Adoption Information & Hours  |  239-573-2002

Rehome Assistance

Life changes can lead to tough decisions, and rehoming a pet is one of the hardest. We understand that families face many challenges that may make keeping a pet seem impossible, and we’re here to help guide you through compassionate, responsible options.

Every year, pets are surrendered for various reasons—financial difficulties, illness, moving to pet-restricted housing, allergies, behavior issues, and other unforeseen circumstances. No matter the reason, we’re here to support both you and your pet.

At Cape Coral Animal Shelter, we are committed to taking back any animals adopted from us. However, due to limited space, we may need some time to arrange for their return.

Thank you for your understanding as we work to provide the best care for all our animals. Please call us at 239-573-2002 or email send an email to [email protected] to begin this process.

cat and dog standing side by side

Rehoming Options Outside of a Shelter

Rehoming a beloved pet can be emotionally challenging for both the owner and the animal. Animals surrendered to shelters often experience stress, confusion, and fear in a new, unfamiliar environment.

Many loving pet owners find comfort in knowing there may be other ways to keep their pets at home or rehome them directly to a suitable family, avoiding the shelter experience altogether.

If rehoming is your best choice, we encourage owners to consider the following steps to ensure their pets go to loving, prepared homes:

Direct Rehoming to Friends or Family: A friend, family member, or trusted neighbor may be a great option for your pet. This allows for a smooth transition to a new home where you can remain connected to your pet’s life. If you adopted your pet from the Cape Coral Animal Shelter and have found another loving home with family or friends, please give us a call at 239-573-2002. We’re here to assist you in transferring the microchip information to the new owner.

Pet Adoption Platforms: There are online rehoming sites that connect pet owners directly with potential adopters, often with resources to help with the process. We can recommend reputable platforms that are safe, supportive, and committed to responsible adoption.

Please remember that rehoming your pet online through social media or similar platforms may not be safe and is best avoided. Instead, contact our shelter, and we’ll work together to find the best solution for you, your pet, and your unique situation.

Rehome Assistance By Appointment Only

CCAS is a private, managed-admission shelter. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of rehome requests and limited space available, CCAS is not able to accommodate all requests.

We accept cats and dogs BY APPOINTMENT ONLY with an approved Pet Intake Form and a recent photo of the animal. An appointment does not guarantee acceptance into CCAS. Each pet will be evaluated for health and temperament prior to acceptance. Please email your completed form and recent pet photo to [email protected].

Once You Have a Scheduled Appointment:

-An appointment does not guarantee acceptance into our adoption program.

-Please arrive on time and allow approximately 30 minutes for the appointment. The pet owner must be present.

-All pets must be on a leash or in a carrier.

-All pets will be evaluated for suitable temperament prior to admission.

-If your pet is not suitable for our shelter, we may be able to recommend other facilities in the area.

-Please bring all veterinary records with you to your appointment.

-Please bring any medications the pet is currently taking.

-Your current and valid photo ID.