Surrendering an Animal

Owner Surrenders

Hamilton Animal Services is not currently accepting owner surrenders. This allows us to prioritize space and resources for impounded stray animals and maintain critical service levels.

A limited number of rehoming surrender requests for cats and small animals may be considered by appointment, as space permits. Dog surrenders are not being accepted at this time.

Animal Services is not accepting owner-requested medical surrenders for euthanasia services. Owners are asked to contact a local veterinarian directly for these services.

If you are unable to care for your pet, you are encouraged to make every effort to find a new home for it before contacting Animal Services. Surrendering a pet should be considered a last option.

Limited Rehoming Surrenders (Cats and Small Animals)

Where space is available, a limited number of rehoming surrenders for cats and small animals may be accepted by appointment only. Please call Animal Services at 905-574-3433 to discuss availability.

All surrender requests are subject to review and are not guaranteed.

What Happens to Surrendered Animals

Before accepting an animal for surrender, Animal Services will assess the animal to determine the most appropriate outcome, which may include:

• Placement in an adoption program
• Transfer to an animal rescue organization
• Euthanasia, where appropriate

There is no guarantee that a surrendered animal will be adopted.

If an animal is accepted into an adoption program or transferred to a rescue organization, a medical waiver must be signed to allow Animal Services to obtain veterinary history. This information helps determine care and vaccination needs.

If an animal has bitten or scratched a person within the past 10 days, quarantine requirements may apply at the owner’s expense. Following the quarantine period, the animal will be reassessed to determine next steps.

Additional Information

Animal Services does not provide updates on the outcome of surrendered animals.

Surrender services may be limited or suspended during peak periods (late spring, summer, early fall) or prior to Statutory Holidays to ensure space remains available for stray animals.

Pet Euthanasia

Animal Services is not accepting owner-requested euthanasia services. Owners who require euthanasia services should contact a local veterinarian directly.