Pets Inc Adopt-A-Pal: How the Program Works and What to Expect
What Pets Inc Adopt-A-Pal Does
Pets Inc Adopt-A-Pal is a program run by Pets Inc, a Charleston-based animal shelter, that matches people with adoptable dogs, cats, and other animals. The program focuses on finding permanent homes for animals in the shelter's care. You visit the shelter, meet animals available for adoption, and if you decide to move forward, complete adoption paperwork and pay an adoption fee.
The shelter is located in Charleston and operates during set hours throughout the week. Adopt-A-Pal is the shelter's standard adoption pathway — there is no separate application process or waiting list for most animals. You can walk in during business hours, browse available pets, and take one home the same day if you and the animal are a good match and you complete the required steps.
Key Takeaways
- Pets Inc Adopt-A-Pal operates during regular shelter hours in Charleston, and most adoptions can be completed the same day you visit.
- You will need to complete an adoption agreement and pay an adoption fee, which covers veterinary care the animal has already received.
- The shelter staff can answer questions about each animal's behavior, medical history, and needs before you decide.
- Adopted animals typically come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped as part of the adoption package.
What to Bring and Prepare Before You Visit
Before heading to Pets Inc, bring a valid photo ID and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or recent mail works. If you rent, some shelters ask for landlord contact information to confirm that pets are allowed in your home. Call ahead to ask whether Adopt-A-Pal requires this for your situation.
Think through what kind of animal fits your household. Consider the size, energy level, and temperament you can manage. If you have other pets at home, ask the shelter staff whether a particular animal has lived with other animals before. If you have children, let staff know their ages so they can suggest animals with appropriate patience and size.
Have a plan for getting the animal home safely. If you are adopting a dog or cat, bring a carrier or have one ready at home. Ask the shelter whether they provide temporary carriers or if you need to bring your own.
The Adoption Process at Pets Inc
Walk into the shelter during open hours and spend time looking at the animals available. Staff members are there to answer questions about each pet's background, behavior, medical needs, and personality. Be honest about your living situation, other pets, and experience with animals — this helps staff recommend the right match.
Once you have chosen an animal, you will complete an adoption agreement. This document outlines your commitment to care for the animal and may include information about what happens if you cannot keep the pet in the future. Read it carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
You will then pay the adoption fee. This fee varies depending on the animal's age, species, and medical needs, but it typically covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and any medical treatment the animal received while at the shelter. Ask staff to explain what is included in the fee for your specific animal.
After payment, you will receive the animal's medical records, microchip information, and any care instructions specific to that pet. Some animals may come with a trial period — ask whether Adopt-A-Pal offers a return window if the animal does not work out in your home.
Medical Care Included in Adoption
Most animals adopted through Pets Inc Adopt-A-Pal have already been spayed or neutered, vaccinated against common diseases, and microchipped. Microchipping is a permanent form of identification that helps shelters and veterinarians reunite you with your pet if it gets lost.
You will receive documentation of all medical work completed. Keep these records and bring them to your own veterinarian for their files. Your vet may recommend additional vaccines or preventive care depending on your pet's age and health status.
If an animal has a known medical condition, the shelter will tell you about it before adoption. Ask whether the shelter offers any follow-up support or resources for managing ongoing health needs.
Adoption Fees and What They Cover
Adoption fees at Pets Inc vary. Kittens and puppies typically cost more than adult animals because they require more medical care and have longer lifespans ahead. Senior animals often have lower fees. Call the shelter or visit in person to learn the current fee for the specific animal you are interested in.
The fee is not a purchase price — it is a contribution toward the shelter's operating costs and reflects the medical care already provided. Shelters use adoption fees to fund spaying and neutering programs, vaccinations, food, shelter space, and staff. Without these fees, many shelters could not operate.
Ask whether Pets Inc offers any fee waivers or discounts. Some shelters reduce fees during certain times of year or for senior citizens, military members, or other groups. It does not hurt to ask.
After You Bring Your Pet Home
Give your new pet time to adjust to your home. The first few days are often stressful for an animal that has lived in a shelter. Keep the pet in a quiet, confined space at first — a bedroom or bathroom works well — so it can get used to your home gradually without feeling overwhelmed.
Schedule a veterinary checkup within the first week or two. Your vet can review the shelter's medical records, answer questions about your pet's health, and discuss preventive care like flea and tick prevention or dental health.
If you have questions or concerns after adoption, contact Pets Inc. Many shelters offer post-adoption support and can provide advice on behavior, training, or health issues that come up.
Contact and Hours for Pets Inc
Pets Inc is located in Charleston. To find their current hours, adoption fees, and available animals, contact them directly by phone or visit in person. Hours may vary by season or day of the week, so calling ahead ensures you do not make a trip when they are closed.
Some shelters maintain online listings of available animals so you can see who is there before you visit. Ask whether Pets Inc posts photos and descriptions online, or whether you need to visit to see current animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adopt an animal if I rent my home?
Many landlords allow pets, but some do not. Bring proof that your lease permits animals, or contact your landlord to confirm before adopting. Some shelters ask for landlord contact information as part of the adoption agreement. It is better to verify this before you fall in love with a pet you cannot legally keep.
What if the animal does not work out after I take it home?
Ask Pets Inc whether they offer a trial or return period. Many shelters allow you to bring an animal back within a set timeframe — often 7 to 14 days — if the match is not working. This protects both you and the animal, so do not hesitate to ask about this policy before you adopt.
Do I need to have other pets checked by a vet before adopting?
It is a good idea, but not always required. If you have other animals at home, a vet can confirm they are up to date on vaccines and in good health before introducing a new pet. This reduces the risk of disease transmission. Tell the shelter about your other pets so staff can recommend an animal with a compatible temperament.
How long does the adoption process take?
Most adoptions are completed the same day you visit — usually within an hour or two. You choose an animal, complete paperwork, pay the fee, and leave with your new pet. Some shelters may take longer if they need to contact a landlord or verify information, so ask what to expect.
What happens if my adopted pet gets lost?
This is why microchipping matters. If your pet is found and taken to a vet or shelter, they can scan the microchip and contact you using the information on file. Keep your contact details current with the microchip company, and consider getting your pet a collar with your phone number as well.