Adoption’s FAQ
We don’t have a facility; all of our dogs are in foster homes. We have weekly adoption events where you can visit the dogs. Please contact us for more information.
Adoption donations vary by animal but range from $150 to $425 (payable with cash or credit card only, sorry no checks). On average, veterinary expenses incurred for puppies and small breeds are higher; therefore, those donation amounts are often on the higher end of the range.
The adoption donation defrays our costs of the following:
- Microchip
- Sterilization Surgery (Spay or Neuter)
- Age-appropriate vaccinations (Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Bordetella)
- Heartworm Test (6 months & older), Tick-borne disease panel, fecal testing & deworming, if necessary
- 30-days of pet insurance from 24Petwatch
Unfortunately, we can only consider prospective adopters residing in the Chicagoland area. Please contact us if you have questions about your eligibility with respect to your location.
Meetings outside of weekly adoption events are very rare. We try to maintain a fair adoption process by having potential adopters meet the dog on the same day in the same place and to avoid the perception of preferential treatment via a private meeting. Furthermore, we want to be respectful of our foster families as we ask a lot of them as is.
Adoption applications are not “approved” on a general basis. We strongly believe in finding the best fit for a dog and adopter so we evaluate each match on a case-by-case basis.
It depends! Sometimes, an adoption decision is made at the beginning of an event if a great family is interested. If that occurs – never worry! Our incredible Adoption Counselors are trained to help you find a perfect match.
Sometimes, but this is not always the case. Should there be multiple applicants present, adoption counselors and/or foster families will speak with each applicant and determine the best fit.
Include each dog’s name on your adoption application. In fact, we recommend this as adopters sometimes change their minds at the event after meeting our other dogs. We’re also happy to provide guidance if you’re looking for a dog but aren’t sure what’s right for you.
All of our animals are in foster homes and although not all foster families are available at the adoption event, we can put you in contact with them via phone or email.
Ideally, your entire family would come to meet your new potential family member (including any other dogs). However, we understand that life sometimes has other commitments – work, sports, etc. – and can work around these constraints as long as all adults in the home are on board with an adoption. If you have any concerns about your dog being in a pet supply store environment please contact us prior to the adoption event.
Maybe! Some foster parents prefer to drop the dog off at your home, giving them closure that the dog is going to a safe, happy home. Other times, we can arrange for you to take the dog home that day or within a few days; whenever you are set up with supplies, etc.
We require all dogs adopted from us be taken to a training class within 3 months. Training grows the bond between you and your dog and helps to eliminate unwanted behaviors.
We provide all known medical records to you at the time of adoption. Frequently, we have no information prior to the dog’s time with us, since most are former strays.
Most of our dogs were originally found as strays, which have been transferred to us from shelters. These shelters are both local, including Chicago Animal Care & Control and Animal Welfare League, and as far away as Kentucky, Texas and Alabama.
