SURRENDERING YOUR PET
"Surrender" is a term used by animal welfare organizations when an owner brings a pet to a shelter and relinquishes all rights to the animal. In order to surrender a pet, you must:
1. Own the pet (proof may be requested)
2. Pay a surrender donation. (Call for details)
3. Make a surrender appointment during open hours.
All surrenders must be pre-approved. Please call ahead during the shelter's open hours. The person answering the phone will write down information about your animal and your contact information. A staff member will return your phone call within a day or two, or as soon as we have space available. The HSNWIA is a Limited Admission Shelter. We do not euthanize (kill) healthy, adoptable animals to 'make room'. You will be advised on other placement options for your pet. You may be put on a waiting list if we are full, or have known incoming animals on the list before yours.
WHAT IF YOU FIND A STRAY OR ABANDONED ANIMAL?
1. Be sure it actually is stray or abandoned. Many pets roam far from home to hunt or to socialize with others, especially if they are not altered.
2. If you find an 'abanded' litter of kittens or puppies, observe before you interfere. The mother may be moving them to a different location, and your presence has scared her off. Young animals need their mothers, and your interference, although well-intended, may cause many problems.
3. Call your local law enforcement, tell them there is a stray animal on your property. If they refuse to come collect the animal, call your city or county government officials. We do not have animal control in NW Iowa. It is up to law enforcement to collect stray animals.
4. We do not accept wildlife or injured animals. WE DO NOT HAVE A VETERINARIAN ON STAFF. You become responsible for those you rescue. If the animal needs medical attention, please take it to your veterinarian.