Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter (SMAS) is a small animal shelter located in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Built in 1991, the original facility's sole purpose was to serve as a "pound" for stray animals in Mahaska County. As with most animal impound facilities, animals that were not adopted or claimed after 7 days were euthanized. Since then, the SMAS has evolved beyond the old "pound" ideology. In 2011, SMAS stopped euthanizing animals for space and started looking for alternatives to euthanasia. Through partnerships with other shelters and breed rescues, as well as programs aimed at increasing the adoption rate of the animals in their care, SMAS went from a dismal live release rate of 40% (meaning 40% of the animals taken in leave the shelter alive) to a live release rate of 93%. In May of 2014, we celebrated our first month of a 100% live release rate, a milestone we are very proud of. In the beginning of 2021 we had a live release rate of 100% for 5 straight months. SMAS is considered a no-kill shelter by the 90% live release rate that is agreed upon the general , because we are able to maintain a euthanasia rate of less than 8%. In addition to taking in and re-homing stray, abandoned, abused, and otherwise homeless animals, SMAS, in partnership with Mahaska Humane Society, has developed programs aimed to educate the community and promoting responsible pet ownership. Some of these programs include visits to the elementary school to teach dog bite prevention, bringing dogs to the local university during finals week as stress relief for students, visiting nursing home and retirement facilities for "pet therapy", and helping low-income residents of Mahaska County get their pet spayed/neutered through our "Spay the County" program.

Mission and Vision

Our mission at Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter is to end pet homelessness, serve as a community resource for pets and people, and enhance the welfare of all companion animals.

Adoption Policy

Pet Adoption Process Requirements to Adopt: • You must be at least 18 years old to fill out an application for adoption. • There is no fee to submit an application. • If you rent, it is your responsibility to know your landlord’s pet policy and ensure you are able to have pets on their property • Person who will be caring for the animal must be present to sign the adoption contract Canine Adoption Process The first step in adopting a dog is looking through the available animals on our website. Each dog has several photos and information about their history, personality, and what type of home will be best for them. If you see a dog you are interested in, the next step is to fill out the online application. If you are open to meeting several animals before you make a decision, please fill out the general application and we can guide you through the process of meeting your perfect match. Even if you fill out an application for a specific animal, we may recommend other animals based on your situation and what you are looking for in a pet. You can expect to hear from one of our team members within three days of submitting your application. Also please be advised we receive an overwhelming number of applications for puppies, purebreds, and designer breeds, and it will take longer for those applications to be processed. Adoption Fees DOGS PUPPIES (UNDER 9 MONTHS OLD): $215.00 ADULT DOGS (9 MONTHS - 7 YEARS OLD): $185.00 SENIOR DOGS (OLDER THAN 7 YEARS): $135.00 Pricing may vary due to desirable breed

https://www.stephenmemorial.org/copy-of-adoptable-cats-1

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David Adams

March 19, 2025

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Oskaloosa

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