The Adoption Proccess
Step 1: The adoption application
Ready to find your new best friend? Start by filling out our adoption application. This helps our Adoption Counselors match you with a companion who perfectly fits your lifestyle. If you’ve already fallen in love with a specific pet on our site, let us know so we can schedule a meet-and-greet!
Step 2: Adoption appointment
Once our team reviews your application, we’ll reach out to schedule an appointment for you to meet your potential new best friend! You’ll chat with an Adoption Counselor about your lifestyle, pet experience, and what you’re looking for in a companion. Our goal is to ensure a perfect match for your home.
If you already have pets, we’ll help arrange a 'meet and greet' to make sure everyone—four-legged members included—is ready for the new addition. We want to set every animal up for a lifetime of happiness and companionship.
Step 3: The Trial week
A one‑week foster‑to‑adopt trial gives you and the dog time to make sure the match is right before committing. During this week, the dog is in a decompression phase, so we ask that you provide a calm, low‑stress environment with a consistent routine for feeding and potty breaks. Please limit visitors and avoid overstimulating places like dog parks.
Your role is to monitor the dog’s behavior, appetite, and interactions with people and pets, and let us know if you have any concerns.
At the end of the seven days, you may choose to finalize the adoption, continue fostering, or return the dog. We understand that not every match is perfect, and we never judge anyone for deciding a dog isn’t the right fit. Your willingness to help is already deeply appreciated.
Step 4: Adoption Paperwork
Your trial week was a success—get ready to welcome your newest family member! To make everything official, an Adoption Counselor will guide you through the final paperwork, review the dog’s history, and answer any remaining questions. Once the adoption is finalized, the dog’s microchip and veterinary records will be transferred into your name and the adoption fee paid.
Remember: any dog adopted or fostered through Lost & Hound is always welcome to return to us if unforeseen circumstances arise. Your commitment to giving a dog a chance already means the world.
Step 5: The Afterparty
Our commitment to you and your new companion doesn't end on adoption day. Our team remains a dedicated resource for any questions or guidance you may need as you navigate life together. We also find nothing more rewarding than seeing our alumni thrive, so we warmly encourage you to share photos and 'Happy Tails' updates with us. Hearing how your dog has blossomed in their forever home is the highlight of our work and helps us celebrate the incredible bond you’ve built!