Adoption Process
Kittens
$175
Cats over 1 Year Old
$125
Puppies
$350
Dogs over 1 Year Old
$300
Step 1
Step 2
Submit an application to be considered for adoption of your furever pet.
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When submitting an application, you may enter the information for one or more of the pets listed on our adoptions page or choose the option ***pre-approval*** if you're hoping to adopt but haven't found the right pet yet. You can still get your application in for "pre-approval" and adopt as soon as you're matched with a new pet. The process for approval can take up to three business days. Please be patient while we review your application and read all the materials, including how to introduce a new pet to the family. Approved applications are valid for one year from the date of approval.
Step 3
Adding a new family member is an exciting and rewarding journey. We look forward to matching you with the perfect pet! Once you’ve been approved, we’ll set up a private “meet and greet” appointment with the location details. We include a trial period in the adoption of all our animals, which allows you to take the pet home and ensure they are the perfect fit for you, your family, and lifestyle. If it is not the right fit, we will always accept our animals back, and you can meet another pet until we find the right match.
3 Days
Your new fur baby is figuring out and exploring their new home
3 Weeks
They are feeling more comfortable and starting a routine
3 Months
Your pet is happy and completely comfortable in their furever home. You have built trust and a true bond with your pet, which gives them a complete sense of security with you and the family.
Step 4 — The Rule of Three
You must allow your new family member the time to adjust to their new surroundings. This adjustment period can be called the "Rule of Three"; If you’ve ever started a new job, you may know the feeling. New surroundings, new people, and new rules can take time to adjust to. The rule of three is a general guideline but every pet is unique and will adjust differently and in their own time.
3 days – This is when your pet may feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure of their new surroundings. Some pets have been through a lot of stress. Don’t be alarmed if they refuse to eat or drink much for the first few days. They may shut down or curl up in a place that feels secure. Provide a quiet, comfortable environment, like a comfy bed or crate, to help them feel safe while adjusting. It’s common for your pet to have accidents in the house, so be patient but also take them outside or to the litterbox often and show them the proper place to relieve themselves.
3 weeks – After three weeks, you’ll notice your pet becoming more comfortable as they begin to see this as their furever home! Your pet should be mostly house-trained and relieve themselves in the appropriate spots. They are learning the family routine and letting their personality begin to shine! Initial behavioral issues may disappear as they understand what is expected of them. Continue to be patient and consistent in your training and direct your new pet toward what is right and wrong. For more information on training and discipline, please check out our blog the proper way to train and discipline your pet.
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3 months- Your pet is happy and completely comfortable in their furever home. You have built trust and a true bond with your pet, which gives them a complete sense of security with you and the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
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IntegrityWe adhere strictly to strong ethical values and ensure our actions reflect these standards.
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CommitmentWe are dedicated to animal welfare and strive to achieve it for every animal we can.
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AccountabilityWe are responsible for our actions and justify them with the incentive to be in service to helpless animals.
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EmpathyOur actions are guided by an empathetic approach to animals in need, and we do all we can for them to have a better future.
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CaregivingAs a team, we provide genuine loving care to homeless animals and provide them with food and shelter.
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Selfless DevotionOur team is devoted to the cause of saving animals today and every day.
Care
Congratulations on your decision to add a new member to the family or if you are starting the process of preparing for a new pet!
It is essential to be fully equipped for your new pet before they arrive at your home. Be sure to check out our blogs on (links) how to introduce a new pet to the family and the proper way to train and discipline your pet. Pets are a big responsibility and rely on you to take care of them. If you're nervous about caring for your new pet, remember that we are here to help. You can always reach out to us for advice or support. 😊
Here are some simple steps to take care of your new family member!
Pet-Proof Your Home
As a new pet parent, you are responsible for keeping your pet safe by keeping potentially dangerous items out of your pet's reach. Pets love to explore new places and can still find plenty to do and see, even if you already have pets at home.
