Adopt from EAPL
We are always excited to find loving, responsible homes for the animals we want to help. Taking on a pet is a big responsibility, and we’re here to guide you through the process with support, education, and compassion.
How adoption works
Step 1
Apply
Step 2
Meet &
home visit
Step 3
Finalize
adoption
Step 4
Follow-up
& support
Before adopting, we encourage you to review our dedicated guides for Bringing Home a New Dog or Bringing Home a New Cat. Many of our animals have never lived in a home environment. Some dogs may not yet be leash-trained or house-trained, while cats generally do not like change; they can be very shy and require significant patience to adjust to new people and other pets. Even animals that previously lived in loving homes will need time, patience, and understanding.
Rescued animals need adopters committed to working through adjustment challenges like house-training accidents, leash pulling, or signs of fear. Specifically for felines, cats and kittens may hide or refuse to eat during the first few days. These behaviors are normal during the transition period and improve with consistency, love, and a quiet environment.
Our goal is to place each animal in the home that best meets their individual needs. A declined application is not a reflection of the applicant, but rather an indication that the match may not be the right fit at that time. Because of the dedication of our foster families and adoption coordinators and the care we take in making thoughtful matches, many animals adjust quickly to their new homes. Others may require additional training and support.
A successful adoption depends on the adopter’s commitment to helping their new companion through this transition. The reward is a lifetime of unconditional love, loyalty, and the joy of giving a rescued animal a second chance. EAPL is here to support you with resources, education, and encouragement, and we welcome you to contact us at any time after adoption for assistance.
If you have previously adopted from EAPL, please complete a new application form.
EAPL is a foster-based rescue organization. With the exception of our adult Cat Adoption Center located at Chow Down Pet Supply in Evergreen, we do not operate a traditional shelter. Most of our animals live in foster homes throughout Denver, Evergreen, and Northeast Colorado, where they receive individualized care until they are placed in their forever homes.
Please review the steps below to learn how to meet and adopt an individual animal.
Step 1: Application
Complete an online cat or dog adoption application listing one or more of our available animals. Submitting an application does not obligate you to adopt. Please note that EAPL has specific age and home requirements for adoption, which are listed on the Applications Page.
Step 2: Meet & Greet
If your application appears to be a good match, an EAPL representative will contact you. The foster parent or adoption coordinator will then reach out to arrange a meet-and-greet with the animal. After this initial meeting, a volunteer will conduct a home visit for canine adoptions. This may take place before the animal goes home with you or at the time the animal is delivered. In some cases, you may be asked to visit the animal more than once before adoption.
Step 3: Adoption Approval
Once approved, you will complete an adoption contract and submit the adoption fee.
Step 4: Follow-Up
EAPL will follow up over the next few days to ensure the transition is going well. Once confirmed, the adoption will be finalized and the adoption fee processed.
Adoption fees
Cats and kittens
$95
Includes microchip, spaying or neutering (kittens), FIV and feline leukemia tests, distemper and rabies vaccines, deworming, initial vet exam, and treatment of any visible or known medical conditions.
Dogs and puppies
$375
Includes spaying or neutering, distemper vaccine(s) (DHPP), rabies vaccine (if applicable due to age), deworming, health certificate exam, and treatment of any visible or known medical conditions.
Return policy
If at any time after adoption you determine that you are unable to keep the animal for any reason, please contact EAPL immediately. We are committed to the lifelong welfare of our animals and will work with you to arrange a return or discuss alternative options.
Tips on adopting an animal
We are always excited to find loving, responsible homes for the animals in our care. Bringing a pet into your life is a major commitment, and we encourage you to take a few moments to consider the following questions before pursuing adoption.
Are you adopting a dog to “teach your children responsibility”? Consider teaching responsibility using tasks or activities rather than a living creature that depends entirely on you. Are you adopting a kitten because “they are so cute”? While kittens are adorable, they grow into adult cats who can live 16–20 years. Adoption should be a long-term decision.
Your expectations play an important role in determining the type of pet that will be the best fit for your household. An active family may thrive with a high-energy companion, while a quieter home may prefer a more relaxed animal. Matching temperament and activity level with your lifestyle helps create a successful, lasting relationship.
Dogs and cats are social animals who require regular interaction, attention, and care. They depend on human companionship and should not be left without meaningful engagement. Adequate time and commitment are essential to meeting their emotional and behavioral needs.
All animals need appropriate space to feel safe and comfortable. Cats benefit from designated resting and retreat areas, while dogs require varying amounts of space depending on size, breed, and energy level. Consider whether your home environment is suitable for the pet you are considering.
Most dogs benefit from access to a secure outdoor area for exercise and enrichment. Some smaller dogs may do well with structured leash walks or enclosed patios, while larger or more active dogs typically require a fenced yard. In certain circumstances, this requirement may be waived, but a fenced area is generally preferred for canine adoptions.
We strongly encourage pets to live and sleep indoors with their families. Dogs, in particular, are social animals who view their family as their pack. Providing a safe, comfortable indoor sleeping space helps strengthen the bond between pet and family and supports emotional well-being.
Animal shelters and rescue organizations have many wonderful animals in need of loving homes. Purchasing animals from pet stores or commercial breeders can increase the risk of health or behavioral issues. If you are seeking a specific breed, we encourage you to share your preferences with rescue groups and shelters.
Adoption fees typically range from $60 to $600, depending on the animal. In addition to the adoption fee, adopters should expect initial one-time expenses such as supplies, spay/neuter surgery, or emergency veterinary care, which can average around $2,100. Ongoing annual costs—including food, grooming, and routine veterinary care—can average approximately $2,500 for a dog.
Experts estimate that the first year of pet ownership may cost between $300 and $1,000 or more, depending on the animal’s needs. After the first year, annual expenses can range from $300 to $2,500 or higher. Financial readiness is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
Pet owners should plan ahead for vacations or extended absences. If a trusted family member or friend is unavailable, professional boarding or pet-sitting services may be necessary, with typical costs ranging from $40 to $125 per day.
Ready to begin?