Photo from HoundHaven
Step by Step Adoption Guide
The process for adopting a retired service dog can be a bit different than adopting a pet out of a pet store. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the adoption process so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Find a Shelter
The first step is to find a reputable shelter which fosters retired service dogs. Often times, regular dog shelters don’t house service dogs and you can only find them in specialized shelters such as HoundHaven or even through the agencies they come from such as the PDEA.
2. Submit Adoption Form
These shelters often require you to fill out an adoption form that goes over basic information and to request for an interview with the shelter to see if you’re fit to adopt.
3. Interview with Shelter
Here the shelter will hold an interview with you at the arranged time, often online, to ask you some questions about yourself to see if you’re qualified to adopt one of their dogs.
4. Choose a Dog and Fostering Period
This is where you can visit the shelter and pick out a dog to temporarily foster. This time period acts as a trial for whether or not the dog, yourself, and other members of your household such as other pets, people, or children, are comfortable with each other.
5. Fostering Period with Updates
During this period, you monitor how the dog behaves in your house and reacts to both you and others around you. This is a chance to establish and figure out what type of routine/lifestyle works for the dog as well. You’re also expected to send updates to the shelter regarding how the fostering period is going.
6. Accomplish Adoption Waiver
Once the fostering period is over and you’re cleared by the shelter for adoption, you’ll have to sign an adoption waiver to be able to legally adopt the dog from the shelter.
7. Pay Adoption Fee
These shelters often have an adoption fee for their dogs to keep the shelter running as well as to make sure adopters don’t adopt their dogs recklessly. The fee is typically around 7,500PHP so be prepared with that amount of money if you’re planning to adopt.
8. Pick Up Your New Buddy!
Now you’re free to take your new buddy home, most likely they’ll already be comfortable within your home due to the previous fostering period. However, make sure not to forget any medical needs or training that they might require. Have a happy adoption life!