FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my pet give me ebola?
~Check out this information from the American Verterinary Medical Association here.

Where can I find pictures of pets available for adoption at your shelter?
~ Pictures of our pets can be seen by clicking on “Our Pets” and selecting “Adoptable Pets” on the menu.

How often are new pet pictures posted on your website?
~ New pictures are added when pets are placed for adoption.

Does your shelter keep a list of potential adopters who are looking for a specific breed of pet?
~ Individuals who have an approved Adoption Screening form on file can be placed on a list to be notified if a possible match comes in. However, our staff may not always have time to check the list. If you want to be certain of a chance at your desired pet, it’s best to check our available pet list and call the shelter. Let staff know that you have a pre-approved screening form and who you’ve seen that you’re interested in. They will give you instructions about what to do next. Please be sure to also read our Popular Pet Policy.

Where can I find the adoption screening form and information on adoption procedures?
~ Information on our policies and fees can be found in the “Our Pets” page. Just click on the menu items to find the information you need. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (540)434-5270.

Does the shelter offer classes for those having training problems with their pets and/or those who may be interested in adopting their first dog?
~ For information on behavior classes through the shelter, visit the “Education” page of our website. If you would prefer one-on-one attention from a trainer that will work with your personal schedule, call the shelter at (540)434-5270 for a list of trainers in the area.

My school group/scout troop would like to visit the shelter for a tour – can we just stop by when it’s convenient for us?
~ We are happy to host any community group for a visit to the shelter, or we can come to you! For safety and health reasons, you must schedule your visit in advance. Lauren Watson, our Humane Educator/Volunteer Coordinator, will be happy to help you arrange a suitable date and time. Please call the shelter at (540)434-5270 or email Lauren at humane@rhspca.org.

I need/want to perform community service hours – can I volunteer at your shelter?
~The shelter has two different volunteer programs. Court-ordered community service hours may be arranged for by calling the shelter at (540)434-5270.

Our volunteer program involves socializing our pets, as well as numerous other activities that support what we do. The Basic Pet Socialization orientation class is required for any individual wishing to perform any volunteer activity involving our pets. Please visit the “Volunteer” page of this website for more information.

When someone brings a pet to the shelter – either one they own or a stray they find, do you charge them a fee?
~ For finders, monetary donations are happily accepted if you would prefer to leave one at the time of relinquishment. For owners, we do request a donation at the time of surrender to help us cover the cost of caring for your pet. There is no mandatory charge.

My scout troop would like to collect gifts for your pets. How can we get a list of items you need?
~ We always accept gifts for our pets – we couldn’t live without the generosity of school groups, scout troops, and the generous individuals in our community. Visit the “Donate” page and click on “Wish List.”

Does your shelter offer euthanasia/cremation services?
~Visit the “Services” page of our website for information on these and other services provided by our shelter.