Surrender My Pet

If you are a resident of Lowndes County and can no longer care for your pet, you may surrender your dog or cat to Lowndes County Animal Services.

 Surrendering your pet to the Lowndes County Animal Shelter should be an absolute last resort. 

LCAS is an open admission facility, meaning we take in any pet that is in need of shelter or care regardless of age, medical status, or behavior. Because of this, euthanasia is always a possibility when surrendering a pet. 

BEFORE SURRENDERING YOUR PET

You are your pet's best advocate! Please try these other options before considering surrendering your pet to the animal shelter. 

• Try speaking with family members or friends about taking your pet.
• Did you adopt your pet from another shelter or rescue? Check your adoption paperwork. Most organizations require that you sign a contract during your adoption stating that you will return the animal if you are no longer able to keep it.
• If your animal is a purebred or desirable breed, try doing a search for breed specific rescues in the state. 
•  Contact local rescue groups, such as:
  • The Humane Society of Valdosta/Lowndes County
  • United Saving Animals Rescue Team
• Post on Facebook groups - Pets of Valdosta and Surrounding Areas 
•  Try placement services like Rehome by Adopt a Pet.

MAKING A SURRENDER APPOINTMENT

We respect the difficult decision owners are making when deciding to surrender a pet and understand it is sometimes unavoidable. In order for us to attempt to secure a spot for your pet, we require a scheduled surrender appointment. Without an appointment process, we would have no control over the number of pets that come into our care each day, and our ability to provide the best possible care for each animal would be hindered. To schedule a surrender appointment, give us a call at 229-671-2760, option 2. If we miss your call, please leave a message and we will call back as soon as possible. 

AFTER SURRENDERING YOUR PET

We will do our best to find the most appropriate outcome for your pet. Once your pet has been surrendered, the Lowndes County Animal Shelter cannot release any information regarding your pet's outcome. If you would like information on your surrendered pet, you must contact the Office of the County Clerk by phone, 229-671-2400 or by email, bocrecords@lowndescounty.com.