Frequently Asked Questions
Adoption:
What is your adoption process?
To adopt one of our loving dogs, start by browsing our available pets and submitting our online adoption application for the one(s) that capture your heart. Once we receive your application, our dedicated team will review it carefully and contact you to discuss further. If we determine it's a good match, we'll schedule a home visit to ensure the best possible environment for your new companion. Following approval, we'll arrange a meet and greet between you and the adoptable dog. If the connection is right, you'll be able to take home your newest family member!
Why is the adoption process so thorough?
At Paws Rescue League Inc., we prioritize our dogs' lifelong happiness through a rigorous adoption process. Many of our dogs have overcome difficult pasts and deserve stability. We carefully match dogs with compatible homes, ensuring safe, loving environments. Our thorough process minimizes trauma and stress, promoting joyful futures.
Where did my new dog come from?
The majority of our adoptable dogs are rescued from overpopulated kill shelters in east Tennessee. Additionally, some of the dogs that we take in are surrendered by their owners locally in New England. Unfortunately, the level of background information we receive on our dogs varies, ranging from stray histories to owner surrenders. Despite this, we prioritize transparency throughout the adoption process. We share all available information about each dog, including their known history, personality, health, and training. While many details may be unknown, our team provides valuable insights gained from the dog's time in foster care.
DO YOU KNOW THE medical HISTORY OF MY DOG?
When you adopt, your new dog will be current on all age-appropriate Core vaccinations. However, it's crucial to maintain regular veterinary care to ensure their continued health. The adoption folder provided contains all medical records since intake, including vaccination history, spay/neuter information (if applicable), microchip ID, and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention dates. To ensure a seamless transition, please schedule an initial veterinary appointment within two weeks of adoption to review your dog's medical history, discuss future vaccinations, and establish a routine care plan. This commitment will help your new pet flourish in their forever home.
*Paws Rescue League Inc. is not responsible for spay/neuter costs for dogs under 6 months of age.
*Paws Rescue League Inc. is not responsible for spay/neuter costs for dogs under 6 months of age.
can i adopt if i live in a condo, townhome, apartment, or rent a home?
Yes! Before adopting, please verify that your complex allows pets and note any weight or breed restrictions. You will have to commit to providing adequate physical and mental stimulation, such as regular walks and dog park visits, to compensate for the lack of a yard. However, our senior or smaller pets may perfectly suit smaller homes and low-maintenance lifestyles. We require landlord approval, but many of our pets have found happy homes with renting families!
Am i required to crate train my dog?
While we do not require that any dog be crate trained, we strongly encourage crate training for adopted dogs, especially in multi-animal households, to ensure a smooth transition. Crate training offers numerous benefits, including efficient housebreaking and training, providing a safe haven for relaxation, sleeping and play, preventing destructive behavior and harm when left alone, and giving owners peace of mind.
Contrary to misconceptions, crate training is a valuable and humane method, not cruel or mean. Our experienced volunteers are available to provide guidance and support to help you successfully crate train your dog.
Contrary to misconceptions, crate training is a valuable and humane method, not cruel or mean. Our experienced volunteers are available to provide guidance and support to help you successfully crate train your dog.
WILL I GET TO ADOPT THE DOG THAT I APPLIED FOR?
We process applications in the order they are received, and we evaluate each application based on best match for the dog. We will do our best to match you with the dog of your choice, but in the end our priority is finding a good fit for each of our dogs. If we feel that the dog you applied for is not a good fit, we may suggest another dog(s) that more closely matches what you are looking for.
CAN I ADOPT IF I LIVE IN MASSACHUSETTS oR MAINE?
No, unfortunately we are unable to adopt to residents of MA or ME at this time, due to strict quarantine laws in these states.
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Fostering:
Do I get to pick my foster dog?
In advance of each transport, our Foster Team shares a list of dogs traveling to New England and in need of temporary homes through our Foster Volunteer Facebook group (available to approved foster volunteers only). These posts, typically made a week prior to transportation, include details such as the dog's name, age, breed, weight, and a brief bio - and of course a picture! If you are interested in fostering, simply comment on the post to express your interest. Periodically, we will also need to move foster dogs already in New England due to circumstances like vacations, emergencies, or compatibility issues. By joining our foster community and staying informed through our "fosters needed" posts, you can provide love, care, and support to dogs in transition and help them find their forever homes.
How long would i have a foster DOG for?
As a foster family, we ask that you care for your dog until adoption. If you have an upcoming vacation or need to stop fostering, please notify us as soon as possible. As a volunteer-run organization, timely updates enable us to find alternative care and coordinate with other fosters. By actively participating in your dog's adoption process, you can significantly increase their chances of finding a forever home! Posting your foster on social media and attending adoption events with them exposes them to a wider audience, potentially leading to a quicker adoption. Many of our dogs are adopted within 4-6 weeks upon arrival to New England, however that timeframe can vary depending on the dog, how involved you are with promoting your foster, and how busy adoption applications are at any given moment.
What are the requirements to foster?
- 19+ years old
- Completed Foster Application (3 non-family personal references, background check, virtual home visit)
- Homeowner/landlord permission
- Agreement of all members of the household
- If you have personal pets, they must be up to date on vaccinations and spayed/neutered (vet reference required)
- Provide love, care, and a safe environment!
what are my responsibilities as a foster?
As a foster, you'll play a vital role in a dog's journey to their forever home. Your responsibilities include providing a safe, clean, and loving environment, monitoring any medical or behavioral issues, and transporting your foster dog to necessary veterinary appointments and adoption events. Additionally, we will rely on you to provide updated pictures/videos of your foster dog and information about their personality, likes and dislikes, quirks, etc. This will help us keep their bio up to date and ensure that we are matching them to a suitable adopter. Your love, care, and attention will help your foster dog thrive and become a well-adjusted companion for their future family!
What if i can't attend each event?
Adoption events are optional, but we highly recommend attending at least 1 event per month with your foster dog if you are able to (and if the dog would do well in an event environment - some dogs are not suited for a busy event environment, and that's ok too!). Exposure at events often results in dogs getting adopted more quickly, and it's a great opportunity to connect with fellow foster volunteers! If you would like your foster dog to attend an event but you are unable to bring them, we may be able to locate another volunteer who can make arrangements to bring them for you.
What if i'm afraid i'd become too attached?
This is probably our most asked question. Fostering is a uniquely rewarding experience and it can certainly be emotional at times, but we think it's worth it. Some foster dogs will seamlessly integrate into your life, while others will require a bit more time and patience to settle in, but they will all leave their mark. It can be tough to say goodbye when they find their forever homes (especially the first time you go through it), but watching your foster dog blossom in your care and then witnessing their new family shower them with love and affection is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing we've saved a life and played a part in their journey is unparalleled. Most of our foster volunteers will tell you that it gets easier with time and that the fastest way to get over the sadness of saying goodbye to a foster dog is to take in the next one :)
And, to put it bluntly, foster homes are the difference between life and death for most of the dogs that we rescue. Without foster homes, we cannot continue saving dogs, and dogs will die. So yes, you may find yourself getting attached to your foster dog and you may have a hard time saying goodbye, but it is better than the alternative of that dog not getting a chance at all.
And, to put it bluntly, foster homes are the difference between life and death for most of the dogs that we rescue. Without foster homes, we cannot continue saving dogs, and dogs will die. So yes, you may find yourself getting attached to your foster dog and you may have a hard time saying goodbye, but it is better than the alternative of that dog not getting a chance at all.
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General Questions:
How long will it take for my dog to adjust?
When adopting a new dog, remember the 3-3-3 rule to understand their adjustment period:
- In the first three days with your new dog, expect an adjustment period as they navigate unfamiliar surroundings. It's normal for them to feel overwhelmed, leading to changes in appetite, behavior, and mood. Some dogs may withdraw, seeking comfort in a quiet space, while others may test boundaries to understand household rules. Provide patience, calmness, and understanding, and establish a gentle routine to ease their transition. Avoid forcing interaction or overwhelming them with new experiences, giving them time to settle in and feel secure. With time and gentle guidance, your new companion will gradually become their authentic self, allowing you to build a strong and loving bond.
