What to Bring with You to the Shelter

It's always best to call ahead to the shelter and find out what you need to bring with you. Typical items include:

Picture identification with your current address.
If you're renting, bring your lease or a letter from the landlord. It must state that you are permitted to have pets, and how many. Your landlord's contact information should also be displayed.
If you own your home, be prepared to provide proof of ownership. This can be in the form of a mortgage payment statement, the deed to your home, anything that shows that you are the legal owner of that home.
Cash, cheque, debit cards, or credit cards. Cash and cheque are commonly accepted (if you pay with a cheque, be sure you have two major forms of identification). Some shelters do not accept debit or credit cards.
Everyone in your family. Many shelters require that every person in your household meet the pet you may be adopting. This is to ensure that everyone gets along and agrees to the adoption. Some shelters may even ask that potential dog adopters bring in any existing canine friends, so that they can assess the compatibility of your current pets with your new pets.

See also:

Pet Adoption:

Can You Afford to Have a Pet? Read the Dog Budget or Cat Budget