Adopting a pet is an exciting decision, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Our foster families and Adoption Team will answer your questions, share what they’ve learned about each animal, and help determine whether a pet may be a great fit for your home and lifestyle.
Found a pet you're interested in, or just beginning your search? Submit an adoption application through the animal's profile. An application is simply a way to express interest and start the conversation. It's not
a commitment to adopt.
Our Adoption Team typically reviews applications within 48 hours. Please watch your email, including
your spam or junk folder, for a response within 1 to 3 days. Applications submitted on weekends or holidays may take a little longer.
Once reviewed, your application will be shared with the animal's foster family.
Interested in more than one pet? You’re welcome to submit applications for multiple animals. However, the system may prevent additional submissions until your first application has been reviewed. Only one application is needed for a bonded pair. If you need assistance, please contact our Adoption Team.
The animal's foster family will reach out to learn more about your household and what you're looking
for in a companion. This is your opportunity to ask questions and learn firsthand about the animal’s
personality, routines, behavior, and care needs.
If it seems like a good fit, the foster family will arrange a meet-and-greet. Depending on the animal and situation, meetings may take place at an adoption event, a neutral location, the foster home, or your
home.
Foster families may speak with multiple applicants to help determine which environment best meets the
animal's individual needs. Sometimes a particular pet won't be the right fit, and that’s okay. Taking the time to make a thoughtful match helps create successful, lasting adoptions.
If one pet isn't the right fit, we'd be happy to help you explore other animals in our care.
When you, the foster family, and Ruff Start Rescue agree that the match is right, our Adoption Team will send an electronic adoption contract along with instructions for submitting the adoption fee.
Each animal's adoption fee is listed on their profile and helps offset a portion of the veterinary care and services provided before adoption.
Depending on the animal's age and needs, adoption fees may include:
Once your adoption contract has been signed and your adoption fee has been received, you'll receive an
adoption confirmation email and can make arrangements to bring your new companion home.
Veterinary records will be sent after the adoption has been fully processed. If you haven't received them
within two business days, please check your spam folder and then contact us.
Our support doesn't end when the adoption is finalized.
Welcoming a new pet into your family comes with an adjustment period, and questions are completely
normal. Our team is available by email, and our Post-Adoption Resource Center offers guidance and
resources to help you and your new companion build a successful life together.
We're here to support both ends of the leash.
We partner with Petszel to provide helpful pet care resources, reminders, and support throughout your adoption journey. By opting in during your adoption, you'll receive valuable information to help your new pet thrive - plus you'll stay connected with Ruff Start Rescue. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Before submitting an application, please take a moment to review these general guidelines.
While these are our standard requirements, we understand that every situation is unique. If you’re unsure whether you meet one of the criteria below, we still encourage you to apply. We’d be happy to discuss your circumstances and answer any questions.
Ruff Start Rescue prohibits medically unnecessary surgical procedures on adopted animals, including:
We appreciate your commitment to responsible pet ownership and helping us create successful, lifelong matches for the animals in our care.
Your future companion may already be waiting in a Ruff Start foster home. Browse the animals currently in our care, learn about their personalities and needs, and take the first step toward finding the right match.
Some animals call for a different kind of placement support. Our special adoption programs help these animals connect with families who can offer the homes and care they need.
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