Rehoming Information
We realize that sometimes people are not able to keep their pets for one reason or another. We primarily serve lost and stray animals. Voluntary owner surrendered pets are not currently accepted at this time.
We ask that owners try all of the following methods of rehoming their pets.
Check with friends and family
Let people know you’re trying to rehome your pet and ask them to spread the word to help you find a new home. If challenges you're facing are temporary, they may be able to help, and enable you to be more easily reunited with your pet when you're ready.
Check with the source
Reach out to the shelter, rescue, or breeder or other location where your pet came from. They may be able to help. There may also be stipulations in your adoption or breeder contract to reach out to them should you ever need to return the animal for any reason.
Reach Out on Social Media or Post on Pet Rehoming Websites
Tell your social media network what you're experiencing and ask for help finding a new home, or ask for support. Post on social media groups or websites for rehoming pets. Be upfront and honest about any special needs your pet may have, including behavioral or medical needs.
Check with local shelters and rescues
The following organizations may accept owner-released cats and/or dogs (or rodents) on a space available basis. Please check with each agency for specific information. Many will require an appointment, profile forms about your pet, and may have associated fees for surrendering your pet.
Animal Shelter Alliance of Portland (ASAP) Partner Shelters
Many county shelters may only be able to serve residents of their jurisdiction.
Humane Society for Southwest Washington*
1100 NE 192nd Ave
Vancouver, WA 98684
(360) 984-6060
Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter of Washington County*
1901 SE 24th Ave
Hillsboro, OR 97123
(503) 846-7041
Other Sheltering Resources & Rescues
- Animal Aid
- Cat's Cradle Rescue
- Columbia Humane Society
- Displaced Pets Rescue
- Family Dogs New Life
- Great Compassion Rescue
- Heartland Humane Society
- Home At Last Humane Society
- House of Dreams
- Humane Society of the Ochocos
- Must Love Dogs NW
- One Tail at a Time
- Paws Animal Shelter
- Pet Adoptions Westside: (503) 650-0855
- Pixie Project
- Second Chance Companions
- Stray Cat Alliance
- Three Rivers Humane Society
Other Online Resources
Create a profile and listing for pets to rehome on these nationwide pet rehoming resources.
Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet
- Create a Profile - get your pets posted on Adopt-a-Pet.com to be seen by millions of pet adopters.
- Review Applications- the dedicated team at Rehome will give you all the help you need to select the best potential adopters.
- Meet Adopters - The Rehome team will guide you through the process of setting safe and pressure-free meetings with applicants.
- Finalize Adoption - Rehome will provide you with an adoption contract to protect the transfer of your pet ownership.
Nextdoor
Nextdoor does not allow the buying or selling of pets, but have guidance on listing animals for a nominal adoption fee. Nextdoor is an effective way to rehome animals locally in your neighborhood.
Craigslist
Avoid giving your pet away “free to a good home”, as unscrupulous people may turn around and sell your pet. You may ask for a small rehoming fee for your pet. However, you should be aware that people who ask for rehoming fees are often accused of selling their pet, which is not allowed on Craigslist. The best option may be to require the adopter to donate a reasonable sum to an animal related charity.
The Pacific Northwest has many breed-specific rescue organizations. You can try searching on Google for relevant options for your pet.
If You have Exhausted Other Options
Contact MCAS
If you are experiencing emergency circumstances that would prevent you from keeping your pet, and if you live within Multnomah County and have exhausted alternative options, please call our Client Services team at 503-988-7387 to discuss available options.
Adoption Returns
If you adopted a dog from MCAS within the past 30 days and you’re certain it’s not going to work out, simply contact us in regards to an ‘Adoptions Return’. Please note that if you call or email first we can be prepared for you before you arrive, otherwise there could be a long wait. There will be a bit of paperwork, and your Adoption Return may or may not be eligible for a whole or partial refund.
Emergencies
If you are currently in danger, if the dog in your home poses an active threat to you, your family, or your other pets, please contact us right away through our mail line- 503-988-7387.
An Animal Control Officer may be able to assist.