Adoption Fees

Our adoption fees vary based on the dog’s age, size, and length of stay to reflect the care and resources required. As a nonprofit organization, we do not make money from adoption fees, every dollar goes toward rescuing and caring for more dogs in need.

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Adoption Fee Range:

• Adults: $0- $450

• Small Breeds: $0-$550

• Puppies: $350 - $550

• Highly Adoptable: $650
   

What’s Included:

• Spay/Neuter

• Vaccines

• Microchip

• Leash & Collar

• Starter Food

• In foster care, dogs are dewormed, heartworm tested (& treated if positive), given flea/tick/heartworm preventatives 

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Adoption fees vary depending on a dog’s age, breed, and medical history. Highly adoptable breeds, such as puppies, designer mixes, or purebreds, typically have a higher adoption fee because they help offset the significant costs of rescuing, vetting, and caring for dogs who are harder to place or have medical needs. Every dog we save receives vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, preventatives, and any necessary treatments, regardless of the adoption fee. When a highly adoptable dog finds their home, their adoption fee helps fund care for the seniors, the overlooked, and those who need extra time and medical attention. This balance allows us to continue saving lives across all types of dogs, not just the easy-to-adopt ones.

We offer reduced adoption fees for older dogs, long-stay dogs, and dogs with special needs or behavioral challenges. Thank you for supporting our mission to give every dog the love and care they deserve!

Adoption fees reflect the following factors:

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• No Public Funding
  We rely entirely on donations and adoption fees, as we don’t receive government funding or grants.

• Comprehensive Veterinary Care
  Every dog receives full veterinary care, including spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, microchipping, routine deworming, and treatment for medical issues.

• Individualized Foster Care
  Foster families provide personalized attention, assess each dog’s behavior, and ensure they’re ready for adoption.

• Emergency and Special Needs Cases
  We take in animals with extensive medical needs, covering costs like surgeries, dental work, and treatments for diseases.

• Small Scale, High-Quality Care
  Operating on a smaller scale allows us to focus on quality care, but it also means overhead costs are higher per dog.

• Sustainability
  Adoption fees help bridge the gap between donations and the expenses required to save more lives.

• By adopting from Waggy Butts & Happy Mutts, you’re not just bringing home a new companion, you’re supporting our mission to rescue and care for animals in need.

• If you have questions about adoption fees or the adoption process, please reach out to us at alexis@waggybuttshappymutts.org.
  
  Thank you for making a difference!