Adoption Information

The Lycoming County SPCA has many wonderful dogs and cats available for adoption. At times, we also have many other domestic animals available. Our adoption process is in place for the best interest of our animals. We may require additional steps in our process such as a home visit, permission from parents, or other additional requests. We appreciate your patience as we complete your adoption. Please note that animals in foster care are not housed at the shelter. 


PA Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, Kennel License #2617

Before adding a new member to your family, please consider the following:

  • Many pets live 10 to 15 years. How old will you be? How old will your children be?
  • Is there a chance you could move in the next 10 years? Are you willing to restrict your choice of housing to accommodate a pet?
  • If the pet is for a child are you willing to assume the care of the pet? Children must have parental guidance to care for a pet regardless of their age.
  • Each breed of animal has genetic characteristics that need to be considered. Have you researched the breed that you are interested in?
  • Are you financially prepared for a pet? Consider the following expenses: spaying or neutering, basic veterinary care, flea preventative, heart worm preventative, license, food, grooming.

If you feel you are ready to make a commitment to care for a new pet, you must complete the following:

  • Step 1: Complete the pre-adoption paperwork. To access the paperwork, choose a pet you are interested in from the Lycoming County SPCA website. Next, click on the “Adopt Me” button in the pet’s profile. Next, you will create an online account through adopets.com to process your paperwork. (Alternatively, you can visit the shelter to complete a paper application.) If you rent, we do require direct permission from your landlord to adopt. Our organization does not consider ESA paperwork as permission.
  • Step 2: Staff will review your application and, when approved, reach out to you to schedule an appointment to meet the animal(s) you are considering. This outreach must be responded to in 48 hours or we may move on to the next application.
  • Step 3: After meeting the animal(s) you are interested in, you may be able to adopt the animal immediately, chose to put them on hold for 48 hours to have time to think it over, or be scheduled for another meet. If you are planning to adopt a dog and already have another dog at home, you will be required to schedule a “Meet & Greet” appointment to assess if the dogs might do well together.
  • Step 4: Work with our front desk staff to complete adoption paperwork and take your new family member home.
  • Step 5: Schedule an appointment with a veterinary practice to establish your pet as a new patient. You can find some local veterinarians to consider here: https://lycomingspca.org/faq/additional-veterinary-care-assistance/
  • Step 6: Rarely is any transition truly perfect. As your new pet and you acclimate to each other. For more resources to help post-adoption visit: https://go.petadoptiongateway.com/LycomingDT