There is no doubt that I have the best job in the world. What other job allows you to make such a positive impact on the lives of community members – those with two legs and those with four legs? We make tangible – feel it in your bones – differences in our community. Our goal is to make pets and pet owners’ lives better whether it is through adoption, education, resources, or advocacy. In addition to loving my job, I have social anxiety. My goal with this post is to prepare and create a comfortable foundation for folks with what they may encounter when adopting an animal shelter, specifically Nashville Humane Association. Knowledge is power and we realize that visiting a shelter may not be common for most community members. No worries, that is why we are here!
Adoption Process: If you grew up as I did in the ’80s and ’90s, you obtained your new furry friend typically not by choice. Our dogs and cats were strays that would wander up and need respite. It took a lot of finances and effort to get them sterilized and vetted. Our adoption process at NHA allows you to be in full control of what pet best fits your lifestyle. Just be 18 years of age and bring your photo ID and an adopter can start having the adoption conversation with an adoption specialist to help match you to the dog or cat that best fits your needs and wants. If you are not local, give us a call or head to our website to get ahold of us virtually for guidance. Want a hairless cat because you have allergies? We get those! Do you enjoy saving an animal from a sad beginning? We have those!
Available Animals: We have dogs and cats of every size, color, and temperament. We serve the community, and our pet census reflects that. We always have upwards of 100 cats and 100 dogs up for adoption. Warm weather can bring an increase in puppies and kitties and cold weather can bring a bit of a lull.
Adoption Animals Have What?: All our adoptable dogs and cats have age-appropriate vaccinations, microchips, a license, and are spayed or neutered. Our goal for all our adoptables is to get them as fully vetted as possible to make the transition and adoption easiest for both the animals and the adopters.
What If It Is Not a Good Fit?: We want it to be a good fit. If not, please contact us immediately to provide guidance and/or return the animal. We have resources to help set everyone up to succeed but also understand that not every match is meant to be forever.
If you are not ready to adopt, no worries! We welcome our community to get involved with NHA by liking us on social media, purchasing an NHA Tennessee license plate, adopting your new pet, volunteering your time with the homeless animals of Tennessee and beyond, or visiting to take a tour and see all the exciting things going on – did I mention puppies and kitties? Animal welfare is a community effort, and we have been so happy to call Nashville home since 1946.
Do you want to be part of something greater than yourself? You have an open paw invitation to join us and be part of the good fight, a mission to save the homeless pets of Davidson County, and to be a resource for the humans on the other end of the leash or cat carrier.
