Your pet adoption includes:
■
Complimentary overall wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals
(strongly recommended within five days after adoption)*
■
Complimentary 14-day follow-up care** from VCA Animal
Hospitals
■
Age-appropriate initial vaccinations (which can include Rabies,
Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, Parainfluenza and
Bordetella for dogs, and Rabies, Feline Rhinotracheitis,
Calicivirus and Panleukopenia for cats)
■
Deworming treatment
■
Spay/neuter surgery
■
A leash and a 24PetWatch microchip
Vaccines
We are pleased to inform you that your new companion’s
vaccinations are up to date; however, within the next few
weeks, your pet may require additional vaccinations to maintain
good health. Any additional fees for vaccinations are not
covered under the following initial adoption offer.
Your first visit to VCA Animal
Hospitals
™
Within five days after adoption, VCA Animal Hospitals will be
giving you a complimentary overall wellness exam on your
new pet. Then, VCA Animal Hospitals will provide
complimentary treatment, for the first 14 days following your
adoption, of any of the following conditions ($500 maximum
coverage):
Dogs over six months of age are also given a heartworm
test
■
Dogs over eight weeks of age are also given a heartworm
preventive treatment
■
Cats over four months of age are also given a feline
Leukemia test
■
■
Upper Respiratory Infections
■
Infectious Tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough)
■
Diarrhea of infectious origin (excluding Parvo)
■
Vomiting of infectious origin (excluding Parvo)
■
Internal Parasites
Although we vaccinate each pet when they enter our
facility, one vaccine may not fully protect them.
■
Common Skin Disorders
■
Ear and Eye Infections
In cats, upper respiratory tract infections are caused by a variety
of viruses that are contagious between cats; however, vaccinated
cats are less likely to catch these illnesses.
■
Urinary Tract Infections
■
Suture Removal
Complimentary 30-day pet health insurance from
ShelterCare
■
Pet colds and coughs
In dogs, kennel cough is an airborne infection caused by the
bacteria Bordetella. The most common sign of kennel cough is a
dry, hacking cough. This disease usually subsides on its own in
10-21 days. A newer contagious respiratory disease of dogs is
canine influenza. All dogs are susceptible. A vaccine that can
help lessen the severity of clinical signs and the duration of
illness is now available.
Unfortunately, pets can look fine but may be incubating a viral
infection. Signs to look for include sneezing, discharge from the
nose and eyes, coughing, fever, and lack of appetite. There is no
treatment for the viral part of the infection, but antibiotics may
be prescribed to treat the bacterial infection
should it occur. If your new pet shows any of
these signs, please call your nearest VCA
Animal Hospital immediately. Some dogs with
canine influenza require hospitalization.
Diseases and conditions that are excluded: Congenital and
inherited diseases or conditions are not covered. No coverage
for the treatment of FIP, Feline Leukemia, FIV, Parvovirus,
Distemper or Hepatitis. No coverage is offered for Sarcoptic
Mange, Demodectic Mange, Ringworm or Cheyletiella. No
other animal in an owner’s house will be covered if they catch a
disease from the new pet. Any disease or condition not
mentioned here (in covered or excluded sections) can be treated
during the 14-day follow-up care period at 25% off regular
prices to be paid by the new owner.
* PLEASE NOTE: We strongly recommend your pet be examined by any
VCA Animal Hospital within five days after adoption. Examination includes
checking your pet’s heart, lungs, and other vital organs, and examining for
fleas, ticks, and other external parasites. This contract is void should you
select another veterinary hospital for the initial examination of your
companion animal for treatments, vaccinations, deworming and/or other
veterinary services.
** P.S. The SPCA of Texas has made sure that your new pet’s
vaccinations and deworming treatments are up to date. However, should
your new companion develop any health concerns covered by VCA
Animal Hospitals within the first 14 days after adoption, you may select
any of our local VCA Animal Hospital locations to care for your
companion. Medical services provided by VCA Animal Hospitals are
covered up to a maximum of $500. On the rare occurrence that your
new pet’s health problems are debilitating, congenital or critical in nature
or outside the list of guaranteed conditions, VCA Animal Hospitals will
give you a written estimate for costs and will consult with you and the
SPCA of Texas on how best to proceed. Additionally, this offer applies
only to your new companion animal adopted from the SPCA of Texas
and not to any other pets you may already have in your family.
Also, should your new companion need emergency services or any
veterinary care at a non-VCA hospital, neither VCA Animal Hospitals nor
the SPCA of Texas will cover these costs.
3
The adjustment period
What to expect during the first few weeks with
your new kitty...
