Read the results of our adoption customer-service survey

I had been looking into adopting a rescued dog from a few of the National breed rescue groups and I have to agree with everyone here. I am shocked at the number of hoops you are forced to jump thru and then in the end these people can come back and take the dog from you if you don't follow their rules- even getting permission from the group before allowing medical care of your dog, checking in with these people monthly, etc.
i had my children as foster children and then adopted them. I did not have this many restrictions or requirements when I adopted my children. I had wanted to show my children that it is important to give an animal a "forever home" but the power hungry rescue groups have ruined this for my kids.
I will now go online and buy a puppy because of the difficulty these groups present.

I've adopted dogs, a cat, and a rabbit in the past and never had a bad experience adopting before. But my latest attempts to adopt a dog have led to nothing but disappointment and heartbreak. I still don't have a dog after several months of searching.

I've had e-mails go unanswered, was told that dogs still listed as available were unavailable, and even approved then turned down by a rescue that I'd previously adopted a dog from! This group also takes any dogs of their breed out of animal control facilities immediately (as opposed to giving the public a chance to adopt first), so, unless I find one in a sensible all-breed rescue, I'll probably get my next dog through a classified ad or a breeder.

My heart aches for all the people and animals negatively affected by the shelters and rescues that insist on finding "perfect" homes.

i agree with the majority of posters in reference to attempting to adopt a pet from a rescue center. It's worse than adopting a baby, but the most hurtful thing is that you wait & wait & wait, and no one at the centers have the courtesy of sending you even an auto-generated e-mail. We are a family in NJ who has a fenced in yard with a 6-foot chain link fence (our yard is almost 1/2 acre with loads of room for a dog to roam) we have experience in giving love to a pet, we have children who also love pets and really gets along well with my mother's lab/shepherd mix, yet the rescues exclude us because our children are under 6. Another thing I find puzzling is why do some rescue organizations charge one fee for mixed breeds and another for purebreds? For example, the fee to adopt a puppy/young dog may be $150, but if that puppy is a purebred, the fee jumps to $300 or more. We are so frustrated - we want to give a forever home to a dog, that it's getting where we are considering a breeder . For a hot second, I was so frustrated that I actually considered a pet shop. But my better sense came over me as we would rather do without a pet than buy one from a pet store!

I finally might have the chance to get a dog now that I moved in to a new apartment with a fenced yard. I have yet to clear it with the landlord, but am very hopeful since they are pet lovers. In the meantime, I just want to see what is available. I would love a German Shepherd dog, but I feel the rescue groups have ridiculous requirements. I agree with those who think a home visit is intrusive, plus the adoption fees are too high. I know I've seen Labrador puppies a few times in the newspaper for $300-$350, and I am thinking about just getting one of them. It would cost less. We had a Lab at my dad's house and he was such a great dog. I have three cats, so I am hoping for a puppy so he can grow up used to cats.

These rescues think of these dogs as "babies". Anyone who knows me can tell you there aren't many animal people more caring and knowledgeable than me, and I definitely prefer animals over people. But they are not babies, they are animals, and there is a natural order to things, even in nature, that people ignore. I say this because if they are treated like babies, they are only going to have behavior issues and are going to be unhappy. My cats are well behaved because I expect them to be. They are adults, not babies. My friend feels the same way I do about the "baby" thing, and her Border Collie puppy is near perfect.

I will keep checking my local SPCA, but I don't really expect to find a puppy there of a breed/mix I would want. Over half the dogs there are Pitbulls, which I know can be great dogs, but it is just not the breed for me. Unfortunately, I am also between vets since my current one is overcharging me and not very helpful, plus I don't trust them. I don't think a vet check would go smoothly right now because I have no idea what the vet would say, and she also volunteers at the local SPCA. My friend and I joke that it’s to clear her conscience of overcharging people. Hopefully in a few months I will finally be comfortable with a new vet and able to move on with my pet adoption.

It is very unfortunate for the pets in those rescue groups. I am extremely good with all animals, but I will not even bother trying to go through a rescue group. It’s also unfortunate that I saw a German Shepherd dog at the local SPCA when my friend was looking for a dog, and he would have been perfect for me if I had already moved, but he was snatched by a German Shepherd rescue group. He is probably still waiting for a good home. Then they wonder why they have so many homeless pets.

I have read a bunch of comments so far and have been looking around for a new puppy to adopt. I am finding the requirements for adopting a dog are more rigorous than bringing home a newborn. I can agree with the price, considering that they take care of and vet the animal, but to need a fence and a home inspection? (do you know how easy it was for us to adopt our first dog? in '01?) I am home all the time and feel I can provide a really great home for a puppy. Anyways, I am discouraged and am starting to see why people buy dogs from a pet store.

I am SO frustrated with my adoption experience in Long Beach, CA!! First, I own my own home, am a stay at home mom with plenty of time to devote to an animal. My husband works nights as an ER nurse and is home all day so if I run errands every few days for an hour or more, he is home with the adopted pet. We have been turned down FOUR times in the past year by animal rescue groups in Long Beach CA! Once, for a dog and 3 times for a cat. The first time was for the dog because at the time I worked days and my husband was home sporadically during the day. The dog would be outside with our other dog, a loving Golden Retriever. They wanted someone home full time. The rejections on the 3 cats were from THREE different rescue groups. The first one was because we mentioned we have one older female cat and the rescue person said that even though the kitty grew up with another cat for it's first 5 years of life (and it was currently 5 years old), that she wanted it to go to a home with no other cats. The second cat rescue person of a different cat we were interested in rejected us because I said front declaw may take place if it scratches incessantly and it would only be as a last resort to scratching post, etc. The 3rd rejection by a different rescue organization of a different cat said that even though I am home all day, have my own house and the cat gets along with other cats, they want it to go to a family that does not own any pets. The 3rd cat has been sitting in a pet store in a plexiglass box SO SMALL it CAN'T EVEN STAND UP. It has to LIE DOWN in order to fit it's 13 lb body into the box it is in and it has received NO APPLICATIONS in TWO MONTHS of it's living in this box. I mean, this is really disgusting. Where do these people get off acting like this? I guess anyone can lie to get the cat or dog they want and these rescue groups make it really tempting to do so.

I know I'm coming in late to the survey, but I had to chime in. Rescues and shelters have this holier than thou attitude that I find really frustrating. I We had two dogs and lost one to old age (14 years or so). We decided to get a puppy so our sons could enjoy that puppy experience. I was turned down at our local humane society because our dogs stay outside while we are at work. They are in a grassy fenced yard with a dog house and come inside when we get home. They don't stay outside when we are home, they are family members. According to them, this was a ghastly situation and could not be tolerated. They wanted me to shove them in a crate all day. I would rather have them lounging in the sunshie barking at the squirrels. I wrote them a letter and they did finally see my point and asked me to come back and adopt, but I didn't. They really looked at me like I was torturing these poor animals. I had the last laugh, I was able to get a pure bred border collie for free through a friend.

I have rescued 3 dogs just recently. Upon my first try, immediate response. I took 2 great shelties. I have a fenced yard, doggie door, years and years experience, great vet...all that anyone can ask for. My dogs are my life. I found another rescue in N. fl...also great. In the middle of it all, I found a rescue that would not adopt to me becasue I have a job and leave my home for about 5 hours a day. So, let's really think about this...this rescue has how many shelties???? and instead of giving them a great home, let's be ridiculous. I was really hurt and upset by the situation. Makes me think about the rescue. I wonder, is it just as tough on her as it is on me? I can love and care for just as well. Hope this helps. There are great rescues out there, don't let one bad taste in your mouth keep you from having a forever friend.

