Richmond Animal Care & Control (RACC) stands as a cornerstone of animal welfare in Richmond, Virginia. Established in 1902 as the city’s first animal pound, RACC has a long-standing history of providing essential services to the community’s animals. As the sole open-admission public animal shelter in Richmond, they offer a haven for over 3,000 stray, sick, injured, and relinquished pets annually. Their primary mission revolves around preventing owned pets from entering the shelter system, focusing instead on empowering pet owners with diverse rehoming solutions and resources to secure suitable placements for their beloved animals. Due to the pressing need to address stray, sick, and injured animals, RACC’s capacity to accept surrendered animals is limited and handled on a case-by-case evaluation, contingent on available space and resources.
Our Commitment to Humane Care
RACC is deeply committed to providing humane care for every animal that comes through their doors. While their goal is to assist each pet in need, there are situations where humane euthanasia is deemed the most compassionate and responsible course of action. This difficult decision is made when an animal poses a significant threat to public safety or is experiencing unbearable suffering due to severe medical conditions. RACC prioritizes public safety and the alleviation of unnecessary animal suffering above all else. It’s important to note that Richmond Animal Care & Control is not a “no-kill” shelter and does not align with this designation. However, RACC firmly upholds a policy of never euthanizing animals due to space constraints or length of stay at the shelter.
Adoption: Finding Your Furry Companion
RACC champions same-day adoptions, making the process efficient and accessible for prospective pet owners. Individuals interested in adopting are required to visit the shelter in person, accompanied by all members of their household, to personally meet and interact with potential animal companions. During these visits, RACC staff members engage in conversations with potential adopters, asking pertinent questions to ensure a harmonious match between the animal and the adopting family. Once a suitable connection is identified, prospective adopters will complete an adoption application. This application undergoes immediate review, and approval or denial is promptly communicated.
For those looking to adopt a dog, it’s essential to bring any existing resident dogs to participate in a meet-and-greet session at the shelter. For kittens aged 12 weeks or younger, RACC mandates adoption in pairs or to homes with an existing cat. This policy is designed to foster proper socialization and prevent Single Kitten Syndrome, ensuring the kittens’ well-being and development.
Understanding Adoption Fees
Adoption fees at RACC are structured to cover essential medical services provided to each animal before they go to their forever homes. These fees encompass spay/neuter surgery, flea and tick prevention, age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and necessary testing. For dogs aged 6 months and older, heartworm testing is included, and for cats, FeLV/FIV testing is part of the adoption package.
Adoption Fee Structure:
- $100: Dogs, puppies 5 months and older, cats, and kittens.
- $150: Puppies 4 months and younger.
- Special Offer: Cats and kittens can be adopted two for the price of one.
- Waived Fees: Adoption fees are generously waived for senior pets (8 years or older), special needs pets, and barn cats, making adoption more accessible for these deserving animals.
By choosing to adopt from Richmond Animal Care And Control, you are not only gaining a loving companion but also supporting a vital community resource dedicated to animal welfare in Richmond.
