Adoption FAQs

Q: Are the animals on the Dogwood (www.dogwoodanimalrescue.org) website currently available for adoption?

A: Yes!  That said, once adopted, it could take up to a day or two for the photo to be removed.


Q: How do I get an adoption application for a dog or cat? 

A: Our applications are available online:

Dog adoption applications:  https://dogwoodanimalrescue.org/adoption-application/ 

Cat adoption applications:  https://dogwoodanimalrescue.org/adoption-application-cats/ 


Q: How do I request a specific animal?

A: Please indicate on the adoption application the specific animal you are applying for.  Our adoption team will contact you to review your application with you once it is approved.


Q: What if I am interested in more than one animal?

A: We do ask applicants to limit their interest to a maximum of 2 animals at one time. If the animal you’ve expressed interest in has been adopted simply email the team another animal of interest/


Q: I submitted my application, now what? What is the adoption process?

A: The adoption team will review each application, verify references for instance, contacting your veterinarian (if you have had one for other pets) and your landlord (to verify it is permissible to have a pet in your current living situation).  Applicants that match the animals needs the best will then have a telephone interview with our adoption team to ensure it’s a match for one of Dogwood’s rescued animals.

Once the adopter is approved to adopt the specific animal, then a visit is scheduled.  Because all of our animals are being fostered in private homes, we do not have open visiting—it is all through our application, screening, approval and appointment process. 

Finally—most animals have dozens of applications submitted.  In these cases, our team works closely with all approved applicants to ensure the very best placement for this specific animal.  At this time, if you are notified that you have not been selected, please email the adoption team (info@dogwoodanimalrescue.org) if you are interested in being considered for a future dog or cat and watch our social media pages and website for other available animals. We ask that you apply for no more than 2 animals at one time.


Q: What happens at the animal visit appointment?

A: Please bring all members of your household to meet the dog or cat.  Adopting a new pet is a family process—we want to be assured that every family member is going to love our animals!


Q: Once I am selected, what do I bring on adoption day?

A: Please bring a leash for a dog, an animal crate with soft blanket/towel padding and the appropriate funds for the adoption fee. 


Q: What if we have another dog or cat—should we bring them to the visit?

A: Please plan this visit with our adoption team.  Depending upon the animal, and your pet, you may be asked to return for a second visit to assure both you and our team that the match is safe for each animal.


Q: If the visits go well and we are selected to adopt the animal how soon can we take the animal home?

A: Depending upon the age and condition of the animal you may be able to take the animal home immediately following your visit or when older or health issues are resolved.