Adopt a Pet

We take very seriously our commitment to make the right match between the animals in our care and the people who adopt them.

As a prospective adopter, you will first be asked to meet with an adoption counselor to talk about your lifestyle, interests, and the kind of animal you envision adding to your family. The adoption counselor then matches that information with the social, exercise and training needs of the animals in our care. This process typically takes about 30 minutes; a small investment of time and well worth the hours of enjoyment your new family member will bring you!

When you are ready to adopt, and you are at least 18 years of age, we ask that you take these steps:

Apply. You may complete the application in person at WCHS or on our website. You’ll find the online forms on each of the animal (dog, cat, small animal) adoption pages.

Allow us to verify. Once you apply, we verify the information you provided to us in the application. This process may take up to 24 hours. This also gives you time to make sure you’re ready to give the animal a permanent and loving home.

Call to confirm approval. If you applied in person, you are asked to call the shelter (262-677-4388) between 10:00 a.m. and noon the following business day to verify that you’ve been approved to adopt.

Set a pick-up appointment. Schedule a time to pick up your new family member.  This can be completed on the same call as the approval. Please keep in mind, pick-ups must be scheduled an hour before closing.

We follow up. Within a few weeks following the adoption, we follow up by phone to answer any questions you have or help with any problems.