Our Adoption Program is one of our three main programs, in addition to Spay/Neuter and Pet Retention, to help pets in need across Washington. With our Adoption Program, we focus on helping animal adoption agencies in Washington find homes for the homeless dogs and cats in their care by increasing adoption opportunities.

Below is a list of common questions we receive regarding our adoption programs. If your question is not answered here, please email us at [email protected]. 

Q: Do you know what animals will be at the event?
A: We are often contacted before an event asking whether we will have a specific breed of dog or type of cat. It is hard to say exactly what kinds of dog or type of cats will be attending, because most of the adoption agencies do not know which animals they are bringing until a few days before, or even the day of, the event. You can visit the organizations' websites to view their available dogs and cats. Please contact them directly, if you are interested in a specific animal. Even though we cannot assure you a specific animal will attend, there will always be a variety of breeds, ages, sizes and energy levels at each event.

Q: True or False: The best ones go first. 
A: False: Every pet is great and unique. Your family's needs are unique too. Come and meet adoptable pets at any time during the event. Our Dog Concierges will be on hand to help you find your best friend, no matter when you arrive. Be patient during the meet and greet process, the events are full of excitement and it may take some time to find the right pet for your circumstances. Meet with the dogs, snuggle with the cats, and talk with the rescues to find out about each animal's specific needs.

Q: What is the adoption fee and the process?
A: Adoption fees vary among adoption agencies. Often we will set an adoption fee range for the event, but there may be special circumstances and the fee for a particular animal may be higher or lower than the range. All animals may be higher or lower than the range. All animals are spayed/neutered, up to date on shots, temperament tested, and many are also micro-chipped. Each adoption agency has their own application and approval process. When you find an animal in which you are interested, let the adoption agency know and they will walk you through the process.

Q: Will I be able to bring a pet home that day? 
A: Most adoption agencies are prepared to do same day adoptions; however, some groups require a home visit, or they have younger animals at the event who aren't quite old enough to go home. In these cases, adoption applications can be completed with the agency and arrangements for completing the adoption process coordinated. Note: If you are a renter, agencies typically require written proof that your landlord will allow a pet.

Q: Should I bring the dog I currently have to a dog adoption event? 
A: Yes, we encourage families to bring their current dog to the event to introduce him/her to available dogs. Trainers may also be able to give their opinions on whether your current pet is a good match to your prospective new pet.

Q: Do you have any tips for when I bring my new pet home?
A: For a list of helpful tips and resources to help transition your new pet into your home, visit our Pet Retention page. Many of our evens host on site trainers and behaviorists, as well as out Dog Concierge volunteers to help answer your questions during and after the event. 

Q: Why is the adoption fee so high when I can get a pet free from Craigslist?
A: Adoption from a reputable organization is a great value. The cost of spaying and neutering alone anger from $110 for a male to over $200 for a female dog. Adoption agencies also include shots and often a microchip. In addition to monetary expenses associated with spay/neuter and vaccinations, you will need time to go to and from the vet and provide post op care. The adoption fee is really a great deal. 

Contact us if you want to volunteer, participate in an event, run a shelter or rescue, or are a business that wants to help save lives by partnering with us on these events.