Adoption legend descriptions

Special projects

These are animals that have come to us due to some extraordinary circumstances. For example, animals that came to us as a result of an animal cruelty case or humane investigation. It likely was living in unsanitary conditions and lacked appropriate socialization and health care. See the case write-up for case specifics and any adoption restrictions.

These animals may also be those rescued from weather-related rescue situations, such as those rescued after a hurricane or flood where thousands were left homeless.

Exceptional owner wanted

Animals that come into our care often have special needs that require additional attention from their new family. For example, they may have dental or joint issues, or need to continue treatment they’ve received in-shelter. See the veterinary write-up for specifics and any adoption restrictions.

Home without small children recommended

These animals may have shy/fearful tendencies or of a breed that has specific traits that, if left in the wrong situation, aren’t conducive to a home with children under the age of eight years.

Home without dogs recommended

During temperament testing with trained veterinary and behavior staff, these animals were determined to do well in a setting without dogs present. It is highly recommended that they go to a home without dogs.

Home without cats recommended

During temperament testing with trained veterinary and behavior staff, these animals were determined to do well in a setting without cats present. It is highly recommended that they go to a home without cats.

Adoption buddy

These animals were surrendered as a bonded pair. During temperament testing with trained veterinary and behavior staff, it was determined that it would not do well in a new home without the other animal. They must be adopted together.

Adoption preparation

The adoption preparation program is for animals that may be shy or fearful. Potential adopters should understand that these animals need a quiet, low-stress home environment, a longer adjustment period and lots of love and patience to help them “come out of their shell.” These animals do best in an adult home.

Project pit bull

Pit bulls are descended from dogs genetically selected for their fighting prowess. Powerful, muscular and athletic, pit bulls are not automatic and unpredictable in their aggression, but are more easily provoked to aggression toward other dogs. The breed is not instinctively aggressive towards people and, raised properly, pit bulls are loyal and affectionate dogs. AHS’s St. Paul and Woodbury shelters have had longstanding adoption protocols for pit bulls. In 2007, Project Pit Bull expanded to include all five Animal Humane Society facilities.

The program starts with the intake process that gathers detailed information about a surrendered dog’s home life, behaviors and habits. In addition, an extensive behavior assessment is conducted at AHS, testing for reactivity to objects, food, strangers, other dogs and evaluating the dog's responses in a new, unfamiliar setting. This evaluation is repeated weekly while the dog remains available for adoption.

Our goal is to match exceptional pit bulls with really committed dog owners. With the unfortunate negative reputation of the pit bull, it is important that adopters commit to on-going training and socialization to ensure a well-mannered and friendly dog-- a dog that will showcase the positive attributes of the pit bull. To help achieve this, adopters receive a free 8-week training pass to AHS’s dog Training School at the Coon Rapids, Golden Valley, Woodbury, or Now Boarding locations.

Oh Behave!

The Oh Behave! program works with animals prior to and during their time in our adoption centers. These are typically energetic, large breed dogs that need to learn some manners! Volunteers work with these dogs to teach them some basic skills. It is strongly advised that adopters enroll in training classes and continue training with these dogs. These dogs may not be the best choice for families with young children.

Forget-me-nots

These are animals that are having trouble finding a new home. They have been overlooked by adopting families and therefore are experiencing an extended stay within the shelter community. Please consider taking the time to get to know why these animals will make great pets too.