This includes, but is not limited to, cleaning agents, chemicals, electrical cords and cables, clothing, such as socks and underwear, small items such as q-tips, make-up sponges, strings, and hair ties. One of the things veterinary clinics see the most for emergency surgeries is the consumption of socks and hair ties. You should also be aware of any plants you may need to move. Check out the ASPCA's poisonous plant list.
Make sure your trash cans are sturdy with secure lids so they can’t be knocked over. Make a checklist for each room to ensure everything is safe, and don’t forget the outdoor spaces and that there are no holes in your fencing, etc. This can seem overwhelming, but we can help you have the safest home for your new pet.
Budget for Your Pet
Bringing home a new pet will increase your annual expenses with ongoing costs for medical expenses like vaccinations, medicines, preventatives, nails trims, and grooming as well as food, cat litter, cat trees, scratch posts, treats, toys, bedding, crates, leashes, etc. We can help with some supplies as needed. Like us, pets will need more care and frequent visits to the vet. We will provide you with a list of local clinics and estimated costs. It is a good idea to look into pet insurance to help lower future vet bills.
Welcome Them Home with Love
Your bond with your new pet begins the moment they arrive home. Affection, playtime, training, grooming, exercise, and other family activities will help strengthen this bond and build trust. Life gets busy – with work, children, and everything in between. Make sure to schedule time for your furry family members, which will build upon this bond.
Veterinarian Care
Although your pet was previously vetted and up to date on vaccines at the time of adoption, it is important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian who can meet your needs. We hope you already have one in place, but if not, we can recommend one. Your veterinarian will be your most trusted advisor for your pet’s health and well-being. They will assist you in meeting your pet’s nutritional needs as they grow. Visit your vet regularly, once a year for annual checkups at minimum and more frequently or as recommended for senior pets. If your pet becomes ill with vomiting or diarrhea or exhibits unusual behavior such as excessive sleeping or lethargy, it’s imperative to call your vet immediately, as some conditions are urgent. If there is an emergency or issue after hours, we will provide you with 24-hour emergency vet clinic contacts.
Create a Pet-Friendly Routine
Schedules and routines are a great way to achieve the desired behavior you’d like to see from your pet. Establishing a solid and regular routine is the best way to introduce them to their new home.
Feeding Schedule:
If you have other pets at home, your new addition can adapt to the schedule already in place. If this is your only pet, pick a convenient time, usually twice daily, when they can be monitored while they eat at first, so you know they are getting enough food. Consult your veterinarian on the amount you should be feeding. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50% of dogs and cats in the US are overweight; feeding the right portion for your pet’s size will keep them healthier and for longer. Until you learn more about your new pet, it is best to feed them in a safe, separate area away from other pets or children to make sure they exhibit good behavior around food and no resource guarding.
Bathroom Breaks:
Initiating a bathroom schedule in the first few days for dogs is important. You’ll want to show them where their “potty” area is, either outside or on a pee pad. Cats catch on rather quickly by picking them up and showing them where their litter boxes will be. You shouldn’t move their litter boxes too often to avoid confusing your cat and keep them in a routine. The frequency of bathroom breaks will depend on the age of your new pet. Puppies and kittens urinate more often and need more guidance and encouragement to help them remember the appropriate “potty” spot. Should an accident occur, just clean it up and patiently show your pet the right spot to potty. In time, accidents will become less common if you are consistent and use positive reinforcement when they potty in the right place.
Exercise and Playtime:
This is entirely dependent on the age, breed, and health of your individual pet. When you visit your veterinarian for a checkup, ask about exercise time and frequency. Exercise levels will not be the same for a 1-year-old Labrador as they would be for a 15-year-old chihuahua. Generally, 10-15 minutes of daily exercise or playtime twice a day is ideal. Higher-energy dog breeds will require more exercise and training. Your pet may even let you know when they’ve had enough and are tuckered out. This time will surely be appreciated, and they will look forward to their daily fun with the family.
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As always, if you have any questions or concerns, we are here to help. Reach out via email to: rescue@fureverdonny.org