Question 1

What do I do if I find a dog or cat I would like to meet?

Accepted Answer

All adoptions must be done in person at Pet Resource Center during regular operating hours, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM. All adoptions are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

After checking in at the PRC front desk, any staff member or volunteer will be able to assist you in meeting with any pet.

The meet and greet is an important part in the adoption process and allows you to spend time with the pet to see if you are a good fit together.

Question 2

Can I adopt a pet or put a hold on a pet by phone?

Accepted Answer

No. All adoptions must be done in person at Pet Resource Center during regular operating hours, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

All adoptions are first-come, first-serve basis.

Question 3

How much does it cost to adopt a pet?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the status of the pet.

All "ready-to-go" pets are $20, unless otherwise noted
- Animals which have completed their "Stray Hold" time and have been spayed/neutered and fully vaccinated are considered "ready-to-go." Any animal in a "ready-to-go" status can go home with you today.
Pre-adoption costs range from $35 to $125. Pre-adoption prices do not include the $20 rabies license fee.
Occasionally, there may be special adoption pricing during the year or when the shelter is reaching peak capacity

Question 4

How do I figure out where the different kennels are?

Accepted Answer

PRC has several kennels throughout its facility. View a map of the facility.

Question 5

What does "ready-to-go" mean?

Accepted Answer

"Ready-to-go" means that the pet has been vaccinated, microchipped, spayed or neutered, and registered with Hillsborough County. Any "ready-to-go" pet can be taken home the same day as adoption. The "ready-to-go" pet adoption fee is $20.

Question 6

What does "pre-adopt" mean?

Accepted Answer

Pre-adopt means a pet is not ready to go home just yet. The pet is either still on a stray hold, which is a required to allow a possible owner enough time to come in and reclaim his or her pet, or needs to go through PRC Vet Services prior to being adopted.

While a pet is being held, the pet can be "pre-adopted" by someone else. In the event that no owner comes forward, the adoption then is completed.

Question 7

What does "not currently available" mean?

Accepted Answer

The pet may be currently receiving medical care or is part of an investigation. Once the pet is cleared by the veterinary staff or by animal control, the status will change to "Pre-Adoptable" or "Available".

Question 8

What does it mean if a dog is heartworm-positive?

Accepted Answer

If a dog is heartworm-positive, it means that it contracted heartworms, which are spread by mosquitoes. The heartworms grow and end up in the dog's heart and lungs.

Most heartworm-positive dogs can be easily treated and go on to live long, happy lives.

Dogs eligible for treatment at the shelter will receive treatment at no cost. Those needing outside care may be eligible for financial help through charitable agencies.

To learn more about a specific heartworm-positive dog at the shelter or more financial assistance information, call PRC at (813) 301-PETS (7387).

Question 9

What does it mean if it says TNVR for a cat or kitten?

Accepted Answer

"TNVR" stands for trap, neuter, vaccinate, and release and has had its ear tipped. TNVR kittens and cats have lived outside on their own, sometimes in cat colonies. A "TNVR" cat/kitten that is up for adoption at PRC is one that is especially friendly and would do well being adopted into a loving home.

Question 10

If I am interested in a stray pet, how much can you tell me about it?

Accepted Answer

PRC tries its best to provide as much information about the pets in its care as possible. Without an owner to provide details about the pet, PRC may not have the pet's full background. However, PRC staff shares as much information as possible about the pet's habits, disposition, health, etc. while the pet is at the shelter to build a better pet profile.

If you have questions about a certain pet, call (813) 301-PETS (7387).

Question 11

What is "stray wait" or "stray wait - hold notify" status?

Accepted Answer

"Stray Wait" means that a pet has come in but with no signs of ownership (tag, collar or microchip). The pet must be held for three days due to state law.

A "Stray Wait—Hold Notify" means that there was a tag, microchip or other identification and PRC is in the process of contacting the owner. The owner has seven days to claim their pet.

Both "Stray Wait" and "Stray Wait—Hold Notify" pets can be pre-adopted.

Question 12

Can I find out why a pet was "owner surrendered"?

Accepted Answer

The shelter tries to find out as much as it can about pets and why they are surrendered. If you click on the pet's picture and scroll down to the information section, you can see the information provided by the owner.

Pet Adoption FAQs

Answers about the adoption process and other questions

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FAQs

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