Expectations about Adoptions

For potential adopters, the interactions between animals and between animals and children are so frequently dependent on context that we feel placement recommendations such as “No Cats", "No Children" and "No Dogs" may be unnecessarily restrictive and cause animals at the shelter potentially to miss out on loving homes.  We are therefore not advising potential adopters on the suitability of a shelter dog or cat living with other animals or children but rather will focus on giving you recommendations to make the introductions and adjustment period safe for all.

There may be cats whose age, medical condition, or other characteristic prohibits living with dogs and in those cases we will recommend a dog-free home.

In the case of  dogs, in the event that we witness a specific dog displaying distinct and widespread fixation or aggression to cats or can confirm such behavior, we will not place that dog in a home with cats.  For all other dogs, we will leave the choice and responsibility up to you.  Please bear in mind that certain breeds are genetically programmed to have “high prey drives” and may be more likely to harass, chase and harm a cat.  Do your homework!

Similarly, the interactions between dogs and children are highly specific to the circumstances of any situation.  The interactions often depend as much, or more, on the child’s behavior and level of parental supervision.  Because safety is a priority with us, occasionally a dog will be restricted to placement in a home with children 13 or older.  Factors we take into consideration when making this decision include:  a dog’s tolerance to handling and interference with his own agenda, whether the dog has a “hard” or “soft” mouth, specific aggressive behaviors such as growling over food and toys, and any interactions with children we observe.  The shelter staff will expect that you are informed of this restriction for any dog that you “see” online.

If you are interested in adopting a dog from Homeward Bound please know that we require all members of the household to come to Homeward Bound and meet the dog.  This includes your dog, too!

Homeward Bound is responsible for placing our animals into the most appropriate homes possible. This responsibility may result in the denial of an adoption.