The information in this form will become part of your adoption agreement if you adopt a dog from us. We may reclaim custody of a dog if responsible care is not provided: dog must live indoors & get vetted annually/as needed.
Please remember that all of us are working together on behalf of this dog's lifetime of care, and this contract is to enforce the spirit of this agreement.
Our adoption fee is minimal for services provided, more for dogs that require full vetting or sterilization before adoption. Our adoption agreement requires that you return the dog to us if you are unable to keep it. If a dog has an appointment to be spayed or neutered, we expect you to agree to have the animal to the appointment. We can accommodate dates, but you MUST be there or the dog MUST be returned. Over six million unwanted pets are euthanized each year, and we ask that you share in the responsibility of not adding to that problem. We will try our best to match you up with a family pet that will offer you its lifetime in companionship.
All dog owners should have knowledge of their breed before acquiring one. Suggested reading: Mutts: America's Dogs by Brain Kilcommons & Michael Capuuzzo (1996) and The Right Dog for You by Daniel Tortora (1980).
Books on problem dog behaviors: The Dog Who Loved Too Much by Dr. Nicholas Dodman (1996)& The Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson.
Please dog-proof your house. Prepare ahead by removing poisonous plants, household chemicals, garbage (like chicken bones!), and easy access to chocolate (that can cause death to a dog). Use baby gates and close off pets from dangerous areas; check outside fencing and gates for weakness or escape routes.
Although we will try to be very honest about a dog's known background, breed, habits, and personality, you can expect a "get-acquainted" time together. Be aware that the dog may be anxious and frightened on its first day in your home. Anticipate a reasonable adjustment period. At first, it may appear nervous, have loose stools, vomit, or forget its housetraining manners. Being forewarned is a major step in the adjustment phase.