How Does the Adoption Process Work?
 

Am I Eligible?

Click here to see Paws for Heroes' requirements.

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To complete an Inquiry to Adopt a Paws for Heroes Dog, click here.
 

What is the Adoption Process?

First, the veteran is required to submit a complete an online Inquiry to Adopt a Paws for Heroes Dog.  If the veteran is approved to proceed to apply for a Paws for Heroes dog, Paws for Heroes will send the veteran an adoption application.  After Paws for Heroes receives the completed application, Paws for Heroes meets with the veteran and conducts an interview with the veteran.  

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If the veteran is preliminarily approved for the Paws for Heroes program, a home visit is conducted to ensure the veteran’s home environment is a safe, secure and pet friendly environment.  The veteran must also meet all requirements set forth by Paws for Heroes by preparing their home for a dog.  Paws for Heroes also requires that veterans review educational materials provided by Paws for Heroes regarding dog behavior, general pet care and positive reinforcement training.
 

How Long Is the Wait to Adopt a Dog?

Paws for Heroes is an all volunteer organization and each match is individually tailored to meet each specific veteran's needs. As a result, there may be a 3-6 month waiting period before we are able to meet with a new veteran to begin the adoption process.  After we meet with the veteran and they are approved to receive a Paws for Heroes dog, the search, selection, training and placement may take another 3-6 months.