- After three weeks, your new dog has begun to settle into their new life. They're feeling more comfortable, secure, and familiar with their surroundings and daily routine. As they let their guard down, their true personality will emerge, and potential behavior issues may arise. This is a crucial time to ensure you are setting clear boundaries and reinforcing positive behaviors. Consistency and guidance will help your dog understand what's expected, addressing any emerging issues and fostering a well-adjusted, well-behaved companion.
- After three months, your dog has fully settled into their new home, surrounded by familiarity and comfort. A strong bond, built on trust, has formed between you and your dog, providing them with a sense of security. Your dog now confidently navigates their environment and exhibits calmness in your presence. This foundation enables continued training, socialization, and growth, cementing a lifelong connection.
What does my adoption fee include?
The adoption fee reimburses Paws Rescue League Inc. for essential veterinary and transport costs incurred for each dog. This comprehensive fee goes towards:
Your adoption supports not only your new companion's care but also our mission to rescue and care for more dogs. By adopting, you contribute to the well-being of your new pet and the future of others in need.
Please be aware that our adoption fees are non-refundable. These fees cover critical expenses related to rescuing, transporting, and caring for dogs, including veterinary care, overhead, and administrative costs. By proceeding with adoption, you acknowledge and agree to this policy. Your understanding helps us continue our vital work in saving dogs in need.
- General wellness exam(s);
- Core vaccinations (age-appropriate - DHPP, Leptospirosis, Rabies, may also include Bordetella);
- Heartworm or 4DX testing (age-appropriate);
- Fecal/Parasitology testing;
- Heartworm prevention;
- Parasite prevention (if needed);
- Spay/neuter (age appropriate, excluding dogs under 6 months);
- Microchip and microchip registration;
- Any additional vetting that may be recommended by our partnered veterinarians;
- Health Certificate for Transport;
- Transport expenses;
- Other rescue-related overhead and administrative costs
Your adoption supports not only your new companion's care but also our mission to rescue and care for more dogs. By adopting, you contribute to the well-being of your new pet and the future of others in need.
Please be aware that our adoption fees are non-refundable. These fees cover critical expenses related to rescuing, transporting, and caring for dogs, including veterinary care, overhead, and administrative costs. By proceeding with adoption, you acknowledge and agree to this policy. Your understanding helps us continue our vital work in saving dogs in need.
How do i make proper introductions?
Proper introductions are essential, especially with existing dogs, small children, and cats. Avoid surprising your current dog with an unexpected newcomer, as this can lead to confusion, anxiety, and territorial behavior. Even if your current dog is well-socialized in public, home introductions can be challenging. A phased introduction approach is key. To conduct a successful meet and greet, meet on neutral ground with two people walking the dogs together on leashes - you with your dog and the foster or another person with the new dog. This approach can be applied both before adoption and when introducing the dogs at home. Begin by keeping the dogs apart, approximately six feet or more, and walk together for 10-15 minutes. This allows them to become familiar with each other's presence without feeling threatened. Gradually decrease the distance between the dogs to two or three feet, continuing to monitor their behavior. If both dogs appear relaxed, it's time for the next step. Allow the dogs to sniff each other's backsides, observing their body language carefully. Positive signs include wiggly bodies and tails, while negative signs such as growling, teeth baring, or stiff bodies indicate discomfort. If you notice any adverse reactions, restart the introduction process. If all goes smoothly, short play sessions can follow, gradually increasing interaction time. Remember to reward calm behavior and provide separate spaces for each dog if needed.
Do you accept donations?
Rescuing and providing care for dogs in need requires significant financial resources. Monetary donations support vital services like veterinary care and transportation. You can also contribute through in-kind donations, such as unopened food, toys, treats, and pet supplies. Visit our wishlists on Amazon & Chewy to donate essential items. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to our mission of rescuing dogs at risk of euthanasia and placing them in loving forever homes. Thank you for your generosity!
Are my donations to paws rescue league tax deductible?
Yes! Paws Rescue League Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. This means that you may be able to claim donations that you make on your taxes.
Please check with a tax professional if you have any further questions.
Please check with a tax professional if you have any further questions.
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