Think about this
Your new kitty may have been abandoned or
or kitten has had to adjust to the adoption center
place with strangers. Kind of scary, when you
kind, and patient will help ease your friend into
surrendered by a previous family. The cat
and now is going to a new, unfamiliar
think about it! Being gentle, considerate,
the new family.
“I’m scared!”
Your kitty might be afraid and unsure of the new
a cat to hide for the first couple of days or even
private room such as an extra bedroom or
to start, instead of providing access to the entire
surroundings. It is completely normal for
weeks. It is best to put your cat in a small
bathroom, along with food and litter box
house.
Establish a routine
Routine is important for cats; they want to know
feeding, litter box cleaning, playtime, and
performed on a consistent schedule.
what to expect. Establish a routine for
grooming. Make sure these duties are
Expect mistakes
Your cat had another routine before meeting
litter, eaten a different food, and had another set
time to adjust to – please be patient. If you need help, call our staff at 214-742-SPCA.
you. Your cat may have used a different
of rules. A new routine will take some
Things can get touchy
Many cats are uncomfortable being picked up and/or being held, but they will sit in your lap happily for hours. Some like to cuddle right beside
you. Let your kitty do what is most comfortable. Petting and cuddling are important, but do not overwhelm your cat with too much attention.
Respect your cat’s need for rest and privacy.
How long will all this take?
Allow your cat or kitten several weeks to adapt to the new surroundings and up to four months to fully adjust (adult cats may take longer than
kittens). Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment. We assume you will make a patient and concerted effort to achieve a successful placement.
Call and ask
If you have any concerns or problems regarding your pet’s behavior, please do not hesitate to call us at 214-742-SPCA.
4
For Cat Owners
Meeting the Family
Introducing your new cat to resident animals and children
Kids and cats
A cat can be a child’s companion, playmate, guardian and confidant. The relationship between children and cats is magical, but children
must be taught proper care and handling of pets. Before you bring your new cat home, tell the children that cats cannot be handled and
played with constantly. Show them how to love, respect, and care for each pet.
Teach children the proper method of handling a pet. A kitten or cat should be gently picked up and held with one hand under the chest and one
supporting the hindquarters. Some cats do not like to be picked up, so teach your children to respect this behavior. Cats will come to you when
they want attention.
Children should respect the cat’s need to sleep, eat, and use the litter pan undisturbed. Do not allow children to chase the cat around the house. A
frightened or overwhelmed cat may bite or scratch in self-defense, or become timid and skittish. Hiding cats should be left alone, never dragged
out against their will. Do not leave young children alone with a new pet. Teach children the difference between playing and teasing. Do not expect
children to assume full responsibility for the care of your cat. All family members should share in the responsibility. Regularly monitor any care
your child provides to be sure it is done properly.
Introducing your new pet to current pets
Patience and understanding are important during the getacquianted period between your current pets and your new cat. The past experiences
of all the animals influence how easily they will adjust to their new house mates. Pets that have always lived with other cats have an easier
time accepting the new kitty than pets than have not lived with any other cats. The same thing applies to the new cat.
New cat/current dog
Keep your kitty confined to its smaller space until he or she feels secure. This will allow both pets an opportunity to adapt to the smell and sounds
of each other without the possibility of direct contact or physical confrontation.
When making the first face to face introduction to a dog, introduce them indoors, with your dog under your control Your cat should have a safe
retreat, either up high or in a room inaccessible to the dog. An adult cat may swat a dog to set limits, but this may also prove injurious to the dog
so we want to supervise closely. Do not leave them alone together until they have accepted each other. Most importantly, be patient. Allow your
pets to accept one another in their own time; never push them toward each other or force interaction. Many pets become companions and
playmates, while others simply tolerate each other. Be sure to give your dog lots of extra affection in the presence of the cat to avoid jealous
reactions.
New cat/current cat
Introducing two cats should be done slowly and carefully. Adjustment time can take weeks or even months. The cats may learn to be buddies or
simply tolerate each other. First, be sure
your new cat is confined to a carrier when entering the home for the first time. It is even a good idea to let a friend or neighbor bring in the carrier
so your cat does not associate you with the new cat. Place the new cat in a small room such as the bathroom. Let the new cat out to explore. Your
established cat will be sure to smell the new cat in the home. Don’t be surprised to see hissing, growling and arching of the back. These are very
common reactions for both cats. Feed each cat something extra tasty on each side of the door in order
pet tip >
Never leave your cat alone with stringy material. If ingested, it could tangle in your cat’s intestine, causing death if the problem is not
diagnosed early enough and corrected by surgery to remove the material.
to associate good things with one another. You can also add a long toy under the door, so that each cat is encouraged to play with a segment of the
toy “together.”
