How To Adopt

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor’s recent stay at home order, the New Hampshire SPCA is closed to the public until further notice. For this reason, we have had to suspend all programs, including adoptions in our typical fashion. We are however, offering virtual adoptions for select animals.  

A virtual adoption will allow some of the animals in our care to still have the option to move into a new home during this time. This adoption option is for serious adopters who see an animal on our website they are interested in.  Virtual adoptions are adoptions that can be completed via email and phone. Please note that we are currently functioning on limited staffing and are receiving multiple inquiries on available animals. Our response time may be lagged due to this. Below is information on our Virtual Adoption Program.   

We can send videos and pictures of the animal via email to gain insight on their personality. 

Please note:

  • No meet and greet option for cats or small animals is available at this time 
  • Some animals may not be candidates for adoption through this program.
  • The application process and counseling (including medical history) will be done via email and phone. 
  • Payment is done over phone. 
  • Adoption paperwork is done via email.
  • An appointment is needed for pick-up.  

We understand that this adoption model may not work for some people who prefer the standard adoption process. For adopters who prefer that method, we invite you to come visit us at a later date to help you find your new best friend. 

Thank you for understanding!

Many factors should be taken into consideration before choosing an animal to share your home and life, including how much time you and your family have to spend with the companion animal, how much money can be spent each month on food and other expenses, and how much space is available for the animal to live.

When adopting, you are committing to caring for the animal for its natural life.  This commitment includes not only your love and time, but also a financial commitment for food, supplies, grooming and veterinary care.

All adopters must be at least 18 years old, have valid photo identification with current address and have the knowledge and consent of all adults living in your household—we encourage you to bring the entire family! If you rent, you will need your landlord’s approval.

Adoptions are done on a first come, first served basis, with an approved application. We strongly encourage folks to visit in advance to get pre-approved as some of our animals (kittens and puppies) are in very high demand.

If you have questions on a specific animal we encourage you to call, visit or email, we are happy to answer any questions.  [Please note we cannot place a hold on animals via phone or email]

*All forms must be approved in person prior to adoption. Our counselors will go over any questions and help match you with an animal suitable for your lifestyle.  Please bring a valid form of photo ID.

Our Adoption Process
What to expect.

If you are interested in adopting one of our pets, first and foremost come visit us any time during adoption hours.  Our facility is located at 104 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham, NH. All our available animals can be viewed during adoption center hours; however, you must speak with an adoption counselor prior to meeting with or walking any animal.


Search our available animals online.  Remember that although we update the database frequently, the animal you’re interested in may have found a home already. We process adoptions on a first-come, first-serve basis and cannot place holds on animals by phone or email.  The adoption process takes a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour, possibly longer during our busiest times or during adoption promotions. ( First time pet owners should allow more time)


Download, print and fill out adoption application and bring to our Adoption Center for approval along with valid photo identification with current address.


A member of the adoptions staff will meet with you to discuss the type of pet you’re interested in and help you find a pet to suit your lifestyle.  We’ll ask questions about your experience and discuss any behavior, medical history, or other information we have about your potential pet.


After you have spoken with an Adoption Counselor, you will meet with your potential pet.  Ideally, we ask that all members of your family meet the animal, too. If you are adopting a dog and have another dog, we want them to get along well, so we may need to arrange a time for you to bring in your pet for a doggy intro.


When your new pet is ready to go home with you, our staff will go over any additional questions and concerns.  You’ll receive an Adoption Packet with tools, information and additional resources to help create a lasting bond and a fulfilling relationship.  You will be asked to sign an adoption contract and pay an adoption fee. The fee helps to cover the cost of surgery, vaccines and daily care that your pet received.


Congratulations! You’ve saved two animals. The lucky one you have adopted, and the one that will take its place.  Thank you!

Adoption Forms