How the Dog Adoption Process Works

Every shelter and rescue organization is different, so you may come across many different processes while searching for your new friend. Remember: their goal is to make sure dogs go into loving homes that will provide the right environment for each pup. That’s why they may require you to fill out an application, provide references or participate in an in-home visit. Here’s an overview of the most common steps in the process:

Start by doing some homework

Think about what type of dog would be a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Most shelters have profiles and photos of available animals posted on their website or other pet matchmaking sites. They’ll often include a short bio on the animal that shares more information about their personality. You may want to choose a few potential candidates before you go to an animal shelter or make an inquiry about a specific dog. It never hurts to go directly to a local shelter and meet a few animals first.

Filling out an adoption application

Shelters and rescues normally ask you to start by filling out an adoption application. You’ll be asked to provide basic information like your name and address. You may also be asked questions about your home environment, plans for dog care and training, and if you already have pets. This allows the staff to do some initial screening and matchmaking. 

Depending on the organization, you may need:

• a government-issued photo ID (generally you must be 18+ to adopt)
• copies of your lease/mortgage
• personal references
• veterinary reference (including proof of any current pets’ vaccine or spay/neuter status)
• proof of securely fenced yard

Even before you begin applying, it might be a good idea to have these documents on hand, so you’re ready to go when you think you’ve found a dog that’s a good fit for you!

Applications may be available online, at adoption events, or at the shelter’s main location.

Interview and in-person visit

After your application has been reviewed, you may have a conversation or interview with a shelter or rescue staff member. Some shelters may also require an in-person visit to the shelter or foster home, which gives you a chance to meet and get to know the dog(s). 

When visiting a shelter or foster home, remember to respect the instructions of the staff as dogs may be anxious when interacting with strangers. Think about how you would feel meeting and being handled by so many new people!

When speaking with the shelter or rescue staff, feel free to ask questions so you can make an informed decision. Here are a few that might be helpful to you:

• How would you describe the dog’s personality and energy level?
• Do they have any issues interacting with other animals or types of people?
• Do they have any known health issues?
• Are they already house-trained? Have they had any other training?

In some cases the shelter/rescue may have more background details on the dog, but be patient as they may only have limited information. Keep in mind that a dog’s behavior in a shelter will not necessarily predict their personality or behavior in the home environment. All dogs will need love, training, and lots of patience to blossom.

Once you go through the initial application and interview processes, some shelters or rescues may then require you to complete a few extra steps. These might include a background check or a home visit. If you already have a dog, the shelter may ask you to bring your resident dog in for a meet-and-greet with dogs you are interested in adopting. It may feel like you’re jumping through a lot of hoops, but it will all be worth it in the end.

We’d be absolutely thrilled for you if you find the right fit on your first visit, but it’s completely fine to leave the shelter without a pup if you don’t find the dog for you. You’re making the right decision for both you and the animals in the long run.

Recent sheltering shifts

It’s worth noting that in response to the COVID pandemic, many shelters have shifted their adoption practices to focus on getting more animals into foster homes, conducting more virtual adoptions, and allowing for trial adoptions to help both pet and person see if they’re a good fit in the home environment. An “open adoption” approach has been embraced by many shelters as a way to help animals get adopted faster while providing support and trust in the applicant. At the same time, many shelters are striving to provide follow-up services that help new pets stay in their homes.

Paperwork, fees, and coming home

Once you’ve found the right dog for you (congratulations! yay!), it’s time to finalize the adoption and bring home your new best friend.

You’ll work with the organization to determine your pick-up date in case you need a little time to prepare. To seal the deal, you’ll sign paperwork and pay the required fees. Fees range depending on the organization and individual dog. Remember that these fees go directly to help pay for veterinary care, food, and the many other things that were required to care for your dog in the shelter or foster home. 

After preparing your home for a new dog, it’s time to get your pup! Now’s your chance to invest time and energy in your relationship and their training — no dog is perfect right away, but you get out what you put in You’ll be making memories before you know it!