Current Squad Fosters
Adoption Process
Step One: Review Our Requirements
Before initiating the adoption process, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the requirements and responsibilities associated with adopting from Dog Squad. This initial step is designed to ensure that potential adopters are well-informed and fully prepared for the commitment involved. Please note, our requirements and expectations are subject to change depending on the specific dog’s needs.
Age and Household Composition
Applicants must be 21 years or older. Families with children under the age of 8 are encouraged to adopt puppies, while those interested in adopting adult dogs should have children aged 8 and above. This policy helps ensure a safe and suitable environment for our pets based on their individual needs.
Readiness for Adoption
Ensure that every member of your household is ready to welcome a new pet. Adoption involves a significant commitment of time, effort, and resources.
Financial and Emotional Preparation
Consider both the mental and financial aspects of pet ownership. Prospective adopters should be ready to meet the needs of their new pet, including initial medical care, ongoing health maintenance, training, and other essential expenses.
At Dog Squad, our goal is to find the most compatible home for each pet, ensuring a lasting and rewarding relationship between you and your new companion. We do not operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. The needs of our animals must be compatible with what their forever family can provide. Applications are often denied. This does not mean we think you are a terrible dog owner; rather, we know that you and this animal aren’t compatible, and we will work with you on finding the best dog for you.
Our adoption fee is a flat $100 that can be paid in cash, via Venmo/PayPal, or by credit card. The adoption fee is not due until the official day of adoption when the dog moves into your home. We believe that everyone deserves a loving companion without the burden of an excessive adoption fee. No matter how many thousands of dollars are spent on a dog’s rehabilitation, the fee remains the same. A loving forever home is more important to us than complete reimbursement.
Step Two: Submit An Adoption Application
Please note we do not schedule private meets for dogs until an application is received and approved. If you wish to meet an animal before applying, please stop by our adoption events.
If your application is approved for the desired dog, anticipate an email and text message response within 5-7 business days. If you do not receive a response, your application for that dog has likely been declined.
As much as we wish we could respond to every applicant for every dog, time constraints realistically get in the way of doing this. We are a two-person operation who both work full-time jobs outside of this shared passion and hobby. Don’t hesitate to reach out directly with any specific concerns or questions.
If your application is approved, we will schedule a video call (Zoom or FaceTime) for further inquiry, then determine the best day and time for a meet-and-greet with the animal.
Trial Period
We offer a two to three-week trial period with your new pet before you pay the adoption fee to ensure appropriate placement. This trial period helps ensure that both you and the pet are a good match and that the transition into your home is as smooth as possible.
When the Adoption Isn’t a Good Fit
Sometimes, things don’t work out as planned through no fault of the animal or the adopter. While we do our best to vet every applicant thoroughly, there are times when nature decides that the placement simply doesn’t work. Should this happen, we require the animal to return to our rescue.
Returning the Animal
If you find that the adoption isn’t a good fit, please contact us immediately. We will arrange for the safe return of the animal to our rescue. This ensures that the pet can be placed in another loving home that may be a better match for their needs and personality.
Support and Guidance
Our commitment to our animals doesn’t end when they leave our care. We are here to support you through the transition process. If you are facing challenges with your new pet, we encourage you to reach out to us. We can provide resources, advice, and potential solutions to help address any issues you may be experiencing.
No Judgment Policy
Returning an animal is a difficult decision, and we want to assure you that it comes without judgment. Our priority is the well-being of the animal and ensuring they find the right forever home. We appreciate your honesty and willingness to do what’s best for the pet.
Next Steps
Once the animal is returned, we will reassess their needs and work on finding a more suitable home for them. If you wish to adopt another animal in the future, we are more than happy to work with you again to find a pet that better matches your household and lifestyle.