Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of animals do you take?

Cats and Dogs only

How can I get an animal into your facility? What is your Intake Policy?

Our Intake Policy is based on space available. We keep a waiting list, so please contact our shelter , to be put on the list.

Please DO NOT bring an animal to the shelter without calling first. It is illegal, dangerous, and unethical to dump your animal on our property. We understand that having a pet you can no longer keep is a difficult situation. To help you, we have put together this list of suggestions, Unwanted Dogs and Cats.Please read through it before calling us. If you can help the animal on your own, that leaves room for pets that truly have no one to help them.

Finally, before you surrender, consider other options:

  • Frustrated with pet misbehavior issues? Consider signing your pet up for obedience class. The Humane Society of Southwest Missouri, PetSmart, and a number of small business offer classes in our area. Also, check out dog and cat behavior tips and resources from the ASPCA and The Humane Society of the United States - here you'll find tips on many common issues such as litter box problems, puppy chewing, digging and cat destructive scratching, just to name a few.
  • Looking for pet-friendly housing? This may take a little more time, but today there are many more options for people with pets. Try visiting one of the many websites that cater to people with pets, such as mynewplace.com. Save time by searching for pet-friendly housing in various communities, in your price range, with the amenities you want.
  • Allergic? Cat allergies are a common problem. The good news is that today your pet's veterinarian can recommend many helpful products and tips to lose the allergies, instead of your cat.
  • If you're still looking to surrender your pet, check first with other family members, friends, and co-workers to see if they can help you rehome your pet.

Are there fees for dropping off my pet?

Yes. The fees will vary. Please call our shelter to get the drop-off fees. We also appreciate donations of toys, animal carriers, cat litter and other supplies to help ease the transition of housing for the animal. All gifts are tax deductible.

Where are you located?

We are located 1 1/2 miles west of HWY 13 on HWY 32.

What are your hours?

Our shelter is open to the public M/W/F from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., or by appointment. You can also view adoptable animals at our Saturday adoption drives, located at the PetSmart in Sprinfield, Missouri. Our Going To The Dogs resale store is open M-F from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

How can I contact you?

Our phone number for the shelter is (417) 777-DOGS. If we do not answer, leave a message on our answering machine, and someone will get back with you as soon as possible. For more contact information, visit our Contact Us page.

Do you have "this certain breed"?

The animals in our shelter vary. We could have anything from a purebred teacup chihuahua to a Great Dane mix. Our adoptions page is updated frequently. If you see an animal you are interested in, call the shelter to see if it is still available. New animals come in daily, so it is possible that a breed you are looking for has come in and we have simply not put its photo up yet.

Why are some animals more than $65?

A lot of different things affect the price of an animal. Medical care and breed type are two of the main factors.

Do you offer low cost spay and neuter clinics for animals?

No. There are some great organizations in the Ozarks who do provide that service, though, including SNAP, SAAF House, and Southwest Humane Society.

How do I become a volunteer?

We rely heavily on volunteers to work in the shelter, in the GTTD resale store, at adoption clinics, and at several other events. Learn more about becoming a volunteer.

I've lost/found a dog/cat. What do I do?

If you've lost a dog or cat, there is hope. View the Humane Society of the United States' tips for finding your lost pet.

If you have found a dog or cat, view our general tips for working with unwanted dogs and cats.