Greater Birmingham Humane Society Start an adoption application

Greater Birmingham Humane Society

Birmingham, AL

One of Alabama's largest animal welfare organizations, operating since 1883 to promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education, advocacy and services. It runs an adoption center, animal control services, humane education programmes and community outreach.

Adoption fee From $50
Hours Adoption center Tue-Sat 1pm-5pm.
Areas served Birmingham and the greater Jefferson County area, Alabama
Adopting

Fees, requirements & process

From $50
  • Cats 6 months and under: $100
  • Cats older than 6 months: $50
  • includes a $10 microchip fee, flea/tick preventive, deworming, initial vaccinations, rabies vaccine (3mo+) and FeLV testing (3mo+)
Requirements

Your residence must allow pets, and you should be able to provide regular food, vaccinations and possible emergency medical care. Bring current veterinary records (or contact info) for existing pets, and have your whole household visit.

How it works

Adoptions are first come, first served. Applications must be submitted by 4pm to be considered the same day.

Location

Find Greater Birmingham Humane Society

The area

Jefferson County at a glance

Population 667,755
Housing units 310,789
Est. households with a cat 86,632

Estimated by applying the AVMA's 2024 national cat-ownership rate (32.1% of households) to the county's real household count from the Census Bureau — a national rate applied locally, not a local survey. Population and housing figures are from the Census Bureau's American Community Survey.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can I adopt the same day I apply?

Often yes. Adoptions can be finalized same-day if your application is submitted by the shelter's daily deadline.

Who can foster for GBHS?

Adults 19 and older whose own pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines. GBHS provides all supplies, including food and veterinary care, at no charge.

Can I surrender my pet directly?

Owner surrender is by appointment only at the Snow Drive facility. Email contactus@gbhs.org or call (205) 942-1211 to schedule. Staff will share alternatives first where possible.

Get involved

Support Greater Birmingham Humane Society

Surrendering a cat

Pet surrenders are by appointment only. Contact the shelter to arrange one.

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