Rapid City Animal Shelter & Control: Adoption Hours, Fees, Lost Pets & Reclaim Help
Use this guide to choose the correct Rapid City route fast: adopt a dog, cat or small animal, report animal abuse, license a pet, reclaim a lost animal, surrender a pet by appointment, get food assistance, or call Animal Services and Enforcement.
The key split: Humane Society of the Black Hills handles shelter, adoptions, licensing, lost/found, surrender and support programs. Animal Services and Enforcement handles animal-control calls and ordinance enforcement.
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Which Rapid City Animal Shelter Is This?
This page is for the Humane Society of the Black Hills in Rapid City, South Dakota. It is the main shelter users usually mean when searching “rapid city south dakota animal shelter.”
| Search phrase | Best match | Use this page? | Important note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid City animal shelter | Humane Society of the Black Hills | Yes | Main shelter at 1820 E. St. Patrick Street. |
| Rapid City animal control | HSBH Animal Services and Enforcement | Yes | Use 605-394-4132 for animal-control issues during service hours. |
| Pennington County animal services | Animal Services and Enforcement at HSBH | Often | For strays/lost pets in Pennington County, verify local jurisdiction. |
| Black Hills animal shelter | Can mean HSBH or nearby shelters | Maybe | Spearfish, Sturgis and Lead/Twin City have separate shelters. |
Rapid City Animal Shelter Hours, Address and Contact
HSBH has different rules for regular shelter hours, lost/found receiving, Wednesday closure, animal control and after-hours help.
| Detail | Official information | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| Shelter address | 1820 East St. Patrick Street, Rapid City, SD 57703 | Use for adoption, licensing, surrender appointment and reclaim visits. |
| Main phone | 605-394-4170 | Use for adoption appointments, licensing, food assistance and shelter questions. |
| hsbhinformation@gmail.com | Use for general non-urgent questions. | |
| Animal Services and Enforcement | 605-394-4132 / animalcontrol@hsbh.org | Use for animal-control, animal abuse and enforcement questions. |
| Shelter hours | Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wed closed; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | There are no intakes, adoptions or reclaims on Wednesday. |
| Lost/found receiving | Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Because HSBH is closed Wednesdays, call first or use local police dispatch on Wednesday/after hours. |
| Closed holidays | New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter | Check before holiday-week visits. |
How to Adopt from Humane Society of the Black Hills
HSBH says adoptions are by appointment so the adopter and pet get the best experience. Occasional walk-ins may happen, but they are not guaranteed.
Search pets first
Use the official dog, cat or other-adoption pages. Save the animal name, species, photo, age, size and any behavior or medical notes.
Call for an appointment
Call 605-394-4170 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to schedule a visit with the pet you want to meet.
Plan for a focused meet
During the appointment, an adoption advisor brings the animal for a roughly 15-minute visit.
Bring required documents
You must be at least 18, bring current photo identification and have a verifiable address.
Renters: bring proof
If you rent, bring a lease copy and your property manager’s phone number. HSBH verifies that the animal’s species, breed and size are allowed.
Arrive before the cutoff
The last appointment for visitation/adoption is scheduled 30 minutes before closing, and the adoption process may take up to one hour.
Rapid City Animal Shelter Adoption Fees
HSBH says fees can vary depending on animal, age, weight, breed and medical considerations, but it gives general ranges.
| Animal | General adoption fee | What to ask before paying |
|---|---|---|
| Puppies | $375 | Ask age, vaccine schedule, spay/neuter timing, training needs and expected adult size. |
| Dogs, 6 months to adult | $90-$300 | Ask behavior, heartworm status if known, leash skills, dog/cat/kid fit and medical notes. |
| Kittens | $150 | Ask booster schedule, litter habits, safe introduction and kitten-proofing needs. |
| Cats, 6 months to 7 years | $100 | Ask personality, medical notes, resident-pet introduction and carrier requirements. |
| Senior cats, 7 years and older | $50 | Ask about senior wellness, dental needs, medications and long-term care. |
| Small animals | $5+ | Ask enclosure, diet, heat, bedding, lifespan and species-specific care. |
Often included
HSBH says adoption fees often include spay/neuter, vaccinations, preventative deworming, microchip and a complimentary veterinary wellness exam.
