Dog Adoption Guidelines

 
After an application is received and forwarded to the dog coordinator and members of the adoption committee, the process is as follows:
 

Step 1 – Application Review (by dog coordinator and adoption committee members)
Step 2 – Veterinary History and Veterinary Reference Checks (Vet Checks)
Step 3 – Home Visit (if app and VC satisfactory)
Step 4 – Adoption Contract 
Step 5 – Post-Adoption Follow Up

 
Each of these steps are discussed in detail below:
 
1. APPLICATION REVIEW:
 
The volunteer responsible for responding to general inquiries usually receives dog adoption applications. This volunteer forwards them to the Dog Coordinator. An Adoption Committee then helps the Dog Coordinator evaluate applications for a particular dog. The committee members are selected by the dog coordinator.
 
The Dog Coordinator and Adoption Committee members evaluate:
 

• Application answers in light of the guidelines in this document
• The extent to which an applicant demonstrates responsibility and commitment
• Vet care given to current and past pets
• Safety and appropriateness of the home environment

 
The Dog Coordinator and adoption committee members discuss whether to accept or decline an applicant. If applicable, the opinion of the dog’s foster caregiver is also an essential component of the application review process. If a disagreement arises, the Dog Coordinator’s decision will prevail.
 
The application reviewers may request certain conditions be met prior to proceeding with an individual adoption. Such conditions might include constructing a fence, enrolling the dog in obedience training, obtaining a crate by the date of the adoption, purchasing several months worth of heartworm and/or flea and tick medication, or other criteria.
 
If PAW application reviewers determine that the chosen dog is not a good match for the applicant’s needs and lifestyle, they will discuss the situation with the applicant and may suggest other potentially better matches.
 
If discussions with an applicant, answers on the application, or vet history reveal that the applicant is not sufficiently prepared to take care of any dog for the long term, or that the applicant may engage in practices that would place a dog at risk, reviewers will decline the application.
 
Note: PAW volunteers try to contact each person who completes a PAW Dog Adoption Application. However, due to time limitations in this all-volunteer organization and the large number of applications received every week, some applicants are not contacted beyond an acknowledgment that their application was received. For this reason, the application response involves a note indicating “If you do not hear within 10 days, please assume your application was not selected.” To find out the status of an application, an applicant can email info@paw-rescue.org or call the PAW line at 301-572-4PAW (301-572-4729).
 
2. VETERINARY HISTORY AND VETERINARY REFERENCE CHECKS (VET CHECKS):
 
The results of a satisfactory vet check will indicate a consistent record of health care provided to current and past pets, as confirmed by regular physical exams, vaccinations, preventative care (e.g., heartworm prevention and flea and tick medication), spaying/neutering, and following the veterinarian’s recommendations. Vet check procedures are outlined in the PAW guide, “How To Do Vet Checks,” which may be found in the volunteer section of the PAW website.
 
Veterinary information is needed before a home visit can be scheduled. If a veterinarian is unwilling to provide information, the vet check volunteer will ask the applicant to contact the veterinarian to request cooperation so that the application may be pursued.

• PAW may decline an application if checkups have been irregular, or if veterinarian recommendations have been ignored, putting the animal at risk. If the applicant failed to purchase heartworm preventive and/or flea and tick medication for a dog, the vet check volunteer will inquire whether it was prescribed by the veterinarian. Some dog owners order heartworm and flea and tick medication over the internet, and may be able to obtain purchase records from that provider.
• If a vet check reveals gaps in exams, vaccinations or medications, the vet check volunteer will ask the applicant if he/she visited other vets or has vet records to fill in the gaps. Some veterinarians do not maintain records for very long, particularly for past clients, so in some cases decisions are made based upon discussion with the applicant. PAW has accepted receipts or other proof of vetting from applicants.
• A single lapse or other problem may not warrant an application’s decline if the applicant demonstrates a commitment to avoid future lapses. Furthermore, if an applicant has an un-spayed or un-neutered companion animal and an otherwise good application, the applicant can be asked to spay or neuter the resident animal as a condition prior to adopting from PAW. Under some circumstances, PAW may pursue adoption in cases in which a resident dog is not neutered/spayed due to being shown in AKC (American Kennel Club) events.
• Some applicants may not provide all recommended vaccines to their dogs, due to concerns about over-vaccination. If this is the case, check whether as an alternative there has been regular use of titer checks, a blood test that checks the level of the dog’s immunity to diseases such as parvovirus and distemper. Also, for some dogs with disorders such as epilepsy or cancer, the vet may have recommended against vaccination.

