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ADOPTION INFORMATION

​Adoption Criteria​

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  1. Stable Living Situation

    • Proof of a stable home (rent/ownership) is required. If renting, written landlord approval for pets must be provided.

  2. Pet Experience

    • Prior pet ownership is not required, but adopters should demonstrate knowledge of pet care or a willingness to learn.

  3. Meet-and-Greet

    • All household members, including other pets, must meet the adoptable pet to ensure compatibility.

  4. Home Check

    • A virtual or in-person home check may be conducted to ensure a safe and suitable environment.

  5. Financial Stability

    • Adopters should show they can afford the ongoing costs of pet ownership, including food, grooming, and veterinary care.

  6. Time Commitment

    • Adopters should demonstrate they have time to dedicate to their new pet, including training, exercise, and companionship.

  7. Fencing (if applicable)

    • For certain breeds or active dogs, a secure fenced yard may be required. Exceptions can be made based on lifestyle (e.g., frequent walks).

  8. Adoption Agreement

    • Adopters must sign an agreement to provide proper care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and regular vet visits.

  9. Return Policy

    • Pets adopted from Legacy Paws Rescue must be returned to the rescue if the adopter can no longer care for them.

  10. Background Check

    • A background check may be conducted to ensure no history of animal neglect or abuse.

  11. Trial Period

    • A trial adoption period (e.g., 1-2 weeks) can be offered to ensure a good fit.

  12. Breed-Specific Requirements

    • For certain breeds, additional criteria (e.g., breed experience or insurance) may apply.

Pay Adoption Fee

Closeup of a Black Dog

Why Do We Charge an Adoption Fee?

 

At Legacy Paws Rescue, we're in the business of saving lives—not selling pets. That adoption fee you’re paying? It’s not for your new best friend—it’s what keeps the lights on, the vet bills paid, and the poop (mostly) under control. You’re not buying a dog—you’re funding rescue missions, second chances, and a whole lot of chaos wrapped in fur.

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Here’s how your adoption fee makes a real difference:

What Does the Adoption Fee Cover?

 

Veterinary Care

Every animal we rescue receives comprehensive medical attention to ensure they are healthy and ready for adoption:

  • Vaccinations ($50–$100 per pet)

  • Spay/neuter surgery ($150–$300)

  • Microchipping if age-appropriate ($25–$50)

  • Treatment for illnesses or injuries (which can range from $100 to over $1,000, depending on severity)

  • Preventative care, such as flea/tick treatments and deworming ($20–$50 per month per pet)

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Daily Care

While pets are in our care, we provide everything they need to thrive:

  • Nutritious food and clean water ($30–$50 per month per pet)

  • Comfortable bedding and safe shelter

  • Toys and enrichment to keep them happy and active

  • Behavioral training for pets who need extra help adjusting

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Insurance and Operational Costs

Running a rescue involves many behind-the-scenes expenses that adoption fees help to offset, such as:

  • Pet insurance for high-risk or senior animals ($25–$50 per month per pet)

  • Liability insurance to keep our facility safe and protected ($1,000+ annually)

  • Utilities, including heating, cooling, and water for the animals ($200–$500 per month)

  • Maintenance of the property and equipment, such as fencing and kennels

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Transportation and Emergency Rescues

Getting animals to safety often requires transportation and logistical support:

  • Fuel for transporting animals from high-risk shelters or neglect situations

  • Emergency rescues and disaster response (costs vary widely but can exceed $1,000 per event)

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Why the Fee is Necessary?

While adoption fees might seem like a large upfront cost, they are far lower than the total expenses we invest in each animal’s care. By paying an adoption fee, you’re helping us:

  • Provide the best possible care for every animal.

  • Save more pets from euthanasia, abuse, and neglect.

  • Ensure the sustainability of our rescue for future animals in need.

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A Lifelong Value

That adoption fee? It’s doing more than just helping us rescue the next hot mess on four legs. It covers the stuff you’d be paying for anyway—like vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, and microchipping—so really, you're saving lives and saving money.

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When you adopt from Legacy Paws Rescue, you're not just gaining a furry roommate with boundary issues—you’re backing a mission to rescue, rehab, and rehome animals who deserve a second chance. Thanks for being part of the chaos. You're making a difference—and we’re so here for it.

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