Availability warning
HSBH cannot guarantee that a specific animal shown online will still be available when you visit.
Bring budget
Plan for supplies, license, food, preventives, vet follow-up, training, enrichment and emergency savings.
Lost, Found and Reclaiming Pets in Rapid City
HSBH gives practical lost-pet advice: update microchip info, file a lost/found report with photo, check shelters frequently and visit in person.
If your pet is lost
- Call HSBH at 605-394-4170.
- Update your microchip company and veterinarian immediately.
- File a Lost/Found Report and provide a pet photo in person.
- Search at least a 20-block area around home.
- Call your pet’s name and listen between calls.
- Contact shelters in your county and surrounding counties.
- Visit shelters at least once daily if possible.
If you found a stray
- Do not chase frightened animals into traffic.
- Check collar/tag only if safe.
- Call Animal Services and Enforcement at 605-394-4132 during hours.
- After hours or Wednesdays, contact local police dispatch.
- Bring or provide photos and exact location details.
- Do not leave animals unattended outside HSBH.
To reclaim a pet
- Bring government photo ID.
- Bring proof of ownership: photos, vet records, license or microchip.
- Bring the animal’s listing details if seen online.
- Ask about fees, holds and release timing.
- Bring a carrier, leash or safe transport setup.
- Do not wait: owners have three business days to reclaim after intake.
Community Contacts Outside Rapid City
If the pet was lost or found outside Rapid City/Pennington County, use the correct nearby shelter or agency.
| Area / agency | Phone | Use when |
|---|---|---|
| Sturgis / Meade County Animal Shelter | 605-347-8310 | Lost/found animal may be in Sturgis or Meade County. |
| Lead / Twin City Animal Shelter | 605-584-2480 | Lost/found animal may be in Lead/Twin City area. |
| Spearfish Animal Shelter | 605-642-1576 | Lost/found animal may be in Spearfish area. |
| Pennington County Animal Services and Enforcement at HSBH | 605-394-4132 | Pennington County animal services/enforcement route. |
Rapid City Animal Control and Animal Abuse Reporting
Animal Services and Enforcement officers are sworn in to uphold local animal ordinances and statutes.
| Issue | Correct contact | When to use it | What to provide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Animal-control issue during business hours | 605-394-4132 / animalcontrol@hsbh.org | Animal services, enforcement, welfare concerns and ordinance questions. | Exact location, animal description, owner if known, urgency. |
| Animal abuse report | 605-394-4132 or animalcontrol@hsbh.org | Suspected cruelty, neglect, abandonment or unsafe conditions. | Facts, dates, photos/video if safe and legal, address. |
| Rapid City Police Department | 605-394-4131 | Abuse reporting support or law-enforcement route. | Location first, then what happened. |
| After Animal Control hours | Local police dispatch | HSBH says to contact local police dispatch outside Animal Services hours. | Current risk, location and animal description. |
| Stray at the door on Wednesday | Local police department / dispatch route | HSBH is closed Wednesdays and will not take stray animals at the door. | Do not leave the animal unattended. |
Surrendering a Pet to HSBH
HSBH requires surrender appointments to prevent over-capacity and improve the animal’s experience.
| Surrender detail | Official information | Practical step |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment required | Appointments required effective July 7, 2025 | Call 605-394-4170 before planning intake. |
| Appointment times | Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | No surrender intake on Wednesdays. |
| Cat or dog surrender fee | $53.10 | Payable by check, cash, debit or credit card. |
| Small mammals, reptiles and birds | $10.62 | Use the other-animal surrender form. |
| Trapped stray cat | $10.62 to turn in a trapped stray cat | Call first to confirm current process. |
| Required items | Proof of ownership, veterinary records, personality profile | Complete dog/cat/other surrender form before visiting to save time. |
| Evaluation note | Animal must pass behavior and medical evaluation before adoption-floor placement | Be honest about bites, fear, aggression, medical needs and medications. |
Behavior support
HSBH lists Petcademy support for surrender risk due to behavior issues. Text “WOOF” to 605-646-7231 or email bailey@petcademy.org.