When the hissing and growling have minimized, it’s time for the big introduction! Bring the new cat out in the carrier, and place the cat in the
middle of the room. Let the cats get to know each other through the carrier door. When you feel the time is right, open the carrier door. Be
prepared to play with each cat with their own toy and keep them at a distance from one another. You may allow a few minutes of play and then
separate them again. A few repetitions of this program can really aid in acclimating these cats to one another in a safe, and positive manner while
avoiding a physical fight. Hissing and standoffs are to be expected. Allow them to grow accustomed to one
another on their own terms, remembering that the process
on a leash. Do not allow the dog to chase or corner the
can take quite a while. Be sure each cat has separate food
CATS
cat, even out of playfulness or curiosity. Be careful to also
and water bowls and litter pans. Do not leave them alone
not punish your dog for being interested in your cat. We
together until they have accepted each other. Please try to
want your dog to enjoy being around the cat, and not
give your original cat extra time, attention and treats, and
associate bad things with it.
avoid interrupting the routine as much as possible.
any of these suggestions, please call us at
214-742-SPCA, or your VCA Veterinarian for
advice.
Training
Litter pan training
Most cats and kittens are easily trained to use a
litter pan. Choose a location that is convenient,
quiet, and acceptable to both you and your cat.
This should be away from the cat’s feeding area
and family traffic. Place your new cat in the litter
pan soon after arriving in your home. Be sure
your cat has access to it and knows its location.
Any accidents should be cleaned immediately
and the area washed with a 50/50 solution of
white vinegar and water. A trained cat’s failure
to use the litter pan may be caused by any
number of conditions, including a medical
problem or simply an unacceptable choice
of litter. DO NOT punish a cat for making a mistake. Your patience and praise are the keys to success in this area. If you have a problem,
please call us at 214-742-SPCA, or your VCA Veterinarian for advice.
Feline behavior
Besides litter training, your cat may display undesirable behavior which may require additional training. This may include scratching
furniture, climbing drapes, jumping onto kitchen counters, begging or stealing your food, getting into garbage, disturbing houseplants, or
stalking pet rodents or birds.
A cat should never be hit or physically reprimanded. This will teach the animal to distrust you rather than teaching him what you want him to do,
and may reinforce the problem behavior
If you have training problems that are not remedied by
For Cat Owners
The adjustment period
What to expect during your first few weeks with
your new dog...
Think about this
Your new dog may have been abandoned or
dog or puppy has had to adjust to the shelter and
with strangers. Kind of scary, when you think
and patient will help ease your pet into the new
surrendered by a previous family. The
is now going to a new, unfamiliar place
about it! Being gentle, considerate, kind,
family.
“I’m free!”
Your dog may have been in a kennel for several
HAPPY” the first few days just to be out and
of exercise to help your dog relax and wind
weeks or months, and may be “CRAZY
about and around people. Provide plenty
down.
“I’m scared!”
Your dog might be afraid and unsure of the new
scared, provide a small, quiet area for your dog
bathroom), and take it slow. Do not allow your
fear can result in nipping. Instead, give your dog
surroundings, taking it one step at a time. Do not
surroundings. If your dog appears to be
(such as a gated-off laundry room or
children to bother a frightened dog;
plenty of time to adjust to the new
give up!
Expect mistakes
Even a potty-trained dog can make mistakes in a
new home. Your dog does not know
which door to go to or how to ask you for anything. Keep a watchful eye on your dog, but when you can’t watch... confine your dog.
Expect behavior problems
Your dog had another set of rules in the previous home, and may have been allowed to sleep on the bed or beg at the table. IT’S UP TO YOU TO
TEACH YOUR RULES. Teaching proper behavior takes time and patience. Refer to the section on “Training.” If you need more help, call us at
214-742-SPCA.
How long will all this take?
Allow your dog or puppy several weeks or longer to adapt to the new surroundings. Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment. We assume you
will make a patient and concerted effort to achieve a successful placement.
Call and ask
If you have any concerns or problems regarding your pet’s behavior, please do not hesitate to call us at 214-742-SPCA.
7
Meeting the Family
Introducing your new dog to resident animals and children
Kids and dogs
A dog can be a child’s companion, playmate, guardian and confidant. The relationship between children and dogs is magical, but
children must be taught proper care and handling of pets. Before you bring your new dog home, tell the children the pet cannot be
handled and played with constantly. Show them how to love, respect and care for each pet.