Beau's New Mom has an awesome idea. I love the on-line national Rescue Group Rating /Evaluation modeled on the same type system as Amazon.com or Ebay. If it was broken down into the top five categories and we could rate (1 to 5 stars) and comment on the experience that may help the rescue groups get their act together and would help potential adopters decide if they want to adopt from that group and know up front what they are getting into if they do. I definitely think it should be implemented.

I adopted a little pom from a rescue group that I saw posted on pet finder and it was a nightmare. I would adopt again through pet finder but only through a shelter or foster care. Our dog had epilepsy and we spent thousands on her all because we knew nothing of her history or why she was being surrendered. I'm not saying that I wouldn' take on a dog with issues or challenges but I want to know ahead of time what I am walking into...it was a very sad and extremly costly mistake that our family never plans on making again.

my wife has weighed in on this manner, so i decided to do so as well. rescues are a pain to deal with. we were so frustrated that instead of adopting we purchased a great little cocker which didn't help a dog somewhere needing a home. one application wanted to know what brand of dog food we would feed.
heck, i didn't know what i was going to feed our first child when i brought her home. we had one rescue promise the dog we adopted heartworm meds and to this day we have never seen them or heard again form the lady in charge.
we are in the process of trying help a family member find a dog and are still waiting to hear from mars a akita rescue. i know these people are volunteers and like everyone time is limited and etc. BUT the volunteers have commited to do their job which includes reading daily e-mails, returning calls and etc. DO THE JOB THEY SIGNED on for.
my motto be part of the solution not part of the problem and most are the problem.

Generally speaking, rescue groups are a nightmare to deal with and are best avoided.

I've seen this from both sides, from fostering and trying to adopt.

Their demands are ridiculous and they want to control the animal forever.

One nice family who wanted to adopt a cat I had fostered were denied because they had a dog door in the garage. The rescue group was worried the cat might get out through it. Let the people who adopt the cat worry about that, rescue group! It's not your business.

Rescue Groups: If you wonder why you can't get your animals adopted, take a good, hard look at how you treat potential adoptees!

A FEASIBLE IDEA to IMPROVE the entire RESCUE SYSTEM on a NATION-WIDE BASIS! PetFinders should obtain a grant to establish an on-line national Rescue Group Rating /Evaluation modeled on the system Amazon.com, Ebay effectively employ for customers to "rate their sellers." Such a system would permit potential adopters to work with legitimate rescue group, ones that are responsive to inquiries, and avoid groups that are nonresponsive or over zealous in their adoption criteria. Those rescue groups that are not functioning well can get their acts together to improve their public ratings and non-legit breed rescues can be "flushed out" so that local shelters will no longer send shelter pets to them. The sellers at Amazon and Ebay are always given the opportunity to respond to 'bad reviews' so that people can decide for themselves. (Perhaps Amazon or Ebay would donate their resources to working with PetFinders to develop the software to do this!) What do you folks at PetFinders think about exploring such an idea?

We just adopted a collie thru a local collie rescue group. Yes, the process was slow and we didn't get immediate replies, BUT, boy, did they do a good job on behalf of our Beau -- This dog is just what we were looking for and only a foster parent could have spent enough time truly evaluating him over time. We did not find the volunteers unreasonable at all in their questions, concerns or process. We did not have a fenced in yard, but they saw we are able and committed to providing regular daily exercise and outdoor time for Beau. The fee seemed expensive ($350), but when we saw how some rescued collies need extensive medical treatment, the time and money spent by these volunteers, we felt it was absolutely a fair price - it felt like a contribution toward their good work. We would never buy a dog thru a store or breeder - I am now a huge advocate of the "rescue system"and now tell anyone interested in a getting a "new dog", if you have a particular breed in mind (and please do your research: don't go simply by size or cuteness!), then turn to the breed's local rescue first!!! It is a total win-win-win: You are doing a good deed by supporting these dedicated volunteers, getting the best pet match for your family, and providing a home for a wonderful animal - all at the same time.

We just adopted a collie thru a local collie rescue group. Yes, the process was slow and we didn't get immediate replies, BUT, boy, did they do a good job on behalf of our Beau -- This dog is just what we were looking for and only a foster parent could have spent enough time truly evaluating him over time. We did not find the volunteers unreasonable at all in their questions, concerns or process. We did not have a fenced in yard, but they saw we are able and committed to providing regular daily exercise and outdoor time for Beau. The fee seemed expensive ($350), but when we saw how some rescued collies need extensive medical treatment, the time and money spent by these volunteers, we felt it was absolutely a fair price - it felt like a contribution toward their good work. We would never buy a dog thru a store or breeder - I am now a huge advocate of the "rescue system"and now tell anyone interested in a getting a "new dog", if you have a particular breed in mind (and please do your research: don't go simply by size or cuteness!), then turn to the breed's local rescue first!!! It is a total win-win-win: You are doing a good deed by supporting these dedicated volunteers, getting the best pet match for your family, and providing a home for a wonderful animal - all at the same time.

I am glad to know that I am not the only one that this has happened to. This is my first and probably my last time trying to adopt from a foster group over the internet. I am completely frustrated in their lack of response to the application, emails, and even voicemails. So much so that I will probably stick to buying dogs from breeders instead of going through this headache again.

I completely understand that they have many other responsibilities such as a job, home, taking care of the animals but they should send some kind of response even if it is a denial instead of leaving you hanging just to finally find out that she is listed as adoption pending. This is part of the responsibility of being a foster group. It's not just rescuing the animals, it involves placing them in loving homes which if you do not take the time to talk to the applicants then how do you know which home would be best for that animal especially when they meet criteria such as a fenced yard, no children, married, over 25, dog trainer, 18 years experience with the breed, and currently owns three of them. You can't learn anything about a person, their life or environment by looking at a fill-in the blank form.

I previously rescued and fostered dogs and would never treat potential adopters this way. It kills me that they sit around and wonder why there are so many animals up for adoption but they make it impossible and frustrating to adopt. The worst part is that the animals are the ones suffering unnecessarily. They always say first impressions are last impressions.

Clearly some of the rescue groups mentioned need better organization and more volunteers. I, for one, check my email regularly and respond to every inquiry, whether it's the right match or not. I try to make sure the adoption process runs smoothly.

My group requires a fence for most of our dogs, and it’s so that they can be safe while in the yard. We also do home checks. We’re not trying to be nosy. We just can’t afford to send our pets home with just anyone and not know where they're going. And yes, we do want to find homes for our animals – but the right homes. That's the purpose of our adoption process. We're lucky enough to be no-kill, so we're not trying to "get rid of" our animals; we want them to have the loving forever homes they deserve.

I do agree that expecting adopters to stay home full time is unrealistic. How can they expect you to be able to afford a pet if you don’t work?

Please don’t give up on rescue just because you are denied a pet. It’s not always because you didn’t measure up to the standards. Sometimes a few applicants are equally qualified, but a decision has to be made.

