The following information will apply in the event that the dog enters your home, whether on a trial or a formal adoption.
The following steps are crucial to setting the stage for a happy ever after for both you and your new dog.
We ask that you read this document so we can ensure that Underdog Animal Rescue has conveyed and each new adopter understands the commitment required when adopting a rescued dog.
The adoption fee may vary depending on the dog, please refer to the dog's profile for their specific adoption fee. This helps cover the spay or neuter of the pet, their vaccinations and microchip, and the costs of supplies needed while they are in our care. All adoption fees are non refundable and considered a donation to a non profit.
I understand that patience is crucial. I understand that my new dog does not know where they are, who I am, whether they will be fed, be let out to relieve themself or even be safe. I will give them plenty of time to acclimate and learn. I will not rush them into interacting with me, family members, neighbors, friends or other dogs and cats.
I understand it will take my new rescued dog an average of 7 days to simply decompress and begin to relax.
I understand it will take my new dog an average of 4-6 weeks to start to learn my routine. I will need to teach them my routine – I cannot assume they know it. The best way for them to learn is through repetition and consistency: feed them, let them out or take them for walks at the same time each day, praising them when they do what you ask.
I understand that even if my new dog is child-friendly, I will introduce the new dog to immediate family children. I will never force the interaction or allow the dog to be cornered to or have too much stimulation and feel overwhelmed. I understand my home and environment is all new to the dog. Just as the dog needs to be taught to be respectful with children, children need to be taught to be gentle and respectful of the dog.
I will take the time to introduce my new dog to family dogs. I will keep the rescued dog separate from existing dogs in the home for at least a week (if not two – see the article on slow introductions provided) so they can decompress and begin to form a bond with me. I will then introduce slowly. I understand that a slow transition into his new pack will reduce chance of incident. I understand that even if my new rescued dog seems fine with other dogs right away that I will need to continue monitoring interactions just in case and not leave the dogs alone together for the first several weeks.
I understand that if my new dog is cat friendly, I will let them decompress for at least a week by himself then slowly...oh so slowly integrate the animals together. I will never force the introduction and always allow the cat a way to escape from the interaction with the dog.
I understand that while my dog may have been housebroken in the foster home, this may not be the case in a new home. I will be patient and teach the dog where to eliminate. I understand they can’t be expected to know where to go and what to do in a new environment unless they're taught and they learn by repetition, consistency and praise when they go in the right place.
If the dog is too young, I will have the animal fixed when they are of age and send a copy of their spay/neuter certificate to Underdog.
I will get in touch with the Underdog Animal Rescue immediately if I can no longer take care of the dog.
I will not surrender the dog to the shelter, sell, re-home, or give away at any point in time.
I will return the dog back to the rescue at any point in time if I can no longer keep my companion without requesting a fee.
I understand the adoption fee is non-refundable.
I accept full responsibility and liability of the safety and medical care of this dog, all persons, and existing pets involved from this date forward even if the pet is in my care on a trial and the adoption has not been finalized.
I recognize that some animals may have behavior problems and I assume all risks and liability associated with those potential problems.
By signing this contract, I hereby agree not to hold Underdog Animal Rescue or any of its agents, volunteers, successors and heirs liable for any physical, emotional or property damage that may arise from my involvement with Underdog Animal Rescue and any of its animals.
Remember that you made the decision care for this dog and make him a member of your family. We cannot stress how important patience is during the first few months with a rescued dog.
The beauty of a rescued dog is watching their personality emerge as they trust, gain confidence and feel safe.
If you need assistance during the acclimation period or with introductions to children, dogs and cats, or if certain behavior issues have surfaced at any time, seek a professional to help you. Let us know. Underdog Animal Rescue can recommend behavior consultants and trainers in your area, and many will offer a rescue discount for their services.