Surrendering a pet can be an incredibly difficult decision. The Brevard Humane Society may be able to help you keep your pet at home or there may be alternative rehoming options to consider. Please review the following resources before surrendering your pet.

Behavior Issues

Dog Training and Obedience Classes
Sometimes pet behavior problems seem overwhelming, but many can be managed with the application of a little knowledge and a little effort. We’re here to help you find answers to your pet behavior questions.

Whether it’s a long-time friend or a newly adopted dog, sometimes we all could use a little help in this area! Our staff is dedicated to helping you and your dog understand each other better, through the use of positive, family friendly training techniques.

Inability to Afford Care

Low-Cost Veterinary Care
Affordable medical care can be difficult to find, but The Brevard Humane Society does offer low-cost wellness care options to our community. Please visit our Low-Cost Clinic page for more information!

Please note, the Brevard Humane Society does not receive any government funding and relies solely on donations. While we can provide low-cost services and do work with low-income families, we cannot provide free medical care.

Domestic / Disaster Situation

Emergency Preparedness
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 50% of women do not leave abusive situations for fear their pet will be injured or killed. Animal Safehouse of Brevard is a not-for-profit effort geared towards providing temporary safe placement of pets who, like their owners, need to flee from domestic violence situations.In the event of an emergency, if you are ordered to evacuate, we strongly encourage that you take your pets with you. We highly recommend that prior arrangements be made to shelter your pets with a commercial kennel, family or friend(s) outside of the evacuation area. Be sure that all pets are vaccinated prior to hurricane season, as many animal care facilities require proof of the following:

• Dogs-rabies vaccine, distemper/Parvo group, Bordetella, and Corona.
• Cats-rabies vaccine, feline leukemia, Rhinotracheitis/Calici virus and Panleukopenia.

Also, make sure pets wear a collar, with rabies tag and I.D. tag included. Have a properly sized pet carrier (for each pet) that enables pets to stand and turn around. You will also need a leash, water and food bowls, medication, at least a 3 day supply of food, and pet toys (all of which should be labeled with your pet’s name).

Please note that pets are not allowed in public shelters administered by the American Red Cross. Currently, three locations have been identified within Brevard County by Emergency Management as Pet Friendly Shelters, please visit their site for more information.

Moving / Inadequate Housing

Pet-friendly Housing
A common reason for pet homelessness is often related to moving and the inability to find pet-friendly housing; however, many landlords and property managers do open their residences and communities to responsible pet caretakers. Please consider the following advice when seeking a lease or purchasing a property where pets are allowed:

1. Give yourself a minimum of six weeks to find a suitable rental.
2. Compile documents that prove you are a responsible pet owner. Include vaccination records, training certificates and letters of reference from your previous or current landlord and veterinarian. You can even make a resume for your pet!
3. Be prepared to pay and even offer an extra security deposit.
4. Promote your pet and yourself. Make arrangements for the landlord to meet your pet! Responsible pet owners make excellent renters.
5. Protect your rights. Make sure “pets allowed” is part of your written lease agreement or in the association by-laws.
6. Don’t try to conceal your pet. You may be subject to eviction or legal action.
7. Respect any pet restrictions. Most properties will have policies in place such as: weight/size limitation, breed limitation, species limitation, and maximum number of pets allowed.
8. Respect pet “house rules or by-laws”. All properties will have regulations in place for the benefit of the community at large. Let your landlord or property association know that you will comply.

Remember that every situation may have slightly different guidelines, so please take as much time as necessary to fully understand all the rules and regulations pertaining to your lease or homeowner’s association contract.