We Care Animal Rescue is a small, non-profit shelter and our ability to take in animals is limited by space, available resources, and suitability for our program. At this time, we can only consider cats for our shelter.
When the shelter is at capacity, staff will continue to place cats on our waiting list and review surrender applications. Please note that it can take anywhere from two weeks to four months or more for us to make adjustments to our waitlist.
We are generally unable to take emergency surrenders, feral cats, or kittens under the age of six months. If you need to place a cat quickly, we encourage you to contact multiple shelters simultaneously.
Please read our Rehoming Guide before moving forward with the surrender process.
A Surrender Form must be completed and submitted for consideration. Any cat you would like to surrender should be:
- Spayed/neutered
- Up-to-date on rabies and distemper (FVRCP) vaccines
- Tested for FeLV and FIV: We have limited space for FeLV+ cats and are able to accept FIV+ cats at this time.
- Treated for fleas and parasites
- Any cat 8-years-old or older require a senior blood panel
- Accompanied by medical records from their veterinarian
If you have questions regarding our surrender requirements, please email us at shelter@wecareanimalrescue.org.
Our Priority Policy
To be considered, cats must meet the above list of surrender requirements. Priority will be given in the following circumstances:
- Owner surrenders in the following situations:
- Elderly pet guardian(s)
- Death of a family member/owner
- Demonstrable financial hardship
- Evidence of lack of care or an inability to properly care for the animal
- Imminent elective (not health-related) euthanasia cases from other shelters with priority given to Napa County.
- We will consider animals with certain chronic conditions and minor health issues with good prognosis. Due to limited space and resources, advanced medical cases may not be suitable for our sanctuary.
Please note that all incoming animals will require final approval from the Executive Director and Vet Tech.
We understand that sometimes it is impossible to keep your pet, however we urge you to exhaust all options available before bringing your pet to us. Please understand that we cannot accept every animal brought to our shelter. Be prepared to show us proof of spay/neuter and vaccinations, and obtain all vet records ahead of time. A submitted surrender form does not guarantee that We Care Animal Rescue will take your pet into its care. Please understand that when a pet is relinquished to our care, you have given up all ownership rights to this animal.