Our adoption program enables our team to provide personalized service, eliminate long lines, and reduce adopter frustration. The enhanced experience provides an opportunity for potential adopters to visit with and adopt animals in a way that is practical and positive while maintaining animal health and wellbeing.
What are the steps to adoption at OC Animal Care?
Thank you for choosing to adopt! Here are a few easy steps to complete your adoption:
1. View Our Available Pets
Visit the Adoptable Pets page on our website and select one of our available pets. Available pets have met the minimum required retention period allowed for owners to have their pet returned to them and have been made available for adoption.
2. Schedule a Visit or Walk-In
While pre-scheduled visits are available for the convenience of potential adopters, the public is welcome to visit the shelter and sign up for a walk-in visit during our hours of operation. To schedule an adoption visit, call our main line at (714) 935-6848, and mention the Animal ID# for any specific animal you might be interested in. (Animal ID#s can be found in the animal’s bio on our Adoptable Pets page)
The public is also welcome to walk in during Viewing Hours daily from 2 to 5 p.m. to walk unescorted through the external side of the dog kennels or large viewing cat rooms.
3. Visit The Pet You're Interested In
All adopters must visit with the pet they are considering prior to completing the adoption process. Our staff will evaluate the visit and help you determine if this is the right pet for you by providing more information about the pet. We are currently asking all adopting parties to be limited to 5 individuals at a time. Additionally, we do not hold available pets for adoption. Adoptions will continue to be first come first serve.
4. Complete the Adoption Process with an Adoption Counselor
Once you have completed your visit, you will be directed to our Adoption Center to complete the adoption process. You must pay all applicable fees and will be provided necessary paperwork. If your newly adopted pet has to stay for surgery, you will be required to return to the Animal Care Center when notified that your animal is ready for pick-up.
5. Give Your New Animal Friend Time to Adjust
Your new animal friend will take time to adjust to their new home, so make sure to be patient and allow them the space and time necessary to get used to their new environment. Adjustment periods may vary and can even take up to eight weeks or more, depending on the animal.
