During the COVID19 lock-down, we developed new ways of doing business, and due to some really positive learning experiences, we’ve decided to continue with some operational practices that have been extremely beneficial to the animals.
We found that the animals are less stressed and much healthier when we do not have visitors in our facility. The occurrences of stress-related illnesses, such as Upper Respiratory Infections, were almost non-existent during the shut-down. We also found that our return rate improved dramatically, and we believe that is because of the meaningful conversations our adoption counselors have with adopters, to help find the right personality of pet to match with your family.
Due to these really important outcomes, we are going to continue to do all business by appointment only, and continue with our successful “curbside” method. We are doing this for the animals. We now know that the animals are much happier and healthier with controlled contact, while they await their new loving homes.
We will be handling everything (adoptions, surrenders) by appointment. Call us at 476-3811, or email info@centralvermonthumane.org to make an appointment. We will get back to you as soon as possible to schedule your phone conversation appointment. We have only two phone lines so sometimes you may get a busy signal if both lines are in use. Thank you for your patience!
It is vital that our staff stay healthy so our animals get the care they need 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We ask you to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines, at this time. We will be too. We have a small staff, we need every single one to stay healthy so we can care for the animals. Not all of our staff is fully vaccinated yet, and we do have some folks with other health issues to consider.
Until further notice:
- We are closed to casual visitors — you must have an appointment.
- Call to make an appointment if you would like to adopt a pet. Our adoptable pet pages on our website are updated in real time. We will do most of our adoption counseling on the phone ahead of time.It is possible to meet a dog outside in our play yards. For cats, we are asking you to trust us in matching you with the right cat via a phone consultation. We recognize that it doesn’t always work out, so our return policy is a full refund within two weeks, and we will work with you to find the pet that is a better match for you.
- Kittens are in high demand. If you are interested in a kitten you need to get on our “Kitten Waiting List.” Give us a call, leave a message at 476-3811 and leave your name, phone number and email. Even better, email us at info@centralvermonthumane.org and we can send you our Adopter Information Form for you to fill out ahead of time. You can also find the form on our website here. Please be patient, we will call you back!
- We work hard to provide a consistent and fair adoption process. We do not do any “holds” or take money down to reserve any animal.
- If you need to surrender your pet, you MUST call to discuss making an appointment for intake. (476-3811). We do what we can to help animals stay in their homes, so if you are considering surrender due to having lost your income, we can help with food; please reach out to us.
- We have cancelled a few public events, modified others, and are assessing events case-by-case.
- Public dog training classes are in high demand, and we scheduling them as quickly and safely as possible.
- Donations are still gratefully accepted, and may be left on our covered porch at a time convenient for you. Staff checks the porch regularly to bring donations inside.
We strive to meet the needs of our community, while balancing the needs of our animals and staff. Please understand that our protocols and procedures are thoughtfully created with everyone’s health and safety in mind. Thank you for supporting Central Vermont Humane Society!