Children should respect the dog’s need to sleep and eat undisturbed. A frightened or overwhelmed dog may bite in self-defense, or become timid
and skittish. Do not leave young children alone with a new pet, and be sure to teach your children the difference between playing and teasing. Do
not expect children to assume full responsibility for the care of your dog. All family members should share in the responsibility. Regularly
monitor any care your child provides to be sure it is done properly.
Sometimes children show affection by hugging and kissing the people and pets they love. Although it is a sign of affection for humans, dogs can
see this face-toface contact and hugging as a threat and a dominant gesture. This could result in your dog biting. Teach your children to respect
your dog’s space.
Introducing your new pet to current pets
The ability of pets to get along together in the same household depends on their individual personalities. Wise handling of the “getting acquainted”
period is an important factor in the successful introduction of a new pet. The first few weeks may be hectic, frustrating and time consuming. Be
patient. The adjustment will take time.
New dog/current dog
Spayed or neutered dogs are generally more accepting of other dogs. Adult dogs are generally more accepting of younger dogs. Two adult dogs
often become friends in confined in a fenced area and supervised by adults. Sniffing, tail wagging, urinating, growling and mounting behaviors
may be exhibited. Comfort both dogs when they are behaving appropriately, but be firm in communicating your expectation that they will get
along. Give them time to get acquainted, praising and rewarding appropriate interaction. Try to spend some special time with the old dog to play a
favorite game or go through obedience commands. This is a perfect way for your current dog to earn lots of praise while being reassured that the
old rules of the house still apply. Keep both dogs on a leash for the first few days so you can quickly correct unacceptable behavior with a loud
verbal “NO.”
Be sure the dogs have their own bowls, toys and sleeping areas. Competition over food and attention is normal. Try to allow equal time for each
pet and feed them in separate areas. Do not disrupt your established dog’s feeding or exercise routines. Do not expect your dogs to share their toys
or bed.
New dog/current cat
Introduce your new dog to your cat at home and under your control. Keep your new dog on a leash and do not tolerate any aggressive behavior
toward the cat. Your cat should have a safe retreat, either up high or in a room inaccessible to the dog. An adult cat may swat the newcomer to
show who is the “boss.” Do not leave the pets together until they have accepted one another. Supervise them carefully, especially if your cat is
still a kitten. Your cat may hide from the new dog. Give the cat time to gain confidence and decide to face the newcomer. Be reassuring and
patient.
Allow your pets to accept one another in their own time. Never push them toward each other or force interaction. Many pets become companions
and playmates, while others simply tolerate each other.
the same home, but it may take longer.
DOGS
Introduce the dogs to each other on neutral territory – a park or neighbor’s
yard. They should be on a leash or
For Dog Owners
9
For Dog Owners
receive exercise may have trouble calming down or may become destructive out of boredom. Plan an exercise routine for your
dog and stick with it. You’ll enjoy the workout, too!
House training
For your new dog to learn to go potty outside, a routine must be established. This takes time and commitment from each family
member.
By following a schedule of sleeping, eating, exercise, and potty breaks, you can teach your dog the correct place and time for
elimination.
Think about it. What is the first thing you do when you wake up? Use the bathroom? Well, your new dog will most likely have to
also. Additional potty breaks are necessary 20-30 minutes after the dog has eaten, after heavy play and before bedtime. Show
your dog where to go and always provide a reward for eliminating in the right place, either with verbal praise or a small treat.
Puppies younger than five or six months of age and toy breeds are like babies and cannot be expected to control their bladders
and bowels for more than a few hours. Expect mistakes.
An adult dog that was formerly house trained may need some retraining in your home. Retraining is getting the dog
accustomed to the new routine in your home. Remember, the dog may have been through a lot, so provide time to adjust.
Punishing the dog for mistakes will only make the dog afraid of you, and that is not what you want. If an accident has
occurred, simply clean it up.
Crate training
Many behavior problems in dogs can be controlled or eliminated by the careful use of crates. Like other training aids, the
crate can be misused and do more harm than good to your pet. But used correctly, the crate can make a dramatic difference for
pets that might otherwise have been brought to shelters.
When can a crate help?
House training puppies: Crates make house training much easier. Wild members of the dog family instinctively keep their
dens clean; similarly, most puppies will try to keep their crates clean. If you keep the crate near your bed at night, you will
hear your puppy whine and fuss, and you will wake up in time to take your puppy outside. In this way, good habits are
established.
Once accustomed to the crate, your puppy can be left in it when you are out of the house for a few hours. Make sure you let
your puppy outside to take care of business before you leave. Provide several chew toys and a comfortable mat to lie on. Now
you can leave the house and know that your puppy will be safe, and you do not have to worry. Your puppy will not be able to
chew on electric cords, your furniture, rugs or clothes! It’s hard to feel affectionate toward your puppy when you come back to
a house strewn with mangled belongings.
