FAQ’s

Q?

How long do you keep animals?

A.

CCHS meets State and County mandated holding periods for stray dogs and cats. These holding periods are designed so that pet owners have a reasonable amount of time to find lost pets. The stray hold periods are 72 hours excluding Sundays and holidays, Once the holding period is up the pet becomes the property of CCHS. CCHS then determines the best course of action, which often means making that pet available for adoption as soon as we have completed some basic medical, and behavior screening, vaccinations, and whatever else the animal might need to fit this criteria.

Q?

Does CCHS put animals to sleep?

A.

Yes, for a variety of reasons we find ourselves in the unfortunate position to have to euthanize some animals. We are looking for people like you to help us save more and more lives so that euthanasia becomes less necessary.

There are a number of reasons for which animals might be euthanized at CCHS. We sometimes receive animals in very poor health or those that may have been abused or neglected and are simply not safe to place as pets. For these animals we provide a humane, dignified end to their suffering. Our technicians are very skilled and compassionate people, whose goal it is to save lives.

We are limited as to the number of animals we can accommodate in our facility at any one time. Space is a concern because over-crowding can lead to unsanitary conditions in which more animals become sick, requiring us to euthanize otherwise healthy animals.
Pets involved in attacks on people or serious attacks on other animals are sometimes considered too dangerous to hold or handle and might be ordered to be euthanized by a county official, veterinarian or by CCHS.

Q?

How does the adoption process work?

A.

Our Adoption Fees:
The adopter fills out this application and returns it to the shelter.
Puppies – under 1 year old: $100
Dogs – 1 year and older: $75 Males/ $85 Females

Kittens – under 1 year old: $100
Cats (altered) – 1 year and older: $70 Males/ $80 Females

Cats and Dogs (unaltered) - $125

Please check our Adoption page and Facebook page for Adoption Specials

Adoption Fee includes:
Dogs: Rabies, Canine Distemper/Parainfluenza, Bordetella, Dewormer, Frontline, Monthly Heartworm Preventative, Heartworm Testing, Microchip, Shelter ID Tag, Collar, Spay/Neuter Voucher if not already altered.

Cats: Rabies, Felovax, Dewormer, Revolution, FIV/FLEV Testing, Microchip, Collar, Spay/Neuter Voucher if not already altered.

Once you’ve decided that you’d like to adopt, there are some actions that the Carteret County Humane Society suggests that you take.

You will want to research just the right pet for you, your family and your circumstances – take a look at the information below. We hope it is helpful as you proceed with adoption:

  • Learn about different breeds and mixes. Which traits will work best for you?
  • Are you ready for a dog?
  • Are you ready for a cat?
  • Find a dog that is compatible with you, your home and your lifestyle – now and in the future.
  • Spend quality time interacting with the dog you’d like to adopt. Many times an animal’s behavior is different when away from other animals or in a kennel. The animal displaying bad manners or not paying attention may just be scared and lonely!

You’ll also want to commit to being a responsible dog owner. This will include:

  • Lavishing the necessary time and love on your dog.
  • Understanding the financial commitment involved.
  • Providing the necessary medical care and exercise for your dog.