Adopt a Pet in St. George: Your Go-To Guide
Ready for a Furry Friend? Adopt in St. George Today
If you’ve been thinking about bringing a pet into your life, adopting from a local shelter or rescue in St. George, Utah, is a wonderful way to find a loving companion while also supporting the community. Our area is home to dedicated animal shelters and pet rescue organizations that work hard to match rescue dogs, rescue cats, and other adoptable pets with their forever families. From playful puppies to dignified senior cats, there’s a wide variety of personalities waiting for the right match.
Local Adoption Centers and Rescues
St. George and the surrounding Washington County region are fortunate to have several reputable adoption centers and nonprofit rescues.
- Hurricane Animal Shelter – About 20 miles northeast in Hurricane City, this facility offers cats and dogs for adoption. Fees are $60 for dogs (including microchipping) and $50 for cats, and all are spayed or neutered before they go home.
- Humane Society of Utah – While the main adoption center is in Murray, they serve the entire state and can assist with a wide range of adoptable pets and resources for new pet owners.
- PAWS Animal Rescue – A beloved no-kill rescue in St. George, PAWS focuses on cats and dogs in need, offering both adoption and fostering opportunities.
- New Start K9 – Specializing in dog rescues, particularly from rural areas, with a focus on rehabilitation and rehoming.
Step-by-Step Adoption Process
The pet adoption process in St. George is designed to ensure that both you and the animal are a great match. While each group may vary slightly, here’s what you can generally expect:
- Research and meet pets – Browse available animals online through the shelter or rescue’s website and arrange an appointment (many, like the Hurricane Animal Shelter, are by appointment only).
- Complete an adoption application – Share details about your home, experience, and what you’re looking for in a pet.
- Review adoption requirements – Most organizations require spay/neuter, up-to-date vaccinations, and sometimes a pet behavioral assessment before adoption.
- Pay adoption fees – Fees vary by organization and help cover basic vet care. For example, the Hurricane Animal Shelter charges $60 for dogs and $50 for cats.
- Take your new pet home – Typically, you can bring your furry friend home the same day once the process is complete, so be prepared with necessary supplies.
Getting Your Home Ready
Before welcoming your new friend, it helps to have your home pet-ready:
- Pet supplies – Food and water bowls, a comfortable bed, toys, and grooming tools.
- Safety checks – Secure trash bins, remove toxic plants, and block off unsafe areas.
- Space for adjustment – A quiet corner or room where your pet can settle in and feel safe during the first few days.
Remember, every animal has its own pace for adjusting to a new environment. Patience and positive reinforcement go a long way.
Support and Give Back
Even if now isn’t the right time to adopt, there are many ways to support animal welfare in our community. St. George organizations, such as PAWS Animal Rescue and RSQ Utah, rely heavily on volunteers and donations to continue their work.
- Volunteer – Help at adoption events, walk dogs, or care for cats awaiting their homes.
- Foster – Provide a temporary home for animals until they’re adopted.
- Donate – Monetary contributions, as well as supplies like pet food, blankets, and toys, are always welcome.
- Attend adoption events – These are great opportunities to meet animals and support the rescues through fundraising activities.
Your Adoption Adventure Begins
Adopting a pet in St. George isn’t just about bringing home a dog or cat—it’s about making a lifelong connection and helping a homeless animal get a new start. With so many dedicated animal rescue organizations and shelters in the area, finding your perfect companion can be a joyful and fulfilling experience. Whether you’re ready to adopt a dog in St. George, Utah, meet some rescue cats, or simply learn more about the pet adoption process, there’s a friendly local team ready to help you every step of the way.
If you’re ready, reach out to one of the local shelters, schedule a visit, and see who captures your heart—you might just find your new best friend today.