I am a fostermom for local rescue in LA ( lower Ala way down on the Gulf Coast) and it BREAKS my heart to hear so many wonderful, dog/cat loving people get turned down/ ignored for adoption. I agree with every one who gets frustrated cause you have no, you are single, and especially if you leave babies at home while you work. That last one really is NUTS. I recently had 2 doctors ( and 18 mo old ) adopt a Austrian Shep mix, they had NO fence but Mom is a runner so she got a running buddy, baby got "big brother", Dad got couch buddy. 2 doctors. Do you think they were home all day? Nope. I leave my fosters "home alone" while I work. Never, never, give up on your shelters. I said it once and will say it again, "God Bless All who work so hard at Petfinders and especially the couple that founded it. If you aren't happy with local groups or shelter there are many specific breed rescue groups that do transport. I've had 3 adult labs come into my foster home ( remember I am way down south in lower Ala) and all went to Mass via Lab rescue and transport. I am ashamed to admit it but Alabama is overflowing with labs/ lab mix and all breeds of dogs guess cause we don't have better breeding laws. So all you wonderful Yanks look South. Keep looking ad never give up. Look at Petfinder and enter zip 36551. Good Luck.

kudos to all the comments!!!!! i too have had all and more of trying times to adopt an animal. the rescues are great for the animals, but suck for those of us who would like to help. i tried to adopt a collie from the indiana resuce and right up front on their web page was...if you don't live in the state the animal will nor be allowed out.
i tried a rescue in tyler texas and my last -mail finally got a response because i turned into a flaming angry bitch to get the response. after many words i no longer wanted to do business with them.
my brother tried and failed because the rescue in houston didn't want to let the dog go in fear of it may be too far to return if things didn't work out. he works for an airline and was willing to FLY the dog back if things didn't work out. ON and ON and ON so what do we do. i think there should be a governing body to help police these rescues.

All of our pets over the last 12 years( two dogs, two cats, one bird) have been rescues. One cat and one dog from the Humane society and one cat, dog, and bird from separate rescue organizations. While I understand the need to ensure the right forever home for these boys and girls I believe some of the requests and requirements from some of these rescue organizations are over the top.

Both my wife and I work, and although our children are in their teens now our house is still 'baby-proofed' for pet purposes. Beyond the initial 'potty-training' stage our dogs and cats have always had free roam of our homes, both day and night, and it has never been a problem. They keep each other company during the day and sleep where they choose at night (typically on our bed or 'their' couch). Yet every adoption event I attend (we are looking to add to our family again after the loss of our "Big Boy " at age 11) and every application I read references that "the animal can't be left alone for more than a few hours." or "Who will be with your pet while you are at work?"

Really?? So on top of all the challenges these groups face, financing, overcrowding, foster care, etc. they are now narrowing the field of potential homes even further by requiring a stay at home 'mom'? Unrealistic IMO. Our boys and girls are of course happy to see us when we return home, but remain very well adjusted despite the fact that we work for a living in order to buy dog food, cat food, bird food and pay vet bills, etc.

We now are looking almost exclusively at the Humane Society for a puppy/young dog. We have never had an issue with either our cat or dog we have adopted from our local shelter and we weren't made to feel like unfit pet owners for living a normal life with our pets. I respect what these groups do. I have been in the veterinary industry for over a dozen years and appreciate the time, effort and love that goes into it. However, I think in many cases these groups are hamstringing themselves with unrealistic expectations.

I am a foster mom for a rescue group. We do desperately try to find our dogs their forever homes, not desperately try to get rid of them. Some of them came into the world in deplorible conditions, some were homeless, some of them were given up by there owners because they were no longer wanted, others are sick or have skin conditions that take a long time to heal, and then there are those with not so normal behaviors. Please have patience with us as we are volunteers. We have full time jobs and families and pets too. Sometimes may take more time than one might expect but trust me, its worth the wait when you do find the right match.

I am a foster mom for a rescue group. We do desperately try to find our dogs their forever homes, not desperately try to get rid of them. Some of them came into the world in deplorible conditions, some were homeless, some of them were given up by there owners because they were no longer wanted, others are sick or have skin conditions that take a long time to heal, and then there are those with not so normal behaviors. It is

I am a foster mom for a rescue group. We do desperately try to find our dogs their forever homes, not desperately try to get rid of them. Some of them came into the world in deplorible conditions, some were homeless, some of them were given up by there owners because they were no longer wanted, others are sick or have skin conditions that take a long time to heal, and then there are those with not so normal behaviors. It is

Like many comments already posted my experience with rescue organizations is disappointing and frustrating. Sometime I wonder who's really in need of rescue the animals or the person running the organization?

I'm especailly amazed at the cost at some of these places. I don't mind a fee or covering medical costs, but asking $450 for a middle aged dog with issues is, in my opionion, nuts.

While I applaud all efforts to find forever homes for shelter/recuse animals, the attitude of some of the rescuers just turns people off. The animals suffer and the rescurers wonder why they can't find homes.

I have never been so frustrated in my life. These so called rescues have the most ridiculous standards I have ever seen. I have had pets my entire life. I have always been an advocate of adoption. Not only am I unable to adopt, I will buy my next dog. It has been 2 long years of applying to rescues for my next pet, that I have given up. I have been called obsessive about my pets and I truely like animals better than most people. Because I don't have a fenced in yard, I have been denied adoption over and over again. I know you might think, just get a fence. It's not that easy in my yard to do that. If I lived in an apartment, I wouldn't have a fence. I almost think these "rescue people" are a bit psycho and on a power trip. They don't look at the person applying and unfortunately these shelter dogs will never get the loving homes they deserve.

Hello, one point is the unrealistic expectations that many of the rescues have. Most families don't measure up, so I'm thinking that they wanted to hoard the animals themselves. Second, is the price that some of them charge. To begin with I have never believed in the monetary market for animal unless they are commercial food stock which kind of also turns me off. But some of these facilities will run to the shelter grab as many dogs as they can get wash them up and charge 300-500 dollars for them the very next day. Sorry but some of these so called rescues go entirely against my grain. I'm looking for a pet, a buddy, a companion. I'm not going to spend that amount of money, especially when things are so tight. They can house and feed them for eternity as far as I'm concerned. I know it costs them money and they need to recoup but really.........If they charged less money they'd have a larger turn over and if help is truley their primary mission they'd be providing more of it. As far as the unrealistic requirements. Some even post them right from the gitgo. 5 ft fences, stay at home, no children to injure the animal, must have children, marital status, ok lets get real. I got my dog from a shelter, best experience in my life. Very helpful. I would do it in a heartbeat as long as the rescue doesn't beat me to the punch for their profit. PLEASE NO REBUTAL EMAILS. I know there are good rescues out there but the profiteers are shameful.

I am a foster mom. I feel for all of you who are trying to adopt. I work for a non-profit group in NJ. We are in desperate need of foster homes for cats and dogs. We will not give you the run around. We have beautiful animals to adopt out that are in loving and caring homes. Yes, we do look at the applications carefully but you will get an answer from us. While I only foster cats, there are many foster moms and dads in our group for dogs as well. The local shelter in Mt. Holly, NJ has an over abundance of animals. They have beautiful animals that are being dropped off and are at full capacity and these animals need home NOW. Don't give up. It's kitten season and plenty of kittens, cats and dogs to go around. Try contacting BCAA or the shelter. We need you to foster or adopt. Give us a chance.

I too have had several experiences with the "no response" from rescue groups. I was denied once because there was no shot record on file with my vet (because as a former vet tech, I did them myself). I've left my name with groups when I was looking for a particular breed or mix with never a phone call back. One did not return 4 separate phone calls and emails, even though she told me the dog was available. She canceled 2 meetings with the foster mom because she was "busy" and then I heard nothing. Two months later, I received a phone call that I could finally go and see the dog. In the meantime, I had found the furry love of my life and he is happily ensconced in my family. What was there to hide?

