Adoption Terms & Agreement
Please read this agreement carefully. By completing an adoption through RESCUE DOG .ME, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to all terms contained herein. This agreement is legally binding under the laws of the State of Wyoming.
1. Parties to This Agreement
This Adoption Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into between RESCUE DOG .ME, a Wyoming-based dog rescue organization ("Rescue"), and the individual(s) identified on the adoption application as the adopter(s) ("Adopter"). This Agreement is effective upon the Adopter's completion of the adoption process and receipt of the dog.
2. Placement Conditions
The Rescue agrees to place a dog with the Adopter subject to the following conditions, all of which the Adopter accepts as ongoing obligations:
- The dog shall be kept as a companion animal and household pet only. The dog shall not be used for breeding, resale, experiments, research, training for animal fighting, or any other commercial or inhumane purpose.
- The dog shall live inside the home as a full member of the household. Dogs placed by the Rescue are not suited for full-time outdoor or kennel living.
- The dog shall receive regular veterinary care, including annual wellness exams, vaccinations as recommended by a licensed veterinarian, and prompt treatment of illness or injury.
- The dog shall be fed a nutritious diet, provided with fresh water at all times, adequate shelter, exercise, socialization, and affection.
- The dog shall be licensed in the Adopter's municipality as required by local ordinance and shall wear an identification tag at all times when off the Rescue's premises.
- The dog shall not be transferred, rehomed, or surrendered to any third party, including shelters, without first contacting the Rescue and complying with the Return Policy in Section 5.
3. Spay / Neuter Obligation
If the dog has not been spayed or neutered at the time of adoption, the Adopter agrees to have the procedure performed in accordance with the Rescue's Spay & Neuter Agreement, which is incorporated herein by reference. Failure to comply may result in the Rescue exercising its right of reclaim under Section 6.
4. Health Disclosure
The Rescue has made a good-faith effort to disclose all known health, behavioral, and temperament information about the dog. However, the Adopter acknowledges that:
- Dogs may carry conditions that were not apparent or diagnosable at the time of placement.
- The Rescue is not a licensed veterinary provider and cannot guarantee the dog's health.
- The Adopter accepts the dog "as is" with respect to health and temperament and assumes all veterinary expenses from the date of adoption.
- The Rescue's liability is limited to re-homing assistance and does not include reimbursement of veterinary expenses, except where expressly agreed to in writing.
We recommend a veterinary wellness exam within 7 days of adoption. Many veterinary practices offer discounted new-pet exams for newly adopted dogs — ask when you call to schedule.
5. Return Policy
The Rescue accepts the return of any dog placed through its program, for any reason, at any time, for the lifetime of the dog. The Adopter agrees to:
- Contact the Rescue at hello@rescuedog.me before surrendering the dog to any other party.
- Provide at least 7 days' notice when possible, to allow the Rescue to arrange transport or foster care.
- Return the dog with its current health records, vaccination certificates, and any medications.
- Not surrender the dog to a municipal shelter, pound, or any third party without the Rescue's written consent.
Adoption fees are non-refundable. The Rescue reserves the right to conduct a home visit or interview before accepting a return to assess the dog's condition.
6. Right of Reclaim
The Rescue retains the right to reclaim the dog, without refund of the adoption fee, if the Rescue determines at its sole discretion that:
- The Adopter has materially breached any term of this Agreement.
- The dog is being kept in conditions detrimental to its health, safety, or well-being.
- The dog has been transferred to a third party without the Rescue's consent.
- The Adopter has provided false or misleading information in the adoption application.
In the event of reclaim, the Rescue may contact local animal control authorities if necessary to ensure the dog's safety.
7. Microchip & Registration
Dogs placed by the Rescue may be microchipped prior to adoption. The Adopter agrees to transfer the microchip registration into their name within 30 days of adoption and to keep the registration current with their contact information for the life of the dog.
8. Liability Limitation
The Adopter agrees to indemnify and hold harmless RESCUE DOG .ME, its officers, volunteers, and agents from any and all claims, damages, or liability arising from the dog's actions after the date of adoption. The Rescue's total liability under this Agreement shall not exceed the adoption fee paid.
9. Home Meeting
The Rescue requires a home meeting or virtual visit prior to finalizing most adoptions. Please review the Home Meeting Policy for full details. The adoption may not be finalized until the home meeting requirement is satisfied.
10. Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Wyoming. Any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be resolved in Fremont County, Wyoming, unless both parties agree in writing to an alternative venue.
11. Entire Agreement
This Agreement, together with the adoption application and any supplemental agreements (Spay/Neuter Agreement, etc.), constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior discussions, representations, and understandings. Amendments must be in writing and signed by both parties.
Acknowledgment & Signature
By signing or electronically acknowledging this Agreement, the Adopter confirms that they have read, understood, and agree to all terms herein. Electronic submission of the adoption form constitutes a binding signature.