Pulled From The Pits Adoption Application

We are committed to matching the right animal to the right family so all will have many happy years together. Our adoption process includes the completion of this application, which may include a phone or email interview and may also include a home visit(virtual in some cases),if we feel that is necessary.

)From this point on, Pulled From the Pits may also be referred to as PFTP. This is subject to change without notice throughout this form)

PLEASE NOTE: PFTP DOES NOT CONDUCT DNA TESTING. Stated breeds are primarily estimates based on the information given to the rescue prior to listing them for adoption. This is also true concerning ages, that is primarily an estimate, as most dogs are rescued off the streets with no information available. They may have also had illnesses or medical issues before coming into rescue. We make sure they are treated and ready for adoption,. They may have needed treatment, and we give the full medical history as we are supplied it. If there are any questions or concerns, please contact the rescue BEFORE applying.

In general we do not schedule meet and greets, period. We may choose to waive this policy should there be known issues that need to be addressed before adoption. This is at the discretion of the rescue. However, please note, we do NOT do any meet and greets with dogs 6 months and younger. Puppies are very adaptable to most home situations with proper decompression and training. We do NOT allow meet and greets with other dogs, as 5 minutes in a driveway will not tell how animals will react after proper decompression practices are followed.

If a slower adjustment period is needed, we are happy to extend the return policy to ensure proper introductions, we just ask to be kept informed of the process to offer help along the way. (Please see our page on decompression, how-to’s for more explanation)

This process WILL include veterinary reference (if there are animals in the home currently), personal references and an application fee.

If you are in a rented home (including "rent to own" properties) or are in a mobilie home park on a rented lot we WILL contact the landlord. We will not adopt an animal to anyone living in a hotel room, even extended stay units.

We reserve the right to refuse any applicant for ANY reason if we feel the needs of the animal will not be properly met or the adoption is not in the best interest of the animal.

You must be 21 or older and living in New England to complete & submit the application.

There is a NON REFUNDABLE application fee of $26.50 ($25 + the fee charged by the processing company, this is a straight pass through fee).

ADOPTION FEES ARE $550 EACH FOR PUPPIES AND ADULT DOGS.

The total fee for any dog is $550, which consists of a non-refundable $100 deposit, with a balance of $450. This applies whether the payment is made in a deposit/balance installment or as a total payment.

In addition to the adoption fee, should the animal being adopted need to be spayed or neutered:

Per State of Maine regulations, Animal Rescues and Shelters are REQUIRED to charge a refundable deposit to the adopting parties for animals that are adopted out before being spayed or neutered. This deposit must be paid before the animal is released to the adopter. The adopter will be notified of the day and time of the alteration surgery, and must get the animal to the vet designated by the rescue. Once the surgery has been completed, the spay/neuter deposit amount (minus any fees charged by the processing companies) will be refunded to the adopter the same way that it was paid within two weeks after the surgery. This is NON-NEGOTIABLE.

Pulled From the Pits determines when the animals will be altered according to information provided by our veterinarian. If the adopter does not abide by this policy and does not bring the animal to GAC at the time set, we reserve the right to take possession of the animal with no return of funds paid.

Should it be necessary for the rescue to regain possession of the animal, the adopter will be liable for any expenses incurred by these actions, included but not limited to fuel costs, boarding fees, or any civil or legal fees that may be created by such actions.

If they aren’t microchipped at the time of adoption, PFTP can provide that service as a courtesy. We do not pay for an animal to be microchipped anywhere else.

Please note that completing and signing this application does serve as a binding contract, and does contain wording indicating such. If you do not agree with any part of this application, please do NOT complete it.

BEFORE COMPLETING THIS APPLICATION, PLEASE GO TO THE MAIN PAGE OF OUR WEBSITE AND READ OUR ADOPTION POLICIES! IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH OUR POLICIES, PLEASE DO NOT SUBMIT AN APPLICATION.

Please initial here to indicate that you have read, understand and agree to the policies outlined on our website. *

Initials of applicant

Name of the dog you are interested in:*

If not applicable put N/A

If the animal you are applying for is not available, do you want us to contact you with other options?*

YesNo

Your full name:*

DOB of primary applicant*

We reserve the right to verify this information before adoption is confirmed.