 
3. HOME VISIT:
 
After an application is tentatively approved and an acceptable veterinary reference check, a home visit is scheduled. If the home visit is approved, then arrangements will be made to complete the adoption.
 
Pre-adoption home visits are used to evaluate the home conditions to ensure they are suitable and safe for the chosen dog. It is strongly advised to take the chosen dog on the home visit for the benefit of the dog and the prospective adopters. These visits offer an opportunity to explore any concerns raised by application reviewers and/or the dog’s foster. The home visit volunteer looks for positive interaction between the PAW dog and household members and between the PAW dog and any other pets in the household. The home visitor may recommend measures and repairs appropriate to the well-being of the dog. It is also very useful to have two volunteers conduct the home visit. For details about conducting home visits, see the PAW Dog House Check Guide, which may be found in the volunteer section of the PAW website.
 
4. ADOPTION CONTRACT:
 
After a successful home visit, the applicants will be asked to consider whether they wish to proceed with an adoption. If they are certain they wish to adopt the chosen dog, an adoption day is arranged at which the PAW Dog Adoption Contract will be signed (although often the home visit and finalization of the contract occur during the same visit). The adopter should be given a list of items to obtain before the adoption day. The PAW volunteer will obtain the dog’s medical records to give to the adopter at the adoption.
 
The dog coordinator may make additions to the adoption contract, e.g., inserting a requirement that an applicant take obedience training with the dog.
 
The PAW volunteer handling the contract will give the adopters ample opportunity to review the contract and will also verbally walk the adopters through each contract clause, answering questions as they arise. The volunteer should explain the clause requiring that the adopter return the dog to PAW if he or she no longer wishes or is able to keep the dog. In the event that the adopter becomes seriously ill, disabled or incapacitated and wishes to place the dog in the care of a trusted relative or friend, the adopter should notify PAW of the transfer of ownership.
 
One adult in the adoptive family should sign the contract, and the PAW volunteer should include their name and phone number on the contract so that the adopters have a personal contact in the event of problems or questions about the dog.
 
5. POST ADOPTION FOLLOW-UP:
 
Educated owners are more capable of safely managing their dogs and keeping them for life. Provide prospective adopters with cautionary advice and complete information out the chosen dog. In addition, explain that changes in family structure or living arrangements will affect the dog, who may exhibit stress in the form of house training accidents and other behavior changes. The dog will probably need help from the owner to adjust to household changes.
 
After placement, follow-up by a PAW volunteer (via phone, email or both) will benefit the dog and owner alike. This provides a good opportunity for the adopter to ask questions about any behavioral or other issues, to maintain good relations, and to hear how the dog is bonding with the new family. If the family is having issues, the volunteer should encourage them to seek help from PAW volunteers, canine behavior professionals, and books.
 

Adoption Criteria:

 
Numerous factors are considered when reviewing applications in the effort to find caring and responsible homes for the animals we’ve rescued. The following guidelines cover the key criteria.:
 
Key Questions used to Evaluate all Applications:

• Who is the prospective adoptee?
• What is known about this dog?
• What are the needs of this dog?
• What is breed and size of dog?
• Is the dog a jumper or a digger?
• Does he/she suffer separation anxiety?
• Does dog have any known, or perceived, idiosyncrasies?
• How does he/she behave at shows?
• Does the prospective adopter have existing pets?
• Are these pets compatible with the prospective adoptee?
• Does the app indicate existing pets are up to date on vet care?
• If adopter had prior pets, where are they now?
• How long did they care for their previous animals?
• What is their reason for getting a dog: children, watchdog, companion, etc.?
• Is the type of house/townhouse/apartment compatible with the chosen dog?
• Generally, how long will the dog be left unattended during the day?
• How will the dog be housed when alone: crate, one room, whole house, etc.?

