PAWS V2 Adoption Application

  • PAWS Adoption Application

    Pottsboro Animal Welfare Society

  • PAWS is an all-volunteer, non-profit, animal welfare organization dedicated to the rescue and placement of stray, neglected and abused animals. PAWS is completely funded through fundraising efforts and public donations. All of our pets are cared for by foster homes and receive complete medical care, which includes worming, vaccinations, spaying/neutering and microchipping prior to their adoption.

  • This questionnaire is designed to help PAWS and yourself determine if a specific dog or cat is the right one for you and your household. All adopting parties are required to complete this form prior to adoption. PAWS reserves the right to deny any adoption based on answers to this questionnaire and/or interviews prior to adoptions!

  • Applicant Information

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  • Household Information

  • Are all members of your household in agreement with this adoption?*
  • Do you live in a*

  • Do you own or rent?*
  • Does your landlord allow pets?
  • Are there any restrictions from your landlord or subdivision?*
  • Do you have a fully fenced yard?*
  • Have your children been around animals before?
  • Does anyone in your home have allergies to dogs/cats or have asthma?*

  • Current/Previous Pet Information

  • Have you adopted from an animal welfare group before?
  • Have you owned a dog or cat before?*

  • If you answered No to the above question, have you fully researched this decision, and are you open to learning more about the responsibility of owning a pet?
  • Have you ever given up a pet?*

  • New Pet Information

  • Are you aware of crate training?*
  • Have you ever house-broken a dog or puppy before? Or litter trained a cat?*
  • Are you willing to work through your new pet's issues, if any?*
  • Are you aware that a new environment is stressful for your pet, and they may exhibit uncharacteristic behavior?*
  • Do you understand that a dog or cat can be an 18 year commitment, and can cost $300 - $500 per year to care for?*
  • Are you aware that a large breed dog takes about two years to mature? Is this something you're prepared for?*
  • How did you find out about PAWS?*

  • PAWS is strictly a volunteer rescue group, we rely on our adoption fees and donations to help keep us afloat. All of the animals in our rescue come fully vetted unless discussed with a PAWS representative due to special circumstances. 

     

     Adoption fees are: 

    Dogs In Need of Transport-

    $350 Seniors 7 or older

    $400 Adults under age 7

    $450 Puppies under 1 year

     

    Dogs- 

    $200 Seniors 7 or older

    $275 Adults under age 7

    $325 Puppies under 1 year

     

    Cats- 

    $75 Seniors 7 or older

    $100 Adults under age 7

    $125 Kittens under 1 year

    $175 Pair of kittens

    • Decompression Protocol - Please read 

    • If approved for adoption, I agree to follow Decompression Protocol to provide my new pet with the best chance for success. 

      Decompression Protocol:


      Days 1–3: The Adjustment Phase

      Leash Rules:

      Always keep your dog on a leash, even indoors, to guide them gently and prevent them from roaming unchecked. Use a 6–8 foot leash for control without tension.
      If you’re introducing the dog to a fenced yard, stay with them on the leash. They might be overwhelmed and try to escape or hide.
       

      Safe Space Setup:

      Create a designated quiet area (crate or a gated-off section) with essentials like a soft bed, water, and toys.
      Let the dog approach and retreat as they wish without forcing interaction.
      ​

      Minimal Interactions:

      Avoid introducing the dog to visitors or other pets during this time.
       Family members should keep interactions low-energy and brief. Sit quietly near the dog without making direct eye contact, which could feel threatening.
      ​

      Routine Establishment:

      Feed the dog at the same time each day in the same location.
      Keep walks short (5–10 minutes) and calm, preferably in a quiet area to avoid overstimulation.
      ​

      Days 4–7: Building Trust

      Gradual Freedom:

      Use baby gates to limit access to certain areas, but allow the dog to explore more parts of the house under supervision.
      Indoors, the leash can be replaced with a lightweight drag line to allow more independence while maintaining control if needed.
      ​

      Controlled Introductions to Family:

      Allow the dog to approach family members at their own pace. Reward calm behavior with treats or gentle praise.
      Ensure children understand to avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
      ​

      Short Walks in New Environments:

      Start taking 10–15 minute walks in slightly busier areas to help the dog acclimate, but avoid dog parks or crowded spaces.
      ​

      Monitoring Stress Signals:

      Watch for signs like lip licking, yawning, or avoiding contact. These indicate your dog might be feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
      ​

      Week 2–4: Expanding Their World

      Off-Leash Freedom Indoors:

      By now, most dogs will feel comfortable in their new environment. Allow them more freedom inside the home but maintain supervision.
       

      Introductions to Other Pets:

      Begin slow, controlled introductions:
      Start by letting the animals sniff each other’s bedding or toys.
      Use baby gates for visual introductions while keeping the new dog on a leash.
      Short, calm meetings of 5–10 minutes can gradually increase as both animals appear relaxed.
       

      Extended Walks:

      Increase the duration of walks to 20–30 minutes. Allow the dog to sniff and explore, but maintain a loose leash to avoid pulling.
       

      Socialization:

      Introduce the dog to a single, calm, and fully vaccinated dog in a neutral outdoor space.
      Keep both dogs on leashes with loose slack to allow natural sniffing and retreating.
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      Beyond Week 4: Integration

      Supervised Off-Leash Time Outdoors:

      If your yard is securely fenced, consider allowing supervised off-leash time.
      Use long leads (20–30 feet) initially to ensure control until you’re confident in their recall.
       

      Increased Socialization:

      Slowly expose the dog to more people and animals, ensuring each interaction is positive.
      Avoid overwhelming environments like busy parks or events until the dog demonstrates confidence in quieter settings.
       

      Continued Monitoring:

      Maintain awareness of your dog’s body language and stress levels. Adjust the pace if setbacks occur.
       

      Tips for Success

      Patience is Key: Each dog adjusts at their own pace. Some may feel comfortable within a week, while others might need a few months.
      Reward Desired Behavior: Use treats, toys, or gentle praise to encourage calm and positive interactions.
      Consistency Builds Trust: A predictable schedule and consistent rules will help the dog feel secure.
      Restart the decompression process at anytime should the dog regress.
       

      By following this structured decompression timeline, you can help your new dog transition into your home and build a foundation for a strong and trusting relationship. For more information and resources regarding Decompression Protocol, please look up the below resources.

      THE FIRST TWO WEEKS | Rebound Hounds​​

      How to Fail with Your New Foster or Adopted Dog - Dog Gone Seattle

    • I fully understand the importance of following decompression protocol and will follow it should I be approved to adopt.*
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    • I understand that I assume full responsibility for the welfare of this pet from the date of adoption.

    • Should be Empty: