Frequently Asked Questions

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Barring some mistake on our part, any animal listed as available on our website, or any site that shares our animal listings (AdoptAPet, PetFinder, etc.), is available. 

Barring some mistake on our part, any animal should be appropriately listed as altered on our website or any site that shares our animal listings (AdoptAPet, PetFinder, etc). As a rule, we do not do pediatric alters. If you adopt an animal from us that is younger than 6 months of age, you will be required to have the animal altered by 6 months.

We are a completely foster-based organization and do not have a physical shelter location. You can find us at local events (see our Facebook page for Event postings). Otherwise, please fill out an adoption application. 

Submitting an application doesn’t obligate you to adopt; it simply ensures your eligibility. Since our animals live in foster homes, we prioritize protecting our volunteers’ privacy and time. Meeting potential adopters who would be approved is an essential step in the process.

Please see our Adoption Process page.

You can view our adoption fees on our Adoption Process page.  

Please see our Adoption Application. 

Our dedicated volunteers handle application processing, but due to their availability and commitment, it may take more than a week to process your application. We sincerely apologize for any delay and understand that waiting can be stressful. Your understanding and support mean a lot to us as we work together to find the best match for our animals. 

While we strive to process applications promptly, please understand that due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to provide individual notifications if an application is rejected. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work diligently to find the best matches for our animals. 

We are headquartered in Winchester, VA, and operate through a network of foster homes in the following areas:

• Fredericksburg, VA
• Capon Bridge, WV
• Romney, WV

Please note that we do not have a physical facility; all our animals reside in loving foster homes.

We require a kitten to be 10 weeks of age, while puppies to be 8 weeks of age, before they are adopted. We may list a puppy or kitten as available before they're able to leave our care to get them an approved home to move into as soon as they reach the appropriate age.

While we are committed to helping animals in need, we cannot guarantee that we will have available space for your pet. However, we would be happy to provide resources and guidance on how you can keep your pet. Please feel free to reach out to us at adoptions@shirleysanimals.org. 

We are always looking for dedicated and loving foster homes that can temporarily house our adoptable animals. Please see our foster process for more information.