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Pre-Screening Tips
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HOME STUDY FORM - THREE VISIT SYSTEM - REHOMING AGREEMENT - ADOPTION AGREEMENT
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Why are Re-Homing agreements important? CLICK HERE to read Chip's Story
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SCREENING PROCEDURES AND IDEAS TO CONSIDER
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1. Engage in a polite exchange when someone submits an inquiry about your pet. Get permission to ask questions to make sure it is going to be a "good match".
2. Ask about previous pets and what happened to them. Pick up on "feelings" toward pets in general.
3. Children? How many? Age of youngest? Are they used to animals? When children are five and under, tiny dogs, puppies and kittens are at risk unless the children are closely watched. It is usually not recommended that tiny animals be placed in homes with very young children.
4. Will this be an inside or outside pet? Dogs certainly need outdoor time, but being indoors and part of the family is equally important. A pet that is chained outdoors 24/7 is being treated inhumanely. An outdoor cat is at great risk for accidents and illness.
5. How will the dog be exercised? Lots of land may mean a loose animal. Dogs should not be unattended when outdoors. Even a fenced yard can offer an escape route for the enterprising canine. If there is no fence, a runner is appropriate. A runner is a strong cable with a strong line attached. Use a nylon (not choke) collar only loose enough to allow the tips of your first two fingers between the collar and the neck. Growing animals need their collars checked often. You may choose to use a harness to avoid stress on the throat. Attach the runner to your house on one side and a tree or pole on your property. Make sure the location is free of places that cause tangles. Safety is a major concern when using a runner.
6. Do they own their home? If they rent, do they have a written statement from the landlord that pets are allowed? What will they do if they need to rent elsewhere?
7. All pets are somewhat traumatized by entering a new home. The animal must be given a week or two to adjust. MISTAKES may occur during this period, so are they prepared for the worst? Can they pet-proof the house for the pet's safety and for their sanity?
8. Are there other pets in the home? When a new dog is introduced to the previous pet, meeting on neutral ground is advised. This way, one animal is not entering another's territory. You will need a second person to help you. Have your dog away from the house and walk the two pets together before entering the house. Then, enter together. There will still be the sniffing, etc., but hopefully no hysterics!
9. Who will be responsible for the pet? If it is a young child or even a teen, is there someone to double check? Kids today are busy and the pet may be forgotten by mistake. If a senior is responsible, who will be the back up in case a trip to the hospital is necessary?
10. Is there someone home enough to train a young animal? If the pet must be home alone while the family is at work or school, perhaps a mature previously trained pet is more appropriate.
11. If you are placing a personal pet, your animal should be neutered or spayed before it leaves your home. There are low cost spay and neuter programs.
12. A financial contribution means a commitment. The adopter should agree to reimburse you the Post-A-Pooch-Plus posting fee.
13. Once you are sure the new home will be appropriate and you've followed the three-visit procedure we suggest, make the transfer as easy as possible on the pet. Make sure the pet has a favorite blanket, toy, etc. to take along. If possible, agree to take the pet back if things don't work out. If you decide against an adoption agreement, at least ask them to call you so that you can be part of any decision about the pet. Be available for questions and don't forget to give all veterinary records to the new pet parents. Be honest about all pet information.
14. If you think about signing your pet over to a traditional shelter, remember that your pet may not be considered, by their standards, adoptable due to age, personality, health or behavior. |
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