Frequent Asked Questions
At Kokomo Humane Society, we are dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals in need. Our mission is to care for, protect, and find forever homes for our furry friends. We understand that adopting a pet or volunteering at a shelter can come with many questions. This FAQ page is designed to help you navigate our services, answer common queries, and guide you through the process of supporting our cause. Whether you’re considering adoption, looking to volunteer, or simply want to learn more about our shelter, we’re here to help. Thank you for your interest in our animal shelter, and we look forward to connecting with you!
Adoption
1.How Do I Adopt a Pet from Your Shelter?
To start the adoption process, follow these steps:
Step 1: Complete our adoption application HERE.
Step 2: Our team will review your application thoroughly.
Step 3: Once approved, you’ll receive a notification via text or email.
Step 4: Contact us at 765-452-6224 to schedule an appointment to meet your new pet.
2. What Are Your Adoption Fees?
Our adoption fees vary by animal type and age. Here’s a breakdown of our current fees:
Canine Adoption Fees:
-Dogs under six months old: $200
-Dogs over six months old: $150
Feline Adoption Fees:
-Kittens under six months old: $70
-Cats over six months old: $50
-Barn/Working Cats: $10 (includes spay/neuter surgery and vaccines)
Small Animals:
-Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: $25
Important Note: These fees are subject to change at any time. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information.
3. How Long Does It Take for My Adoption Application to Be Approved?
The approval process for your adoption application typically takes between 24 to 72 hours, depending on the day of submission. Please note that our shelter is closed on Sundays and Mondays, which may affect processing times. For instance, if you apply on a Saturday night, you can expect to hear from us by Tuesday.
If you need an update on your application status, feel free to contact us directly. Once approved, you will receive a notification via email or text message with further instructions.
4. Can I Place an Animal on Hold?
Yes, you can place an animal on hold, subject to the following conditions:
– 24-Hour Hold: Holds are valid for 24 hours only.
– Approved Application & Scheduled Appointment: You must have an approved adoption application and a scheduled appointment to be eligible for a hold.
No Fee: There is no fee to place an animal on hold.
Example: If you submit an adoption application and schedule an appointment for the next day, your scheduled appointment will automatically place the animal on hold for you. However, if you apply on Monday but cannot visit until Saturday, a hold cannot be placed.
5. What Is Your Refund Policy for Adopted Animals?
We understand that sometimes circumstances change, and we want to ensure that both you and your new pet are happy. Here’s how our refund policy works:
Initial Three Weeks: If you decide to return your adopted animal within the first three weeks from the adoption date, you are eligible for a full refund.
After Three Weeks: If you need to return the animal after the initial three-week period, any refund will be considered on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of our shelter director.
Please contact us directly if you have any questions or concerns about our refund policy.
6. Do I Need to Fill Out a New Adoption Application If I Adopted from the Kokomo Humane Society Last Year?
You do not need to fill out a new adoption application if your information has not changed since your previous adoption. However, if there are any updates to your personal details or circumstances, we recommend submitting a new application to ensure we have the most accurate information on file.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to reach out to us directly.
7. What is your policy if a recently adopted animal becomes sick?
We’re excited to partner with MetLife Pet Insurance to help protect your new family member. After you adopt, simply call the number on the flyer we gave you to activate your 30 days of free pet insurance—it’s quick and hassle-free!
Here’s how it works:
1.Activate Your Insurance: Call MetLife right after adoption to start your coverage.
2.Visit the Vet: If your pet shows signs of illness, schedule a vet visit as soon as possible.
3.File a Claim: After your appointment, submit your vet bill to MetLife for reimbursement.
A few important notes:
We understand that sometimes your vet may not have immediate openings, and your pet’s illness might need attention before your appointment. If this happens, please feel free to call us at the shelter—we’re here to give advice and help however we can.
Surrendering
1.What Is the Process for Surrendering an Animal? Are There Any Fees?
If you need to surrender an animal, here’s how the process works:
- Contact Us First: Please call us in advance to check for available space, as our shelter has limited capacity.
- Howard County Residents: There are no fees for surrendering an animal if you live in Howard County.
- Non-Residents: If you live outside of Howard County, there is a $35 fee per animal.
- Plan Ahead: We encourage you to discuss your situation with us so we can help accommodate your needs and ensure a smooth process.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. We’re here to assist you and your pet.
Lost & Found Pets
1. I Lost or Found an Animal. What Should I Do?
If you’ve lost or found an animal, here are five easy steps to help reunite pets with their owners:
- Complete the Lost/Found Pet Form: Fill out our form to report your lost or found pet.
- Check for Matches: Look for your pet in our Strays Album or check for updates on the Kokomo Humane Society Facebook page or Kokomo Scanner page.
- Use Petco Love Lost App: If the pet is microchipped, use the Petco Love Lost App to search for matches.
- Call Us: Contact us at 765-452-6224 if you spot a familiar pet or need assistance.
- Visit Us: Come to the shelter to see if your pet is here.
Remember, having your pet microchipped and keeping identification up to date can significantly increase the chances of a successful reunion.
