Adoption
Let’s Get Started
View Our Adoption Process and Adoptable Dogs Below
Read up on all the information we provide for each animal and prepare to fall in love.
Submit An Application
Fill out the Adoption Application for a dog.
Matchmaking
Our adoption process is carefully curated to help us find you the best match for you and your needs. Our Adoption Counselor will be in touch with next steps to setup a time to visit our shelter.
Dog Adoption Fee: $200
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IMPORTANT INFO
TO HELP YOUR ADOPTION JOURNEY
– You must be 21 to adopt. We accept multiple applications on each animal, it is not on a first come basis. CHS does not guarantee approval upon submission.
– Applications may be denied for any reason.
– We require all members of the household to meet the pet and multiple visits may be requested.
– All current animals in the household must be spayed/neutered and up to date on necessary vaccinations. Pets must live in the same household as the adopter.
– We do not adopt out dogs as solely outdoor pets.
– No animals will be adopted to a residence where pets are not allowed. No animal will be adopted to a group of four (4) or more unrelated adults living in the same household (e.g. student housing).
– CHS staff will not begin adoption procedures with a person who is reasonably believed to be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
– No animal will be adopted to an individual who has failed to comply with the conditions of a previous adoption, including but not limited to the spaying or neutering of the pet.
– You must show a valid drivers license or state ID card.
– A vet deposit or training deposit may be required prior to adoption.
Available Dogs
(Please click the photo of the dog you are interested in to learn more about them)
ADOPTION TIPS
Cherryland Humane Society would like to share with you the following list of new adoption tips to make life with your new four legged family member a rewarding, successful experience for the whole family.
– Go slow with your new dog. It takes time for a dog to adjust to a new environment and bond with his/her new family.
– Keep your new dog on a leash at all times until he/she gets used to his/her new environment and family. This is especially true if your dog is extremely shy. However, let your new furry friend make choices, but be sure to observe. He or she will be easily aroused and needs this decompression period.
– Use a crate to contain your new dog to provide a safe space as he/she adjusts to your home and family. Place the crate in an area where the family is congregated so that your dog will feel part of the family.
– Always use the crate in a positive way. Use treats to entice your dog into the crate and reward your dog with praise when he/she goes in.
– If you are experiencing company or there is a lot of activity in your home, put your dog into the crate or confined in an unused room. This will help prevent an unwanted escape.
– Inform guests to ignore your new dog, especially if he/she is shy. We recommend not inviting friends over for the first three days or so. If you feel comfortable after the three day point, let them know they should not pet your dog on top of the head or hug him/her around the neck. Above all, supervise, supervise, supervise! (Every interaction)
– DO show your new dog what to do. Show him/her where to go potty; show him/her where his food, water and bed are; and praise him/her for everything little thing he/she does that you like.
– If your dog has an accident in the house, be sure not to punish him/her. Make sure to take your dog outside regularly and praise him/her for elimination. Accidents will happen with a new adopted pet, especiallly in a new environment and spending time in a shelter kennel. Treat and praise!
– Play with your dog as much as possible! Play helps to build confidence. Be sure not to wrestle, chase, or mouth play with your dog as this could encourage unwanted behavior.
– Be sure to give your new dog plenty of exercise like walking or hiking. Always make sure his/her collar is secure and that you have a tight hold on the leash – this is especially necessary with extremely shy dogs.
– For a successful relationship with your new dog, educate yourself. Animals communicate very differently and owning a pet is work – it’s not always easy. Understand what you and your new furry friend want: all animals are individuals. Build a relationship and mutual respect, get to know their personal needs. Commit to their likes and dislikes – this will help you set up realistic expecations.
AMAZON WISH LIST
It takes a village. Without your generous help, we wouldn’t be able to do it.
On an average day at Cherryland Humane Society, we provide care for many dogs and cats at a cost of nearly $1,200. Your dollars pay for food, medical attention, vaccinations — all the things needed to care for these animals until we can unite them with their fur-ever families.
CHEWY AFFILIATE PROGRAM
CHS is happy to be part of Chewy’s affiliate program! When you become a Chewy customer, CHS will receive a $15 commission to help the pets here! New customers also receive 30% off their first Autoship order. And, did you know you can even order your prescription food through them?
Our Chewy affiliate links do contain cookies. We do not receive donor information from Chewy. Please let us know if you donate through Chewy so we can thank you!
Huge thanks to these sponsors for their continued support!
1750 Ahlberg Road
Traverse City, MI 49696
231-946-5116
info@cherrylandhumane.org