Co-applicant name:

Physical Street Address:*

NO POST OFFICE BOXES PLEASE

City, State, Zip*

Is your residence : (Please check one)*

HouseApartmentMobile HomeSomeone Else's Home (not a co-applicant)

Do you own or rent your residence: (If you own your home, but rent the lot, please choose rent and answer the appropriate questions below for that choice)*

OwnRent

If your residence is rented, what is the name of your landlord? (If you own a mobile home, and reside in a park, we MUST verify that there are no rules against having a dog in the park, including rules againast certain breeds.) If this is not applicable to your situation, please put N/A in this field to continue*

Please provide a current working phone number for your landlord. If not applicable please fill boxes with zeroes to proceed. *

Area CodePhone Number

Please check this box to confirm that you have contacted your landlord directly to confirm that you are allowed to adopt an animal. If not applicable check 2nd box*

Yes, I have contacted the landlordN/A

If you live in someone else's house, even if you don't pay rent, have you notified them and do they approve of you adopting a dog?*

Yes, I have notified them and they approve.N/A

How long have you been at your current residence?*

Best number to reach you: *

Area CodePhone Number

May we text you?*

Yes, Text Away!Phone Calls only please

E-mail:*

General Questions
Complete answers to the following questions will enable us to be more familiar with your request and requirements and will help us find the right animal to match your needs and expectations.

Why do you want a rescue animal?*

Who is the rescue animal primarily for?*

Are all members of your household in agreement with this adoption?*

YesNo

Have you applied to adopt or foster an animal from PFTP before?*

YesNoNot SureYes, but as a Co-applicant for someone else

If the answer above is Yes, give approximate date;

PERSONAL REFERENCES

- NOT a relative, household member or your veterinarian please-
Omission of phone numbers or incorrect numbers will cause a delay in processing. PLEASE verify numbers are correct before submitting application.

Reference #1 Name, how long they have known you, and their relationship to you. NO RELATIVES PLEASE*

Reference #1 Phone Number:*

May we text this person to make initial contact?*

Yes, Text Away!No, phone calls only please.

Reference #2 Name, how long they have known you, and their relationship to you. NO RELATIVES PLEASE*

Reference #2 Phone Number:*

May we text this person to make initial contact?*

Yes, Text Away!No, phone calls only please.

Current Cat(s)- Name, Age, Gender, Comfortable with Dogs? Are they an Inside cat only? Though we prefer that all cats currently in the home be altered and UTD on vaccinations, if you have an inside cat and they are altered we will accept that. However, if they are an outside cat, they must have at LEAST current distemper and rabies vaccinations, as well as being altered. THIS WILL BE VERIFIED WITH YOUR VET!!!*

YesNoOther

Veterinarian Name & Address? YOU MUST GIVE THE VET PERMISSION TO SPEAK TO US!! FAILURE TO DO SO WILL CAUSE A DELAY IN PROCESSING! If no animals currently put N/A*

Vet Phone Number Please make sure you provide a CURRENT WORKING PHONE NUMBER. Failure to do so will delay processing. If no vet put zeroes in both fields *

Area CodePhone Number

Have you called your vet and given them permission to speak to us? If not applicable choose the last box.*

YesNoN/A

If there are animals in your household that are owned by others, please tell us the persons name, the animals name and the name and phone number of the vet for them. Make sure they let the veterinarian know we will be calling. If not applicable please put N/A.*

If you haven’t been with this vet for your pet’s entire life, please also provide us with your previous vet’s contact information. We ONLY need this infomation if the new vet doesn't have current records.

Phone number for previous vet: ONLY IF APPLICABLE

Area CodePhone Number

Humans- Names, Ages, & Occupations for Adults *

Current Dog(s) - Name, Age, Breed, Gender, Comfortable with other dogs? This includes ALL dogs in the residence, whether owned by the applicant or others. Please indicate if they are owned by someone else. If no dogs put "None"*

Current Cat(s)-Name, Age, Gender, Comfortable with Dogs? Are they an Inside cat only? Thoughwe prefer that all cats currently in the home be altered and UTD onvaccinations, if you have an inside cat and they are altered we will acceptthat. However, if they are an outside cat, they must have at LEAST currentdistemper and rabies vaccinations, as well as being altered. THIS WILL BEVERIFIED WITH YOUR VET!!!*

Current Other Pet Types - Type, Age, Comfortable with dogs? Ex: horses, goats etc (Reptiles, Fish or Rodents kept in cages or aquariums not applicable) If none put N/A*

If you do not have an animal now, have you ever owned an animal for which you were the primary caretaker? (If NO, skip the next question)*

YesNo

What happened to them? (We may ask for clarification on this question at a later date)

Passed away (old age, illness, accident)Stayed with other owner (divorce, separation)Surrendered to shelter or rescueOther

If you do not have small children living in your home, will your Rescue dog? come into regular contact with any children under the age of 10? (Regular being more than a few times a year) (If NO, skip the next question)*

YesNo

If yes, please briefly describe details of children coming into contact with the rescue dog.

