Adoption Program

Whether you’re a first time adopter or looking for another companion, chances are there is someone waiting just for you at PAWS.  While we never know from day to day who will come through our doors needing shelter, most of the time we have a variety of dogs and cats, puppies and kittens to suit what you’re looking for in a companion pet.

Kessa, our shelter operations manager knows every PAWS dog and cat very well. Spending time each day with each animal gives her a good background on their personality, temperament, activity level and emotional needs.  This information helps her to match up the adopter with the adoptee resulting in a successful and lifelong human/animal companionship.

How Do I Adopt?

• Come in and tell us what type of companion pet you're looking for
• Meet and greet your potential matches
• Talk with our staff and fill out an adoption application
• If you would like to go ahead and download application click  here for adoption application

Adoption Fee

Adoption fee is $65.00. This fee helps to defray the basic medical care given to each animal that comes into the shelter.

Your pet will have the following:

• all vaccinations including:
  • rabies
  • heartworm test
  • flea treatment
  • de-worming
  • spayed or neutered 

P.A.W.S. is here for our human community as well! Through the generosity and support of local vets in our area, we are able to offer discounted spay/neuter certificates to those who are financially challenged and need help to get their pets fixed. P.A.W.S. does not make any money on this program - your purchase covers the vets supplies to perform the surgery.

How Do I Get A Certificate?

It’s easy! Visit the shelter or our thrift store and ask for our low-cost spay/neuter certificate (You must be a resident of Swain County). From time to time we receive grants and run even further discounted specials on specific spay/neuter surgeries. Keep an eye out in The Smoky Mountain Times and our on-line blog for up to the minute information on how you can take advantage of any grants we receive.

How Much Is It?

Our regular low-cost program is priced as follows:  $65

•   Note: These prices are for the surgery only.  Discuss with your vet other charges that may apply when you schedule your appointment.