal properly.
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After adoption, if a health problem is found, the pet may be returned within 10 days. Initial exams will be given when the animal arrives at the shelter and intermittently throughout their stay.
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The adopter must agree to provide the pet with proper care at all times, including nutritious food, fresh water, weather-tight shelter when outside. Regular exercise and veterinary care, including shots and care to relieve suffering.
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All household members must want this pet. We also suggest that if you have a pet already at home that you bring it to meet the new pet prior to adoption.
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No animal can be adopted strictly as an outdoor pet. Animals need human companionship and must be made part of the family's life.
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Continuous outdoor confinement on a chain or a small enclosure is not acceptable. The dog must have access to food, water, and shelter that is appropriate for ALL weather conditions. A fenced yard is ideal for all dogs. This protects the dog from roaming and owners from the liability their loose animals may cause. Chaining, except for brief periods, is not acceptable.
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Animals will shed. They even wet on rugs, vomit, chew things, and dig in yards. Cats jump up on tables and counters and sometimes scratch furniture. If you cannot tolerate accidents, and you do not have time to train this pet, then please reconsider this adoption.
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Declawing is prohibited and you agree not to have the cat declawed. Declawing is the painful amputation of the first knuckle of the cat's toe and is an inhumane practice for cats. It may also leave your cat defenseless in an outdoor environment.
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Your companion animals may live 10-15 years. If you are unable to give this animal a lifetime home, DO NOT ADOPT IT.
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Adoption fees are $100 for cats and $175 for dogs Vaccination records will be provided at the time of adoption.
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Bright Eyes Care & Rehab Center has the right to repossess any animal if there is evidence that the adopter has violated any of these policies.
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Any person who agrees to these adoption policies may adopt from this shelter.
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This center has the right to refuse adoption to any person.