What Are the Requirements to Adopt a Pet?
Pet adoption requirements vary depending on where you’re adopting a pet from. Some Organization have more strict requirements to adopt a pet than others, so it’s important to know what is needed of you before you start the adoption process. Typically, organizations have more requirements to adopt a pet than a breeder, but it depends on each organization.
What Do You Need to Adopt a Pet from an Organization?
- Application
- The first pet adoption requirement is to submit an application. Most organizations take applications on a first-come basis, so if you see a pet you’re interested in, make sure you’re ready to fill out and submit the application quickly.
- The application can be a straightforward questionnaire or a more in-depth survey. You may also need to provide references, verify that your landlord allows pets, submit income verification, or complete a home visit before your application is accepted.
- Home Visit
- Organizations may want a specific environment for the pets that they adopt out. A representative of the organization may visit your home to make sure your home is suitable and safe for the pet. A larger pet may require a fenced yard or a senior pet may need a home without stairs. Staff will let you know if a home visit is needed before adopting a pet.
- Age Requirements
- Most organizations will require you to be at least 18 years old to adopt a pet.
- Valid Identification
- In order to verify your age and where you live, you’ll need to provide valid identification to organization staff.
- Family Meet and Greet
- It’s a good idea to make sure everyone in the family gets along with the new pet, which is why most organizations require a family meet-and-greet before adoption. Everyone in the home, including the pets that already live with you, should meet the pet you want to adopt to see if they’ll be a good fit for your family. Organization staff wants to see that a pet is adopted into a comfortable and loving environment.
- Adoption Fee
- Lastly, depending on where you decide to adopt a pet from, the adoption fee will vary in costs. The adoption fee typically covers basic veterinary care (like initial shots, microchipping, and spay or neuter), as well as housing, food, and transportation the pet received while they were in the care of the organization.
- Each organization may have different requirements to adopt a pet, but these details can help them to ensure that an animal is adopted into a safe home. Check their(organization’s) website before visiting to know what to bring with you so the application process is quick and smooth.
How do I find out what an organization’s policies are?
- If you’re interested in a specific pet, please reach out to the organization that has that pet.
- You can contact the organization by clicking “Chat with rescuer” feature on the post posted on Petaraa by the organization where you can clear all your queries directly with the organization regarding the process and their policies.
