603.749.5322, 262 County Farm Rd, Dover, NH


How to Adopt


At CVHS our goal is to match pets with people. It's more than just picking the cutest or the furriest companion animal - it's about ensuring that the pet you adopt is right for you and your home. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff members are here to answer questions and offer advice to guide you through the process:
  1. Think about your lifestyle and your interests. This will help you decide which type of animal is best suited for you.
  2. Visit our shelter and choose the animal that you would like to adopt. Please look closely at the cage card for information about the pet, including its age, temperament and personality. Will this pet match your needs and fit into your lifestyle?
  3. Fill out an adoption profile. At CVHS, we use a profile and interview process to ensure that each animal adopted will be matched with the most compatible new owner(s).
  4. Once your profile has been reviewed, our customer service staff will discuss with you any medical or behavioral information relevant to the animal you chose and process your adoption application. Click here to view our Adoption Fees. 
  5. Every dog or cat that is adopted from CVHS is up to date with required vaccinations and is micro-chipped for their safety and your peace of mind. The micro-chip, as well as the cost to register the chip, is included in the adoption fee.
  6. Congratulations! You are now ready to go home with your new pet!

Please be aware that the adoption process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the information we need to cover with you and the number of pets going home at the same time. We know this is a time commitment, but your new pet will appreciate it!

Please note: Effective November 1, 2008, Cocheco Valley Humane Society will no longer issue free first veterinarian exam forms per a directive from the New Hampshire Veterinary Medical Association. We highly encourage all new adopters to establish a relationship with a local veterinarian and seek their advice if or when the need arises. Your new family member has had a number of vaccinations and/or medication prior to adoption, but it is important that you continue to seek veterinary care throughout the life of your pet.If there are any questions, please contact the shelter at (603) 749-5322 or [email protected].
Thank you for your continued support.

Adoption Fees

Adoption Application

Adoption Guidelines