Five steps to your new family member
Our adoption process is simple yet thorough, as we are committed to ensuring the perfect fit for both adopters and our dogs. Have questions? See the FAQs below.
You found the dog of your dreams...
Step 1: Apply
Now that you've identified your potential new family member, its time to fill out our adoption application. Click the button below to get started.
Tell us about yourself
Step 2: Home Visit · Interview
Once your application is received, our team will review. We want to ensure the right possible fit. So, if your application is chosen for the next step in the adoption process, we'll schedule a home or virtual visit to learn more about your home environment, its safety, routines, etc. It's is a great time to share more about yourself and ask any additional questions.
An introduction
Step 3: Meet + Greet
If your application has been approved (after review and interview), we schedule a time for you to meet with your dog. This is a great time to get to know them, their energy level, training knowledge*, temperament, etc. to confirm its the right fit for you and your family.
*Applies to our AKC/CGC certified dogs from our Paws of Hope program.
Give it a go
Step 4: Trial Adoption
Building on a successful meet and greet, we offer adopters a trial adoption period for a set number of days- to truly assess how the dog integrates into their home and lifestyle. This step is key - granting a more thoughtful decision-making process and allowing the dog to experience a loving environment. The trial adoption also greatly reduces the chances of dogs ever being returned after adoption.
Welcome home!
Step 5: Adoption
After a successful trial adoption, its a seamless shift to permanent adoption. The transition process involves executing the adoption contract, paying the adoption fee. We will then disburse all medical records, training certifications and guides*, microchip, etc. via an adoption kit. Adoption is a celebration and marks the dog’s official transition to becoming a permanent member of the family.
*Applies to AKC/CGC certified dogs from our Paws of Hope program.
Adoption Process FAQs
Below we answer common questions regarding our adoption process.
I've submitted my application: How long does the process take?
It depends. We know you are excited about opening your heart and home to a new family member, and we want to be as responsive as we can be. Please understand that we often have multiple applications for one dog, so time to review and select an application for takes thoughtful consideration and time to plan next steps. We try to respond within a few days of receiving an application.
I'm interested in a few dogs: Do I need separate applications?
No. In your original application, please select one of the dogs you are interested in, then send us an email, following up on the additional dogs you may be interested in adopting. We do not do multiple adoptions for one home, however. We encourage the seamless transition of one dog into a new home to start.
I'm out of State: Do you adopt dogs outside of CA?
Yes, we do. We have many happy Wiley's dogs adopted by amazing out of state adopters. There is a bit more legwork involved, including the dog being considered and transportation arrangements and fees, which we encourage the adopter to cover. We have reputable transport options and can coordinate, however, the home visit/interview may be a bit lengthier as we want to ensure unwavering commitment and right fit.
The Adoption Fee: What is it and what does it cover?
Our adoption fees vary due to the age of the dog, breed, any medical or special needs the dog may have.
The adoption fee helps to cover the services we have already provided for the dog, leading up to adoption (medical and training). Services include wellness checks, full blood, heart worm, fecal and urine samples, deworming, the DHPP vaccine series, Bordetella, Lepto (optional), Rabies vaccine, microchip, flea/rick preventatives, and spay or neuter. Wiley's Wish covers treatment for any pre-existing conditions needed to ensure the animal is healthy and ready for adoption. After the adoption, any further medical care will be the responsibility of the adopter. For our AKC/CGC certified dogs, the adoption fee will also cover the cost of training in our Paws of Hope program.
Can't I just come and meet the dog I'm interested in?
Unfortunately not. Since we are a foster-based rescue and many of our dogs are enrolled in our Paws of Hope prison resident/rescue dog training program. If you are interested in a dog, we ask that you fill out an adoption application to start the process to meet and greet, OR inquire with us directly for more information at wileyswish@gmail.com. Another option is to check our Events page for opportunities to meet and greet particular dogs.
Why is my application is not approved?
Don't worry - We truly appreciate the time and effort you put into your application and your commitment to providing a loving home for a dog. Please know that we are dedicated to finding you the most perfect fit. If your application was not approved for a particular dog, we encourage you to consider other dogs available for adoption with us.
I see you have events: Can dogs be adopted same day?
We do host frequent meet + greet events where a handful of our trained rescue dogs are present to showcase their skills. We encourage you to check our Events page to perhaps meet your new family member. Unfortunately, we do not adopt out the same-day. Our adoption process remains the same - five steps to a forever home. You can review the steps above for reference.
AKC/CGC Trained Dogs
Below are some of are common questions about our AKC/CGC certified dogs.
AKC/CGC certified: What does that mean?
Rescued dogs that graduate from our Paws of Hope program with AKC/CGC (Canine Good Citizen) certifications, this means that the dogs have been tested on and have passed practical, functional behaviors that every dog should have to be welcomed in the community. Upon adoption, the dogs will come with their official certifications/certificates.
Trained rescue dogs: What do they know?
Rescue dogs that graduate from our Paws of Hope program are crate trained, potty trained, AKC/CGC certified trained having passed an array of curriculum. Dogs know an average of 20 or more commands/queues, have leash etiquette, are dog and people social, child, cat and often times livestock tested.
How do I replicate the training my dog received?
Don't worry, we've got you covered. Our team of AKC certified trainers are here to help acclimate you to the training your new Paws of Hope graduate received. It's an exciting process to learn all of the commands they know, enhancing your relationship and bond with your dog.
What if I want to advance my dog's training?
We always encourage our adopters to continue with the training techniques, commands learned from our Paws of Hope program. If you wanted to advance your dog's training skillset, contact us as we can help guide you and your dog to advanced levels, including Canine for Companion status.