Virtual Adoptions Launched At Fairfax County Animal Shelter

FAIRFAX, VA — With staying home and social distancing becoming the norm, a furry companion could be a great comfort during this time. The Fairfax County Animal Shelter joins others in the region to offer a virtual adoption process during the new coronavirus crisis.

The new adoption process uses remote means to communicate with potential adopters. Just like before, potential adopters can check available pets listed online and complete an adoption questionnaire. Shelter staff will then get in touch by email or phone call to share all known information about the pet, including notes from previous owners and fosters, medical information and photos or videos of the pet. Staff will ask adopters what they're looking for in a pet. The next step involves determining if the pet is a good fit or not. If that's not the case, staff may suggest potential alternatives.

An in-person visit will be needed for certain adult dogs and cats to finalize the adoption. The shelter will incorporate no-contact practices and use dog pens for dogs or the indoor training room for cats or during inclement weather. If an adopter already has a dog, the shelter may require dog-to-dog introduction for certain dogs. In-person visits are not needed for puppies, kittens and some adult cats and dogs. After the shelter finalizes paperwork, a no-contact pet pickup will happen within a few days.

The shelter says it has halted its normal policy of spaying or neutering all dogs, cats and rabbits before adoption. Elective surgeries like spaying or neutering have been suspended to help veterinary clinics maintain personal protective equipment and supplies for emergency services. The shelter will provide a voucher and will schedule surgeries as soon as it can. Adopters may choose to get a pet spayed or neutered at a veterinarian at their own expense.

The shelter continues essential services such as return of stray pets and animal surrenders by appointment only. Animal emergencies should be directed to Animal Protection Police at 703-691-2131. More information about changes related to the coronavirus are posted on the shelter website.