The Animal Protection Society of Durham at the Durham County Animal Shelter is an open-admission shelter. That means that we will take in any domesticated animal in Durham County. If you are a Durham County resident and can no longer keep your pet, we can take them.
Surrendering your pet is a big decision. Before you surrender, check out these resources and alternatives:
- Phone a Friend – Call a family member, friend or coworker and see if they can take the pet.
- Boarding – If you just need someone to care for your pet for a short period of time, try contacting a boarding facility. These places care for pets temporarily, and usually charge a fee for each day the pet is there. Search the internet for pet boarding in your area.
- Vet Care – Medical costs can make it difficult to keep a pet. Here are a few suggestions to help lower the cost of vet care:
- Shop Around – There are many different veterinarians in the Triangle and surrounding areas, and prices vary from place to place. Also, some places can work out a payment plan with owners.
- CareCredit – Financing may be available for your pet’s medical care. See https://www.carecredit.com/vetmed to find out more information on whether this is a good option for your family.
- Spay and/or Neuter – The Animal Protection Society of Durham has programs for low cost spaying and neutering. If you or someone you know cannot keep their pet because they cannot afford spay and/or neuter surgery, call us at 919-560-0640.
- Vet Costs – The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Foundation) has created a list of programs that may be able to help with veterinary costs. See https://www.avma.org/public/YourVet/Pages/Financial-assistance-for-veterinary-care-costs.aspx for more information.
- Behavioral Issues – Sometimes a pet’s behavior makes him or her difficult to live with. However, there may be a simple solution to the problem! Take a look at the resources below for training and behavior information and advice.
- Common dog behavior issues http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues
- Choosing a trainer and getting the right help for your pet http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/behavioral-help-your-pet
- Common cat behavior issues http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues
- General cat care and tips, including behavioral help http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care
- APS of Durham has an Animal Behavior Helpline. Call 919-257-8667. We want to help!
- Beyond Fences – Live in the 27703, 27701 or 27707 zip codes? Beyond Fences can assist with needs such as fence building, vet care, spay/neuter, pet deposits and even crates. Contact lori@beyondfences.org for more information.
- Pet-Friendly Housing – If you need to move, make sure your pets don’t get left behind! Check with your landlord before you move to make sure they accept your pet. Make sure to ask if there are any breed restrictions, weight limits, limits on the number of pets, and any fees.
- Rescue Groups – There may groups other than the shelter that can take in your pet. Check rescue groups locally to see if they have any room and if your animal would be a good fit. Is your pet pure-bred? Many breed-specific rescues will travel outside of the immediate area to take in a specific breed.
