Does PetSmart Accept Animals? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pet Surrender Policies

Does PetSmart accept animals? The short answer is generally no, PetSmart stores do not directly accept animals for surrender from the general public. They are primarily a retail outlet, not an animal shelter or rescue organization. However, PetSmart partners with local animal welfare groups and often hosts adoption events. This means you might encounter animals at PetSmart who are looking for homes, but these animals are under the care of a separate organization. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this policy and explore alternatives for rehoming your pet.

Understanding PetSmart’s Role in Animal Welfare

PetSmart’s business model revolves around providing products and services for pets, not acting as a surrender facility. While they deeply care about animal welfare, their resources are primarily dedicated to retail operations and supporting adoption efforts through their charitable arm, PetSmart Charities. This organization provides grants and resources to local animal shelters and rescues, enabling them to care for and rehome animals in need.

Why PetSmart Doesn’t Accept Surrendered Animals

Several key reasons explain why PetSmart doesn’t directly accept surrendered animals:

• Limited Resources and Facilities: PetSmart stores are designed for retail, not animal housing. They lack the dedicated facilities, staff, and veterinary resources needed to properly care for surrendered animals, especially those with medical or behavioral issues.
• Potential Overcrowding and Disease Risk: Accepting surrendered animals could quickly lead to overcrowding, which can increase stress levels and the risk of disease outbreaks among the animals already present.
• Focus on Supporting Existing Shelters and Rescues: PetSmart believes its resources are best utilized by supporting established shelters and rescues. These organizations have the expertise and infrastructure to provide the necessary care for surrendered animals.
• Liability Concerns: Accepting an animal with an unknown history can present liability issues for PetSmart, particularly if the animal has behavioral problems or carries a contagious disease.

PetSmart’s Adoption Program: A Bridge to Forever Homes

While they don’t accept surrenders, PetSmart plays a crucial role in animal adoption. They partner with local shelters and rescues to host adoption events in their stores. These events provide adoptable animals with increased exposure to potential adopters in a comfortable and familiar environment.

During adoption events, the partnering shelters and rescues are responsible for:

• Screening potential adopters: Ensuring they are a good fit for the animal’s needs.
• Providing medical care and vaccinations: Making sure the animals are healthy and ready for adoption.
• Managing adoption paperwork and fees: Handling all administrative aspects of the adoption process.

Alternatives to Surrendering Your Pet to PetSmart

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to rehome your pet, here are some responsible alternatives to consider:

• Contact Local Animal Shelters and Rescues: Reach out to shelters and rescues in your area. They may be able to take your pet in or offer guidance on finding a new home. Be prepared for a waiting list, as many shelters are operating at full capacity.
• Network with Friends, Family, and Coworkers: Spread the word that you’re looking for a new home for your pet. Someone you know might be interested in adopting or know someone who is.
• Utilize Online Rehoming Platforms: Websites like Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com and Get Your Pet allow you to create a profile for your pet and connect with potential adopters directly.
• Work with a Breed-Specific Rescue: If you have a purebred dog or cat, a breed-specific rescue organization may be the best option. These groups have extensive knowledge of the breed and can find a home that is well-suited to your pet’s needs.
• Consider Temporary Foster Care: If you need to rehome your pet temporarily, foster care may be a good option. This gives you time to find a permanent home while your pet is cared for in a loving environment.
• Address the Underlying Issue (if possible): Sometimes, rehoming seems like the only option, but the problem might be solvable. Could a behaviorist help with training issues? Could financial assistance programs help with vet bills? Explore all options before making a final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About PetSmart and Animal Surrender

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify PetSmart’s policies and provide helpful information:

FAQ 1: What happens if I bring a stray animal to PetSmart?

PetSmart employees will typically advise you to contact your local animal control or shelter. They may offer to hold the animal temporarily while you make those arrangements, but they cannot take permanent custody of the stray.

FAQ 2: Can I drop off kittens or puppies at PetSmart?

No, PetSmart does not accept litters of kittens or puppies. You should contact a local animal shelter or rescue organization for assistance. They can provide appropriate care for the young animals and help find them loving homes.

FAQ 3: Does PetSmart charge a fee for adoption?

No, PetSmart does not charge an adoption fee. The adoption fee is set and collected by the partnering shelter or rescue organization. This fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical care.

FAQ 4: What if I adopted a pet from PetSmart and can no longer care for it?

Contact the shelter or rescue organization from which you adopted the pet. They may have a policy in place for returning adopted animals. If not, they can offer guidance on rehoming options.

FAQ 5: Does PetSmart offer any resources for pet owners struggling to care for their pets?

PetSmart Charities partners with various organizations that provide resources such as pet food banks, low-cost veterinary care, and temporary boarding assistance. You can visit the PetSmart Charities website to find resources in your area.

FAQ 6: Are there specific days or times for adoption events at PetSmart?

Adoption event schedules vary by location and partnering organization. Check with your local PetSmart store or visit the PetSmart Charities website to find upcoming adoption events in your area.

FAQ 7: Can I surrender my pet to a PetSmart groomer or veterinarian?

No, PetSmart groomers and veterinarians are not authorized to accept surrendered animals. They will direct you to contact a local animal shelter or rescue organization.

FAQ 8: What if I find an injured animal near a PetSmart store?

Contact your local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitation center. They have the expertise and resources to properly care for injured animals.

FAQ 9: Does PetSmart support any specific types of animals for adoption (e.g., dogs, cats, small animals)?

PetSmart adoption events typically feature a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small pets. The specific animals available for adoption will vary depending on the partnering shelter or rescue organization.

FAQ 10: What kind of screening process do potential adopters go through at PetSmart adoption events?

The screening process is conducted by the partnering shelter or rescue organization and typically includes an application, an interview, and sometimes a home visit. The goal is to ensure that the adopter is a good fit for the animal’s needs and can provide a loving and responsible home.

FAQ 11: Can I volunteer at PetSmart to help with adoption events?

While you cannot directly volunteer at PetSmart for adoption events, you can volunteer with the participating shelter or rescue. Contact them directly to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

FAQ 12: What is PetSmart’s policy on selling animals?

PetSmart does not sell dogs or cats. They only offer them for adoption through partnerships with local shelters and rescues. They may sell small animals such as fish, hamsters, guinea pigs, and reptiles, but these animals are sourced from reputable breeders and suppliers.

In conclusion, while PetSmart doesn’t directly accept surrendered animals, they are a vital partner in the animal welfare community. By supporting adoption events and providing resources to shelters and rescues, they play a significant role in helping animals find their forever homes. Remember to explore all available alternatives before considering surrendering your pet, and always prioritize responsible rehoming practices.