Food help
HSBH may be able to help with cat and dog food depending on food-assistance availability. Call 605-394-4170.
Never leave animals
HSBH says do not ever leave animals unattended outside. Staff are there to help during proper hours and appointments.
2026 Pennington County Pet Licensing
HSBH says Pennington County residents are required by ordinance to license all cats and dogs within 30 days of acquiring the pet or within 30 days of the pet turning 6 months old.
| License type | 2026 fee | What to bring / know |
|---|---|---|
| Dog, spayed/neutered | $8 | Bring current rabies certificate. |
| Dog, unaltered | $16 | Bring current rabies certificate. |
| Cat, spayed/neutered | $5 | Bring current rabies certificate. |
| Cat, unaltered | $10 | Bring current rabies certificate. |
| Duplicate license tag | $2 | Use if your pet’s tag is lost. |
| Mail renewal fee | Add $1.25 | Mail form, rabies certificate, payment and return-mail fee to 1820 E. St. Patrick Street. |
Food Assistance, Donations and Wish-List Items
This section matters for both pet owners and donors. HSBH says donations stay local and help animals and families in the community.
Food assistance
If you are having trouble affording food for your animal, call HSBH Customer Service at 605-394-4170. Availability depends on food resources.
Pet food bank donation
Common food bank items listed include Meow Mix, Friskies, Special Kitty, Rachael Ray, Beneful and Kibbles & Bits.
High-need supplies
HSBH says it is in high need of kitten and puppy food. Call 605-394-4170 for details.
Drop-off location
Wish-list items may be dropped off at 1820 East St. Patrick Street in Rapid City.
Animal care items
Dog food, puppy food, cat food, kitten food, cat litter, toys, bowls, poop bags, hay, bedding and small-animal supplies.
Daily-use items
Q-tips, disinfecting wipes, glass cleaner, pet-friendly ice melt, gloves, Dawn dish soap, paper towels and heavy-duty trash bags.
Office supplies
Copy paper, batteries, staples, tape, highlighters, dry erase markers, postage stamps, Post-its and Sharpies.
Other needs
Blankets, towels, wash cloths, comforters, heated bowls and dog houses for Animal Services and Enforcement.
Local Insider Tips for Rapid City Shelter Visitors
Call before driving
Adoptions are appointment-based and online availability can change. Call 605-394-4170 first for a specific pet.
Avoid Wednesday mistakes
HSBH is closed Wednesdays. No intake, reclaim or adoption. Use police dispatch for urgent stray help outside normal routes.
Renters need proof
Bring lease and property manager phone number so HSBH can verify that the pet is allowed.
Bring ID and address
Adopters must be 18+, have current photo ID and provide a verifiable address.
Black Hills weather
Bring a carrier, leash or crate. Winter ice, traffic and parking lots are risky for loose or nervous pets.
Lost pets move far
HSBH recommends searching at least a 20-block area and checking surrounding county shelters because pets can wander miles in a day.
Map to Humane Society of the Black Hills
Use this map for route planning to 1820 East St. Patrick Street. For urgent animal-control calls, call the correct number before driving to the shelter.