Separately, I have expressed an interest with at least 3 local rescue groups that I want to volunteer with them. I have a large yard, designed for dogs, with a privacy fence, a concrete trench underneath (for escape artists) and a contained run and two socialized dogs of my own. I would love to foster a dog. I either get no response or a solicitation for a donation. I wouldn't even mind going to feed the dogs on weekends, or walking them, or providing some free training to them or other expertise that I have. Sometimes, it takes going through a maze of phone calls, websites, emails, and whatever to even FIND a contact number to speak to someone about volunteering or adopting!

I hope many rescues read these survey results and comments. The volunteers do a tremendous, much needed job that is very commendable, stressful and sometimes heartbreaking. They take time from their own families to help the greater good and to defend those that cannot defend themselves. They are good people. I don't deny that. But good intentions do not always reach the goal.

I feel very sad reading some of these comments. I foster for a group who doesn't have a shelter. All of us have jobs and families and we do try to get back to people promtly. I will also admit at times it gets very frustrating to deal with some people. If your kids are mauling my kittens and you don't take the time to stop them and teach them respect - No I won't adopt to you. These animals are feeling, breathing creatures of God and deserve to be treated with respect. Some of my fosters are not good with kids or dogs or other cats. Each situation needs to be looked at and a determination made. Keep trying your perfect pet is out there.

Well glad to not be alone on this. I was in search of a companion for my current dog. I too was told the dogs had a better match or just never heard anything. I feel like we are the dogs in a circus being told to jump through a bunch of hoops. Some of them of fire that if we even singe a single hair we are not good enough.

It can be too emotional on the adopters side because of how we are treated. The unrealistic expectations of these groups is exhausting. It was 1000 times easier for me to get my rescued Thoroughbred mare through CANTER than even filling out the paper work for these groups. And with horses you have to be even more experienced, have more references, be able to pay for all expenses which are thousands more than a dog each year. Even with them knowing I have a rescued horse I am rejected! The fees these groups ask is rediculous to a point also. Most I see are $200+, I paid $800 for a REGISTERED TB that canter bought for $500, had been vetted, ridden, farrier treatments, and stabled for a little over a year with the group. I don't find the charges for these dogs to be on equal at all. They are just sooo much more than what they should be!

Then I have my current dog who I found listed on petfinder but through a shelter. They were kind ,professional, and much more pleasant to deal with. They did require the answers to basic questions that I would expect to be asked. Not all my previous pets and how they passed. My last 2 passed of cancer which runs rampant in the breed I love so their life expectancy is only 7-10 years (mine passed at 13 & 10). I know this turned off some of these rescues but that also told me they DO NOT know the breed. Which can be a bad thing for the new owners if they do not know the breed. While the shelter was fully honest about what they did and did not know. Everytime I have asked seriously legitimate questions about the dogs in Groups, either I get NO response or they scoot around the tuff questions. That really turned me off. Im sorry but when a potential adopter is asking legitimate questions thoes should be the ones you WANT to adopt your dogs, NOT turn away! As other have said they are treating us as the enemy.

And just because some of us don't go running to the vet for every little thing doesn't make us bad owners either. Hate to say we can vaccines without going to the vet and can administer them ourselves, same with heartworm/deworming products, this is much more common in thoes that deal with livestock and horses. I know when something is beyond what I can do and my animals are seen by a vet immediately. Why groups view this as irresponsible I do not know.

But thats my experience...which has not been pleasant.

I had to put down my 14 year old lab mix and after several months was finally ready to adopt a new companion. Since I live in Pennsylvania and am fully aware of the horrible conditions of the puppy mills I decided to go through Petfinder. I was told the first dog I picked wouldn't be a good match. I find this hard to comprehend being that I had never met the human making this decision, let alone the animal that I wanted to meet and possibly adopt. Then I asked about 2 other dogs. By the time they finally got back to me the one dog was gone. I had even expressed an interest in adopting 2 dogs together so they could remain friends. I dealt with one person who was very rude and said I wrote a nasty e-mail. I agreed that I was frustrated with the entire procedure of trying to meet a dog (which I never was able to do), copied and pasted the long e-mails back and forth and realized that the only nasty part of the e-mail was the female human e-mailing her male human partner who hadn't responded to her e-mail to contact me, and then I was told to never contact them again. When I contacted another rescue through Petfinder that person told me to deal with the first one so as not to waste anyone's time. I thought the reason for Petfinder was to find homes for the animals who have no chance if the people adopting them out are too rude to care if the animals find homes. Perhaps the rescue workers should be interviewed and scrutinized as much as the person hoping to adopt a dog from them. Hopefully I will find a "free to good home." I know I WILL NOT deal with the insincere representatives of the Petfinder Rescues that I contacted in Chester County, Pennsylvania.

I have to second Brandi's comment. Adopting from your local shelter, especially your local kill shelter or city pound, is MUCH easier. The staff won't know as much about the pet as a foster parent but it's MUCH cheaper ($25-65 for a dog at the pound near me) and you can often walk out with a pet that day if it's already fixed.

Between my husband, me and my parents we've adopted six dogs from pounds in four states and they've all been wonderful, amazing dogs. Four died of old age and two are still enriching our lives every day.

Also, Brandi is right, shelter/pound pets REALLY need your help and are in danger of being put down.

I am very upset about the adoption application Process. I went to Pet Smart adoption day last Saturday to which the organizer told me that she would come to my house to see how the puppy would interact , but she never called me and didn't try to get in touch with me. When I finally called her, her main concern was that I'm not married, and that if we were to get the puppy, who would get to keep the dog if we break up? Meanwhile, we bought a house together with a fenced in backyard, and she's concerned about us getting married.

Another upsetting thing, is that she told me if my application is denied, that I won't hear from them. It makes me want to go to a pet store instead!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's pretty depressing to read all of the comments about the difficulties of adopting. I, too, have been trying to adopt a puppy and cannot even get an initial response from the rescue agency I've been trying to contact Probably because I told them up front that my husband and I work full time, which has gotten me turned down in the past. But they haven't even responded to my email to tell me I'm not eligible.

I get a little tired of these rescues/shelters crying poor, when maybe they would not be so poor if they actually adopted these animals out. To deny someone a pet because they have a job is ludicrous. To deny an animal a good home because that home has been deemed not PERFECT is really sad. How is one supposed to properly feed and care for a pet with no income? I can't get my head around that logic. I have had animals all my life, currently have a cat, a dog, 3 rabbits and 3 horses. I just lost my 33-year-old Quarter horse - our animals are lifers. I would love to find a rescue puppy to travel to horse shows with my daughter and I, as our 12-year-old Lab can no longer travel comfortably, but I am getting the feeling if I want a dog I'll have to buy from a breeder.

I have been trying to adopt a black lab for months. I am a previous lab owner, excellent vet reference, and I am still trying to adopt. There are thousands and thousands of black labs on this website and all I do is get the run around. I work full-time and I guess that doesnt make me a good candidate? Let me tell you something, my Lab Brittney was the most down to earth, loving, smart, adjusted dog I have ever had. Don't dogs sleep 18 hours a day?

PLEASE consider adoption from your local pound/shelter. These animals are in actual danger of being put down. They are the ones that truly need you.
I have had the same negative experiences with rescue groups. We do not have a fenced yard but we live on 2-1/2 acres on a dead end road in the country. Our dogs are indoor/outdoor dogs. We do not let them roam free unsupervised. Rescue groups do not even consider us due to not having a fenced yard. I will only be adopting from shelters in the future. I will also volunteer my time to try and give these animals the best possible chance.