 
1. General Considerations
 
Involvement of the Entire Household –
 
PAW requires that all members of a household meet the dog either before a home visit is scheduled or during the visit. This enables PAW volunteers to determine whether all adult household members are ready and willing to take on the responsibilities that come with a dog — and whether all family members interact appropriately with dogs (particularly important when children are involved). The adult applicants must plan to be the primary caretakers and not allow children to walk a dog without adult supervision until the children are mature and strong enough to handle this responsibility (usually not until the teenage years).
 
Pet History and Experience –
 
PAW will only accept an application if the applicant has demonstrated a commitment to safe pet care practices. To gain perspective on the kind of care that would be given to an adopted dog, PAW application reviewers seek details about the applicant’s past or current pets. In addition to vet history, we want to learn if the applicant’s other pets were (or are) “outdoor” pets, if the applicant let dogs run loose in unfenced areas, whether the applicant gave up pets, and the cause of loss or death of past pets. Reviewers will take into account prior circumstances and assess the applicant’s sense of personal responsibility and current understanding of pet care. PAW volunteers are encouraged to support applicants by suggesting effective solutions to dog behavior challenges.
 
2. Family Considerations
 
Applicants with Young Children-
 
We expect families to consider babies and young children a priority and that young children may accidentally hurt a dog or be hurt by a dog. Considerations regarding the safety of the children and the dog are paramount in reviewing the applications of households with young children. Exceptions have been made in cases in which the parents have demonstrated substantial experience caring for a dog.
 
When placing a dog in a home with young children, be sure to counsel adopters to never leave dogs and children alone together, as emphasized by canine behavior professionals nationwide. The age at which a child can behave safely and responsibly when alone with an animal varies with the individual child (and dog), but every parent must be advised to exercise caution. It is best to steer families to dogs whose behavior and characteristics are well-known, such as dogs who have spent at least several weeks in foster homes.
 
3. Housing and Fencing Issues
 
The Dog’s Living Area –
 
PAW will not approve applicants who indicate the dog will spend most of the time in a crate, bathroom, doghouse, garage, outdoors or in a part of the house where the family does not reside on a daily basis. This is for safety as well as socialization reasons; dogs are pack animals who thrive and behave best when kept with their people.
 
The place where the dog stays while the family is out of the home must be comfortable, with bedding and water provided. If the dog is kept in a crate when the adopters are not home, the crate must be at least large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and comfortably lie down on his/her side, and to accommodate a water bowl.
 
Since canine behavior professionals frequently advise to avoid crating a dog more than six hours a day, we recommend encouraging adopters to transition adopted dogs to a larger space within the home (for example, the family room-kitchen area) after the dog adjusts to the new home. If an owner plans to confine a dog for longer periods, a small, well-lighted, puppy-proofed-room or large indoor pen has benefits over a crate. A good idea for adopters who work long hours is to have a trusted neighbor or dog-walker visit the dog midday so that they can relieve himself/herself and get physical and mental stimulation. Doggie daycare is another option for adopters who aren’t home during the day.
 
Fenced Yards –
 
Fencing is not required for all PAW dogs. However, it is sometimes required by foster caregivers and other dog volunteers for individual dogs. A minimum fence height may be recommended based on the individual dog’s behavior. For example, many dogs can jump over a standard (three to four foot) fence, and many dogs(even small ones) can climb chain-link fences.
 
The fenced area must be enclosed on all sides and not allow space at the bottom through which a dog can escape. Many dogs dig, which is one reason that PAW advises dog adopters to continuously supervise their dogs when the dogs are in the yard.
 
In the case of a fenced area not attached directly to the house, the dog would need to be kept on leash while walked to the fenced area. For fences that are not of adequate height, applicants may install height extensions on the existing fence.
 
Invisible Fencing –
 
PAW generally does not approve invisible fencing as a method to contain a dog. Reasons include: dogs have escaped invisible-fenced yards to chase animals or people, the use of shock collars is inhumane, the fence is useless during power failures, wild animals and roaming pets can attack the dog, people ( including small children), can enter the yard, with consequences ranging from pet theft to serious injuries to lawsuits. Consult the dog coordinator if this issue arises.
 
