Rutherford County Pet Adoption & Welfare Services is working in partnership with the community to create a safe, healthy and caring environment for both our citizens and animals through education, adoption and courteous, effective enforcement of the Tennessee Codes annotated relating to animals and the rules & regulations pertaining to control of animals in Rutherford County.
To adopt a pet from PAWS: You must be 18 years of age to adopt a pet and provide a current driver’s license or state ID. If you live in a rental property, apartment, etc.: Proof of pet deposit, accepted breed/weight information, etc. must be presented prior to adoption. Proof of current rabies vaccinations for any currently owned pets and all pets living on property is required. If you own a dog, please also prepare to bring the dog(s) to meet with available shelter dogs you may be interested in taking home. Staff will assist with the "meet & greet" process. If your application is approved, you may be able to take your new pet home the same day. We accept cash, checks and now *credit/debit cards. If you pay with a check, it must have your current address and match your driver's license, and credit/debit cards will be charged a $2.00 convenience fee. Adoption applications/interviews are conducted at the PAWS shelter. Applications unfortunately cannot be accepted online. Please note, we stop taking adoption applications 30 minutes before closing time daily.
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