Pet Adoption in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Where to adopt dogs, cats, and small animals
Quick Answer
Pet adoption services in Tippecanoe County are primarily offered by Almost Home Humane Society, Natalie’s Second Chance, and foster-based rescue organizations. Adoption includes vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter for most pets.
Where to Adopt Pets
Almost Home Humane Society
1705 S 2nd Street
Lafayette, IN 47905
Phone: 765-474-5222
Adoptions: https://www.almosthomehumane.org/adopt/
Natalie’s Second Chance Dog Shelter
10 S 2nd Street
Lafayette, IN 47901
Phone: 765-376-5396
Website: https://www.nataliessecondchance.org/
Focuses primarily on dogs.
Pawswap of Greater Lafayette
Foster-based rescue
Website: https://www.pawswapofgreaterlafayette.com/
Offers dogs and cats through foster home placements.
What Adoption Usually Includes
• Spay/neuter
• Vaccinations
• Microchip
• Basic health exam
• Trial period (varies by rescue)
What to Bring When Adopting
• Photo ID
• Proof of residence (if required)
• Landlord permission (if renting)
• Payment for adoption fee
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I return an adopted pet?
A: Most shelters accept returns if the match is not successful.
Q: Are adoption fees negotiable?
A: Fees are usually fixed to cover medical care.
Q: Can I adopt if I have other pets?
A: Yes—most rescues allow meet-and-greets.
Summary
Pet adoption options are widely available in Tippecanoe County through shelters and rescue networks. Most pets come vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered.
Stray Animal Procedures in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
What happens when a stray animal is found or picked up
Quick Answer
Stray dogs in Tippecanoe County are handled by local Animal Control agencies and typically taken to Almost Home Humane Society. Stray holding periods are usually 3–5 days. Healthy stray cats are usually not picked up unless injured or in danger.
Who Picks Up Strays
• Lafayette Animal Control
• West Lafayette Animal Control
• Tippecanoe County Sheriff (rural areas)
Stray dogs are taken to:
Almost Home Humane Society
Phone: 765-474-5222
Stray Holding Periods
• Typically 3–5 days
• Allows owners time to claim their pet
• Proof of ownership required
After the holding period, pets may be evaluated for adoption.
What To Do If You Find a Stray
• Call local Animal Control
• Check for tags or ID
• Take to a vet or shelter to scan for a microchip
• File a found pet report with Almost Home
Reports: https://www.almosthomehumane.org/lost-found/
Healthy Stray Cats
Animal Control generally does not pick up healthy stray or outdoor cats unless:
• They are injured
• They are aggressive
• They pose a danger
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I keep a stray dog I found?
A: Only after legally completing the holding period and making reasonable attempts to find the owner.
Q: Do strays get vaccinated at the shelter?
A: Yes, most do upon intake.
Summary
Stray animal procedures ensure owners have time to reclaim pets while providing safe care through Animal Control and Almost Home Humane Society.