Destructive dogs: Some dogs can never be left alone in the house because they are destructive. Rather than having to give up
such dogs, owners solve the problem by always crating their dog when they have to leave for a few hours.
DOGS
10
Pet Identification
Complimentary
14-day follow-up
care
for any
of the
followin
g
conditio
ns ($500
maximu
m
coverag
e):
™
Every adopted animal receives a 24PetWatch microchip. The
SPCA of Texas has registered your pet with 24PetWatch and
you should have received information about this pet recovery
service. If you change your address or phone number, be sure to
update this information with the registry, as this step will ensure
a safe return should your pet get lost. We also recommend
having a collar and identification tags on your pet for extra
protection. Remember, lost pets cannot call home, so please
make sure to keep your information up to date.
™
Important Reminders and Checklist - Please read
carefully.
Upper
Respiratory
Infections
■ Infectious
Tracheobronchitis
(Kennel Cough)
■ Diarrhea of
infectious origin
(excluding Parvo)
■ Vomiting of
infectious origin
(excluding Parvo)
■ Internal Parasites
■ Common Skin
Disorders
■ Ear and Eye
Infections
■ Urinary Tract
Infections
■ Suture Removal
■
■ Scheduling
Schedule your appointment at a VCA Animal Hospital
before:
Date:
Remember, VCA Animal Hospitals is pleased to offer
your new companion a:
Complimentary overall wellness exam within the first five
days of adoption.
■ Complimentary 14-day follow-up care for the enclosed list of
illnesses at any of the participating VCA Animal Hospitals
within the first 14 days of adoption from the SPCA of
Texas ($500 maximum coverage).
■
■
■
Vaccinations
Your pet may require additional vaccinations. Your VCA
Veterinarian will set up a vaccination schedule for your pet
after reviewing the medical report card provided by the
SPCA of Texas. Be sure to bring the medical report card
with you to your complimentary veterinary visit at VCA
Animal Hospitals.
Return Policy
The SPCA of Texas does allow returns for behavioral and
health reasons. However, as per the adoption contract,
refunds are only given if there is an untreatable medical
condition deemed so by a veterinarian within 14 days of
the adoption. Please contact the SPCA of Texas before
returning your pet. Many problems can be resolved
without removing the pet from the home.
Complimentary Wellness Examination
and 14-Day Follow-up Care
Congratulations on your new family member! To give
your pet the healthiest start possible, VCA Animal
Hospitals has offered to give every animal adopted
from the SPCA of Texas a:
Complimentary overall wellness exam
(It is strongly recommended that the pet come in within the
first five days after adoption.) Examination includes checking
your pet’s heart, lungs, and other vital organs, and examining
for fleas, ticks, and other external parasites.
VCA Animal
Hospitals is
America’s largest
provider of pet
health care, and a
trusted name for a
growing number of
families, individuals,
and pets. At VCA
Animal Hospitals, we
get to know every
dog and cat that
comes through our
door, and treat them
as if they were our
own. We recognize
that each pet has
individual needs.
And we treat all pets
with the loving,
individualized attention they deserve. Because caring
for your pet is not just our profession, it’s our passion.
Signature of New Owner
Print Name
■ Health
Coverage
We do not reimburse veterinary expenses. If your animal
appears to be ill, please follow instructions in your folder. VCA
Animal Hospitals will cover certain illnesses within the first 14
days after adoption. Please contact the nearest VCA Animal
Hospital for an appointment.
■ Questions
Call the SPCA of Texas at 214-742-SPCA.
SPCA of Texas is open:
Dealey Animal Care Center
Monday – Sunday: Noon – 6 pm
Perry Animal Care Center
Monday – Sunday: Noon – 6 pm
®
SPCA of Texas PetSmart Adoption Center
Offsite dog adoptions at PetSmart in Denton
Wednesday – Saturday: 11 am – 7 pm Sunday:
Noon – 5 pm
®
Offsite cat adoptions in Dallas Monday
– Saturday: 7 am – 9 pm Sunday: 8 am
– 7 pm
Offsite cat adoptions in Denton, Grand
Prairie, and Duncanville Monday –
Saturday: 9 am – 9 pm Sunday: 9 am –
7 pm
Offsite cat adoptions in Mesquite
Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 9 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm
■ Behavior
Help Line
Please call us before a problem escalates. We want you to
enjoy your new pet for life! Call 214-742-SPCA, or visit
www.spca.org/petuniversity for more information.
■ SPCA
of Texas Adoption Team
The names of the adoption counselors who helped you:
Staff Member:
Volunteer: