Adopt
How adoption works
It is more process than a pet store, and that is deliberate. Most of these animals have already been given up on once. The steps below exist so it does not happen twice.
Step by step
The whole sequence
- 01
You send an application
Tell the rescue about your household, experience, current animals, and the animal you are interested in.
- 02
The team reviews it
A coordinator reviews the application and completes any veterinary, landlord, or personal-reference checks the rescue currently requires.
- 03
The team follows up
The rescue may ask clarifying questions or suggest another animal whose needs are a better match for your home.
- 04
You meet the animal
When the timing and match are right, the team explains where and how to meet the animal safely.
- 05
Final checks
The rescue completes any remaining policy checks and confirms that the household and animal are ready for placement.
- 06
Your coordinator finalizes it
Your coordinator provides the correct contract, fee, payment instructions, pickup details, and post-adoption support information.
What we ask
Requirements, plainly stated
- Everyone in the household should participate in the decision.
- If you rent, confirm that your landlord, property manager, or HOA allows the animal.
- Provide complete, current information about every animal already in the home.
Common questions
Before you ask us
- How long does adoption take?
- Timing varies by rescue, animal, and the checks needed for a safe match. The adoption team can tell you what to expect for a current application.
- Can I meet an animal before applying?
- Meeting requirements vary by rescue and animal. Check the animal listing and events page, or contact the adoption team for current instructions.
- Do you adopt outside your service area?
- Geographic requirements can vary by animal. Contact the adoption team before applying from outside the rescue’s service area.
- Can I adopt an animal as a gift for someone?
- Gift-adoption rules vary. The person who will live with the animal should contact the adoption team before anyone applies or pays.
- What if I already have pets?
- Include every current animal on the application. The team will explain any veterinary records or introductions needed for the match.
- What does the adoption fee cover?
- Fees and included care vary by rescue and animal. The listing or adoption coordinator will provide the current amount and payment instructions.
Still stuck? Send us a message or email adoptions@ballwegrescue.example.