Copy/Paste Call Scripts
Adoption
Hi, I’m interested in [pet name/species] listed online. Is this animal still available, and can I schedule an adoption appointment?Lost pet
Hi, I lost my [dog/cat] near [location] on [date/time]. The pet is [description] and may be microchipped/licensed. Has a matching animal been brought in?Found stray
Hi, I found a [dog/cat/other animal] near [exact location]. The animal is [safe/injured/aggressive]. Should I contact Animal Services, local police dispatch, or bring the animal in during receiving hours?Surrender
Hi, I may need to surrender my [dog/cat/small animal]. I understand appointments are required. What appointment times are available, and what records and fees should I bring?Official Links for Final Action
The useful details are summarized above. Use these official links for live pet availability, forms, current policies and final verification.
Related Shelter Guides
Rapid City Animal Shelter FAQ
Where is the Rapid City Animal Shelter located?
The Humane Society of the Black Hills is located at 1820 East St. Patrick Street, Rapid City, SD 57703.
What is the phone number for Rapid City Animal Shelter?
The main shelter phone number is 605-394-4170. Animal Services and Enforcement can be reached at 605-394-4132.
What are Rapid City Animal Shelter adoption hours?
Shelter hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday closed, and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adoptions are best handled by appointment, and the last visitation or adoption appointment is scheduled 30 minutes before closing.
Is the Humane Society of the Black Hills closed on Wednesdays?
Yes. HSBH is closed on Wednesdays, and the official pages say there are no intakes, adoptions or reclaims on Wednesdays.
How do I adopt a pet from HSBH?
Search available animals online, call 605-394-4170 to schedule an appointment, bring photo ID and proof of address, and bring lease or landlord contact information if you rent.
How much are adoption fees at Humane Society of the Black Hills?
General fees are puppies $375, dogs 6 months to adult $90-$300, kittens $150, cats 6 months to 7 years $100, senior cats 7 years and older $50, and small animals $5 or more. Fees can vary by animal, age, weight, breed and medical considerations.
What is included with an HSBH adoption?
Adoption fees often include spay or neuter, vaccinations, preventative deworming, microchip and a complimentary veterinary wellness exam.
What should I do if I lost a pet in Rapid City?
Update the pet’s microchip information, call HSBH at 605-394-4170, file a Lost/Found Report with a photo in person, search at least a 20-block area and visit shelters frequently because owners have three business days to reclaim a stray after intake.
Who do I call for animal control in Rapid City?
Call Animal Services and Enforcement at 605-394-4132 or email animalcontrol@hsbh.org during service hours. For after-hours help, contact local police dispatch.
Do I need an appointment to surrender a pet to HSBH?
Yes. HSBH says surrender appointments are required. Call 605-394-4170. Surrender appointments are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Animal Shelter Action Planner: Lost Pet, Found Pet, Adoption, Reclaim & Surrender Helper
Use this free tool to create a practical next-step plan before visiting or contacting an animal shelter, humane society, rescue, or animal control agency. It does not search a live shelter database, but it helps you prepare the right documents, questions, safety steps, and official-source searches.
Build a USA-wide shelter action plan
Select your situation and location. The tool will create a general action plan, search links, call questions, and a copyable checklist.
Lost pet recovery checklist
Check the steps you have completed. This helps you stay organized during the first urgent hours and days.
Found pet safety decision helper
Use this when you find a stray or loose pet and need a safe next step.
Adoption readiness checker
This helps adopters prepare before visiting a shelter or rescue. It is not a guarantee of approval.
Pet reclaim document checklist
If your pet may be at a shelter, prepare proof before visiting. Exact requirements and fees vary by agency.
Owner surrender preparation helper
Surrender rules vary. Many shelters require appointments, proof of residence, behavior/medical information, and may offer alternatives.
Animal control contact decision helper
Choose the situation and get a general USA-wide contact path. Local rules may differ.
Adoption and first-month budget planner
This is a planning guide, not a shelter fee database. Always confirm adoption fees and included services with the shelter.
Your generated shelter plan
Your action plan, search links, call script, checklist, or budget guide will appear here.
Start with the Planner tab
Select your state, city/county/ZIP, pet type, and goal. The tool will create a practical USA-wide shelter action plan.
Privacy note: this tool runs in your browser. It does not send your entries to animal-shelter.org.