Dog Doors –
 
If a home has a doggie door it must have a way to be blocked when the owner is not home so the dog cannot be outdoors unattended.
 
Rentals –
 
If an applicant rents their apartment or home, PAW application reviewers will determine if the landlord allows dogs, and will verify pet-related restrictions and conditions. PAW also considers the physical structure of a unit. For example, some apartments and condos have thin, non-soundproof walls and floors, putting the prospective adopter at risk of noise complaints from neighbors and building managers. A relatively quiet, calm, mature dog might be best for such situations
 
If the applicant’s landlord has a size, height or other pet restriction, PAW will not place a dog in violation of the restriction(s).
 
The challenges of renting with pets should be discussed with the applicant. Frequently, new dog owners are not aware of the obstacles until problems arise. Rental restrictions are one of the key reasons people give for relinquishing their pets; many dogs are given up in our area due to owners choosing a new rental with pet restrictions or choosing not to pay pet deposits and added monthly fees.
 
Group Houses –
 
If an applicant lives in a group home, application reviewers will meet with all roommates to assess their willingness to live with a pet and their responsibility level.
 
Another consideration: what accommodations can and will the adopters make if other residents of the group home add new pets to the household, given that some pets are not compatible with one another.
 
The home visit is particularly critical to determine the general lifestyle, financial capability and individual responsibility of members of the household, so in the case of group homes, it is recommended that two PAW volunteers conduct the home visit and discuss their observations with others on the Review Committee.
 
4. On/Off Leash Handling and Dog Parks
 
On/Off Leash Handling –
 
PAW requires that adopted dogs be walked on-leash when in unfenced areas. Any dog can give into instinct, break voice command and run off. And very few people are able to train even the most obedient dog to achieve reliable voice control over a dog’s behavior. PAW tries to protect the dogs it rescues by requiring that adopters keep the dog on leash when not in a fully fenced area. It’s also why PAW application reviewers place great importance on applicants’ intentions regarding the use of leashes.
 
If an applicant indicates that their previous dogs went off-leash in unfenced areas, reviewers will consider the individual circumstances. Considerations include whether the applicant’s previous off-leash activity was in connection with obedience trials, agility training, fly ball or search-and-rescue, and whether the applicant understands why a PAW dog cannot be let off-leash in unfenced areas.
 
An applicant who indicates off-leash intentions may still be considered for a PAW adoption, provided that after the application reviewer or foster caregiver explains the dangers, the applicant accepts PAW’s on-leash requirement as stated in the Adoption Contract.
 
Note: If an applicant/adopter lives in a jurisdiction that permits use of voice control in place of a leash, clarify that the PAW adoption contract’s on-leash requirement still applies.
 
Dog Parks –
 
Unfamiliar dogs and insufficient fencing/gating pose a risk of injury to dogs at dog parks. Transmission of disease and parasites is another problem. Importantly, dog parks are not wise choices for dogs who have exhibited anxiety or antagonism when with other dogs, or dogs who are easily stressed. Therefore, PAW recommends caution in selecting and using dog parks
 
5. Incidents with Previous Pets
 
Applicants Who Have Given Up Past Pets –
 
PAW looks for a pet history that includes commitment over the long run. Applicants who have previously given up pets may or may not be prepared to keep a pet for the pet’s lifetime and/or resolve pet-related problems. So PAW gathers details about the year the pet was given up, why, attempts to resolve the problem, to whom the applicant gave the pet, and whether the applicant followed up after re- homing the pet.
 
Examples: An applicant who gave up a dog three years ago because the dog grew too large or annoyed a new spouse would not be a good candidate to adopt a PAW dog. Nor would an applicant who left a cat to a county shelter due to spraying or scratching the furniture. However, PAW might accept an applicant whose dog became aggressive with their children, who took the time to re-home the dog carefully, and then who waited several years until the family was in a very stable position to adopt a dog. PAW might also approve an applicant whose family gave up a pet years ago but who provides evidence of having done thorough research, acquired the knowledge to solve pet problems and prepared for a successful adoption.
 
Previous Pets Hit by a Car –
 
It is important to interview each applicant to get to know the individual as well as to gather details about the circumstances of the incident. Did the pet get loose in an unfortunate but singular incident, such as a family visitor accidentally letting the pet run out a door, or the owner tripping and dropping the leash? Or is there indication that the person has a pattern of carelessness? Seek as many facts as possible and try to assess the person’s current attitude and responsibility level.
 
