PetSmart is a true one-stop-shopping destination for people and their animal companions, with low prices and a wide variety of pet-friendly services.
However, not all pets can remain in the same home for the duration of their lives. Whether because of a change in circumstance or behavior, pets might need rehoming.
So, does PetSmart take in animals? I dug into the topic, and here is everything I could uncover about it.
Does PetSmart Take In Animals?
PetSmart does not take in or rehome animals of any kind. Instead, PetSmart customers can rehome their dog, cat, or other small pets at shelters or pet rescue centers. Additionally, PetSmart will not accept the surrender of pets if they were purchased at one of its stores.
Read on for more information on PetSmart’s surrender policy, where you can safely take your pets should the need to rehome them arise, and more.
Can You Surrender Animals To PetSmart?
There are a variety of reasons that a pet might need to be rehomed or surrendered, but unfortunately, owners cannot take their animals to PetSmart to be surrendered.
PetSmart does not accept pets for rehoming, even if the animal has been adopted from a PetSmart location.
If you attempt to surrender your pet to PetSmart, you will be turned away, and other options will be suggested.
Why Doesn’t PetSmart Take In Animals?
Because PetSmart cannot care for and safely rehome pets that are surrendered, no store location will accept a pet being returned.
PetSmart is dedicated to the safety and health of its animals, including all in-store pets available for adoption, so the company cannot take in surrendered animals.
Whether the surrender was prompted by illness, a change in behavior, or altered circumstances, PetSmart cannot guarantee the wellbeing of the animals already in their care if surrendered animals were accepted.
However, PetSmart will suggest alternative arrangements for rehoming your pet if required.
Where Can Pets Be Surrendered?
The Animal Humane Society offers rehoming services for dogs, cats, and a wide variety of smaller animals.
Additionally, you can also visit local pet shelters or rescue centers as these will also take in a wide range of pets, from rabbits, dogs, cats, etc.
Surrenders are accepted by appointment only, and curbside service is available. Phone 952-HELP-PET or 952-435-7738 for information and assistance in scheduling an appointment to surrender.
Where Can Dogs Be Surrendered?
If a pet owner must rehome their dog, there are many options for safe locations and organizations that are willing to take in unwanted pets.
Humane societies, no-kill shelters, and rescue associations are all good places to take a dog to be surrendered.
While some rescues and shelters will accept unwanted dogs for no extra cost, locations of the United States Humane Society do charge a $50 admissions fee to provide care for the animal.
However, some facilities do not accept walk-in surrenders and require the owner to contact them ahead of time.
Where Can Cats Be Surrendered?
Cats tend to be easily rehomed. Contact your local Human Society branch for information if it is necessary to seek relocation for a feline friend.
Another great resource is PAWS, an organization that will work with owners to rehome cats and kittens.
Where Can Small Animals Be Surrendered?
When it comes to small animals such as gerbils, hamsters, rabbits, and rats, your local ASPCA or Humane Society should be able to provide an interim home for them.
Additionally, you can contact your local animal rescue, and if they cannot take your small animals, they will put you in touch with a specialty organization that can.
Small animal owners should never release their little pets into the wild. Even if they are rodents, they are not bred for life outdoors and will not survive.
Where Can Birds Be Surrendered?
Birds can be tricky to surrender, but most rescue organizations or exotic pet veterinary offices can take your feathery companion or contact an appropriate avian rescue service for assistance.
Vet offices typically have a list of persons and organizations who are happy to take in surrendered birds, even if only temporarily until a forever home is found.
Where Can Reptiles Be Surrendered?
Take any pet reptiles that need to be rehomed into your local ASPCA. These types of animals can be more difficult to find a new home for, but the ASPCA or local rescue organization can put you in touch with a specialty or exotic pet rehoming service.
Whatever you do, do not release these types of pets into the wild or local waterways. This will only harm the animals and decrease their chances of survival considerably.
To know more about PetSmart, you can also see our posts on PetSmart grooming prices, if PetSmart microchip dogs & cats, and PetSmart hotel.
Conclusion
PetSmart does not accept animal surrenders, even if the pet was originally adopted from a PetSmart location.
Because PetSmart does not have the capacity or safety abilities to care for surrendered animals, you cannot rehome pets to PetSmart.
Instead, contact your local humane society or animal rescue organization for your pet’s next steps and safe rehoming measures.