2. My Animal Is at the Shelter. What Is the Process to Reclaim My Pet?
If your pet is at the Kokomo Humane Society, follow these steps to reclaim them:
1.Pay Reclaim Fees: You must pay all applicable fees before reclaiming your pet. These may include:
- Pickup charges
- Impounding costs
- Boarding fees
- Vaccination costs
- Microchipping fees
2.Provide Proof of Ownership: Bring the following documents to validate ownership:
- A government-issued photo ID
- A photo of you with your pet
- Vaccination records or veterinary documents
- Any other relevant identifying paperwork
3.Contact Us: Call 765-452-6224 to confirm your pet is at the shelter and discuss the reclaim process.
Please note that stray animals are held for five days before being evaluated for adoption, transfer, or rescue placement. Contact us as soon as possible to ensure your pet can be reclaimed promptly.
4.Visit Us: Come to the shelter to see if your pet is here.
Remember, having your pet microchipped and keeping identification up to date can significantly increase the chances of a successful reunion.
Animal Control
1. What is the animal control operating hours?
Regular Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm
Call us at (765) 452-6224 ext. 1 for assistance.
Emergency Hours:
Monday to Friday after 5 pm, and all day Saturday and Sunday
For emergencies like dog bites, aggressive dogs, or injured animals, call (765) 452-6224 ext. 1. Your call will be forwarded to an answering service, which will contact animal control.
2. Do you pick up wildlife?
No, the Kokomo Humane Society does not pick up wildlife from private property. For wildlife removal, you should contact a licensed wildlife removal company. If you have found orphaned or injured wildlife, you can reach out to the Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center at 765-491-2351 or refer to Indiana’s DNR list of licensed wildlife control operators for assistance
Program Information
Volunteer
1. How do I become a volunteer?
Explore volunteer opportunities.
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Complete the application form on our website or at the shelter.
- Attend an orientation session.
- Complete role-specific training.
- Sign up for volunteer shifts.
- Start volunteering!
You can find more details on our volunteer PAGE.
2. How old do I need to be to become a volunteer?
To volunteer at our organization, you must be at least 10 years old. If you are between 10 and 16 years old, you are welcome to volunteer, but you must be accompanied by a guardian at all times. Once you are over 16 years old, you can volunteer independently without the need for supervision.
3. What is the monthly hour requirement?
Volunteers must be able to make a minimum of 8 hours monthly time commitment.
Foster
1. How do I become a foster parent?
To become a foster parent with the Kokomo Humane Society, the first step is to submit an application, ensuring you meet the age requirement of 18 years or older and are listed on the lease or are one of the homeowners. Once your application is received, please allow a few business days for the KHS team to review it. If your application is approved, the KHS Foster Coordinator will reach out to you to schedule an appointment where you’ll receive a foster manual and have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
2. Does the Kokomo Humane Society cover medical bills and other expenses for foster animals?
Yes, the Kokomo Humane Society covers all approved expenses for animals being fostered, including medical care, food, and supplies. The only money you spend on foster animals is what you choose to spend personally; all necessary costs are provided by KHS
3. My foster has escaped what do I do?
If your dog gets loose, stay calm and try to call them calmly if you can see them. For scared dogs, call their name and walk away, or kneel down to make them curious. Avoid reaching for a frightened dog to prevent them from running or biting. If your dog is in a secured area but growling, or if they’re running and you can’t catch them, call for help. Follow them from a distance if they’re running, and secure any area they enter before trying to lure them back. If you can’t get them back on your own, don’t hesitate to call us for assistance.
Dog Day Out
1. How do I apply to take a dog on a date?
To apply for the Dog Day Out program, visit the Kokomo Humane Society during their open hours. Bring a valid ID and fill out the Dog Day Out application form. This program allows you to take a shelter dog on a fun adventure for the day, providing them with a break from the shelter and giving you a chance to spend quality time with them. For more info visit our PAGE
2. What to do in case of a dog bite?
If a dog bite occurs, inform us immediately, whether the bite involves you or someone else. If the dog bites a stranger, collect their information for follow-up. Document the incident, including details about the location and severity of the wound. Any bite that breaks the skin must be reported to the Howard County Board of Health, as required by law. State laws for quarantine will apply, but reporting a bite does not mean the dog will be euthanized. Additionally, report any signs of aggression, even minor ones, to your coordinator right away.
Pet Food Pantry
1. How does your pet food pantry works?
The Kokomo Humane Society’s Pet Food Pantry Program is designed to help community pet owners who are temporarily unable to feed their animals, aiming to keep pets in their homes and out of shelters. The program provides assistance based on available donations and limits distribution to one bag of pet food per household. The pantry operates Monday through Friday from 12 PM to 5 PM, offering a vital resource for families in need. By supporting pet owners during difficult times, the program helps ensure that pets receive the nutrition they need, promoting the well-being of both pets and their families.
Basic Information
1. What are your operating hours?
- Monday & Sunday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 12pm-6pm
- Saturday: 10am-4pm
2. Where are you located?
We are located at 729 E. Hoffer St, Kokomo IN
3. What is your contact information?
Our phone number is 765-452-6224
Adoption email : adopt@kokomohumane.org
4. Do you have a Wishlist?
Yes, we do! Learn more HERE