Rescue Parenthood Part 2 - What to Expect When Adopting from a Rescue Organization

This is the second post in a series about the ins and outs of rescue parenthood.

Typically when adopting a dog from a rescue organization, there is a process in place; it isn't as simple as just picking a pet and taking them home. Every rescue is different, so be sure to follow whatever process they have. We have primarily worked with foster-based rescue organizations, so keep in mind that shelter-based organizations may have a different process. Read on for more information and tips about the adoption process based on our experiences:

The Application Process

Before you can even meet your potential future pet, you will likely have to submit an application through the rescue's website. Oftentimes rescues will want to know more about your lifestyle, living situation, and past experiences with pets. Some rescues look for specific home environments in potential adopters (for example, here in Colorado, it is not uncommon for them to require a fenced-in yard). If it is a breed-specific rescue, they may also want to see that you have experience with that breed. There may also be an application fee to help support the rescue and the time they spend reviewing applications.

Once your application has been submitted you may be required to interview with a volunteer from the rescue organization. Sometimes, home visits (or virtual home visits and photos) are required as well. Be yourself and be honest about your situation - this will give you the best chance of you being matched with a pet that best fits you/your home/your family/your lifestyle.

After all of these steps are complete, you will be notified if your application is approved and next steps.

Meet and Greets

Next, you will get to meet your future family member! Most rescues post available dogs on their website and/or social media accounts. Review the pups they have available, read about their personality and activity level (if this information is provided), and select a few that you are interested in meeting.

Two important factors to consider here are the age of the pup and their activity level. Are you wanting to bring a young puppy home or an older dog? Those would be completely different experiences, and those age groups have different needs. If the rescue lists your potential future family member as very active, do you have the time and energy to commit to frequent walks and exercise?

If you have other pets in the home, you'll also need to make sure they are compatible. A dog with a high prey drive may not do well with a smaller dog or a cat in the home. If you have children, you'll want to make sure that your dog is comfortable around children as well.

At this point in the process, don't put all of your hopes into one pup before meeting them. Keep an open mind and meet a few different dogs who seem like they could be a good fit for you and your family. When preparing for a meet and greet, find out the rescue's policy on bringing current household members (both human and furry) to the meeting. It's often helpful (and important) for everyone to meet your new pet before you decide to bring them home, just to make sure everyone is comfortable and compatible.

Finalizing the Adoption

If one of the pups that you meet feels like a great fit for your family and you're ready to bring them home, let the rescue know as soon as you are certain. Sometimes multiple potential adopters will meet the same pup and it's possible that another family could take your desired dog home. If your pup is still available, usually the rescue will then require you to complete an adoption agreement and contract, as well as have you pay an adoption fee to finalize the adoption. Make sure to get any medical or vaccination records for your pet from their time at the rescue as well.

Then comes the best part...bringing your new pet home and showing them how good rescued life can be!

Many rescues enjoy receiving updates about their dogs after they've been adopted, so I encourage you to email or message them on social media a few months or even years down the road to show them how happy your new family member is. Keep in mind, it can take up to 3 months for a rescue dog to adjust to being home, so be patient as your pup gets used to their new environment and being a part of your family.

Designed with rescue parents in mind, the Pupsibilities Milo & Arya collection launches on Wednesday, 2/23/22 at 8 pm EST at pupsibilities.com. Follow this link for 15% off your purchase.