I'm an animal lover always. I have dog,cats,birds,horses,and goats, fenced in yard. But I am always turned down. I keep up with all shots, wormers, flea control. I do it myself, because I don't take my animals to a vet reguraly I can't adopt. All outside cat are fixed, even the strays I get fixed. But I still can't adopt. Also the price for rescue animals are sometimes more the a pruebreed.

I agree with most of you. I understand rescue groups wanting to be careful, but it's so frustrating and a lot of the rules are ridiculous. The screening process (if you get a response at all) is so intense,frustrating and emotionally draining with some groups I began to wonder is this for a dog or a child. It seems to be moreso in the NY area than out of state. I was finally able to adopt a shepherd mix (NY) and a shih tzu rescue (out of state). They are my 2nd and 3rd adoptions. I have to admit I was on the verge of walking out on the NY adoption. I had lost a dog to cancer several months earlier and what they were putting me through because of hre death was unbelievable. OUt of state rescue, several e-mails and phone conversations, two visits (on my schedule) to see how we intereacted and she came home with me.

We had a marvelous experience adopting our Penny through Petfinder. We don't have a fenced in yard, but our rescue "case-worker" took the time to get to know us and agreed that Penny would be the perfect fit for our family. Yes, there was an adoption fee of $350 and Yes, we had to drive to meet her; but when I look into her loving brown eyes, I realize that it was so worth it! She has completed our family and I just want to say "THANK YOU" to Animal Alliance in NJ for their care of our baby before we brought her home. I know that Penny was vetted and spayed while staying with her foster mom and I'm confident that her adoption fee will ensure that these benefits will be shared by the next pup that is lucky enough to be in their care while waiting for their new permanent home.

Reading these comments, I feel so much better about my recent experiences! We, too, want to adopt a dog. We took in our last dog through friends, and it was a great experience. We want to teach our children that you don't "throw away" an animal, that each life has value. However, we find it impossible to get a response from these rescues!!! IF they send the application, then you never hear from them after paintstakingly filling it out!!! It is so frustrating. Some of the rules are silly, and each adoptee should be taken case by case. I had two rescues tell me they don't adopt to families with children under 8 years old. I have a six year old, who was born into our family with a food-aggressive dog - and no problems! She knows more about dog care than some adults!!!! Besides, whose to say that people who adopt won't have children in the future? That whole rule is so ridiculous! The more I go through this, the more I understand why people just go out and buy a puppy - the pet store doesn't want to know anything!

As for us, we've decided to leave it to fate - if we are meant to have another dog, it will happen. These seven-page, ignored applications have taken enough toll on us, thank you!

my whole family, for decades have taken in rescues. everything from cats following me to church, to being taken hostage by a catahoula. my grandmother and aunt work with rescue greyhounds. i've had rescues for decades, and only one passed before she was 15, due to a freak accident.

i have to say, it's easier to adopt a child, than a dog. most of these "rescues" don't know jack, about dogs. i recently saw a dog miss an oppritunity at a good home, because the adopters current dog sniffed the others butt, saying it was agressive.

too bad the people who run rescues aren't put threw the scrunity they put thier perspective adopters threw.

by the way, rescue people? anybody can walk right into most shelters, drop $35 and get the same dogs you are "saving". the plott we now have, we took right off death row, after being turned down by several "rescues". these people need to stop hoarding, and start thinking about all the great homes they are losing for thier rescues.....

To all you who have had a negative experience adopting from a shelter or rescue. Please, please, please try to remember that many rescues want only the best for the animals in their care...and often these animals are coming from sad situations. We do our best to place them in homes that will care for them until they pass from this life. Yes, the many requirements can seem 'over the top', but often there is a good reason. Those reasons may be based on the breed, a particular animal's known background, or other situations unique to the potential adopter and/or animal. The foster families play a crucial role in learning about the animal's behaviors, health, socialization, and other factors that impact a sucessful adoption.
I am a foster mom for a dog rescue, and I work VERY hard for my adoptive families to be sure their experience is positive and my foster dog moves into a forever home. Yes, even I, in some instances, have had to intervene with my rescue group to get my adoptive families some assistance. I've driven distances to do visits, consoled families losing their animals, and try to keep in contact with those who adopted my foster animals, not to be nosy, but to answer questions they may have or help them with issues may occur. With so many animals losing their families due to economic pressures, we need loving, committed adoptive families.
Remember too, in rescue we are all volunteers, with commitments of family, job, and other social obligations. Humanly speaking, we can only do so much. Yes, we can improve, but we will never be perfect.
Maybe some of you will consider becoming a foster family for a local rescue or shelter. It's a rewarding experience.

Wow,
It sure is clear that I am not alone. I, too, have experienced frustration, confusion and resistance in my pursuit to adopt a dog.
I realize that it isn't easy to for shelters to be able to identify the perfect home for a homeless pet, but so far 50% of the shelters seem to find ONE thing in my application is a 'deal breaker' for them.
One woman chided me for wanting to wait until my summer vacation to adopt a puppy because she said I'd only set up the dog for separation anxiety when I went back to teaching in the fall. (!!) She didn't even take into account that I've raised 4 dogs, have hired a personal trainer when one dog developed a serious separation anxiety (which we rehabilitated) I've even seen 3 dogs through the end. But she lectured me as if I was a completely stupid novice.
Many of these shelters have good intentions, but somehow and somewhere I think they've lost the ability to step back and see the whole picture. I am finding this to be a strange and juxtaposed community where people like me who are committed to providing forever homes are hitting road blocks from those who say the desperately want to find homes for their dogs.
On a positive note, my persistence is paying off. After contacting many shelters I have finally come across a couple of local shelters who must have really read my application and are being an advocate for my search. We have been in constant contact trying to find a good match for my other dog.

For all you "fenceless" adopters, don't take it personally. It makes no difference! We were initially turned down by a rescue because we were about 50 miles out side of their radius. After sending letters, photos of my home and FENCED yard, references, phone verification with my vet and pics of another happy and well adjusted (aka spoiled) pup in our home, we were still turned down. Only after my shaming them about their behavior, did they review our application by their "board". And even after that, I had to first speak with the prospective dogs "case manager" which was a different person from the actual foster. At some point, these types of rescues are not doing what is in the best interest of the animal.

My advice to all that have had these creepy experiences, is to not give up. After deciding, despite our eventual acceptance, to not adopt from them, we found a rescue that was proficient, professional, and a pleasure to deal with. They returned our call promptly, reviewed our references and application quickly, and went out of their way to make the meeting with our prospective adoptee happen. Needless to say, our little old man Milo, has been a joy, his health has improved, and he is finally enjoying the last few years of his life as he deserves. Even the resident "primadonna' can't get enough of him. If you are in the New York area check out Stray from the Heart Rescue. Brava to Patricia and their organization - it's a class act!!!!

I have just gone through a terrible rescue adoption. As many others have posted, just getting someone to respond to your email is slow or non-existent. I lost my 13 year old Himalayan last year to heart and renal disease. For many months, we mourned and our other kitty cried and was becoming very depressed. So we decided to adopt! After months of "no answers" and one shelter who "promised" to hold a kitty until I got there the next morning somehow forgot that promise. We finally found a new kitty, over 300 miles from our home and we adopted from a coutesy posting. We brought her home and treated her like a queen and she was adapting very well. Then, Bam, she became ill and passed away within two weeks of her adoption....to heart and renal disease, and it was a condition that could have been treated! When we adopted, we were assured that she had been vetted and was healthy. My vet said that she had been ill for quite some time (months) and was furious! Either she was not vetted properly or we were told a lie. Now we're mourning....again. So shelters and rescue groups, please make sure the precious animals are properly vetted and the adoption parents are given those records. We spent hours trying to help another animal, time, money and effort to adopt rather than purchase. This has left me very dubious about adopting again. For the first time in my life, IF we ever get another pet, I'm considering purchasing from a reputable breeder. I've been a resuce advocate for many years, but honestly can't recommend the process now. Why put yourself through the endless searches, no replies and shelters who aren't "truthful'?

i attempted to adopt a puppy from a rescue group recently and before calling my references or meeting me, the woman who was fostering the pup told me that a new puppy would be too stressful and a financial burden. She new nothing about me as a person, my financial status, my overwhelming love for dogs or my living situation. i was very disappointed. i had even picked out a name for the pup. on the other hand, i have adopted several cats and a dog from our local shelter and have recently volunteered to walk the dogs and they have always been very accomodating.