Do you have a fenced yard?*

YesNo

If yes, please describe the fence (Type, Width, Length, Height):

Do you have a swimming pool?*

YesNo

Will your rescue dog be allowed in the pool?*

YesNoN/A (no pool)

Who will care for, train and exercise the Rescue dog?*

Are there any physical conditions that may prevent you from giving care to a rescue dog, or that may affect the size and breed you are applying for? If yes please detail in the next section.*

YesNoN/A

Please give brief description of physical conditions indicated in the question above. If not applicable please put N/A*

What type of collar and leash will you be using for your rescue dog? Please note, we do NOT recommend retractable leashes for ANY size dogs, but especially bully breeds. They can be very strong and should have two forms for securing the animal, ie: leash and slip lead or two leashes with a collar and harness. *

Are you aware that a new dog will take time to adjust, and will mean additional costs to the household?*

YesNo

How many hours a day will your dog be alone? *

Where will your dog stay when he/she is home alone?*

If problems arise with your rescue dog, are you prepared to hire and pay for a professional trainer before giving up on the animal?*

YesNo

Where will your Rescue Dog sleep at night? *

How many hours per day will your dog(s) be alone (without humans) on a regular basis – not including lunch breaks? *

Will the rescue animal be kept in the house?*

YesNo

Will the animal have the free run of the house?*

YesNo

Are you familiar with crate training?*

YesNo

Are you willing to use a crate for your Rescue dog?*

YesNo

Will the dog(s) be kept on a runner or tied outside?*

YesNo

Will the animal be allowed to run free outside of a fenced yard?*

YesNo

Ifyou move, what will you do with your animals?*

If you go on vacation, what do you plan to do with your animals?*

May we visit your home prior to application approval if we feel it is necessary? We do check housing and neighborhood via Google Earth where available. We may ask for pictures of the interior and exterior of the house, or the yard for clarification.*

YesNo

Have you owned a pit bull/bully breed before?*

YesNoN/A ( adoption of breed other than Bully Breed)

If no, what is your experience with them? If not applicable, put N/A*

Are you aware that dogs are active and that most shed all year long?*

YesNo

Are you aware that routine costs of maintaining an animal can be up to several hundred dollars a year? (Other than follow up items related to adoption such as possible spay/neuter situations, or agreed upon pre-existing medical conditions, adopters are immediately responsible for all costs incurred for the the animals they adopt.This includes boosters for shots given prior to adoption)*

YesNo

Please inital below indicating that you have read, understand and agree that other than potential spay/neuter situations, or agreed upon pre-existing medical conditions, once an animal has been transferred into your possesion (full adoption) that all medical costs, including, but not limited to vaccines, preventatives, or any unforseen illnesses that were not present at the time of adoption are soley the responsibility of the adoptive owner. *

Per State of Maine regulations, Animal Rescues and Shelters are REQUIRED to charge a refundable deposit of $200 (equal to the cost of having a dog altered at our veterinary clinic) to the adopting parties for animals that are adopted out before being spayed or neutered. This deposit must be paid before the animal is released to the adopter. The adopter will be notified of the day and time of the alteration surgery, and must get the animal to the vet designated by the rescue. Once the surgery has been completed, the spay/neuter deposit amount (minus any fees charged by the processing companies) will be refunded to the adopter the same way that it was paid within two weeks after the surgery. This is NON-NEGOTIABLE.Pulled From the Pits determines when the animals will be altered according to information provided by our veterinarian. If the adopter does not abide by this policy and does not bring the animal to GAC at the time set, we reserve the right to take possession of the animal with no return of funds paid, inclusive of the adoption deposit, adoption fees and the spay/neuter deposit. Should it be necessary for the rescue to regain possession of the animal, the adopter will be liable for any expenses incurred by these actions, included but not limited to fuel costs, boarding fees, or any civil or legal fees that may be created by such actions. *

