What to Expect When You Adopt
Bill of Rights for Adopters
Sue Sternberg
- You have the right to adopt the best dog/cat you have ever
met
- You have the right to adopt a dog or cat that has not
bitten and broken skin on a human
- You have the right to adopt a dog that will be safe with
passing children in the neighborhood
- You have the right to adopt a dog that has not killed
another dog
- You have the right not to be blamed if the dog you adopt
turns out aggressive
- You have the right not to be blamed for NOT adopting a dog
that has been at the shelter for too long/ to choose not to
adopt a dog and not to be made to feel guilty because the dog
has been sheltered long-term
- You have the right not to be pressured to adopt an
incompatible or dog you don't readily connect with because/even
though the alternative is euthanasia
- You have the right to be educated, and explained the
reasons why you are refused and adoption, so that you can make
changes in order to become a conscientious pet owner
- You have the right to be treated with respect, courtesy,
and professionalism
- You have the right to inquire and receive as much prior
behavioral and medical history on the dog that is currently
available
- You have the right to be informed of the dogs actual age,
and if the actual age is not known, to receive the best guess
from a shelter professional
- You have the right to be informed of the dogs actual breed
or breed mix, and if not known, to receive the best guess from
a shelter professional, with no euphemisms or avoiding breeds
that conjure up public fear (e.g. Pit Bull, Chow,
etc.)
- You have the right to expect the shelter to stand behind its dogs/puppies, and accept them back AT ANY TIME, for ANY REASON, should the need ever arise in the dog's lifetime
Next in
Before You Adopt: What to Expect When You Adopt:
Before You Complain About Your Local Animal Shelter
