please read before you fill out an application
The first step in the process is to read our guidelines for adopting a dog and then fill out an application online. It is best to use a computer vs a mobile device. An application can be found under the photo and description of the dog listed on our website. Just click on the “ADOPT” AVAILABLE DOGS button (top menu) and scroll through the dogs.
Once you have filled out the application, please give us a day or so to review it. Please understand that we are not a "first come, first serve" rescue, we try to make the right match for both the dog and the adopter.
Puppies and some adults must be adopted to homes where someone is home during the day. This could be people working from home, working different shifts, homemakers, and retired people. Working people: Please bear in mind that puppies need lots of socialization so we cannot place them in homes where they will sit alone all day. Even coming home for lunch is not enough for a young puppy. Animal shelters are loaded with dogs who did not get the proper puppy socialization and we do not want to add to the problem. Puppies need time and attention.
After we review your application and it appears you will be a good fit ...you will receive an email with further questions and we will request photos of your home and fenced in yard. We may also elect to do a home visit. Please check your email often and spam folder.
Once your application has been approved, then you may give a $50 deposit to hold the dog/puppy until it can leave for adoption. You will receive an approval email with our address, and an online calendar link where you can schedule your adoption appointment. The deposit is refundable if you come to your appointment and decide not to adopt. The deposit is non-refundable if you cancel your appointment; it is used as a donation towards the shelter. If you continue with the adoption, the fee is deducted from your total adoption fee.
We require a fully fenced in back yard. ( unless otherwise noted in the dogs description ) A door exiting your home must go directly to the fenced in area. The fence must be attached to your home. We will not approve any kennel, pen or fence that is not attached to your home and there must be a door in your home for the dog to enter the fenced in area. You do not have to break your piggy bank in order to purchase a fence. In fact, a fence that we prefer is very affordable. Home Depot - YARDGARD Green Vinyl Coated Welded Wire Fence. You can buy this at Home Depot for just over $1 a foot and put it up in an afternoon. We like it because it goes flush to the ground so that dogs cannot squeeze under, as they would with a stockade fence, and they cannot climb it, as they can with a chain link fence. 4-5' high is adequate for the majority of our dogs.
We will not approve invisible fences unless the dog for adoption has already been trained on one which will be indicated on the adoption description
If you live on a busy road, we require a front entry way or breezeway at minimum. This is for the dog's safety so that the dog does not dart out into the street
We may deny an application for any reason. Especially if we suspect that, you are not being honest on your application. We also will contact your vet. If you do not currently own a dog, we will contact the vet on previous dogs you have owned. If you have never owned a dog this could be a deal breaker for us, and /or Obedience/ Puppy School will be required . We rely on vet references, not references of friends and relatives.
All previous and current dogs must have a history of being on heartworm preventative that can be verified by your vet. If you are not familiar with heartworm disease please do your research.
We seldom adopt to renters…however will consider on a case by case basis
The primary caregiver/ or owner of the home must be the person applying
We do not adopt dogs as gifts
We will seldom adopt dogs to homes with more than 2 dogs, and we will not adopt puppies to homes with more than 1 dog and a meet and greet must be done.
We require a puppy pen or x-pen vs a crate for most puppies under 4 months old. We will provide you with a list of recommended pens. They range in price from $50-$150. The pen must be purchased before your puppy comes home. Sometimes a baby gate in a safe utility room or kitchen can also work. Puppies cannot roam free even if you are home 24/7. A puppy pen offers a safe, anxiety free area where they have their bed, toys, food and disposable training pad. A safe and comfortable place for them when you are unable to take them outside or watch them. We do not believe in crate training for puppies.
We love to adopt to seniors and retired people. However, please keep in mind that a dog may live up to 15 years of age. You will need a plan (as anyone should) if you can no longer take care of your dog. If you are interested in a puppy a co-applicant may be required.
All domestic pets in your home must be spayed/neutered
If you do not meet our adoption criteria please send us an email at indianasaveadogrescue@gmail.com explaining your situation. Please include your name, address and as much info as possible to help us make an informed decision. .
