Veterinary Care and Animal Policies

Do animals receive vaccines before adoption?

Yes. All animals that enter our Itasca County animal rescue program receive basic, age-appropriate vaccinations before they are made available for adoption. Providing essential veterinary care helps protect both the animals in our program and the families who adopt them.


Are animals spayed or neutered before adoption?

We aim to spay or neuter all animals 8 weeks of age and older before adoption unless a licensed veterinarian determines there is a medical reason to delay or exempt the procedure. Spay and neuter is a critical part of reducing pet overpopulation in Itasca County and supports responsible rescue practices.


Does Great Tails declaw cats?

No. Great Tails Animal Rescue does not declaw cats or any animal unless it is deemed medically necessary by a veterinarian. We believe in humane, responsible animal care and do not support elective declawing.


How will I know if the pet does well with other animals or kids?

GTAR does not take in any dogs or cats with a known history of aggression of any kind, as we are not a rehabilitative rescue. We will turn down dogs and cats if this is shown during intake and recommend alternative rescues and shelters that may help.