In-store PetSmart Charity adoption events are most commonly held on weekends; however, a PetSmart Charity can hold an in-store adoption event any day of the week. Quarterly National Adoption Weekend events are advertised for Fridays through Sundays and are a great opportunity for exposure and adoptions.
The Desert Paws cat group currently holds adoption events every Saturday from 11am to 4pm at the Gilbert Gateway PetSmart, located on Power and Ray (4920 S Power Rd, Mesa/85212). When Desert Paws Rescue is on-site at our preferred PetSmart location, we are expected to offer exemplary customer service in order to support an optimal adoption environment. “All adoption program personnel must provide courteous customer services to all [adopters], PetSmart associates, affiliates of PetSmart, and other Adoption Partners” (PCI Adoption Partner Manual, p.5).
Moving Cats into an Adoption Event
At the beginning of any adoption event it is important that cats are transitioned from their carrying crate to a stationary crate as smoothly as possible. The space around an event is generally limited, “and cluttered spaces can lead to accidents and keep customers from engaging with pets” (PCI Adoption Partner Manual, p.22).
Each stationary crate should include bedding or blanket, a protective “puppy pad,” and a litter box. If you observe a foster-parent moving their cat into a crate that does not have these items, offer to provide assistance so that they can focus on moving in their animal. Some cats may like to have a water dish or toys, but it is always best to ask the foster parent, a staff member, or another volunteer before providing these items. Certain cats/kittens may be prone to spilling their water or not be interested in toys, so it always best practice to ask first!
Event Maintenance
“Your demeanor and attitude with pets and people can make or break the inviting and comfortable atmosphere that fosters a positive adoption experience. [Our cats] are relying on you to find them great homes, so make every interaction personal and friendly” (PCI Adoption Partner Manual, p.22).
When individuals approach a cat, let them know that you are available if they have any questions. If someone has questions that you’re not sure of the answer to, reach out to the cat’s foster parent or another volunteer. As you spend more time around specific cats, you will learn more about their personalities and what kind of family they are looking for, but if you are ever unsure about something don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Our mission is to find a forever family for all of our adoptable animals, not a “for-the-time-being family,” or an “until-the-newness-wears-off family.” We are assisted in achieving this by requiring all potential adopters to complete a Consultation Form, otherwise known as an adoption application.
We provide antibacterial hand sanitizer and encourage you to use it as you move from petting or playing with one cat/kitten to another. Additionally, if you see that a PetSmart shopper is enjoying interacting with several cats/kittens, please let them know that hand sanitizer is available and recommend that they use it to decrease the spread of illness among our adoptable cats/kittens.
Moving Cats out of an Adoption Event
It is equally important to smoothly transition cats back to their carrying crate at the end of each adoption event. A cat/kitten who has spent a few hours in a crate at an adoption event is most likely stressed out from the new sounds, sights, and smells and is ready to go home.
Once a foster or Desert Paws staff member has moved a cat out of its stationary crate we can dispose of the protective “puppy pad,” remaining water, or any used litter. Toys can be placed back in the toy bin, unless the toy is visibly soiled. Any soiled bedding or toys should be placed in a bag and given to a Desert Paws Rescue staff member for laundering.
PetSmart provides us with cleaning supplies like paper towels, antibacterial spray, trash can liners, and brooms with dustpans. Since there is no janitorial staff at PetSmart it is our responsibility to ensure that the space in which we hold our event is left neat and clean. We also value our event equipment since much of it was donated by our community of supporters, so it is important that we keep tables, chairs, and other equipment clean and in good repair.