Frequently Asked Questions

Our process is designed to find the right match for both you and the dog. Here's how it works:

1. Browse & Apply — Review our available dogs on the Adoptions page and submit an Adopt or Foster interest form.
2. Application Review — Our team reviews your application within 1–3 business days and follows up with any questions.
3. Home Meeting — If your application looks like a good fit, we schedule a home visit (in-person or video) and complete the Home Meeting Waiver together.
4. Dog Introduction — We arrange a meet-and-greet with the dog (and your resident pets, if applicable).
5. Adoption Contract — Once both sides are happy, you sign the Adoption Contract and the dog comes home with you!

To adopt through RESCUE DOG .ME you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older
• Have a stable, permanent home (renting is fine — landlord approval required)
• Agree to a home visit or video home tour
• Agree to spay/neuter by the deadline stated in the Adoption Contract (if the dog is not already altered)
• Have all resident dogs up-to-date on vaccinations and licenses
• Have a securely fenced yard or demonstrate an active leash-walk routine
• Agree never to rehome the dog without contacting us first

RESCUE DOG .ME is a premium rescue organization with a mission-driven focus: we exist to stop dogs from entering cycles of sustained backyard breeding, accidental litters, and the shelter-to-surrender pipeline that follows. Our fees reflect the real cost of doing rescue right — veterinary care, vaccinations, transport, fostering, and individualized placement support.

Adoption fees vary by dog. Current fees:

• Puppies (under 6 months): $800–$1,400
• Young adults (6 months–3 years): $500–$800
• Adults (3+ years): $300–$400
• Senior dogs (7+ years): $250

All dogs come with a complimentary free vet exam voucher, age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and a starter bag of food and supplies. Every adoption directly supports our ability to pull the next dog.

A Preferred Adopter listing means we have already identified a strong potential match for this dog — typically someone who applied before the dog was listed publicly, or a foster family who has expressed interest in adopting.

We still accept applications for these dogs, but please know that the Preferred Adopter has priority. If the Preferred Adopter declines, the next best-fit applicant will be contacted.

We post these dogs publicly because circumstances can change. There's no harm in applying — we'll let you know where you stand right away.

Most adoptions are completed within 1–3 weeks from application to pickup, depending on scheduling and the home visit. Puppies with high interest may move faster; specialty needs dogs may take a bit longer to match carefully. We'll keep you informed at every step.

Yes! Renters are welcome to apply. You'll need to provide proof of your landlord's written pet approval (a text or email confirmation is fine) before the home visit. We ask this to protect both you and the dog — we want to ensure a stable placement.

Absolutely. Many of our dogs thrive with canine or feline companions! We'll ask about your resident pets on the application and will require that all dogs in the home are up-to-date on vaccinations. We typically arrange a meet-and-greet between the dogs before finalizing the adoption.

We are primarily a regional rescue covering Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, Utah, and Texas. We do not ship dogs via cargo. For long-distance adoptions, a video home tour may be accepted in place of an in-person visit, and transport can sometimes be arranged through our network. Contact us to discuss your situation.

Yes. Every dog in our program receives age-appropriate vaccinations (DHPP, Bordetella, Rabies when eligible), fecal testing, and deworming treatment. Puppies under 8 weeks may have a partial vaccine series that adopters are responsible for completing. All health records are included in your adoption packet.

Every adoption also includes a complimentary free vet exam voucher so you can get your new dog checked out right away with a licensed veterinarian of your choice.

We rescue all breeds and mixes — no discrimination. Our available dogs range from purebred Labs and Goldendoodles to terrier mixes, hounds, herders, and everything in between. Breed, size, coat type, and temperament vary widely, so we encourage you to tell us about your lifestyle so we can suggest your best match.

Dogs that are old enough and medically cleared are altered before coming home with you. Puppies under 8–12 weeks, or dogs recovering from illness or surgery, may be placed on a Spay/Neuter Agreement requiring the procedure by a specified age (typically 6 months). See the Spay & Neuter FAQ section for more details.

We place dogs of all ages — from 8-week-old puppies to senior dogs 8 years and older. Age is noted on every dog's profile. If you have a specific age preference, filter by age on our Adoptions page or mention it in your application.

Every dog's profile includes breed, age, size, energy level, and a personality description based on foster home observations. We also note compatibility with children, cats, and other dogs. We strongly encourage you to be honest on your application about your lifestyle — a quiet apartment is a great home for the right dog. We match on lifestyle, not just preference.

Dogs fostered in homes are often house-trained or in active training. Puppies under 4 months are not expected to be fully house-trained. Each dog's profile notes their training status. Expect a regression period of 2–4 weeks when any dog moves to a new home — this is completely normal and temporary.

Fostering means temporarily providing a safe, loving home for a rescue dog while we find their forever family. Foster homes are the backbone of our rescue — without them, we cannot pull dogs from shelters or take in owner surrenders. Every foster home saves lives.

Fill out the Foster Application on our Forms page. We'll review your application, schedule a quick phone chat, and match you with a dog that fits your schedule and living situation. There's no long-term commitment — you foster one dog at a time for as long as that dog needs you.

RESCUE DOG .ME covers all veterinary costs, supplies a starter kit (food, collar, leash, crate if needed), and reimburses pre-approved expenses. Your main contribution is your time, love, and home. Some fosters choose to purchase extra toys or treats — that's entirely optional and appreciated!

Yes — and it happens all the time! We call it a "foster fail" (the good kind). If you fall in love with your foster dog and want to make it official, simply let us know. Foster families get first priority. The standard adoption fee applies, but we're flexible on a case-by-case basis for long-term fosters.