Just like so many other people here, I have tried 4 times to adopt through a shelter. I was turned down 2 times and 2 times noone bothered to respond to my email. These adoption shelters need to change their attitude and policies if they want these animals to have a home. One policy in particular is a fenced yard. Apparently not having a fenced yard makes you unsuitable as a dog-owner. It's not that you can give the animal love and stability. I can count the number of fenced yards on one hand in a 3 block radius in my neighborhood. These shelters would rather shuffle the animals from shelter to shelter stressing them and causing anxiety or euthanize them when they've been at the shelter too long rather than adopt a dog to a loving home that doesn't have a fenced yard. By the time a suitable person is ready to adopt them, the animal has "issues" and is brought back to the shelter or advertised to be given away via Internet.Pathetic if you ask me. Alot of these shelters are hindering the animals chance of success. When a shelter rufuses me because I don't have a fenced yard it's an insult. It's telling me that I'm too stupid to take care of my dog. Other shelters want to stay in contact with you for the lifetime of the animal just to make sure it's getting it's yearly shots. That turned
me off big-time. I will have my new puppy this week and it's been a
long process but I've certainly learned alot about shelters in the mean-
time. If I should want another dog in the future, I certainly won't go to a shelter, I'll check with the local farmer or paper.

This survey and the comments enlightened me as to how very LUCKY I have been. In the past 8-9 years, I have adopted 5 pets through Petfinder and the various rescue organizations listed. It has been a very positive experience for me and each pet has been my "baby" that meant the world to me. Most of them were 9 years old (or older) so sadly, some of them are no longer with me but they enriched my life and I enriched theirs. My first adoption was from a rescue 4 states away and they worked with me for 3 months to get my special baby. I applied a couple of times where the pet was no longer available when my application was received but other than that, the people I have dealt with have been wonderful and I am very grateful.
Please don't give up on adoption. Remember, the pet has no choice so if you can give a pet a good home, be persistant. Do it for the pet. Be his/her voice. They need us.

I feel better reading these comments, I was beginning to think it was me. I had applied to three rescues and I respect that most people are volunteers and I think what they are doing is wonderful. But, it is hard to choose a family based soley on a written application on-line. We have been turned down because we have no fence, but we live back off the road in a rural area on 2 acres. We have lived here 30 years and always had dogs here. If they would take that into consideration and speak with the vets that they request you give them, they would see that we are good people and have a safe & loving environment. I really wanted to adopt a rescue dog, but I am now reading the pet listings in the local paper . . . . I am really feeing inadequate and unwanted. . . .

As a lifelong animal lover I have adopted many animals from shelters or individuals on my own. My first experience with a rescue org was very positive and I was lulled into a false sense of security. My yorkie passed away and I wanted to adopt a chihuahua. Lord forbid I should have a cat and a large breed dog in my home. And I want to adopt a chihuahua??? How dare I!!! I was treated horribly by 3 different small breed rescues. I was turned down without question because of my cat and my retriever. Forget about the fact that my cat loves dogs and my retriever helps me rehabilitate dogs due to her personality. One foster Mom said I was selfish and inconsiderate because I wanted to put a chihuahua at risk around a larger dog. Not True!! My retriever is more careful than I am around the small ones. These people wouldn't even do a home visit to check my large breed. I was called names-hung up on and ignored. Thank goodness I found Chihuahua Rescue USA in Indiana. What a wonderful and caring group of people. The foster Mom recognized that I had the skills and patience for a puppymill breeder female. We now have our little girl and she is blossoming. Please-Foster Mom's and rescuers-don;t be so harsh and quick to judge people. You are keeping deserving animals from potentially good homes because for some reason you think adopters are the enemy.

I've tried to adopt for months now, and filled out several adoption papers to several humane shelters. None have responded except 1 and they turned me down because I had a small child, My opinion is the people need to see how the person interested in adopting and the animal interact, for I was turned down without this person seeing if the dog would get alone with me and my child. Sad to say the dog is still in the shelter. I will try adopting one more time then I'm giving up and buying the dog of my choice from a breeder. To many silly hoops to jump through to adopt, and I LOVE dogs.

I'm sure there are alot of wonderful rescue groups and workers whose main objective is to find a safe, responsible home for the animals. However, I have gone through 2 rescue groups and felt very disappointed in both. My husband and I were breed specific; didn't care about the condition but did not want a mix breed. We drove 5 hours to pick up two dogs that the animal rescue group insisted were purebred scotties; however they were anything but. The rescue group treated us as if we were dog snobs; and immediately picked up the dogs something we never asked them to do. Another time two dogs were given to a rescue group because the family was moving. We never agreed to take the dogs. The rescue league asked $450 per dog for two 8 year olds and it was just too much for us to pay. However, she had informed the original owners that we had taken their dogs and I actually received a call at work wanting to know how they were doing. I had to break the news and the previous owners were furious. They called the rescue group and were told that they never had asked $450....absolute lie. It made us look as if we were terrible people. I think sometimes people want to make a little extra cash. You see in the above case, the previous owners had given money to take care of all vet bills, food, etc. so why was there a hefty price tag of $900 for 2 dogs AND I was supposed to get the male nuetered...another $200 or so. We wanted to take the dogs to give them a good home but I am appalled that a rescue league worker is trying to profit from that situation. I don't think I'll try again!

I have been trying for over a year to adopt at many different agencies. Application after application. Emails never being returned, phone calls never returned. I did get approved at one shelter and after driving 2 and a 1/2 hrs to meet the dog found that we were misled on the behavior and temperment on the dog. The dog still has not been placed. We have been turned down for so many resonse no fence, they can not find our address on the computer to prove we are buying our home. We are not good owners because one of our dogs is older and he is not nuetered. he is a very small dog and never leaves our yard or our side. Personally I fell that it is no wonder there are so many dogs left at shelters if adopting is so hard. It really discourages people so they look elswere and these poor dogs get left behind. I have been a dog owner for about 20 years and never had a loose dog a pregnant dog or I dog that we did not love or take care of. So I really feel that alot of times that adopting is not what it is cracked up to be. I know that they have to do what is right for the dogs and try to get them the best possible home but how do they know? Adopting a pet has not been a positive experience for me It has been dissapointing. I will keep trying unless I find what Iam looking for in the paper.

I did not take the survey, but found the results quite interesting. I have experienced both sides of the story. I researched animal abuse for years and commend the efforts of most shelters/rescues to be responsible in finding adoptive homes. On the flip side, I too have been a victim of what I perceived to be harsh and unrealistic requirements, having been denied a dog that I became attached to within minutes.
I agree with a previous post - shelter workers should participate in emotional intelligence / communications training. I think a balance can be achieved that will insure that most pets in need find suitable homes.
By the way, any rule about not adopting to people that work during the day appears, on the surface, to be ridiculous. First of all, this is hardly the case for most pet owners. Secondly, are shelters that instill this rule willing to argue that an animal is better off in a shelter 24 hours a day than with a loving family that may be gone 8-10 hours per day?

