Hooray! You have been approved to Foster to Adopt!
Thank you so much for helping our community and taking the step to adopt a dog! This page will be your resource page and where you’ll see an outline of the adoption process with us.
We want you to bookmark this page right now so that you have easy access to it whenever you need it!
Step 1: Meet + Greet
We set up a time for your family to meet the pup (or cat) that you are interested in adopting. We ask that all 2-legged members living in the household to come for the meet and greet, with exception of other dogs. This includes roommates!
Step 2: Pup Playdate (if applicable)
We can go as slow as needed for the dogs to have a positive meeting, even if that means setting up multiple meet and greets with the dogs. Some people like to do an initial walk only and set up another day to come back. We know that you know your dogs best and what they need, and we are understanding of this. Once we feel like the dogs are a good match, we will then set up a play date at your house and complete a home check.
Step 3: Home Check
The home-check is more about looking for any safety concerns that you may not be aware of, ex: spacing under the gate, toxic plants, etc.
If the dog is doing well and you are comfortable, we give you the option to do a sleep over (weekend or just over night) or begin the official foster to adopt.
Step 4: Foster to Adopt Trial
The foster to adopt trial period is 2 weeks for puppies (under 6 months old) and 1 month for dogs 6 months and older. During this time, you are to follow foster to adopt contract and check in weekly with us. All dogs are required to complete the foster to adopt trial period before officially being adopted.
Step 5: Adoption (Yay!!)
Let’s bust out the pawty hats and get ready to celebrate!
After the trial period is over we will come back out to the house or meet at the rescue (with the adopted dog) to finalize the adoption, this includes signing the contract and handing over all paperwork. Paperwork is not given to you until adoption is complete, unless if paperwork is needed for housing or for potential adopters vet to review. Microchip is not transferred until adoption finalization complete.
Step 6: Post Adoption Perks
Going on vacation and need a pupsitter? Our rescue offers pup sitting exclusively to our adopters.
Resources
What to expect from us
We provide everything during the trial, crate, food, harness and leash, food bowls, etc.
We would pick up crate when the adoption is finalized. Secure walking harness stays with the dog as each dog has their own to take with them to their new home. Your pup will receive current bloodwork before moving in to your home. They will also be fixed, vaccinated, and microchipped before moving in to your home.
Adjustment period
Have you heard about the 3-3-3 rule? The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline of the adjustment period, some pups take longer, some take shorter. It takes time for the new pet to adjust. Studies suggest that it can take up to 3 months for a dog to fully adjust to a new home. Of course there are exceptions to the rule but be prepared and stay patient. We give the potential adopters a month with our adult dogs to allow time for the dogs to adjust before finalizing the adoption. We want to make sure every member of the household is happy, including the newest member before making the adoption official.
In the first 3 days the pup may be overwhelmed with their new surroundings. Don’t be alarmed if they don’t want to eat, many dogs don’t eat when they are stressed. They may be scared and unsure of what is going on.
After 3 weeks, they start to settle in and feel more comfortable. They have figured out their environment and are getting into your family’s routine.
After 3 months, your pup should be more comfortable in their home. They have built trust and a bond with you.
What if it’s not a perfect fit?
If our rescue dog (or cat) is not the right fit please don’t worry. We never want to place a dog or cat in a home if it’s not a great fit for everyone. Our dogs and cats are a part of this rescue family for life and they can always come home. We have lots of wonderful dogs ready for a forever home and if one dog is not the right fit, we may have another that fits perfectly. Give us an opportunity to your perfect fit.
Paws off the furniture
Our dogs are able to get on the furniture including lawn chairs, couches and beds. If the new home prefers that the dog stays on their own dog beds begin by calling them off and treating them on the floor. Make sure all family members agree on the pets off of the furniture rule and stay consistent. There is nothing more confusing to a pet who is invited onto the couch when dad is home but not allowed when the rest of the family is there.
To Crate, or not to Crate?
All of our dogs are crate trained, unless discussed during the meet and greet. We ask that when away from the home that the dog is in their crate, especially while AZK9 and resident pet(s) are getting acquainted and adjusting in the home. The crate keeps them safe when you are not home, preventing them from chewing personal belongings or dangerous objects.
The crate is a positive place. We never use it to punish our dogs. We want to make sure the crate stays a place where the dog feels safe and happy. All of our dogs eat in their crates. This gives them space away from kids or other pets while they are eating.
Routines
Our paws are in stringent daily routine. While adjusting to the new home too much freedom to do whatever they want can confuse them or cause undesired behaviors. Getting your dog quickly on your routine is important. And stay consistent!
Have any questions?
Have an emergency, or prefer to chat on the phone?
Courtney’s phone number:
480-280-7138
Aaron’s phone number:
623-313-8270