How Does It Work?
Our adoption process is thorough because finding the right forever home for our dogs is really important to us. Adopting a dog is a big decision that should be taken very seriously. Your dog will be a part of your family for a long time and can provide you with years of enjoyment and wonderful memories.
Due to frequent backlogs in adoption applications, processing time may take 2 to 4 weeks. We appreciate your patience and your desire to adopt a rescue. An adoption team volunteer will be in touch as soon as possible.
Thank you for your support.
Apply
The process for adopting one of our Golden Retrievers starts with submitting a non-refundable $30 application fee and completing an application.
*For more information on our adoption criteria, see our FAQs below.
Pre-Screening
You will be called for a phone interview by one of our volunteers. A home visit or thorough photo and/or video tour of your home, including the front and backyard, is required. ALL family members must be present for the phone interview and phone visit. References from your application, including your veterinarian and landlord (if applicable), will be contacted.
Find Your Pup
After your home check is approved, one of our volunteers will work with you to match your family to the perfect dog.
Our Available Dogs
FAQs
What is the adoption criteria?
Applicants must be 24 years or older, with proven ability to afford and care for a dog (students cannot be considered).
Applicants must have a true fence if they have children 8 years old and younger. The reason we have this policy is that children under the age of eight have a tendency to open the door – or leave a door open – and the dog can escape from the home.
If a dog has not proven itself trustworthy around children, AGB will not risk a child’s safety. If you complete an application, please understand that the wait could be lengthy.
What is the initial step to adopt one of your Golden Retrievers?
The process starts with submitting a non-refundable $30 application fee and completing an application.
What happens after the application is submitted?
After submitting the application, you will be called for a phone interview. You will be requested to complete a home check which is usually conducted via photo or video including your front and backyard. It is important that all family members are present for the phone interview and/or home check. One of our adoption team volunteers will review your application and, if approved, will begin the process of matching you with your perfect dog.
Will AGB contact the references provided in the application?
Yes, we will contact the references from your application, including your veterinarian and landlord (if applicable).
What happens during the home visit?
During the home or virtual visit one of our volunteers will assess your home and work with you to match your family to the perfect dog.
Is there an adoption fee, and how is it determined?
Yes, there is an adoption donation fee which is separate from the application fee. The adoption fee varies according to the age of the dog, as specified below. The fee helps offset medical costs, including spaying/neutering, vaccinations, treatment of heartworms, or major surgeries. Additionally, the fees are also used for microchipping, behavioral training and boarding for our orphans.
Adoption Fees are as follows and are non-refundable:
Puppies = $600
1-4 years = $500
5-8 years = $400
9 years and older = $250
Golden Doodles = $700 (all ages)
All dogs 10 years of age or older can be adopted by senior citizens (people 65+ years old) at no charge. However, a donation would be greatly appreciated.
What are the eligibility requirements for applicants?
Applicants must be 24 years or older and demonstrate the ability to afford and care for a dog. Students cannot be considered for adoption.
Is there a waiting list for adopting a dog?
Yes, there is a waiting list. Please understand that the wait could be lengthy. At times, we can have a long list of applicants waiting to adopt. We prioritize the safety of children and do not risk placing a dog that has not proven itself trustworthy around children.
Why is a true fence required for applicants with children 8 years old and younger?
Applicants with children 8 years old and younger must have a true fence, not an invisible fence. This policy is in place because young children have a tendency to open doors or leave them open, and the dog could potentially escape from the home. Ensuring the dog’s safety is our top priority.