One of the true joys of volunteering at the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is witnessing the moment a person falls in love. It happens almost every day. A potential adopter walks in, scanning faces covered in fur, and then it happens. Their whole body changes. You can see it in their shoulders, their eyes, their stillness. They’ve just found their animal.
Like falling in love with a person, this moment doesn’t come out of nowhere. Most adopters have been circling the idea for a while. They’ve talked about it at dinner, followed the shelter’s social media, and imagined where the bed or litter box might go. They’ve thought about morning walks or after-school routines, the cost of food, the logistics of vacations, the joy of companionship.
Some are experienced pet people, returning after the loss of a beloved companion or expanding their pack. Others are new to the idea entirely, wide-eyed, curious, hungry for guidance. Regardless of background, the scene is almost always the same. They meet a pet who tugs on something just beneath the surface, and suddenly, it’s not theoretical anymore. This animal belongs to them. It’s not a transaction. It’s a recognition.
The next steps unfold with a mix of nerves and hope. Paperwork is filled out. Information is shared. A meeting is arranged. A tail wags. A hand is licked. Time slows down. Some adopters go home to think it over. Some can’t leave without their new companion. Either way, the heart has already made the leap.
And then, they’re home.
Those first few days are thrilling, a bit chaotic, and, if you’re a parent, incredibly rich with teachable moments. The dog circles the living room endlessly. The cat hides under the bed for three days. The rabbit stares, unblinking, from a corner. Children hover, checking again and again: Is he still there? Does she like her new bed? Can I hold them now?
This is when families discover the invaluable wisdom of the “3-3-3 rule”, a guideline for pet’s adjusting to a new home. The first three days, your new pet is likely overwhelmed and unsure. The first three weeks, they’re settling into a rhythm, tentatively learning the sights and sounds of your home. After three months, if you’ve been patient and consistent, they begin to trust. Their real personality emerges. Bonds take root.
For kids, this timeline is gold. It teaches patience, empathy, and the idea that love isn’t just felt, it’s built. It’s tempting to rush, to expect instant cuddles or perfect behavior. But the best thing a child can learn from a new pet is that trust takes time, especially for someone who’s had a confusing or rough start.
On June 7th, shelters across California will celebrate Statewide Adopt an Animal Day by waiving adoption fees. If your family has been mulling over the idea of bringing a new animal home, this is your nudge. Walk the kennels. Meet the rabbits. Let your children see what love at first sight can feel like. And if someone locks eyes with a whiskered face behind the glass—lean in.
The story of your next great love might begin with a head tilt, a purr, or a quiet, hopeful stare.
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Ready to Adopt? Here’s How:
- Start online.
Visit www.scanimalshelter.org to view adoptable animals. When you’re ready, fill out an adoption application and list your top three animals of interest. - Visit the Shelter.
Bring your completed application to our location at 1001 Rodriguez St. in Santa Cruz. You can also fill out an application in person, no printer required. - Meet your match.
Once you arrive, our staff will review your application, talk with you about the animals you’re interested in, and schedule a meet-and-greet. If your chosen animal is at the shelter, you may be able to meet them that same day. If they’re in a foster home, we’ll help schedule an appointment. - Already have a dog?
If you’re hoping to adopt a dog and already have one at home, please bring them with you so we can do a safe and friendly introduction. - Be prepared.
Adoptions are first come, first served. Please bring proof of home ownership or landlord approval. This helps us ensure your new pet has the stable home they deserve.
Please note:
We are unable to review adoption applications submitted by email. Adoption hours are 11am to 5pm, and all meet-and-greets must begin before 4:45pm
Thank you for considering adoption from your local community shelter!
Sarah Krummel is a Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation board member and a Program Specialist for Santa Cruz City Schools. Connect with her at [email protected]
