Adoptable Animals

We believe in the love of meeting a pet in person! We no longer accept online applications. One of the first steps is to visit our shelter during open business hours, speak to a staff member about meeting the pet you’re interested in, and then submit an application.

GMHS does operate on a first come, first serve basis for adoption applications. However, we do accept up to three applications on a pet in case an application may fall through.

GMHS does not accept holds on animals beyond an honored 24-hour hold on animals six months and older. We allow 24-hour holds in case you need to buy supplies, get a room ready, etc. This is only honored, but not required. If the pet is ready to leave and you’re ready to adopt with an approved application, then you can adopt.

As we are not a boarding facility, we cannot accept payment to hold an animal. We always have new pets coming into the shelter, so we are positive we can find the match for you!

We do not have waiting lists or a request list at GMHS. We are committed to finding the best match for you from our pets that are actively available.

All pets at GMHS come spayed/neutered and rabies vaccinated (if the animal is at an appropriate age). They also receive basic inoculations and a microchip. Dogs that are heartworm positive are given heartworm treatment.

In the state of Virginia, you must be eighteen years or older to adopt a pet.

Of course! However, if your pet needs to be returned and you do not have a safe placement you trust, such as a close family member or friend, the animal would need to be returned to GMHS.

You do not need a current veterinarian to adopt. However, we do ask to have a veterinarian in mind to bring them for their first wellness visit and we are happy to provide recommendations.

We do conduct landlord checks to make sure the pet policy allows for pets, or allows for additional pets if a pet is already in the home. If you do not own your home, but you live with someone who does, we check in with homeowners to make sure the pet is allowed.

We only accept applications on animals that are available, meaning listed on our website. For animals not available yet, you can keep an eye on our website for when the pet will be available.

Yes! With an approved application, we can conduct a scheduled dog-to-dog meet-and-greet. However, if one of our dogs is labeled as needing a single dog home, then we reserve the right to conduct the meet-and-greet, or decline one.

In certain situations, we do allow for foster-to-adopt, but this is not always the case for every animal. Heartworm positive dogs can be fostered to allow for their heartworm treatment, and when completed then be adopted. Foster-to-adoptions must be approved by management.

Please bring a driver’s license or a photo ID during your appointment, as well as a credit card, cash or check for the payment of your adoption fee. If you rent, it would be helpful that you have your pet policy from your landlord, or a written letter stating you can adopt.

​Please call our Adoption Team at 804-693-5520 ext. 102 with questions about the adoption process.

Yes! We offer a 20% off military discount for active military, retired military and military spouses.

Yes! The Seniors for Seniors adoption program is designed to help senior citizens (65+ Years) rediscover the joys of having a cat or dog in their lives. Senior citizens may enjoy a lowered adoption fee for senior dogs ($50) and senior cats ($30).