ADOPTION PROCESS

Thank you for your interest in adopting from DC SIR! We are committed to finding the best possible match for each of our rescue dogs, and we appreciate your patience and understanding throughout our detailed adoption process.

We now welcome applications at any time, even if you don't see a specific dog listed. Submitting an application early helps us get to know you, and gives you a chance to:

• Be considered for dogs not yet announced publicly

• Potentially meet dogs sooner

• Be notified of incoming dogs that fit your lifestyle and preferences

Instead of applying for one specific dog, we encourage you to apply based on your ideal match in terms of age range, energy level, personality, and other preferences.

Most of our adopters do not receive the first dog they apply for. However, they often find that waiting leads them to the perfect companion in the end.

Adoption Donation

$550 for puppies (under 1 year old)

$450 for 13 months to 3 years

$350 for 4 years to 9 years

$250 for seniors (10+ years old)

This is what to expect when applying to adopt a dog from DC SIR:

1. Complete the DC SIR Adoption Application

2. Phone Interview

3. Meet & Greet

4. Home Visit

5. Reference Checks

6. Approval and Pickup

Complete the DC SIR Adoption Application

Apply at any time - not just when a dog is listed!

Your application helps us match you with current or future rescues based on your lifestyle and experience.

If applying for a puppy (6 months and under), you'll also need to complete the Puppy Addendum Form after submitting the main application.

Please be honest and detailed. This helps us evaluate fit and provide the best possible guidance.

• You can submit the Adoption Application Form here.

• If applying for a puppy, you must fill out the above Adoption Application Form first, and then fill out the DC SIR Puppy Adoption Application Addendum Form.

Phone Interview

Once we receive your application, a DC SIR volunteer will reach out to schedule a call.

Before the interview, please:

• Learn about the Shiba Inu breed

• Review our training philosophy

• Read our nutritional guidelines

We'll talk about your lifestyle, past experience with dogs, and your current pets to help identify the best possible match.

Meet and Greet

Applicants who are strong matches for a rescue will be invited to meet the dog. These are typically scheduled with the top 2-3 applicants.

Please be prepared to meet at a location convenient to the foster.

We also hold adoption events that are a great way to meet multiple rescues at once - check our Events Page for upcoming dates.

In situations where the applicant is over 3 hrs away, we may offer a meet and adoption on the same day. To be subject to everyone's approval at meet.

Home Visit

All household members must be present for the full visit.

Two DC SIR volunteers will conduct this, and may bring a test dog to assess the home environment.

We are now doing Virtual Home checks. This includes Skype, Zoom, Facetime, Messenger, etc.

Reference Checks

We will contact the personal and veterinary references listed on your application (please do not list relatives).

Approval and Pickup

If you're selected by our Board of Directors to adopt a rescue:

• You'll receive an email notification

• You must confirm your intent to move forward promptly

• You must be available to pick up your dog within 10 days of approval

If you're traveling, you may complete the adoption (contract + payment) and board your rescue with us for a

$25/night fee.

This policy prevents delays that keep foster homes occupied and block new rescues from being saved.

There is no "Shiba Layaway" - we must prioritize the lives we can actively save.

Important Notes:

• No dog is promised to anyone.

• Adoption is not finalized until the contract is signed.

We know this is a thorough process - and that's because we care deeply about matching each dog to the right home. Our volunteers dedicate countless hours to transport, vetting, fostering, and care. We ask that adopters bring the same dedication and readiness to the table.

Thank you for understanding, and we look forward to helping you meet your perfect match.