Pets for Vets in Manchester, NH

The Pets for Vets program at Manchester Animal Shelter helps connect veterans with companion animals while reducing the financial barriers to adoption.



Approved veterans can adopt a pet with the adoption fee waived, making it easier to welcome a companion animal into their home.

A long-haired grey and white tabby cat with green eyes rests on a lime-green mat on a tiled floor.

What the Program Includes

Through the Pets for Vets program, approved applicants receive:


  • Adoption fee waived
  • Spay or neuter completed prior to adoption
  • Core vaccinations appropriate to the animal
  • Food and water bowls (if needed)
  • Food: Up to 25 pounds
  • Leash and collar if a canine
  • Litter scooper or poop bags
  • Toys


This ensures your new pet is ready to transition into your home without additional upfront medical costs.

A ginger and white cat sits attentively on a brown plastic storage bin in a room with a metal wire crate in the back.

Who Qualifies

The program is available to veterans with a condition who could benefit from an animal companion and can take care of a pet.


To apply, you will need:

  • A completed adoption application
  • A letter from your doctor confirming eligibility for a companion animal


Providing this documentation upfront helps streamline the approval process.

How to Apply

Once submitted, the shelter team will review your application and follow up with next steps.

Browse available animals to find a pet you’re interested in

Complete the adoption application

Indicate your eligibility for the Pets for Vets program in the application

Why This Program Matters

Companion animals can provide comfort, routine, and connection. The Pets for Vets program helps make those relationships more accessible while giving shelter animals the opportunity to find stable, supportive homes.


It’s a program built to support both veterans and animals—creating lasting matches that benefit both.

Common Questions

  • Can veterans adopt for free at Manchester Animal Shelter?

    Approved veterans can adopt through the Pets for Vets program with the adoption fee waived.

  • What do I need to qualify?

    You’ll need to complete the adoption application and provide a letter from your doctor.

  • Do I use a different application?

    No. Use the standard adoption application and indicate your eligibility within it.

  • What’s included in the program?

    The adoption fee is waived, and the pet will be spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re a veteran interested in adopting, the next step is to browse available animals and complete the adoption application.