Sometimes situations arise beyond our control and we aren’t able to keep the dog or cat to whom we’d promised a forever home. If you find yourself in this situation, CCHS would like to help rather than leaving you no other option but to surrender it to a public shelter. We offer a limited admission public surrenders.
Animal owners interested in surrendering their animals to Contra Costa Humane Society should fill out the interest form below. CCHS will screen your application and coordinate with each surrender applicant. Owners are required to provide medical history and behavioral notes during screening to ensure the animal is fit for companion adoption and that CCHS has the capacity to accommodate that animal. Owners are asked to pay a surrender fee to help cover the cost of supplies and working time spent on the animal while it is in CCHS custody.
What makes an animal eligible for surrender?
Owners of animals for surrender are asked to adhere to the following eligibility requirements*:
- The animal must be spayed or neutered with a valid veterinarian confirmation
- The animal must be current on the following vaccinations:
- Cats: Rabies, FVRCP
- Dogs: Rabies, DHLPP, Bordetella
- The animal must be microchipped
- Cats must have proof of Felv/FIV test results
- The animal must be tolerable of their same species (cats must be cat tolerant and dogs must be dog friendly)
- The animal must be friendly with humans and easily handled
*CCHS reserves the right to deny any applicants for surrender for any reason and at any time.
How much is the surrender fee?
| Cats | Fee for surrender per animal |
| Kitten (< 6 months) | $100 |
| Adult Cat (6 months to 7 years) | $150 |
| Senior Cat (>7 years) | $200 |
| Dogs | |
| Puppy (< 8 months) | $100 |
| Adult Dog ( 8 months to 6 years) | $150 |
| Senior Dog (>6 years) | $200 |
How do I start the surrender process?
Fill out the Animal Surrender Application to get started.
