Adoption Frequently Asked Questions

​Q: How much does it cost to adopt a dog?

A: We ask for a minimum donation of $250 for adult dogs (older than 5 months of age and altered), and $350 for puppies (under 5 months of age and unaltered)

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​Q: Are the dogs spayed/nuetered and up to date on shots?

A: Yes, all of our adult dogs are spayed/neutered and up to date on shots. In some cases, you may be adopting a dog shortly before their most recent boosters are due and will need to get the dog shots soon upon adopting. In rare cases some dogs are adopted prior to their spay/neuter, in which case we will arrange the spay/neuter for the adopter.

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​Q: Does this dog have any health problems?

A: All of our dogs are given a general physical health assessment by a vet and any known issues are treated before the dog is adopted out. If we have a dog with a chronic problem (arthritis, cataracts, etc) we will notify you of the dog's issues before adoption. Unless we have reason to suspect other underlying health issues, they are not given special blood testing, x-rays, etc. We have dental work done on dogs who have dental problems, but not regular cleanings. Keep in mind that many of these dogs are the products of poor breeding or care early in life and even the best pure bred dogs are subject to genetic health issues and other problems as they age. We always advise adopters to get their new family member seen by a vet as soon as possible to get a baseline health assessment.

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​Q: What is your adoption process?

A: Fill out an adoption application at arcticrescue.com/adopt. Upon reviewing your application, and contacting your references/landlord, we will set up a home visit and time for you to meet the dog. You must become an approved adopter prior to being allowed to adopt a dog.

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​Q: Can I adopt a dog today?

A: No. You must become an approved adopter before being allowed to adopt a dog.

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​Q:Will you transport a dog to me?

A: No, we have limited resources that are better used tending to the needs of the dogs. You are responsible for coming to meet/pick up/ transport the adopted dog to your home.

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​Q:If I don't have a fence can I adopt a dog?

A: Yes, so long as you understand the energy/exercise requirements of this breed of dog. Some of our dogs are escape artists and do better in a home where they are never outside off leash (even in a fenced area).

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​Q: If I live out of Utah can I adopt a dog?

A: Yes, provided you become an approved adopter. Keep in mind that you are responsible for providing transportation for the dog. In the case of multiple applications for the same dog, if all applicants are qualified for the dog, preference will be given to the in-state applicant.

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​Q: Why are your adoption fees so high? I can adopt a dog from the pound less.

A: Yes you can adopt a dog from the pound for less. The local pound/animal shelter is subsidized by the city, we are not. Our rescue is privately funded and we rely on donations from the public to keep operating. Much of our funding to continue providing medical care, food, shelter, exercise, etc. comes from our adoption fees. In addition, our dogs get much more individualized attention, and in general, we can provide you with a better fit based on what we know and have observed about our dogs.

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​Q: Will you "hold" a dog for me?

A: Typically no. We operate on the principle of best fit for the dog. If your application is in first and you are the best fit for the dog then we will allow you to adopt it. If you application is in first and there are equally qualified families who want the dog, we will not wait for you to become available to adopt the dog. Other, equally qualified families will be allowed to adopt the dog.

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​Q: Can I foster the dog before adopting?

A: Yes, but keep in mind, our goal is to find loving, dedicated homes for these dogs. Many of our dogs have challenges that need to be worked through, that is why they are in rescue. Whether their issue is escaping, excessive energy, dog aggression, food aggression, anxiety, etc. they all need homes willing to work through their problems. We understand the desire to be aware of what you are getting yourself into, that is why we will be up front with you about the issues a dog has. Please do not plan to use a foster program as simply a "test drive" to bounce a dog back into and out of rescue. If you are looking to adopt a dog, please prepare yourself to deal with problems in one form or another.

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​Q: Are the dogs good with kids?

A: We don't know. Unless a previous owner surrendered the dog and expressly said it was good with kids, we do not have a lot of information on it. Few of our foster homes have children, so these dogs get very little interaction with children, and even less in an uncontrolled setting. If you have children please take into consideration that these are big, energetic dogs. They should never be left unattended with children for any reason.

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​Q: Is this dog good with cats/chickens/rabbits/guinea pigs/birds/etc?:

A: In general, no. These are dogs with a high prey drive who don't view these animals as part of they family, they view them as prey. When trained, these dogs can live with and interact with many of these animals peacefully. That said, most of these dogs come to us as adults without having had the necessary training from a young age to interact with these types of small animals. If you want to bring these dogs into the house with small animals, be prepared for the worst. Be prepared for the dog to kill your small animal and be prepared to keep the animals separated at all times.

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​Q: How does the home visit work?

A: A volunteer will visit you at your home to make sure it is suitable for the dog you are trying to adopt. We verify the condition of the fences, and discuss containment plans with you and where the dog will be kept, etc. There is nothing you need to prepare for the home visit.

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​Q: How old is the dog?

A: We can provide you with an estimate. Most of these dogs come to us as adults. Our best guess on age comes from the condition of teeth, joints, activity level, etc. This provides us with a ROUGH estimate of age. It is definitely possible for this age to be off by a year or more, in either direction.

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​Q: What if I am no longer able to care for the dog after I adopt it? What if it doesn't get along with my current dogs/cats/family?:

A: If you are no longer able or willing to care for the dog you adopted, you are required to give it back to us. You may not give it to a friend, family member, neighbor, etc. You may not relinquish it to your local animal shelter or rescue.

 

In addition, we ask that you give a newly adopted dog at least 60 days to adjust to it's new situation and surroundings. It takes this long for a dog to learn the new rules and become comfortable with it's new family. If you are having behavioral problems, contact us. We are here to help and can provide advice on how to make the transition smoother.

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