FAQ – Adoption
You may have some questions about our adoption process, so we’ve put together this handy guide of our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) to help you out. We also have a very detailed step-by-step explanation on our Adoption Process Explained page.
I am interested in one of your dogs. How can I set up a meet?
You can meet our dogs in one of two ways – become approved to adopt or attend an event. Most of our dogs are in foster homes, so out of respect for their time, we only ask them to conduct meetings with approved adopters. Foster volunteers are asked to bring dogs to events as their availability allows. Note that not all available dogs will be at all events.
What happens after I submit my application?
Our applications team will review it, then contact your landlord, vet reference, and personal references, as applicable. Upon completion, our home visit team will assign a volunteer to visit your home. Following a successful home visit, our adoption coordinator will reach out to discuss which dog you are interested in, and put the foster volunteer in touch with you.
What happens at a home visit?
A home visit is an informal opportunity for us to get to know you, your lifestyle, and your home environment so that we can assist in determining which dog(s) may be a good fit. We can also help identify items that may be a safety concern for your new dog. This is also a great face-to-face opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have.
How long does it take to process my application? Is there anything I can do to speed up my application?
Most applications can be completed within one week. There are some things you can do that will help keep the process moving. Watch your email closely, including junk/spam folders – if we need to contact you regarding an issue, we will reach out via email. Let all of your listed references know that we will be contacting them, and ask them to be responsive to us. Finally, be flexible with your availability for a home visit.
How can I find out more information about a dog I’m interested in?
We try our best to provide all the information we have on the dog’s profile. Some dogs get adopted quickly, so we recommend submitting an application if you see one you are interested in, even if you have some unanswered questions. You are under no obligation to adopt if the dog is not a good fit.
Is the dog I’m interested in still available?
The dogs on our ‘Available for Adoption’ page are not yet adopted, and we are still accepting applications for them. We do accept multiple applications for dogs, so we cannot guarantee availability to any applicant at the time of approval.
If my application is the first submitted for a dog, do I get the first chance to adopt it?
Our main goal is to find a home that will be a good fit for each dog. Our Adoption Coordinator works closely with our foster homes to determine if an approved application can meet the specific needs of the dog they are interested in. The first approved application that is appropriate for the dog’s needs will have the first opportunity to meet it.
Will I get to spend some time with the dog before I commit to adopting?
Yes, once approved you will be encouraged to spend time with the dog and the foster volunteer to see if the dog is a good fit. Meetings between your resident dog(s) and the dog you are interested in can also be arranged.
What are your adoption fees?
Each dog’s adoption fee is posted on their profile.
Do you offer any discounts on adoption fees?
Our Seniors for Seniors program places senior dogs (age 8 or older) with senior citizens (age 65 or older) at a reduced adoption fee of $65.
We offer a 25% discount on adoption fees for current and former members of the military with proof of service. Dogs with already reduced fees, such as seniors and oneders, are excluded from the discount.
Do you adopt outside of the local Fargo/Moorhead area?
Yes, our application process does require a home visit, however, so it is dependent on our ability to complete that step. Most of our adoptions are to homes in the regional area.
If the adoption isn’t working out, can I give the dog back?
Yes, we are committed to finding a home that is the right fit for our each of our dogs. If your adopted dog is not working out, or you can no longer care for it, please contact us right away to discuss.
If your question hasn’t been answered, please use our Contact Us page to reach out!