While I fully appreciate the desire to place these pets in the best possible situation, I think that many great homes are being overrlooked as not being ideal. In an ideal world I could stay home and paint and not have to work for a living. Unfortunately the vast majority of even two income homes, both parties have to work. If everyone waited until they could afford to have kids our species would have gone extinct long ago. I can provide an extremely loving, stable, secure home with plenty of walks, a yard to play in, nearby dog park visits, play dates with other four legged kids, classes for us to go to together and learn to do pet therapy and still after submitting 5 applications I have not been selected to be a Mom for one of the homeless dogs. I deeply wish to rescue a fostered dog where the foster can tell me about the dog so that I can be aware of any issues we will need to work on together. However it is getting to the point where I may end up purchaseing from a reputable breeder because I don't want to waste any more time on the emotional roller coaster ride that I've been on since I started this process. I have the best of intentions and am wondering if the rescues really want to work with potential adopters at all since I'm having such a hard time getting anyone to return my calls or emails.

This past year I tried on different occasions to adopt. I have always bought puppies and showed obedience in the past. So I decided I would help the unwanted popuIation and adopt a great dog and cat.
I loved a Maine Coon mix named Grace. I was turned down because I would let her outside and she might get up a tree. We live on 17 acres and in 29 years we have had only one cat run over in the driveway. They live to a "ripe old age" of 14-17 years old, are spayed and neutered and have a great life.
I tried to adopt a collie/aussie mix. I was told that because the puppies were now used to sleeping with the foster family I was not a good mix. Even though at my house they would be outside with me for much of every day and yes when it was extremely muddy and they were dirty they would have to sleep in an "indoor run" until I could bathe them.
I have given up the adoption idea and bought a great aussie puppy and enjoy her without any unrealistic expectations and will find another Maine Coon kitten.
I am a pediatric nurse and I do believe in the sanctity of life. However, I wish America would take the welfare of our children as seriously as they take the welfare of these dogs and cats.

I work at an animal control facility in Michigan and I hear horror stories all the time about "rescue" groups. Recently I had an older gentleman tell me that he was denied because he was too old!! How horrible! I also had a friend tell me that she went to an adopt-a-thon at a Petsmart and she couldn't adopt the dog she wanted because she had a 5 year old and the dog was dying of Hydrocephalus. Why even bring it to an adopt-a-thon?? Where I work I rarely have people bring back pets. The only things we require for approval are a permission letter from parents/friends/landlords, licenses for dogs already owned, and no record of animal abuse. It's not hard to pass and they are all things you should already be doing. I feel bad for anyone who has been turned down by a rescue. I have adopters tell me all the time that they love the pets they adopt from us and I rarely have trouble with people not fulfilling their obligations (spaying/neutering and rabies shot). I would recommending adopting from a shelter!

I recently adopted my dog Dapples from the Lowndes County Animal Shelter and I found it to be a pleasant experience. There was no home inspection. I completed an application, paid the adoption fee and took home my new friend. Prior to this I had zero success with rescue organizations. since I do not live in a big city none were willing to travel to my small town to do a home inspection. several emails were unreturned. I appreciate the many pets who are saved thru rescue groups but it needs to be simpler to adopt a pet from them

I have found the adoption experience to be beyond frustrating. I am happy for Pet Finders but yet the rescues seem to be more interestested in begging for money than getting homes for the animals. There is one in PA who will not adopt anywhere outside a little area right around their rescue. They will not bend their rules at all. I could give one of these dogs the best home it could have but they refuse to even talk. It seems eventually they will run out of people to take their animals. The other thing is when an animal is adopted they don't take the picture down so I will write about it and it's already got a home. TAKE THE PICTURE DOWN ASAP. When they leave the picture up it's wasting their time and mine. I know they are run on a shoe string budget with volunteers but WHY would I want to donate to them when they won't consider me for a dog?
I know they are taking dogs from bad situations and want them to be put in only good homes but why is a home 2 miles from their rescue better than my home 2 hrs away? It boggles my mind.
I have gotten my 3 cats from Pet Finders and all of those rescue people were very nice and willing to work with me and they were positive experiences. I have many negative ones though and unfortunately the begging for money is getting worse. We want to adopt but then some rescues are asking $400. for a dog, I can buy a dog for that. Again I know it costs alot but people are surrendering pets because they can't afford them and others maybe can't afford $400. to adopt and some actually seem to be discouraging potential adopters. I don't understand. If they don't want to find it a home don't put it on line. I love rescue but some are really over the top and it seems they really don't want to find homes for their animals but they want my money. Some never even return e-mails. I'm sorry to be so negative but my experiences have mostly been negative. The 3 cats I did get were good experiences once I finally found these good people who are saints in my eyes.

every dog i looked at was already adopted.
this is very frustrating. post most recent please and erase the dogs we cannot have

My local shelter only adopts out dogs to fenced yards. There are very few fenced yards in the entire county-country. They must h

ave to kill or send to be killed( class B dealers) a LOT of dogs!

I am required to give them one to three personal references! I REQUIRE THE SAME FROM THEM!!!

Four years ago my parents were trying to adopt a dog from a rescue group in Colorado, they live in Wyoming. They went through the process including home visit and all references checked out great, They were told that they were approved for the dog they wanted. After not hearing from the rescue for a couple of days, we con tacted them and they in formed my folks that they had decided to adopt the dog to a different family that lived closer. We started looking again and found to puppy mill rescues from Hearts United for Animals in Nebraska. My parents again passed all the tests and home visits. We drove half the distance to the rescue which was 300 miles and the rescue drove and met us. The experience was great. My parents have to dogs that have a great home now and they are totally pampered members of the family. Probably the most spoiled dogs in town. What a difference in treatment from the two rescues. My mom always tells people to contact HUA now instead of other groups. They care about getting quality homes for their rescues, even if they are out of state. I myself have three rescue dogs, Adopted familes are not always next door. Some rescure groups need to start think a little out of the box to give these animals good homes even if they are not near or fit the "perfect" profile. Thanks for letting me give my thoughts.

I AM a foster mom and have been for over 2 years. I have fostered for our County Shelter and for a non-profit rescue group. I am well acquainted with workers at our county shelter and know they are dedicated to their work. One writer wrote shelter animals are caged 24/7 with no outside contact. WRONG!!! Shelter workers are not just there for the income. They are there because they care. At our shelter (BALDWIN County Animal Control) the workers actually interact with the animals, most have even trained some of them tricks or commands. I have seen how some dogs show total respect for the workers because they are treated with love and respect. These 4 legged babies Do Not get ALL the medical help they need but that is due to lack of funds. Never, never stop checking your local shelter or rescue group for your new 4-legged family member because I truly believe with ALL my heart these guys know when they are getting a second chance at life.
I agree with writers who are turned down for Not being home all day. My girls ( Austrian Shep mix and a huskey/wolf mix) were inside/outside and stayed home while I worked 12-14 hours on some days. Made times together even more special. Don't give up because some knucke-head didn' t read your application right, just check another shelter or another group, please don't let an abandoned baby suffer cause some human messed up.
I foster out of love and respect for my girls who showed me love, respect, companionship, loyality, and protection for over 14 years. I love each one that passes my way, I kiss them farewell upon adoption ( I let one go to make room for another who needs fostering), and I "follow-up" to make sure they are in the right home.
God Bless all workers at Petfinders, who are angels for dogs & cats.
Pat Foster Mom in Baldwin County, ALa.

