Tri-Lakes Humane Society Intake Policy

Tri-Lakes Humane Society does not euthanize animals to create space. Because our kennel capacity is limited, we operate on a waitlist system for owner surrenders and found strays when we are full.

Our goal is to admit animals in the order they are placed on the waitlist whenever space becomes available. However, there are times when emergency or extenuating circumstances require us to prioritize an animal outside of the normal intake process. These situations may include, but are not limited to:

Animals requested by law enforcement or other public safety agencies.
Animals whose owners have died, been hospitalized, or are otherwise unable to provide care due to unforeseen circumstances.
Animals facing an immediate threat to their safety or welfare.
Other situations deemed urgent by shelter management.

These exceptions are made only when necessary and are at the sole discretion of the Shelter Director. They are not made lightly and are intended to protect animal welfare while balancing the needs of those already waiting for placement.

We understand that waiting can be frustrating, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our community as we advocate for a much needed animal control municipal facility in our county. Every intake decision is made with the best interests of the animals, our shelter capacity, and public safety in mind.

Area Resources:

We are not your only resource in Southwest Missouri. Check out this list of other area organizations that may be able to help!

How to Surrender a Pet

At Tri-Lakes, we understand that sometimes life changes, and rehoming a pet is necessary. To help cover the costs of vetting, spaying/neutering, required vaccinations, and other care, we ask for a minimum $25 donation for all animal intakes. Please note that we operate on a waitlist system, which can sometimes be long. To get on the waitlist, simply call our office, and we will assist you as soon as we can.

Post to these sites to advertise while your pet is still at home:

Facebook rehoming pages if your time is limited:

I found an animal, what do I do?

Since Stone County does not have animal control, community members play an important role in helping lost pets find their way home.

Step 1: Check for Identification

Look for a collar with ID tags.
If it is safe to do so, keep the animal secured while you look for its owner.

Step 2: Have the Animal Scanned for a Microchip

Many veterinary clinics can scan for a microchip free of charge. You are also welcome to bring the animal to Tri-Lakes Humane Society during business hours, and we will scan it for you.

Step 3: Report the Animal to Tri-Lakes Humane Society & your local police department

Even if we do not have space to take the animal, please contact us with:

A description of the animal
Where it was found
The date it was found
A photo, if possible

This allows us to match the animal with anyone who contacts us looking for their missing pet. Sometimes the local police departments have a little kennel space and can assist with a found dog.

Step 4: Post the Animal Online

Sharing clear photos and information greatly increases the chances of finding the owner. We recommend posting in these local Facebook groups:

Include:

The general location where the animal was found, cross streets and city
The date found
A few photos
Your contact information or instructions on how to reach you

Step 5: Check for Lost Pet Posts

Search local Facebook groups and community pages for posts from owners looking for their missing pet. Compare descriptions carefully before returning the animal.

Step 6: If You Can, Provide Temporary Care

If the animal is friendly and you are able, providing temporary food, water, and shelter while searching for the owner can make a tremendous difference. Even a few days of care can help reunite a pet with its family.

3-Day Rule: Does feeding a stray make it legally yours?

Not right away. Missouri law does not say that giving a lost or stray animal a single meal or bowl of water makes you its owner. However, Missouri law does define "harboring" as feeding or sheltering an animal at the same location for three or more consecutive days, and a person who harbors an animal may be considered an owner under Missouri's animal welfare statutes.

Still Need Help?

If you are unable to locate the owner or cannot care for it, you may be faced with the sad reality of leaving the animal where you found it after a few days. Some people in rural communities lets their pets live outdoors. It's very possible they will find their way back home with time.

Financial Assistance with Vet Bills

Missouri State Programs:

Pet food assistance

Deploying Military Assistance

Dogs on Deployment