FAQ
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Quick Answers to Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about Special Pals? We've collected answers to some of the most frequently asked ones here. If you don't find what you're looking for, no worries! Feel free to reach out using our contact form, and we'll be happy to help.
Special Pals is open 7 days a week from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. CST
We are closed on all major holidays.
Visit our Adoption page to see available animals and learn about the adoption process. Once you find a pet you're interested in, you can follow the steps listed there or visit our shelter.
Yes, there are adoption fees, which help cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical care. The fees can vary depending on the animal and any promotions we might have.
Cats: $80
Kittens: $110
Dogs > 50 lbs: $100
Dogs < 50 lbs: $150
Puppies: $250
All animals adopted from Special Pals come home microchipped, spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccines as appropriate for their age, and treated with flea and heartworm prevention medicine.
From time to time, we receive grants or sponsorships that allow us to offer discounted adoption fees, but our adoption process always applies. Adoption fees for certain breeds may include an additional donation.
We always welcome additional donations at the time of adoption to help us care for the animals that are still waiting to find a home.
Yes, we provide health check-ups, vaccinations, and certain medical treatments for the animals in our care.
Check out our events page to see when the next clinic is happening at Special Pals.
Special Pals is not a full service veterinary office and offers limited services. We offer vaccinations, heartworm testing, microchipping, and prevention medicines.
If you have an animal that has an injury or suspected illness, please go to a regular veterinary office or emergency veterinarian.
We aim for forever homes, but we understand sometimes things don't work out. If you face issues, please reach out to us first. We offer support and guidance and will discuss potential returns on a case-by-case basis.
Please note that we no longer have the outdoor bins for donations.
We appreciate your willingness to donate! Please kindly bring your in-kind donations directly inside during our regular business hours to ensure their safety and integrity.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding!
The duration varies. Some animals find homes quickly, while others may take longer. We're committed to finding the right match for every animal, no matter how long it takes.
We always welcome volunteers! Check out our Volunteer page for opportunities and ways you can make a difference.
All potential volunteers must be at least 18 years or older to volunteer on their own. Volunteers ages 12-17 may volunteer alongside a parent or guardian. For everyone’s safety, we must keep a one-to-one minor-to-adult ratio.
The first few shifts you will be trained alongside an experienced volunteer or staff member. Our goal is to train and retain volunteers, maximizing everyone’s time and effort, and giving a huge helping hand to the staff and adoptable animals!
All volunteers will:
– Donate $25 for your volunteer t-shirt and name badge.
– Commit to at least four (4) volunteer hours every month and six (6) months of service at the shelter.
Special Pals is a limited-intake animal shelter. We can only accept as many animals as our space and resources allow… and that does mean we have to say no sometimes.
Availability changes from day to day. Our ability to accept animals into our program depends on how many animals have been adopted, our access to resources like food and medical supplies, and our donation income.
Please visit our Intake Request form to start the intake process.
Check sites like Pawboost, NextDoor, and Katy TX Lost and Found Pets on Facebook to see if the animal’s family is looking for them!
Special Pals can scan the animal for a microchip, and so can local vet clinics and emergency veterinarians.
Please contact us directly before bringing in any animals to ensure we have space and resources available.
We greatly appreciate any support you can offer! We can always use donations of towels, blankets, cat litter, as well as cat and dog toys and food. These items help ensure that the animals in our care are comfortable, entertained, and well-fed.
Additionally, for your convenience, we've included links to our wishlists on both Amazon and Chewy. By using these lists, you can directly purchase and send items that are in high demand for our animals. Thank you for considering a contribution and for your continued support!
We rely on donations, adoption fees, fundraisers, and grants. Your generous support is what keeps us going and helps us save more animals.
Support
Whether you’re curious about our mission, interested in our programs, or simply want to share your thoughts, this is the place to do it. We value your feedback and enthusiasm, and we’re always excited to connect with fellow animal lovers!