6. Special Dog Placement Considerations
 
Dog Behavior-Related Placement Considerations –
 
The behavior of individual dogs can make them more suited to some households than others. A dog prone to barking or howling might not work out in a multi-unit dwelling with thin walls. A dog with separation anxiety often requires an owner with patience and a flexible schedule to help the dog learn to adjust to being left alone.
We need to carefully evaluate the chosen dog as best as possible before any placement, particularly for placements in homes with children.
 
Breed-Specific Legislation –
 
Many areas have breed-specific legislation directed at restricting or banning ownership of certain breeds of dogs. For example, Prince George’s County bans ownership of American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and mixes resembling Pit Bull-type dogs. Dogs of these types who were owned in the county prior to the law were generally grandfathered in; however, the law prohibits residents from bringing new Pit Bulls into the county. While PAW strongly opposes breed-specific legislation, we are unable to make placements that would violate a jurisdiction’s breed ban. For more information, contact the individual jurisdiction’s Animal Control/Management facility.
 
Only-Dog Placements –
 
If a dog exhibits anti-social behavior towards other dogs, it is best to seek an only-dog adoptive home. Such behavior may stem from the dog’s upbringing and lack of proper exposure to other dogs during the puppy socialization period. Nonetheless, dogs reactive to other dogs in an aggressive manner should not be placed in a household with a dog. Similarly, a PAW dog who does not get along with cats must not be placed in a family with cats.
 
7. Alternative Arrangements: Foster-to-Adopt Placements, and Delayed Contracts
 
An alternative to the typical adoption is a foster-to-adopt arrangement. An applicant might be invited to foster the dog they would like to adopt for a trial period, such as six weeks. This approach might be used for a first-time dog owner and/or boarded dog whose behavior in a home is not known. This alternative is used in rare situations and requires very careful consideration, since moving a dog place to place is stressful to the dog. The applicant would receive a Foster Guide and sign a foster agreement with added provisions about intent to adopt. If the placement is successful, a contract will be signed after the foster period, if not sooner. Ongoing follow- up by the PAW volunteer making the arrangement is strongly suggested. If the applicant does not wish to adopt the dog, they will return the dog to PAW or continue fostering the dog as a regular foster.
 
In some instances of uncertainty about the suitability of a dog due to other pets in the family, the application reviewers may suggest a trial placement and a delayed contract for a maximum of one week. This provision would be added to the adoption contract, and the applicant would provide the donation fee, which would be held until the trial period ends.
 
Multiple Adoptions –
 
In general, PAW will not place a dog with an applicant who recently acquired a dog unless the applicant demonstrates the ability and willingness to take the substantial time needed to acclimate the new dog while meeting the other dog’s needs. It is easy for the new addition to pick up the behaviors, good or bad, of the resident dog. We’ve found that it’s best to advise applicants to spend at least six months helping the first dog adjust and learn good house manners before adding another dog to the household.
 
Returns –
 
Make sure prospective adopters understand that they must return the dog to PAW (vs. giving the dog to a local shelter or acquaintance) if they cannot keep the dog. In the case of an adopter who becomes incapacitated and wishes to transfer the adopted dog to a trusted friend or relative, PAW is to be notified.
Encourage adopters to seek help from PAW volunteers, canine behavior professionals and books before reaching the point of wanting to give up the dog. Education and following up with adopters are critical parts of the adoption process.
 
Preparing Adopters and Following Up –
 
Educated owners are more capable of safely managing their dogs and keeping them for life. Provide prospective adopters with cautionary advice and complete information about the chosen dog.
In addition, explain that changes in family structure or living arrangements will affect the dog, who may exhibit stress in the form of housebreaking accidents and other behavior changes. The dog will probably need help from the owner to adjust to household changes.
 
After placement, follow-up by the foster caregiver or volunteer making the placement will benefit the dog and owner alike. The volunteer who placed the dog should follow up with the adopters by phone, e-mail or both. This provides a good opportunity for the adopter to ask questions about any behavioral or other issues.
 

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