Approximately 4-6 million animals die in shelters each year. This is due to an overpopulation of dogs and cats, and too few homes willing to adopt them. While spay/neuter programs work to address the problem of overpopulation in the long term, we must also work to find loving homes for shelter animals now. There is nothing as rewarding as saving a life. When you adopt a shelter dog you are doing just that, while gaining a loyal and loving companion.
Adoption
Shadow’s Fund takes extra care in the placement of our adoptable dogs. Adoption is a life long commitment to the dog and the decision must be good for both the dog and their new family. We don’t believe anyone can get to know a dog in an hour, so we require several ‘play dates’ before the dog stays overnight allowing both the dog and the adopters to have the time to really see each other. Our process is a little longer than most, but ensures a comfortable transition for both the dog and the adopters. Potential issues are found in this ‘trial’ period and though our methods are not the norm, our adoption retention rate is extremely high. If for any reason, at any point in time, the dog can no longer stay with the family, Shadow’s Fund is committed to taking the dog back, preventing the dog from ever ending up in a shelter again.
The Process
It begins with our adoption application and a home check. Once those are completed and approved by Shadow’s Fund the first visit is scheduled at either our facility or your home. If the first visit goes well several play dates are scheduled; each visit increasing in length of time. Once it is clear that both the dog and the adopters are comfortable with each other the first overnight can happen and a ‘trial foster’ period begins. The trial period can last a few days or a few months. This trial period allows time for the decision to sink in and to make sure everyone is happy.
If you’re interested in adoption, please contact us at info@shadowsfund.org or call (805) 735-3165.
Fostering
Fostering a dog is a rewarding and wonderful experience for both the family and the dog. With many rescue dogs coming from lacking or unknown situations, the comfort and safety of a home can mean everything to them, even if only temporarily. Fostering is less of a financial and time commitment and provides the dog the same positive, nurturing environment of a home. While our sanctuary is certainly several steps up from a shelter or kennel, it cannot compare to the love of a 24/7 family. Shadow’s Fund takes the same care in placing dogs in foster homes as we do for adoptions and the process is very much the same.
The Process
It begins with our foster application and a home check. Once those are completed and approved by Shadow’s Fund the first visit is scheduled at either our facility or your home. If the first visit goes well several play dates are scheduled; each visit increasing in length of time. Once it is clear that both the dog and the foster family are comfortable with each other the first overnight can happen and a ‘trial foster’ period begins. The foster period can last a few days or a few months. We typically ask that the foster home be open to fostering up to 6 months at minimum.
If you’re interested in fostering, please contact us at info@shadowsfund.org or call (805) 735-3165.
