FAQ’s

• Dogs & puppies: $100, which includes spay/neuter surgery, rabies and 7-in-1 vaccinations, bordetella vaccine, heartworm testing, de-worming, and a microchip.
• Cats & kittens: $40, covering spay/neuter surgery, rabies and 4-in-1 vaccinations, FeLV/FIV test, feline leukemia vaccine, de-worming, and microchip. 

Applications can be submitted by:

• Completing the online “dog” or “cat” adoption form via the shelter’s site or on Petango.
• Picking up a physical application at the shelter.
  Once submitted, the adoption coordinator will review your needs and hopes, and may arrange a meet-and-greet if you have current pets. 

The adoption committee typically takes up to 72 hours to evaluate applications and decide if the match is right for the animal and your family. The adoption coordinator will notify you once a decision has been made. 

Yes. All pets are spayed/neutered before adoption except puppies/kittens under 16 weeks (who must return later for surgery) or those deemed by a veterinarian to be too young or unhealthy for the procedure. Sterilization is required by Arkansas law. 

No. We do not currently have a veterinarian on staff at the shelter.

You can contact MARS for information and applications for low-cost spay/neuter services:

• Website: https://mars2023.square.site/contact-us
• Phone: 501-266-8243

You can join the group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/419728668146194

No. (Additional information regarding WMAS and no-kill policies is provided in a separate PDF.)

No. We only accept animals from residents within the city limits of West Memphis, Arkansas.

The 3-3-3 Rule helps adopters understand how rescue pets adjust to a new home:

• First 3 days: Adjusting to new surroundings
• First 3 weeks: Training, bonding, and learning routines
• First 3 months: Continued socialization, trust-building, and training

This timeline helps set realistic expectations and supports a smoother transition for both pet and adopter.

The most commonly surrendered breed is the Pit Bull Terrier, often due to stigma, breed-specific legislation, and media misrepresentation—despite being loving companions when properly trained.

Other frequently surrendered breeds include:

• Labrador Retrievers (often due to high energy and unprepared owners)
• German Shepherds (intelligent working breeds with high needs)
• Boxers
• Chihuahuas
• Staffordshire Terriers

Please bring:

• A valid photo ID
• A leash and collar if adopting a dog
• A cat carrier if adopting a cat

It’s also helpful to bring vaccination records for any current pets, which can help expedite the adoption process.

While we appreciate the sentiment, we strongly recommend that the primary caregiver be involved in the adoption process. This ensures the pet is a good match and that the new owner is fully prepared for the responsibility. We are happy to facilitate a meeting with the potential owner as part of this process.

Adopters must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Provide a valid government-issued photo ID

Additional requirements may include:

• A home visit to ensure a suitable living environment
• Landlord approval for renters
• Review of current pets and household members to ensure a good match

Begin by visiting our website to view profiles of available animals, which include personality traits, needs, and special care requirements.

You may also visit the shelter during open hours to meet the animals in person:

• Monday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Tuesday & Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon

To start the adoption process, you will need to complete an online adoption application with basic personal information, details about current pets in your home, and your pet care plans.