We would rather you plan for the cost now than face a hard decision later. These are the numbers our adopters actually report across Washington.
What the adoption fee already covers
Our fees run $400 to $600 for dogs and puppies and $225 to $325 for cats and kittens. That includes core vaccinations, rabies, bordetella for dogs, dewormer, flea and tick treatment, spay or neuter, and a registered microchip.
That bundle would typically cost several hundred dollars more at a private clinic, so the fee is usually the cheapest part of year one.
Recurring costs
Food runs roughly $30 to $80 a month depending on size and diet. Flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives add about $20 to $40 a month for a dog and less for a cat.
Budget one wellness exam a year at $70 to $120, plus dental cleaning every few years for cats and small dogs.
Setup and the emergency fund
First-month setup, meaning crate, bed, bowls, leash, collar, litter boxes, and toys, tends to land between $150 and $400.
We ask adopters to keep at least $1,000 accessible, or carry pet insurance, for an urgent visit. Emergency clinics in the Puget Sound area commonly quote $800 or more for an overnight stay.
Give an animal a second chance
There are so many animals who still need a safe place to land. Whether you’re ready to adopt, open your home as a foster, or simply want to support our work, there’s a way to help.