Please initial here to indicate your acceptance of this policy

Have you sold, given away, or surrendered a pet to a shelter, pound or Humane Society?*

YesNo

If yes, please provide details:

Do you understand the state and local ordinances concerning licensing and/or leash laws for dogs?*

YesNo

Are you ready to adopt this animal immediately? If there is a delay in picking up your animal, Pulled From the Pits reserves the right to charge a kennel fee of $25 a day for each day the animal must be kept over.*

YesNo

Are you comfortable with a long distance adoption if you can speak to the foster family?*

YesNo

Are you aware that PFTP does not do DNA testing on dogs, so all breeds are estimated and that any dog may have some genetic material of the breed that is collectively known as "Pitbull"? We do not provide any guarantees to any bloodline for any animal adopted from our rescue.*

YesNo

By initialing below, you agree that you will not use any training devices such as shock collars, electric fencing or the administering of pain for training purposes. You also agree that should it be brought to the attention of PFTP that these practices are being used, we reserve the right to take immediate possession of the animal with no compenstation to the adopter/s. *

Initials of Primary Applicant

Decompression Policies and Procedures

Please read this section carefully before signing the application!!!

Rescue Dogs are not puppies raised in a breeder controlled environment.

They have had unknown trials and traumas and MUST be given ample time to adjust. If you cannot give them that time, please do NOT apply.

Why does a dog need to decompress? Shelters are stressful environments for dogs. The stress a dog experiences in a shelter can greatly impact his mental state. Sounds, smells, and noise in the shelter are very intimidating to pets who have lost their homes. Some dogs walk in the door and shut down completely while other dogs quickly show aggression or cower when they are walked through the kennels. Dr. Marcus Smith, DVM says, “A lot of behaviors you see from dogs that have not been properly decompressed are fear, occasional aggression, and submission. Sometimes they will inappropriately urinate any time someone comes near them or tries to touch them, or they will hide.” How long does it take to decompress a dog? Younger dogs, especially puppies, will take less time to decompress than adult dogs. “I usually tell folks you can expect to see the dog coming out of their shell and getting used to their environment and routine within four to six weeks,” says Dr. Smith. “The first week is usually just them being almost self-protective.”

Every dog is different; some may take longer to decompress. Make it a smooth transition with these professional tips on how to decompress a new rescue dog.

1. Forget expectations No matter how much you plan, you will not know how a dog is going to react in their new environment until after you bring them home. “The first 24 to 48 hours will be a learning experience for all, Leave your expectations at the door. Your situation is unique, so don’t compare it to others.

2. Take your time It can take on average four to six weeks for your new rescue dog’s personality to surface. Do not expect to get a lot of sleep, don’t expect the pup to be perfect, and don’t expect them to come into their new home exhibiting their true personality. It all takes time. The best thing you can do is go slowly. Your dog and your family will be happier in the long run.

3. Keep calm A newly rescued dog needs a calm environment to acclimate. Bringing a new dog to your home takes a lot of trust on both parties. Keep things quiet and calm in your home as much as possible. Every sound, movement, and smell will be new to them. Keep toys and affection to a minimum. Let the dog come to you, less attention is usually better at the beginning. Resist the temptation to shower your dog with affection and toys. The real idea is you want to establish structure. You want a relationship that is founded on respect first and foremost, as well as love and affection –those things should weigh evenly.

4. Give them space Dogs are den animals and need a space to feel safe. To help with the transition, give them a space that is quiet, comfortable, and cozy. You are allowing the dog to be comfortable; they are going to be a little self-protective at this point. Give your dog a spot to let them emerge out of their shell of their own accord.

5. Keep them on a leash, even inside for the first few weeks. A leashed dog is a must for the safety of your pet and will help keep you stay in control. The leash should essentially become your best friend, the idea is if the dog jumps on the couch, you do not have to grab the dog by the collar. You just simply grab the end of the leash and pull the dog off the couch. This keeps you safe, and it doesn’t run the risk of harming your relationship with the dog.

6. A crate is an easy and effective way to create a safe haven. Crate training is one of the quickest and least stressful ways to encourage desirable behaviors in dogs. Some new dog owners are not fans of using a crate; however, we strongly recommend implementing crate training as soon as you bring a dog into your home. A crate satisfies a dog's instinct to be in a den while alleviating many behavioral issues like resource guarding, separation anxiety, and house-training issues.