We adopted a GSD from a rescue in OC 3 years ago. They assured us he was less than 5 years old but after spending $600 to "adopt" him we take him to our vet who says he is in the 8-10 year old range. Okay, we can deal with that, he will have a good home for the rest of his life but they also "forgot" to inform us of his medical issues. Cataracts, parasites, kennel cough, hip displasia, arthritis and oh, yeah, the allergies! Allergic to everything! We spent over $5000 at the vet in the 2 1/2 years we had him! Did the rescue ever once call or write to see how he was? NOPE! But they sure were happy to take our cash! Our current dog is from the local shelter, $100 adoption fee and they paid for the first vet visit. No problems and they always ask how "Sadie" is. Hummmmm.

My brother's family and I have been looking for a dog for over a month. We both contacted the Humane Society about 5 times about a dog. Unable to schedule appt or get a phone call back regarding him. Then we went to the local APL- picked out a few dogs and were told unavailable until fixed. No problem - we were put on waiting lists. 3 days later we recieved email that the dog was released to a rescue unable to adopt. I am very upset that the complaint of needing to help these animals and money needed - please donate; that I will never help them again as they had opportunities to have homes for 3 dogs and they didn't care enough to call or help us. My brother's family has since taken in 2 puppies that needed homes from a side of the road sign and I will continue to look myself.

Our last seven dogs have been some kind of rescue, all but one have been purebred. We've had German Shorthair Pointer, Golden Retriever, Collie, and now Australian Shepherds. Meeting the dog and knowing the personality before bringing a new animal into the home has been a great advantage. All of our rescues have been splendid dogs. As we are both approaching retirement age and very active in business, school, and activities, a puppy would be too much for us to deal with. Adopting adult dogs has been a joy, so much that I am a volunteer driver for my current rescue agency for Australian Shepherds.

We adopted Crissy from Lil Lap in St Cloud, Florida. We are so HAPPY with her. They were very careful about placing her with us and I admire them for this. They responded to my request in every detail. Carol makes sure her BABIES go to good homes. Crissy is so well behaved and loveable that we know she has had a lot of love. We feel so lucky to have found her.

I adopted from a great rescue in New Middleton, Ohio and found them to be very helpful and great with the care of my new family member. How awful it was when I wanted to adopt a certain type of dog or cat and then was told no because I live so many miles from the shelter or do not live in the area. I live in an area where the common dog is a lab, shephard, huskey and dogs that are heavy shed dogs. I wanted a large size poodle mix or a schauzer mix or abreed that sheds less than others. Good luck. We just do not have dogs in our area like that. Luckily a wonderful group saw that I was willing to drive 600 miles and 2 states away to bring my new family member home with me and bring her to our family. She is a joy to be around and I am glad she is here. She was very ill the first few months we had her but now is healthy and happy with her new sisters and brother. Thank you for this web site or I would never have found her.

My husband and I have worked with an Irish Setter rescue organizarion based in New Jersey. We have adopted two Irish Setters from them and have volunteered on a number of occasions to bring Irish Setters in need of resuce to them.

This organization is truly amazing, and is both responsive, timely, and professional, in responding to inquiries regarding their dogs.

In working with shelters and rescue organizations, it is important to realize as a potential adopter, that many of these groups are understaffed and overworked and do not have adequate time to speak to inquirying individuals who probably experience delays or, unfortunately, no response at all, to their inquiries in too many instances. I would like to see many more people volunteer to assist these organizations. i think that most of the bad experiences on the part of potential adopters would be alleviated if there were more on the ground volunteers to assist these shelters with care of the animals, inquiries and home inspections and reference checks.

I agree with the comment by the individual that often if you can speak directly to someone who knows the animal, and/or is fostering it, alot of time might be saved in the long run.

While I appreciate and admire the work of the sheter and rescue workers, in their fatigue and exhaustion, they must remember that inquirying individuals are not the enemy, but for the most part, interested in providing a home for an animal in need.

When we adopted from the Pitt County Humane Society at first we were turned down b/c I didn't lie on the application regarding a former pet. A former pet was hit by car. This was a pet we had for over 7 years, we live on a farm, on a dead-end road, but one night he was hit. This pet was like a child to us. But since I didn't lie we were turned down to adopt a dog...after several e-mails we were finally approved and the dog we adopted is striving in our care. But we are both gainfully employed, have 2 teenage children, and our home is on our farm...I feel sorry for anyone who is trying to adopt through their agency.

I got my first dog in Michigan no problem. I came to see a husky but walked out with a midget shepherd instead (shepherd/corgi). It was when I moved to California did i become nervous a bout adopting a second dog. I wanted a buddy and one that is not bigger that my first - living in an apartment can be an issue. In the Los Angeles area, the shelter people are kind and really care about the animals but much like many other comments, they don't really seem too keen on finding them a home. They have outrageous demands like a house and yard, they even want to come in to inspect my home and look in my medicine cabinet - it gets too crazy. Especially living in Los Angeles (or any big, expensive city) the majority of people live in apartments. I passed on plenty of lovable and playful buddies because I didn't want to deal with the people. But FINALLY thanks to Petfinder, I found a wonderful Shiba Inu who was a Katrina rescue. She was at a feline shelter only because they had the room. It was a mixture of the dire situation that she needed a home, I had Sid (my Michigan dog) with me, and we drove a ways outside LA to meet her - the shelter was compassionate and understanding and we brought her home that day.

I have found that rescue groups do not respond and the only contact they allow is e-mail. I would like to speak to someone before meeting. As far as shelters go, I refuse to expose my pets to a shelter enviornment for a meet and greet exposing them to sick animals, parasites, and I believe that it will not be a true meet and greet as it puts both animals under stress, one being that my pet has not been exposed to shelters and the shelter pet getting a taste of freedom as it has been pent up in a cage day in and day out. Not a true personallity greet. There are other ways to do this as I have worked in shelters. I hear more and more people buying pets as they want to avoid the "screening process ". It is a horrible viscious cycle.

The adoption process has broken my heart. I never realized how hard this would be. I came close on 5 different occasions, three times a more "suitable" family was choosen; one time I was denied because I wasn't a stay at home mom! the last time I did all the paper work but by the time I left work and came to the adoption center, my Lexi (the name I was going to give her) was adopted by someone else. I visit shelters weekly. I live in NJ and have traveled animal control in NY to adopt.

Advice to shelters/rescue groups: Look at me interact with the dog; do not just read and decided based on an application.

I'm happy and patient working through the process, but my email is returned so I can't begin the dialogue with Enchanted Felines that I found through Pet Finder.com.
many thanks!

I can't find Enchanted Felines to request a cat that I would like to adopt. My emails are returned when I try to contact them.
Many thanks!

I truly appreciate anybody who can take the time out of their busy schedule to work in the rescue field. However, most of my experiences showed that many (not all) of the workers were either unprofessional, unrealistic, or had no people skills. I was denied so many times because I did not have children, despite the fact somebody is usually always home. Additionally, the workers were very slow to respond to emails and phone calls and did not seem to understand that I had to apply to MANY different agencies in case I got rejected AGAIN. The balancing act I had to do was emotionally difficult and there were some instances where I felt like I was an enemy (as another reader indicated). This should not be. I know many of these workers are very in touch with the horrors of how humans abuse animals and it seems to have permanently effected how they perceive potential adopters. Maybe they should get Compassion Fatigue Syndrome counseling (yes, it is a real syndrome by the way). Thanks for doing the survey!