Frequently Asked Questions
We know your time is valuable, so we've compiled the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. They are listed by category below.
General Questions
(CLICK HERE for complete information about the Shelter.)
Is the Shelter a No Kill facility?
Absolutely YES. To read more about our No Kill philosophy, transparency and reporting CLICK HERE.
Where is the Shelter located?
We are located at 3355 Bertholet Blvd in Valparaiso. We are just off State Road 49 about a quarter mile south of US Highway 30 between the Porter County Jail and the Porter County Expo Center. We'd tell you to use Google maps, but in this case DON'T! Because we are a new location, Google maps will send you in the wrong direction! We've put together an easy map to find out how to get here that you can CLICK HERE to view.
What are the Shelter's hours?
We are open seven days a week from Noon until 4:00 PM. The Shelter is closed to the public on holidays.
Adoption Questions
(CLICK HERE for complete information about adopting.)
Does the Shelter have puppies or kittens?
While the Shelter does sometimes get puppies, many times they are placed with rescue groups who are better prepared to provide the extra attention that they need. As far as kittens, we regularly take in litter of kittens during kitten season from spring to late summer. But they are usually not immediately available for adoption because it can be eight to twelve weeks before new kittens are old enough to be spayed or neutered. When we do have puppies or kittens, we post it on our Facebook page and they often are adopted very quickly. The best way to find out when they are available is to LIKE and check our Facebook page frequently. CLICK HERE for more information about our Facebook page.
What are the Shelter's adoption fees?
Adoption fees are $100 for canines, $50 for felines, and $25 for other small animals.
Does the Shelter have an application fee?
No. You can fill out an application at anytime at no cost or obligation to adopt. Approved applications are valid and held on file for up to six months.
What does the adoption fee include?
Other than the joy of adding a furry member to your family, all of our adoptables are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped before they leave the Shelter for their new forever home.
What does it take to adopt?
There is not a simple answer to this question. It depends on you and the animal. For complete information on adopting, CLICK HERE.
At what time do interactions and adoptions stop?
If you are planning a visit to the Shelter to interact with or adopt on of our animals, please plan your visit with the understanding that the adoption application process must begin one hour before closing time.
Other Services Questions
Is there a fee to surrender an animal?
The Shelter does not require a fee for owner surrenders, but even a $50 donation will help defray our costs and will certainly be appreciated. If your animal is not spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations or micro chipped, it could cost us hundreds of dollars before we can offer your pet for adoption. CLICK HERE for more information about Owner Surrenders.
Does the Shelter provide euthanasia services to the public?
No. You will need to contact a licensed veterinarian for euthanasia services.
Does the Shelter offer low cost vaccinations or spay/neuter services to the public?
Not at this time.
Does the Shelter offer boarding services?
No. You will need to contact a private boarding facility.
Animal Control Questions
CLICK HERE for Animal Control FAQs.
Have A Question We Didn't Address?
If you have a question that we didn't address above, just click on the icon below to submit your question online and Shelter staff will respond to you within 48 hours.