SURRENDERING YOUR PET
Elmbrook Humane Society (EBHS) understands that circumstances change and that deciding what is best for an animal can be difficult. Our goal is always to support both people and animals and to help connect you with the right resources whenever possible.
Before moving forward with a surrender request, you may want to consider the following options, which can sometimes provide solutions that allow a pet to remain in their home or be rehomed successfully:
Rehoming with someone you know
In some situations, a trusted friend, family member, or coworker may be able to provide a new home for your pet. This can be a meaningful way to ensure continuity and familiarity for your animal.
Exploring pet-friendly housing options
If a move is part of your situation, there may be pet-friendly housing options available, even if they take additional time or flexibility to find. Many landlords and property managers do allow pets, and exploring these options may make it possible for your pet to remain with you.
Veterinary care and medical guidance
If your pet is experiencing medical concerns, or if new behaviors have developed, a local veterinarian can help determine whether there may be an underlying medical cause. In some cases, what feels overwhelming at first may have a straightforward or manageable solution.
Behavior support and training resources
Behavior challenges are common and often improve with the right support. Certified trainers and behavior professionals can help address many concerns, and in some cases behavior changes are connected to medical issues that benefit from veterinary input. EBHS also offers resources and guidance for a variety of basic behavior and training needs.
Sharing with your community
If rehoming through friends or family is not an option, you may consider responsibly sharing your pet with your broader community through trusted platforms or local networks. This approach can allow you to be involved in choosing the next home and ensuring a good match.
Breed-specific rescue organizations
Some dogs and cats may be eligible for placement through breed-specific rescue organizations. These groups often have experience with the unique traits or needs of certain breeds and may be able to provide additional support. Searching online for breed-specific rescues in your area can be a helpful next step.
If surrendering your pet is still the best option after exploring alternative possibilities, EBHS is here to review your request and help determine next steps. If we are not able to assist directly, we will do our best to share additional resources whenever possible.
Admission Process
Elmbrook Humane Society (EBHS) schedules surrenders and returns by appointment to ensure we have the appropriate space, staffing, and resources to care for each animal. Intake decisions are based on current capacity, the needs of the animal, and our ability to provide safe and appropriate care.
If you are seeking to surrender or return a pet to EBHS, please complete the appropriate surrender request form below. A member of our team will follow up within one week (often sooner) to discuss next steps and whether intake may be possible.
While we carefully review every surrender request we receive, we are not always able to accept every animal into our care. When space or resources are limited, priority is given to animals adopted from EBHS and to animals from the contracted municipalities we serve, including the City of Brookfield, Town of Brookfield, Village of Chenequa, Elm Grove, and Nashotah.
If intake is approved, a surrender fee may apply to help offset the costs of medical treatment and daily care. Any applicable fees will be discussed prior to scheduling an appointment.
If we are unable to assist directly, we will do our best to share alternative resources whenever possible.