Most placements last 2–6 weeks, though this varies based on the dog's age, health, and how quickly we find an adopter. Puppies typically move fast (1–3 weeks); dogs with medical needs or behavioral quirks may stay longer. We will never pressure you to keep a dog longer than you're able.

Your Adoption Contract will specify the required age. Our policy is no earlier than 16 weeks — this is a health-first decision backed by peer-reviewed veterinary science. Proof of spay/neuter must be submitted before your dog reaches 18 months of age.

Some larger breeds benefit from waiting a bit longer within that window — your vet can advise on the right timing for your dog's specific breed and size.

Because the science clearly shows that earlier removal of sex hormones can cause lasting harm. Estrogen and testosterone aren't just about reproduction — they regulate bone growth plate closure, joint development, organ maturation, and immune function during the critical early developmental window.

Research from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, and multiple peer-reviewed institutions has found that early gonadectomy significantly increases risk of:

• Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears
• Osteosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma
• Hypothyroidism, urinary incontinence, and increased susceptibility to infectious disease

We set our minimum at 16 weeks because that is when the most critical early developmental stages have passed. This is a health-first policy — not a convenience decision.

View our full Spay & Neuter Policy Hub →

If your dog is old enough and medically cleared, we aim to alter all dogs before placement. However, puppies under 16 weeks and dogs recovering from illness or transport stress will be placed on a Spay/Neuter Agreement requiring the procedure before 18 months. Check your individual dog's profile and your Adoption Contract for the specific requirement.

If your dog comes home unaltered, you agree to:

1. Have the dog spayed or neutered no earlier than 16 weeks of age
2. Submit written proof of the procedure (a vet invoice, sterilization certificate, or signed vet letter) before your dog reaches 18 months
3. Contact us in advance if you need an extension — we are happy to work with adopters in good faith

You'll receive reminder communications as the deadline approaches. Failure to comply without communication may result in a follow-up review of the adoption agreement.

Acceptable proof includes any of the following:

• A veterinary invoice showing the procedure and date
• A certificate of sterilization from your vet or clinic
• A signed letter on official practice letterhead confirming the procedure was completed, the date, and your dog's name

Upload your documentation using the link in your post-adoption email. The process takes less than two minutes and goes directly into your adoption record.

We understand vet costs add up. Low-cost options are available in most of our service areas. We can connect you with local humane society clinics, ASPCA programs, and regional spay/neuter voucher programs. Additionally, all adopters receive a free first vet exam voucher — ask your vet about bundled procedure pricing at that visit. Just reach out before the deadline and we'll help you find an affordable path forward.

Yes — at the right age. Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine infections (pyometra) and greatly reduces mammary tumor risk when done after the first heat cycle. Neutering eliminates testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate issues. Both procedures also reduce roaming, certain aggression triggers, and unintended litters.

The key is timing. Done too early, the risks documented in peer-reviewed research outweigh the benefits. Done at the appropriate developmental stage, spay/neuter is a responsible, health-positive choice — which is why our adoption agreement requires it.

We don't disappear after the contract is signed. Our team is available via email and phone for questions, training tips, and resource referrals. We maintain a private adopter community and send seasonal newsletters with training articles, vet discount offers, and alumni spotlights. You're part of the RESCUE DOG .ME family for life.

Very normal. The "3-3-3 Rule" is a good guide: the first 3 days, your dog is overwhelmed and may be shut down or anxious. By 3 weeks, they start to learn routines and feel safer. By 3 months, they feel at home. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement go a long way. Reach out to us anytime — we've seen it all and we're here to help.

Yes. We have a lifetime return policy — meaning we will always take back any dog adopted through us, no questions asked. We'd much rather work through challenges with you first, so please contact us early if issues arise. If a return is truly the right choice, we will facilitate the transition as smoothly and compassionately as possible.

Our recommended checklist:

✓ Collar, ID tag, and leash
✓ Crate sized for the dog (a safe den, not a punishment)
✓ Food and water bowls
✓ The same food brand we've been feeding (we'll tell you what it is)
✓ A comfortable bed or blanket
✓ A few durable chew toys
✓ Baby gate or exercise pen if you want to limit access initially
✓ Enzymatic cleaner (for accidents during the adjustment period)
✓ Vet appointment scheduled within 2 weeks of arrival

We operate across Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, Utah, and Texas. Our primary coordination hub is in Wyoming, and we work with a network of foster families, vets, and transport volunteers across all five states. There is no single brick-and-mortar adoption center — dogs live in foster homes until they find their forever families.

No. RESCUE DOG .ME is a for-profit premium rescue organization. We believe this model allows us to operate with greater efficiency, accountability, and long-term sustainability — without relying on grant cycles or donation drives to keep dogs moving through the program.

Our adoption fees are transparent and go directly toward the cost of each dog's care: veterinary treatment, vaccinations, transport, and foster support. Our mission is rescue-first: every placement is deliberate, every dog is vetted, and every adopter is matched with care.

Questions about how we operate? Review our Privacy Policy or contact us directly.

There are many ways to help:

• Volunteer — Transport drivers, event helpers, photographers, and admin volunteers are always needed
• Donate — Every dollar helps cover vet bills, food, and transport
• Share — Sharing our available dogs on social media saves lives
• Partner — Businesses can sponsor dogs, host events, or support our puppy therapy program

See our Services page or fill out the Volunteer form to get started.

We do accept owner surrenders on a case-by-case basis based on current foster capacity. Please contact us directly before bringing a dog to us — we'll assess whether we can take the dog in and begin the intake process. For stray animals, please contact your local animal control or humane society first, as they are legally required to hold strays for a reclaim period.