Adopting a Dog Through Best Friends Animal Society: What to Know

Best Friends Animal Society is one of the best-known animal welfare organizations in the United States, with a focus on helping shelters across the country save more pets' lives. If you live near one of its adoption centers, or are willing to travel, it can be a straightforward place to adopt. This guide covers the basics.

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What Best Friends is

Best Friends operates the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, along with adoption and lifesaving centers in several metro areas. When this guide was written, those included Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, New York City, Houston and Northwest Arkansas. It also works with a large network of partner shelters and rescue groups, so its website can help you find adoptable animals beyond its own locations.

How to use it step by step

1. Browse online first. Use the adoption section of the Best Friends website to view available dogs and filter by location.
2. Pick a location you can reach. Check which center or partner is caring for the dog and its visiting arrangements.
3. Visit and meet the dog. Staff talk with you about what you are looking for, help you meet suitable dogs and share what they know about each one.
4. Complete the adoption survey and paperwork. Best Friends describes its process as simple; you answer questions about your home and preferences, then sign the adoption paperwork.
5. Ask about foster-to-adopt. Some locations let you foster a dog at home first to make sure the match works before you finalize the adoption.

What it costs and what to expect

Best Friends posts its adoption fees on its website. When this guide was written, the listed fee was $100 for adult dogs and $150 for puppies six months and under, and fees covered spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, a microchip and a health check. The site also mentions special offers that vary by location, such as reduced fees for some senior pets and discounts for veterans. Fees can change, so confirm the current amount before you visit.

Adopters must be at least 18. Renters are welcome, but you should check your lease and confirm with your landlord that a dog is allowed. Best Friends also describes a lifetime return policy and offers behavior and care resources after adoption.

Tips before you apply

• Check the specific location's page. Hours, appointment rules and current offers can differ between centers.
• Bring documents. Have a photo ID and, if you rent, proof that pets are permitted.
• Bring the household. If possible, have everyone who will live with the dog meet them. Ask whether a resident dog can meet the new dog.
• Ask about history and needs. Ask how the dog behaves with strangers, kids and other pets, and whether there are any known medical or training needs.
• Plan the trip home. Have a secure collar or harness, a leash and a safe way to transport the dog.

If you are not near a Best Friends location, its partner network and the national search sites listed on this page are good ways to find similar dogs closer to home.

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Frequently asked questions

Where can I adopt from Best Friends?

At its sanctuary in Kanab, Utah, its adoption centers in several U.S. cities and through partner organizations. Check the website for the current list of locations.

What does the Best Friends adoption fee include?

According to its website, the fee covers spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, a microchip and a health check. Confirm current amounts and offers before visiting.

Can I adopt from Best Friends if I rent?

Best Friends says renters are welcome, but you should check your lease terms and confirm with your landlord that a dog is allowed.

Sources

• Best Friends Animal Society

Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.