7. Slow introductions For the first week, keep your dog at home and limit visitors. When it comes time to make introductions to people and other pets, do it slowly. If you have other animals, it’s best to let them get acquainted with the new dog outside your home. Take them on a walk and let them meet on neutral territory; an established dog may feel more territorial in the house. Advise your friends (especially children) to give your new dog “face space.” Ask them to resist the urge to touch or get in their face. Let your dog go to them and pay close attention to how they communicate comfort or discomfort.

8. Exercise them every day The adage “a good dog is a tired dog” is true for a reason. Dogs are active creatures. They need a daily exercise routine to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Get the leash and take them for a walk every day to improve you and your dog’s health while establishing a positive bond.

9. Keep a routine Dogs are creatures of habit. Their happiness depends on their environment. Dogs need a steady routine, so they know what to expect from their owners and their lives. Their behavior will reflect this accordingly. Once they have a solid structure, they can handle occasional changes like a pro. Feeding, walking, playing, sleeping, and other daily activities can all be a part of your dog’s regularly scheduled routine.

10. Establish positive associations It is your job to help your dog form positive associations in their new environment. You want your new dog to feel like their home and all the sights, sounds, and smells that come with it, are the most wonderful things in the world. Keep treats on hand to praise and reward your dog if you are getting ready to vacuum for instance, or if there are other unfamiliar things going on. Remember that everything is new to a shelter dog. Your dog will soon associate any unpleasant experiences with that of comfort, affection, and yummy treats.

The Takeaway: Decompression is a key step toward ensuring a successful home transition for your new pet. Time spent getting to know your rescue pup will be well worth the love they give you in return.

Please initial below indicating that you have read, understood and agree to use the decompression procedures outlined above. I also understand and agree that should I decide to return the animal I adopted to Pulled From the Pits within the initial 7 day periodindicated in the adoption contract, and it is determined that these procedures were not followed, that I may not receive any refund of the adoption fees,depending upon circumstances. Please make sure you understand the procedures and feel free to ask questions about them. These procedures are available for reference on our website at any time.*

Intials of Primary Applicant

If the animal being adopted is located too far from Gray Animal Center to be practical for spaying or neutering, or if there is a scheduling issue with the GAC,adopter agrees that they will make an appointment with their local veterinarian as soon as is physically able. Adopter also agrees that they will have the veterinarian confirm the appointment via email with Pulled From the Pits, and will provide final confirmation that the animal has been altered. If PFTP does not receive confirmation of this action within the seven day trial period (even if the appointment is outside of that period) they (Pulled From the Pits) reserves the right to take back possession of the animal by whatever means necessary. Should legal recourse be needed for this action, adopter agrees that they will be responsible for any and all costs associated with such actions. Upon proof that the animal has been altered a one time refund of $100 will be issued to the adopter (provided that the full adoption amount has been remitted) representing what PFTP would have paid to the organizations own veterinarian for such services. By initialing below, Adopter agrees that they have read and agree with this portion of the contract.*

Initials of Primary Adopter

If you approved to adopt from our organization, please do NOT reach out to the family fostering the animal currently! This will be considered a violation of the adoption policies and may result in you being banned from adopting from this rescue!!*

Initials of Primary Adopter

Terms and Conditions

Please carefully read the following items, and check the appropriate box before completing this form. If you have any questions, please contact Pulled From the Pits.

This application serves as a binding contract in it's entirety when signed.

Application Fee is NON-REFUNDABLE

Application Fee$25.00

Application Fee, non refundable

Total $0.00

Payment Methods

Debit or Credit Card

Please click one of the PayPal options to complete payment and submit the form.

Please type the name of the primary applicant in the box below. This serves as your signature when submitted. *

Date*

PULLED FROM THE PITS

Please initial here to indicate that you have read, understand and agree to the policies outlined on our website.

Veterinarian Information **PLEASE CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN'S OFFICE AND AUTHORIZE THEM TO SPEAK TO AN EMPLOYEE OF Pulled From the Pits! FAILURE TO DO SO WILL DELAY PROCESSING OF YOUR APPLICATION.

Information About Your Household

Information on the care of your Dog Please fill out each question below.

Follow up Questions

PREFERENCE QUESTIONS