Frequently Asked Questions

Shelter Services & Functions

What services does the R-H SPCA provide for our community? How does the R-H SPCA function? ​
What’s the difference between an “open admission” animal shelter and a “no-kill” shelter?
What’s the difference between the R-H SPCA and the ASPCA?
What strategies does the R-H SPCA employ to reduce euthanasia?
How does the R-H SPCA determine if a pet is fit for adoption?
Does the R-H SPCA euthanize ALL pit bulls, German shepherds, or other dogs stereotyped as dangerous regardless of their temperament?
Does the R-H SPCA have a “time limit” before a pet is euthanized?
Does the R-H SPCA participate in a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) or Barn Buddies program for feral cats?
Why does the R-H SPCA accept feral cats?
If the pet overpopulation is so severe, why are there empty cages in adoptable areas?
Why can’t a pet stay up for adoption indefinitely?
Does the shelter offer classes for those having training problems with their pets and/or those who may be interested in adopting their first dog?
My pet has some behavioral issues I’d like some help with. Can the R-H SPCA help me?
My pet has medical/health issues. Can the R-H SPCA help me?
My school group/scout troop would like to visit the shelter for a tour; what’s the procedure for arranging a visit?
Does the R-H SPCA have a volunteer program? Are there volunteer programs for children & teens under 18?
​Does your shelter offer pet cremation services?

Lost & Found Pets

My pet is missing! What do I do?
I found a pet! What do I do?
How does the R-H SPCA reunite pets with their owners?
I found a pet, is it okay if I keep it?
What is a Stray Hold?
What is the process of going up for adoption like for a stray pet?

Adoption Questions

How do I adopt a pet?
How can I see pets available for adoption? Is there a list online?
How often are new pet pictures posted on your website? What about Petfinder, Adopt-A-Pet, Facebook?
Does your shelter keep a list of potential adopters who are looking for a specific breed of pet?
I live out of area, can I adopt?
I’m in college, can I adopt?
Where can I find the adoption screening form and information on adoption procedures?

Stray Pet Questions

I found a stray, what do I need to do to bring it to the R-H SPCA?
Is there a charge for bringing a stray pet?
I found a stray outside of Harrisonburg City or Rockingham County. Will the R-H SPCA accept it?
Can I adopt the pet I brought if no one comes to claim it?
How can I check on the stray I brought in?
If the stray I brought has a contagious disease, will the R-H SPCA let me know?

Owner Relinquishment Questions

I cannot keep my pet, how can I relinquish it to the R-H SPCA?
Is there a charge for relinquishing a pet?
Can I surrender my pet to the R-H SPCA if I live outside of Harrisonburg City or Rockingham County?
I don’t want to admit that this pet is mine. Can I claim that it’s a stray instead?
Will the R-H SPCA let me know if my pet is unable to be placed up for adoption?
What are the chances that the pet I surrendered will find a home?
After I surrendered my pet, a friend/family member came forward and offered their home. Can they adopt my pet now that it’s in the R-H SPCA’s custody?

General & Miscellaneous

Can my pet give me Ebola or another dangerous disease?
I have a cat, what do I need to know about toxoplasmosis?
I need to perform court-ordered community service hours; can I volunteer at your shelter?
My service group would like to collect gifts for your pets. How can we get a list of items you need?
I am working on a project and would like to interview someone at the R-H SPCA. How do I go about arranging a meeting?
How can I learn more about animal sheltering?
What can I do to help?
Ready to adopt?

Find us

Connect with Us

PHONE: 540-434-5270
EMAIL: info@rhspca.org
Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA
2170 Old Furnace Rd
PO Box 413
Harrisonburg, VA 22803
HOURS:
Mon.-Sat. 10 am-4 pm
Wed. Nights 5-7 pm (Closed 4-5 pm)

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The Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.