Giving Up a Pet

(Photo by Rosanna Piazza)

Photo by Rosanna Piazza

Giving Up a Pet

Sometimes pet owners need some extra help to overcome challenges that threaten their ability to keep their pets in their homes. In New York City, there are organizations that can help you explore potential solutions before you permanently surrender your pet, or take him/her into their care should surrender be the best option.

Pet Retention Programs

Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC)

If you think you need to surrender your pet, contact the Owner Surrender Service at Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC). While ACC never turns away a pet in need, they first try to work with pet owners to find solutions to help them keep their pets in their homes.

PAWS NY

PAWS NY services are designed to help clients overcome the physical and financial limitations they face caring for their animal companions. If you are a senior or someone with an illness or disability, and you are struggling with the day-to-day care of your pet, PAWS NY might be able to assist. PAWS NY's focus is on physical assistance; they are unable to provide financial assistance. They evaluate each client on a case-by-case basis and offer services accordingly.

If You Must Give Up Your Pet…

If your circumstances are such that you absolutely cannot keep your pet or find him/her a new home, ACC will accept the pet. ACC charges a relinquishment fee of $10 per animal with an appointment, or $35 without an appointment. If you cannot afford to pay the fee, be sure to tell the ACC representative up front.

If you do not need to relinquish your pet immediately, reach out to other local animal shelters or rescue groups. Remember that many organizations have waiting lists to accept new animals into their adoption programs.

To request an appointment with a shelter or rescue group for an assessment of your pet, send a concise email with a good photo of your pet, and a video, if available, which shows your pet. Provide a brief description of your pet that includes his/her name, age, weight, and whether your pet has been spayed or neutered and is up to date on vaccinations. Be sure to include your email address and phone number. Do not go into a long explanation of why you need to relinquish your pet.

Suggested organizations you might try first:

Dogs & Cats

Animal Haven (dogs & cats)

Phone: (212) 274-8511

ASPCA (dogs & cats)

Phone: (212) 876-7700, x5

Bideawee (dogs & cats)

Email: dogandcatadmissions@bideawee.org

Phone: 1-866-262-8133

The Humane Society of New York (dogs & cats)

Phone: (212) 752-4842

Posh Pets Rescue (dogs & cats)