Alternatives to Surrender
If you are planning to surrender your animal to a shelter because of behavioral issues, housing issues, veterinary care, etc. please reconsider. Below are some options to assist you and we are always here to help!
Re-Homing:
Ask around to your family, friends, co-workers, etc. to see if anyone is looking to add a new pet. You can also take advantage of free resources such as social media! The shelter should be a last resort for your pet!
Pet Behavior Assistance:
For help with behavioral issues, contact ERAS at 423-664-0271. We can assist with some bad behaviors and refer to a few trained professionals in our area for the behaviors with which we can not help!
Pet-Friendly Housing:
If you are moving and having a difficult time finding pet friendly housing, call the shelter for a list of local pet-friendly options!
Low-Cost Spay/ Neuter and Vaccinations:
You can contact the shelter at 423-664-0271 to discuss spay/ neuter and vaccination options or Chattaneuter at 423-531-7729,
Financial Burdens:
If you having a difficult time providing food for your pet, you may contact the shelter at 423-664-0271. We can not provide a long-term solution but may be able to assist for the short-term. You may also contact 4 Paws Pantry at 423-475-6342.
Trap-Neuter-Return for Feral Cats:
If you have feral (unsocialized) cats in your neighborhood, contact us for information about TNR. ERAS can also assist you with trap rentals and free spay/ neuter and rabies vaccination services for feral cats. Call 423-664-0271
The Decision
Making the decision to surrender your pet is never an easy one. You may be moving to a home or an apartment that doesn’t allow pets. You may be entering a time in your life that a pet doesn’t fit well. You may have recently had a change in finances. You may be going through a life altering illness or difficult time in your life.
Surrendering your pet to a shelter may feel like the only option you have for your pet. A shelter should be and can be your last option! If you must re-home your pet, below are a list of area dog rescues that work with ERAS and can work with you on a plan to re-home your pet.
Small Dog Rescues:
A Paw and A Prayer:(423) 718-0939
Trooper’s Treasures: (423)596-9973
Cat Rescue:
Meow Meow: (201) 403-1036
McCracken Kitty Kat Rescue: lesa7858@gmail.com
Tiggertown: (423) 680-1225
SCRATCH:
Pitbull Specific Resources:
Pit Happens Rescue, Inc.- Contact via Facebook
Hearts of Gold Pit Rescue (Memphis)
You can also try:
East Tennessee Alliance for Animals: (423) 313-2859
Pet Placement Center: (423) 877-0738