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Adoption FAQs

Frequently asked questions about adoption

How do i adopt? 

Take a look at our available pets page, depending on what type of pet you're interested in adopting. Note a few different animals that stand out to you and their location (for example, are they in foster home, a cattery or at our headquarters)? 

We also ask that you are open to recommendations on other pets to meet.

Our adoption counselors know these dogs and cats and may be able to help match you to a pet that fits your lifestyle. Once you find the pet you're ready to adopt, you'll fill out an adoption application and any additional paperwork. You'll also chat with our staff about any question, follow ups or post-adoption instructions required. 

What is the return policy?
Please email us at adopt@arerescue.org to start the return process. Specify the reason you want to return your pet so that our team can assist you as quickly as possible. Please be advised that the return will not be effective immediately and our team will work with you to answer questions and coordinate next steps. Depending on the amount of space we have available, not all animals are eligible for return at any time.

 

If you have behavior concerns that you hope to resolve, contact behavior@arerescue.org. We offer lifetime behavior support for all our adopted animals and would love to work with you to keep your pet in your home!

Can i get my adoption donation refunded?
Unfortunately, we are not able to refund adoption donations as these donations have already been put to good use to help us save even more lives. Our adoption team members are trained to help you find the pet that will be a fit for your home based on your current lifestyle, other pets in the home, etc.; however we understand that sometimes, adoptions just don't work out. 

We are willing to work through any issues that arise and depending on the situation we may be able to offer an exchange (if the pup you chose doesn't get along with an existing pet for example). If you are having behavior concerns, please reach out to behavior@arerescue.org for support.

Can i do a trial adoption?

We do trial adoptions in certain situations, but usually just for our adult dogs. Trial adoptions are not available for cats. If you are interested in a trial adoption, speak with an adoption counselor about your situation. If a trial adoption is approved for your situation, you will still need to pay the adoption fee and fill out the adoption paperwork. 

 

We will not do trial adoptions for puppies. Young animals will almost always get along with other pets in the home. If you have a concern about introducing a young pet to your current pets, please talk to an adoption counselor. 

 

 

What do I do with my new pet if he/she gets sick after i adopt him/her?

You should pursue medical care with a private vet as ARE Animal Rescue cannot continue to provide treatment after adoption. As a part of our adoption process, there is an offer for Metlife pet insurance through Shelterluv, which covers your new pet's emergency medical care starting at midnight on the day you adopt. You can learn more by visiting their website https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/ or by contacting Metlife at 855-693-1497 or emailing pet_info@metlife.com. If you're concerned about medical costs for your new addition, pet insurance is a great way to get peace of mind and to be sure your new pet will get the care they need in the event of unforeseen illness or emergency.

 

Is my new pet vaccinated?

Yes, your new pet will be current on all age-appropriate vaccinations at the time of adoption. From there, you will be responsible for keeping the dog or cat up-to-date on vaccines. You will receive a link to access your pet's vaccination history in your adoption follow up email.

 

 

What if I'm having problems with my new pet?
Our volunteers try to set the right expectations about anything we know about the pet you adopt (dogs/puppies needing training and possibly housebreaking, separation anxiety, sociabilities, etc). If you are experiencing a behavior problem, we want to help you fix it.


If you need help with behavior issues, please contact behavior@arerescue.org

How do I know what cat is right for me?
Contact adopt@arerescue.org with the specifics of the type of cat you are looking for (age, gender, color, etc). We'll get back to you with some potential cats that might fit best in your home. 


 

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