Pet Surrendering
Surrendering Your Pet
Making the decision to rehome a beloved pet is never easy. We understand that every situation is unique, and that this choice often comes after a great deal of thought, love, and concern for your animal's well-being. At the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, we're here to support you with compassion, understanding, and practical guidance. Our goal is to ensure that you never feel alone as you navigate this difficult and emotional journey. Whether you're facing changes in your family, housing, finances, health, or your pet's behaviour, we recognize that these challenges can be overwhelming, and we're here to help.
Before deciding to rehome your pet, we encourage you to explore all available options with us. We can provide resources, advice, and support that may help you overcome the challenges you're facing and allow your pet to remain in their home whenever possible. Sometimes, a conversation and the right resources can make all the difference. If rehoming becomes the only option, we will guide you through the process with kindness and respect. Our team is committed to ensuring that both you and your pet are treated with care, dignity, and compassion every step of the way. We understand the bond you share with your pet and strive to make this transition as smooth and supportive as possible.
Most importantly, please know that reaching out for help is not a sign of failure. It is an act of love and responsibility. We are here to listen without judgment, offer support, and help you make the best decision for both you and your pet. Whatever your circumstances, you don't have to face them alone. We're here for you.
Pet Health Outreach
Our Outreach Program supports pet owners by providing access to affordable veterinary care, helping pets stay healthy and receive the care they need.
Pet Pantry
Our Pet Pantry Program is here to help keep your pet’s belly full by providing food support when you need it most.
Obedience Training
We work with K9Principles to provide obedience training and behaviour support, helping pet owners manage challenges and keep their dogs in a loving home.
What You Need to Know
The HBSPCA can only accept pet surrenders when space is available at the shelter. Because we often have waitlists, our goal is to help as many animals as possible while managing capacity responsibly. There is an adjustable surrender fee, which varies depending on the type of animal, their history, and household income. An appointment is required for all surrenders. This allows our staff to complete a medical and behavioural assessment to determine whether the animal is a suitable candidate for our adoption program.
$250
Feline Surrendering Fee
$350
Canine Surrendering Fee
Financial Support
The HBSPCA is here to support everyone in our community, regardless of financial situation. Income-qualified individuals may be eligible for a reduced surrender fee. Eligibility is based on your CRA Notice of Assessment and follows the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) thresholds set by Statistics Canada (see chart below). In some cases, the surrender fee may also be adjusted based on individual circumstances, which can be discussed once your surrender appointment is booked. Please note that surrender fees go directly toward the animal’s care, including daily feeding, housing, veterinary treatment, and enrichment while they are in our care.
If You Have Considered All Other Options, Submit A Surrendering Request Below.
Our Surrendering Process
Before considering surrender, there may be other supports available to help keep your pet at home. We’re here to help you explore all possible options beforemaking a final decision
Family & Friends:
Training & Behaviour Support:
If your options have been exhausted or are not available to you, please complete our surrender form. A member of our intake team will review your submission and contact you by email to discuss next steps or available resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
A shelter should be your last resort when rehoming your animal. Before contacting the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, we encourage you to first try rehoming your pet yourself by reaching out to friends, family, and neighbours. Placing a pet in a shelter can be stressful, even though we work hard to provide comfort, care, and resources to help them feel safe. Whenever possible, we want to help you avoid this step. The HBSPCA supports thousands of animals each year, and many surrenders can be prevented with the right support. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help you keep your beloved pet.
The HBSPCA does not euthanize for space or length of stay. We are committed to ensuring every animal in our care finds a new home, no matter how long it takes. Because of this, there are times of the year when we may not have immediate space available to accept new animals into our care.
While we do offer guardian requested euthanasia for elderly or ill pets, we do not euthanize healthy, adoptable pets. Pets in our care will remain with us until their find their new family.
The surrendering fee goes towards the care that your pet will receive while they await their new home. This may include medical costs, vaccines, heartworm prevention etc...
Would You Like Support With Your Decision?
Facing the decision to give up your pet can be very difficult, and we know it is never an easy choice. We understand that circumstances can sometimes make it hard to keep your pet, and we are here to listen, offer guidance, and support you through this decision.
