Adoption Policies

Each cat is given a physical by a veterinarian, the first FVRCP booster shot, a worming (automatically given), a Feline Leukemia/FIV blood test, and spay/neuter surgery. A grooming, if deemed necessary, is done, as well as flea treatments, if warranted. Cost for adoption is $125.00(spayed or neutered and not declawed), or $175.00 (spayed or neutered and declawed) a tax deductible donation given to Strays Halfway House.

Each kitten is given a physical by a veterinarian, the first FVRCP booster shot, a worming (automatically given), and a Feline Leukemia blood test at the age of 8 weeks. A certificate for spay/neuter surgery is given at the time of adoption, so that the kitten can be done when it reaches the size/age appropriate for such surgery. Cost for adoption is $125.00, a tax deductible donation given to Strays Halfway House.

All monies are used to pay the medical bills of the next animals. We have no paid workers, for we are a strictly volunteer, non-profit organization.

Many times kittens come to us at a very young age, and require weeks of specialized care before adoption. Dogs and cats may come in with injuries or outstanding illnesses. These problems are all treated with great care before adoption is considered. Each animal is placed into a foster home where it can live with people that can observe it on a very personal level. This way, we can assure that all proper care is given, as well allowing a foster family to learn the behavior of each animal. The foster family can then tell each potential adopter about their foster companion animal and its needs and personality.

Strays Halfway House makes a concerted effort to match each companion animal with a suitable new home. Each animal is different, with different needs and idiosyncrasies. This is why we screen potential adoptive homes so carefully. Sometimes, as wonderful a home as you may have, a particular animal may just not be suitable for your situation. A dog who has had bad experiences with small children is not a good choice as a family pet. A cat, afraid of loud noises, would not please a busy family. Just the opposite, an active kitten or dog that thrives on activity and action would be miserable in a home with someone who works 40+ hours a week and gives no other stimulation.

Stray Halfway House does not take owner give-ups. We strive to help every family to cherish the companion animal they have, and not think of it as "disposable". There are FAR too many animals in the world today without a home or a person to love them. Because of this, we cannot condone irresponsible animal "ownership".

All animals coming from a shelter in the State of Illinois are required by state law to be spayed or neutered by the age of 8 months. In addition, we, at Strays Halfway House, require that all cats are kept as "indoor" cats ONLY. We also expect that no dog will be kept outdoors, exclusively.