Adoption Process – Rancho Coastal Humane Society

Learn About Our Adoption Process

Follow these steps to meet an adoptable animal and begin your adoption journey.

Browse Available Animals

Start by viewing our available animals online or visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society. Our hours: Wednesday – Monday, 11a.m. to 4p.m. (closed Tuesdays).
Some animals may be in a foster home. Please contact our Front Desk for more information.
Please note: Foster families have priority if they decide to adopt. Occasionally, an animal may be adopted shortly after appearing on our website.

Complete an Adoption Survey

Found an animal who may be a good match? Complete the appropriate adoption survey:

Meet with An Adoption Counselor

Meet with one of our trained adoption counselors. You will discuss your adoption goals and preferences for your future pet.
If both you and the adoption counselor feel it’s a good fit, you’ll be invited for a meet-and-greet session with the animal.
For some adoptions:
- Everyone in the household may need to be present for the meet-and-greet.
- Dogs currently living in your home must attend the meet-and-greet.
- Renters may need to provide rental confirmation before adoption can be approved.

Finalize the Adoption

If you decide to adopt, your adoption counselor will guide you to our Customer Service team to complete the adoption process.
Please note that we do not place holds on animals. Adoptions are first come, first served, and another adopter may complete an adoption while you are deciding.

Thank you for opening your heart and home to an abandoned companion animal.

Adoption Fees

Dogs	$145
Puppies	$245
Cats	$100
Kittens	$125
Rabbits	$40
Senior Pets (7+)	$75
RCHS Favorites	$75

Every Adoption Includes

Up-to-date vaccinations
Spay or neuter surgery
Microchip and registration
Free health exam at participating veterinarian
Three in-home behavior consultations for dogs
Post-adoption support for cats and rabbits

Training Incentive Rebate

Take your new puppy to an introductory training course focused on socialization and “puppy basics” and receive a rebate of $50 on the adoption fee.

Ask About These Special Adoption Programs

Better with a Buddy

Adopt a cat, kitten, or dog and adopt a second pet within one year for $25. (Excludes puppies)

Bonded Pairs

Second adoption fee is waived.

Two Purr One

Adopt two kittens within two weeks and pay for just one.

RCHS Favorites

Specially selected pets who have been waiting too long for a home.

Karen Sickels Seniors-for-Seniors Program

Seniors 60+ adopting a senior pet 7+, the adoption fee is covered.

Fees waived for San Diego veterans. To qualify, please apply before visiting the shelter.

Learn More

Thank you to San Diego County Credit Union for sponsoring some of our adoptable animals that need some extra love and attention.

Meet these Fur-Ever Friends here!