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Adoptable Pets

Thank you for considering adoption. Flathead County Animal Shelter schedules adoptable pet showings by appointment only so staff can help match animals with potential families.

Adoptable pet showings are by appointment only. Please call the shelter at (406) 752-1310 to schedule a showing.

Senior Pet Veterinary Voucher: All senior pets go home with a $350 veterinary voucher provided by Flathead Shelter Friends.

Adopting a Dog

Dog adoption fees are based on the dog’s age. Flathead County residents also pay a lifetime dog license fee at the time of adoption.

Dog Adoption Fees

  • Puppies, 6 months and under: $125
  • Dogs: $100
  • Senior dogs: $75

Flathead County residents: A $45 lifetime dog license fee is added to the adoption fee.

What Dog Adoption Includes

  • Vaccinations for distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and bordetella
  • One-year rabies vaccination if 3 months of age or older
  • Age-appropriate heartworm test
  • Parasite prevention
  • Sterilization surgery (spayed or neutered)
  • Microchip identification implant
  • Free veterinary exam certificate at participating veterinary clinics

Estimated value: $300+ based on area veterinarian fees.

Adoptable Dogs

After You Adopt

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting step. Learn how to prepare your home, support healthy behavior, and set your puppy up for success.

I Got a Puppy! — Now What?

Adopting a Cat

Cat adoption fees are based on the cat’s age.

Cat Adoption Fees

  • Kittens, 6 months and under: $70
  • Cats: $55
  • Senior cats: $40

What Cat Adoption Includes

  • Vaccinations for rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and chlamydia
  • One-year rabies vaccination if 3 months of age or older
  • Parasite prevention
  • Sterilization surgery (spayed or neutered)
  • Microchip identification implant
  • Free veterinary exam certificate at participating veterinary clinics

Estimated value: $250+ based on area veterinarian fees.

Adoptable Cats

After You Adopt

Bringing a new kitten home is an exciting step. Learn how to prepare your home, support healthy behavior, and set your kitten up for success.

I Got a Kitten — Now What?

After Adoption

The 3-3-3 Rule

Every pet adjusts differently after adoption. The 3-3-3 rule is a general guide to help families understand what a new dog or cat may experience during the first few days, weeks, and months at home.

The First 3 Days

Your new pet may feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure. They may hide, avoid eating or drinking, test boundaries, or need extra quiet time.

After 3 Weeks

Your pet may begin feeling more comfortable, learning the household routine, and showing more of their personality. Some behavior challenges may appear during this stage.

After 3 Months

Your pet may feel more secure, settled into a routine, and bonded with your family. Trust continues to build over time.

Give them time. Whether you adopt a dog or cat, patience, routine, and a calm environment can help your new pet adjust successfully.

 

Search Adoptable Pets Across Montana

Montana Pets on the Net is a statewide adoption listing site that helps connect adoptable pets from shelters and rescue groups across Montana into one searchable resource.

Visit Montana Pets Opens in a new tab.

Page Last Updated: May 5, 2026