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Town of West Springfield, MA – Pet Adoption Process Animal Control Department Purpose To ensure the safe, legal, and humane adoption of animals in the care of the Town Animal Control Department, and to place them in responsible, permanent homes. 1. Intake and Assessment Animals picked up or surrendered are brought to the town’s animal shelter or designated holding facility. The animal is scanned for a microchip, checked for identification, and held for the mandatory stray hold period (typically 7 days for dogs, 10 days for cats in MA, unless injured or unweaned). During the holding period, efforts are made to reunite lost pets with their owners (via social media, flyers, calls to local vet offices, etc.). After the hold period expires, and if unclaimed, the animal is evaluated for adoptability: Health screening by a veterinarian. Behavior assessment by animal control staff or a qualified trainer. Vaccinations and parasite treatment are administered if needed. 2. Adoption Eligibility An animal becomes eligible for adoption if: It has not been claimed by an owner. It is deemed healthy or treatable and behaviorally sound for a typical pet home. It has been vaccinated in compliance with Massachusetts law (Rabies vaccination is required prior to adoption for animals over 3 months of age – MGL c. 140, §145B). 3. Adoption Application Prospective adopters complete a Pet Adoption Application, available at the Animal Control Office or on the town’s website. Application includes: Personal references Landlord permission (if renting) Current pet information (if applicable) Proof of residency Veterinarian reference Applications are reviewed and approved based on the best match for the animal’s needs. 4. Adoption Approval Process Animal Control reviews the application, may conduct interviews or home visits (especially for animals with special needs or behavioral concerns). Approved adopters are contacted to schedule a meet-and-greet. If both parties agree to proceed, an Adoption Agreement is signed. 5. Fees and Sterilization An adoption fee may be charged to help cover veterinary and care costs. Typical fees: Dogs: $50–$150 Cats: $25–$100 Senior pets or bonded pairs may be discounted Per MGL c. 140, §139A, all animals must be spayed or neutered prior to adoption unless: A licensed veterinarian certifies the animal is not healthy enough for surgery at that time (in which case, adopter signs a sterilization agreement with a deadline). Rabies vaccination certificates are provided at adoption. 6. Post-Adoption Follow-Up Animal Control may follow up within 30 days of adoption to check on the animal’s adjustment. Adopters are encouraged to contact the department with any concerns or if they can no longer care for the animal. 7. Return Policy If the adoption does not work out, the animal must be returned to the Animal Control Officer per the adoption agreement. No refunds are guaranteed but may be considered case by case. 8. Record Keeping All adoption records, including applications, vaccination certificates, and signed agreements, are kept on file by the Animal Control Department in accordance with Massachusetts public records and animal shelter regulations. Contact Information Jason Berselli, Animal Control Officer Town of [West Springfield, MA 01089] Phone: (413) 246-0993 Email: [jberselli@tows.org]