Monday, February 1, 2016

Adoption Process

All steps of our Adoption Process MUST be completed before you will be considered for any dog or be scheduled for visits. If you are mid-process, come to our play dates or upcoming events to meet our dogs!

Step 1: Your Application. We can not move forward without it so you may as well just send it with your inquiry! The Online application for adoption of an Italian Greyhound can be found at http://www.igrescueohio.org/regform.php.  The application will be sent to the representative from the state in which you live. Applications are processed by where YOU live, not the dog. If you are interested in a dog outside your area, please let your local coordinator know. 

Step 2: Reference checks. Yes, we call every vet and every person listed on your app. We ask a lot of questions. If you aren't comfortable with this, please go to your local shelter and adopt a dog that would, otherwise, be euthanized.

Step 3: Phone interview: Please plan about an hour to talk about the breed, your lifestyle and any issues that may come up on your application. Our goal is the right fit for the right FOREVER home. It's worth the time invested.

Step 4: Home Visit. Yes, we come to your home whenever it is possible. We inspect fencing as well as seeing the overall environment the dog will live in. We bring an Italian Greyhound to see how they respond to your pets or children and, of course, to you. We do NOT bring the foster dog you are interested in.

Step 5: MEET DOGS!!! Once you have been approved, you may begin meeting dogs. You will be put in touch with the foster parents and they can tell you about daily life with that particular dog. All meetings will be scheduled between the two of you. Local dogs require TWO visits. The second visit can be to adopt the dog if the first visit went swimmingly! Please plan at least an hour for your visit or two hours if you are driving from out-of-town. Some dogs are more shy and may require more time and even extra visits.

We know our process is lengthy, but it is effective and we have hundreds of happy dogs and happy families to prove it! Italian Greyhounds can live up to 20 years and it is important to find the right fit for a lifetime!