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Pet Surrenders

Surrendering a pet can be a difficult decision. The Flathead County Animal Shelter can help explain the process, review available options, and plan for the animal’s care.

Surrenders are by appointment only. FCAS can only accept pet surrenders from Flathead County residents. Proof of residency is required at the time of surrender.

Before You Surrender

Before surrendering a pet, please consider whether there are resources that may help you keep your pet or safely place your pet directly into another home.

Surrenders are scheduled based on the shelter’s current capacity for care. This helps ensure animals receive appropriate housing, attention, and medical care.

  • Surrenders are accepted by appointment only.
  • Space and timing may depend on the shelter’s current capacity.
  • Dog surrender appointments can fill quickly and may be scheduled several weeks out.
  • Cat intakes are managed by appointment and may involve a waiting list.
  • Staff may recommend other resources before scheduling an appointment.

Ready to move forward? Contact the shelter below to schedule an appointment.

Schedule a Surrender Appointment

Surrenders are handled by appointment only. Please call the shelter to discuss your situation, review options, and check availability.

(406) 752-1310

Staff will guide you through next steps and let you know what to bring.

Before You Call
  • Confirm you are a Flathead County resident
  • Be ready to describe your pet’s behavior and history
  • Ask about current wait times and availability

Rehoming Options

Consider direct home placement

In some situations, direct home placement may be a better option than bringing a pet to the shelter. These services can help pet owners connect with potential adopters while the pet remains in their current home.

Home to Home   Rehome by Adopt a Pet

Surrender Forms

Dog Surrender Form

Complete the dog surrender form before your appointment. Include as much detail as possible about your dog’s behavior, medical history, and care needs.

Dog Surrender Form
Cat Surrender Form

Complete the cat surrender form before your appointment. Include as much detail as possible about your cat’s behavior, medical history, and care needs.

Cat Surrender Form

We are also exploring options for online surrender forms to make this process easier for pet owners and shelter staff.

What Happens Next

  1. Call the shelter.
    Staff will discuss your situation, confirm residency requirements, and explain whether an appointment can be scheduled.
  2. Complete the correct surrender form.
    Use the dog or cat surrender form and include as much detail as possible.
  3. Attend your scheduled appointment.
    Bring the completed form, proof of Flathead County residency, and any available veterinary records, medications, or other important information.
  4. Staff will review your pet’s information.
    This helps the shelter plan for care and determine the best next steps.
Bite history or rabies quarantine: If you need to surrender a dog with a bite history or an animal currently involved in an active bite quarantine, please call the shelter before completing surrender paperwork. Staff may need to review additional information and may refer you to the Rabies Control Program .

Shelter Care Resources

Shelter Standards of Care Review professional guidelines for animal care, housing, sanitation, health, and shelter operations. Million Cat Challenge Explore resources focused on cat care, shelter capacity, intake management, and positive outcomes.

Contact Info

+1 (406) 752-1310

Email Us

+1 (406) 752-1546

Page Last Updated: Apr 30, 2026