Services
How to Surrender an Animal
People feel they must give up their pets for a variety of reasons. At the Humane Society of Western Montana, our goal is to see companion animals remain in their homes as cherished family members. We may be able to offer professional assistance (see below) to help keep your pet in your home. If you feel rehoming your pet is your only option or you have found a stray animal, please call (406) 549-HSWM to schedule an intake appointment. Appointments are available Tuesday through Friday from 1:30 to 5:00 and Saturdays from 11:30-3. Walk-in appointments will be taken during these hours, depending on staff availability.
Maybe you can keep your pet?
If you are moving, it is possible to find animal-friendly housing. Click here for a list of pet-friendly rentals in Missoula. You can also go to www.rentwithpets.org for more information.
We often see companion animals surrendered at our shelter for behavior problems, owners' lack of time, or because the owner is moving to a place that doesn't allow pets. If these situations are the reasons you are considering surrendering your animal, we do ask that you read the pet care and behavior tips on our web site to see if you can help your pet's problem.
For example, if you keep your dog outdoors only, you might observe behaviors like jumping, barking, digging, chewing or escaping the yard. Dogs are social animals. When they are isolated and alone in the backyard, they deal with their anxiety by acting out in ways you don't like. By letting your dog inside when you're home, allowing it to sleep indoors at night and by following a few training tips found on our site, he/she can turn into a more relaxed, well-behaved member of the family.
Or maybe your cat isn't using the litter box. We offer information on how to help your cat to use its litter box again and live happily ever after in your home.
If You Must Give Up Your Pet:
The Humane Society of Western Montana depends solely on donations to fund operations. We ask a minimum $25 surrender fee, but encourage larger contributions since the cost of caring for a shelter animal averages $240 per animal.
You will be asked important questions about why you must relinquish your animal. In addition, we will gather relevant information about the animal's breed, characteristics, behavior and medical history. We will also discuss our adoption and euthanasia policies.
We schedule intake appointments Tuesday through Friday from 1:30 to 5:00 and Saturdays from 11:30-3. Walk-in appointments will be taken during these hours, depending on staff availability. Please bring your pet's veterinary records and any toys, blankets, etc. which can help your pet adjust to the new surroundings.