Adopt
MaxFund Adoption Fees Dogs: $100 |
We do not accept faxed or emailed applications; they must be delivered to the shelter directly. |
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Adoption Process
You have taken the big step in deciding to become a pet owner. Now, what do you do? MaxFund assists hundreds of people and animals each year by trying to make the correct match between owner and pet. The following guidelines may help you in this process.
MaxFund cares deeply for our animals, not just while they are at the shelter but once they leave for their forever home as well. Because we are a no-kill shelter, our animals are not on an adoption deadline, and we can take the time to make sure we find the best possible home for our furries! We do everything possible to make sure you are right for the animal, to make sure the animal is right for you, and to make sure the animal will work out well with it's new family.
When you decide on the animal you want you will do an adoption application and interview process to make sure we've made a good match. All applicants will be asked to submit the names and phone numbers of 3 personal references (relatives don't count), the name and phone number of your veterinarian if you have one, the name and phone number of your landlord (if applicable) and information about your current living situation. We also require that all immediate family members meet the animal prior to adoption to ensure compatibility. We would hate to adopt an animal into a family and later find out the dog doesn't like the kids or the husband doesn't like the animal, etc..
If you are interested in adopting a dog and have filled out an application, MaxFund will ask you to bring any currently owned dogs to the shelter for a “meet-and-greet” to ensure they can stand each other before they become a family. Because we examine adoption applications carefully and contact all references, same-day adoptions are extremely rare and should not be expected!
Ensuring that references, vets, and landlords are available will help speed the process and minimize phone tag lag time. Please know that we adhere to this strict process to help find the best homes possible for all our precious animals. In the unfortunate (but understandable) circumstance that any animal does not work out in the home after adoption, MaxFund requires that the animal be returned to our shelter to ensure we can try to find the animal a new home. MaxFund also reserves the right to deny applications and may do so for any reason. It is left to MaxFund’s Adoption Coordinators’ discretion as to whether an applicant is compatible with the desired animal.
Know that while Saturdays are the most convenient days for most people to come in as they are out of work and school, this also makes it our busiest day for adoptions, and you may have to wait to meet with an adoption coordinator. If you can come in on another day, this will make sure your wait time is kept to a minimum! Thank you for your patience and understanding, and Happy Tails!
What All Pets Need
Regardless of the type of pet you select, they each have basic needs. These are simple and straight forward, but worth considering prior to bringing your new pet home.
Food and Water
Dogs and cats need food specially formulated for them. It is a mistake to assume that they will do well on a diet of “people food” or that they should hunt for their meals. Get guidance from your veterinarian as animal’s needs vary greatly. There is also literature and information available at your pet store. Purchase your pet food upon approval of your adoption request, so you can be with your pet on its journey to a new home and family.
A Safe Environment
Consider where your pet will live. Even if it lives indoors, you will need to be sure that when outside, your pet is safe. Animals need protection from extreme heat and cold, direct sunlight, high humidity, strong rain, wind, snow, and ice. Do you have a fence, and if so, what is the height? A fence can help to keep your pet within the safety of your home. Also, be certain that proper ID tags are on your pet.
Veterinary Care
Veterinary care is as important to your pet as medical care is to you. So much can be done to help your pet live the highest quality of life possible. You may want to have your pet spayed or neutered, and help them live longer by getting vaccinations - such as for rabies.
Exercise
Physical exercise is important to the health and well being of animals. While your pets may explore your backyard, they may still need the encouragement of a guided walk. Because each animal has different medical factors, ask your veterinary about the appropriate length of walk for your pet. Play time can help to stimulate the mind of your cat or dog, and assists in developing a loving bond between you and your pet.
General Care
Pets need assistance with grooming and care for their bodies. Dogs need regular grooming (this can vary on the length of their coat), bathing, cleansing of teeth and ears, and may need to have their nails clipped. Cats are often more capable of grooming themselves, however, may also have additional needs. All pets should have a regular checkup with the veterinarian - when you can ask specific questions. There are many good groomers that can help to keep your pet looking its best.
Social Order
Dogs are pack animals and expect to have a leader. To feel secure your pet needs to be part of a group, which is your family or friends. Dogs also need a team leader who they can watch to know what is expected and when. If you do not assume this position your pet most likely will. Many books are devoted to this subject and may help you understand how animals think and behave. Obedience training or behavioral classes may also help.
Consistency and Attention
Animals need consistent expressions, rules and results to learn what is expected of them. They want to please and it boosts their moral to know that they have completed your command. They need to be treated fairly to know that their owner is trustworthy. By nature many animals are born with happy and outgoing dispositions. Abuse can change this into fear, nervousness, aggressive and unpredictable behavior. Pets adopted from shelters may need additional care and guidance to begin to trust people again. Your love and consistency can help to give your pet a new life.