Find Dogs For Adoption In Your Area | Alpha Paw (2024)

FAQs

How do I pass my dog adoption interview? ›

Ask a Lot of Questions

The rescue wants to know that you're committed to providing a forever home. Put together a list of questions you have about the animal. You'll want to ask about any behavioral or health issues that will need to be addressed and be prepared to explain how you'll handle them.

What to look for when adopting includes factors like personality, health, behavior, size, and other important considerations. You should look for a dog who is friendly and eager to make a connection; a dog whose exercise requirements fit your lifestyle; and a dog who is appropriately sized for your home.

Get help from shelters and rescue groups.

As a last resort, you may be able to surrender your pet to a local shelter or rescue organization. Each agency will have a different process for surrendering a pet to their care; learn more by visiting their website or by calling ahead.

Your local animal shelter or rescue organization can help you find the right match for your family. There are also breed-specific rescue groups for every breed of dog, including "designer" or "hybrids" like labradoodles and puggles.

As your puppy gets older gradually increase the total amount of time you leave them alone. Adult dogs are generally okay on their own for 4-6 hours a day. But, many dogs are good at adapting to being alone for 8-9 hours while you are at work if they are provided with enough space to comfortably move around.

If you are rehoming a dog who has bitten a person or other animal, it's important to be fully transparent about the dog's bite history. Depending on the situation and severity of the bite, rescue groups may not be able to rehome the dog ethically or legally.

Take your pet to a good shelter or rescue.

The best have behavior departments or working relationships with qualified professionals to modify difficult behaviors in order to make dogs more likely to succeed in their next, hopefully final, homes.

How to tell if a dog is a good fit? ›

Always consider the qualities and personality you want, before size and appearance. For example, a large shepherd-mix might do better than an energetic terrier in an apartment. Think about your lifestyle and habits and determine which breed is best suited to you.

Consider a doggy diaper if concerned, especially for older dogs. Take the dog to doggy day care or a run through the park before the interview. Make clear that you will pay for any damages the dog might ever cause. Check with your vet if you are considering using a sedative.

For example, the counselor may ask what type of food you plan to feed or who will care for your pet when you're out of town or in an emergency. They may also ask if you're prepared to handle unexpected veterinary expenses. If you're adopting a dog, there is almost always an in-person meet-and-greet.

Pet interview questions to ask

How old is your pet and how long have you had him or her? Can you provide documentation from your vet that he or she is up to date on required vaccinations? Has he or she been spayed or neutered? Is he or she house-trained?

Have you personally witnessed their care and treatment of animals, and do you feel that they would be a good and responsible pet parent for the pet's entire life? Do they currently have any other pets and how many of each type? Are you aware of any history of rehoming or abuse/neglect to animals?