Keeping Pets Home

The Humane Society of Charles County wants to work with you to ensure the best possible solution for you and your pet. Before you surrender, please take a moment to read this page.  We may be able to help you keep your pet at home, or there may be other alternatives available to you instead of surrendering your pet to our shelter.

ANY QUESTIONS — PLEASE EMAIL OUR INTAKE OFFICE — CLICK HERE

Are you dealing with the following?

• Behavioral issues
• Moving
• Cannot afford care

BEHAVIORAL ISSUES

Cats

Are you having behavioral issues with your cat?  If the answer is yes, there is support for these issues, some possibly even free of charge.  All that is needed from you is the willingness to work with your cat to help with those behavioral issues.  Spaying and neutering your cat can also help with common behavior issues.  Visit the following links for further information:

CLICK HERE for information from the ASPCA about common cat behavior issues.  
CLICK HERE to inquire about the Humane Society of Charles County Spay/Neuter Clinic.
CLICK HERE to make an appointment online to have your pet spayed/neutered.

Dogs

Are you having behavioral issues with your dog?  If the answer is yes, and your pet is NOT spayed and/or neutered, this could be the cause.  Visit the following links for further information:

CLICK HERE for information from the ASPCA about how spaying and neutering your pets will help with their behavior.  
CLICK HERE to inquire about the Humane Society of Charles County Spay/Neuter Clinic.
CLICK HERE to make an appointment online to have your pet spayed/neutered.

If your pet is spayed and/or neutered, and you are still having behavioral issues, the Humane Society of Charles County can provide information on local area trainers.  Attending a basic obedience class will help you to understand some of the communication errors we make as dog owners.

MOVING

If you are moving, please consider all options of finding a place that will accept your type of pet.  We know it can be stressful, however, your pet depends on you, and surrendering your pet to a shelter is stressful as well to your pet.

• Look for an alternate place to live that accepts pets.
• Talk with friends or family to determine if they would be able to commit to taking care of your pet.
• Re-home your pet yourself. This transition will be much easier for your pet and will allow you to know that your pet is going to a good home and not stressed in an animal shelter environment, as some pets do not show well in this type of setting.

FINANCIAL

If you temporarily are unable to purchase pet food, please call us at 301-645-8181 to see if we have food available.  

The Humane Society of Charles County provides low-cost spay/neuter programs and Healthy Pet Clinics.  These clinics are available to the general public.  The required vaccinations are available through our Healthy Pet Clinic at a minimal cost.