Surrendering Your Pet

At Blue Mountain Humane Society, we understand that surrendering a pet is never an easy decision. Most families who come to us are facing difficult or unexpected life changes, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Our team is here to support both you and your pet and help you explore every possible option before surrender becomes necessary. Our goal is always to keep pets in safe, loving homes whenever possible, and to use surrender as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.

Start with Home To Home

Before scheduling a surrender appointment, we ask that owners first create a profile for their pet on Home To Home, a free rehoming service that allows pets to remain in their current home while being adopted by a new family. This helps reduce stress on pets and helps keep shelter space available for animals who have no other safe options.

When creating your pet’s profile, please be sure to select Blue Mountain Humane Society as your preferred shelter. This allows us to monitor your pet’s profile and step in to assist if your pet is not successfully rehomed.

Pet Support Calls & Resources

After signing your pet up on Home To Home, you are welcome to call the shelter to schedule a Pet Support Call with a staff member. During this call, we will talk with you about your situation, your pet’s needs, and discuss all available options.

These may include:

  • Resources to help you keep your pet (behavior resources, training guidance, spay/neuter assistance, vaccine assistance, pet food resources, etc.)

  • Guidance for rehoming your pet

  • Information about the surrender process and what to expect if surrender becomes the only remaining option

We truly try our best to make surrender a last resort, and these support calls are designed to help us work together to find the best possible outcome for both you and your pet.

Our Surrender Process

Because we are a limited-admission shelter, surrenders are by appointment only and are based on space and resources available, as well as the individual needs of each animal. The surrender process includes:

  • Completing a pet history profile

  • Scheduling a surrender appointment

  • Meeting with staff to review medical and behavior history

  • Signing surrender paperwork to transfer ownership

  • Providing medical records, behavior information, and any supplies for your pet

Surrender fees may apply, as these help cover the cost of care including medical treatment, food, housing, and enrichment while your pet stays with us.

Our Commitment

Our commitment is to the animals and to the people who love them. If you are struggling, please reach out to us. There may be resources or support available that could help you keep your pet, which is always our first goal. If surrender is truly the best or only option, we will work with you to make the process as compassionate and supportive as possible and to give your pet the best chance at finding a new loving home.

You are not alone — we are here to help.

Surrender Program – Frequently Asked Questions

At Blue Mountain Humane Society, we know that considering surrendering your pet can come with a lot of questions and emotions. This page is here to guide you through the process and help you understand your options.

Do I need an appointment to surrender my pet?

Yes. We are a limited-admission shelter, which means all surrenders are by appointment only and based on available space and resources. This allows us to provide the best care possible for every animal we accept.

What should I do before requesting a surrender?

We ask that all pet owners first take the following steps:

  1. Create a profile on Home To Home
     This free service allows you to rehome your pet while they remain in your care.

  2. Select Blue Mountain Humane Society as your preferred shelter
     This allows us to monitor your pet’s profile and step in if additional support is needed.

  3. Schedule a Pet Support Call
     After creating your profile, call us to schedule a Pet Support Call. During this conversation, we will:

    • Learn more about your situation

    • Discuss your pet’s needs

    • Explore all available options with you

Our goal is always to try and keep pets in their homes whenever possible, and surrender is considered a last resort.

What is a Pet Support Call?

A Pet Support Call is a one-on-one conversation with our team to help you navigate your situation. During this call, we may offer:

  • Resources to help you keep your pet, such as:

    • Behavior and training guidance

    • Spay/neuter assistance

    • Vaccine support

    • Pet food or basic care resources

  • Rehoming support, including tips for creating a successful Home To Home profile

  • Surrender guidance, if rehoming or keeping your pet is not possible

These calls are designed to be supportive, judgment-free, and focused on finding the best outcome for you and your pet.

What if I need to surrender my pet urgently?

We understand that emergencies happen. Please contact us as soon as possible, and we will do our best to guide you. However, intake is still dependent on space and resources, and we may provide alternative options or resources if we are unable to immediately accept your pet.

What happens during a surrender appointment?

If surrender is the best option, the process will include:

  • Reviewing your pet’s medical and behavior history

  • Completing and signing surrender paperwork (ownership transfer)

  • Providing any medical records and additional information

  • Discussing your pet’s needs to help us plan for their care

This information is critical in helping us set your pet up for success.

Is there a fee to surrender my pet?

Surrender fees may apply. These fees help offset the cost of care, including medical treatment, food, housing, and enrichment during your pet’s stay.

If you are experiencing financial hardship, please speak with us during your Pet Support Call.

Will my pet be accepted?

As a limited-admission shelter, we evaluate each surrender request individually. Acceptance depends on:

  • Available space

  • Your pet’s medical and behavioral needs

  • Our ability to safely and humanely care for your pet

Our goal is always to make responsible decisions that ensure the wellbeing of all animals in our care.

What happens to my pet after surrender?

Once your pet enters our care, they will:

  • Receive a medical and behavioral evaluation

  • Be provided with daily care, enrichment, and support

  • Be placed for adoption when ready

We are committed to helping every adoptable animal find a loving home.

Can I get updates after surrendering my pet?

Due to the number of animals in our care and privacy policies, we typically cannot provide ongoing updates. However, you can check our website or adoption pages to see if your pet becomes available for adoption.

Can I adopt my pet back later?

Once surrender paperwork is signed, ownership is fully transferred to Blue Mountain Humane Society. If your pet becomes available for adoption, you are welcome to apply like any other adopter, but approval is not guaranteed.

What if I don’t want to surrender but need help?

Please reach out to us. Many situations can be resolved with the right support. We strongly encourage you to schedule a Pet Support Call, where we can connect you with resources and help you explore options to keep your pet.

I’m feeling overwhelmed. What should I do?

You’re not alone. Life circumstances can change quickly, and asking for help is the right step. Our team is here to support you with compassion and without judgment.

If you are considering surrendering your pet, please contact Blue Mountain Humane Society to get started. We are here to help you make the best possible decision for both you and your pet.