Thinking about adopting a doodle? We love that already! At Doodle Dandy Rescue, our adoption coordinators truly read every single application. Behind the scenes, our team is cheering for great matches and forever homes — and we want to help you put your best foot forward. Here are some friendly, insider tips straight from our adoption team to help your application shine!
Complete the Entire Application
This one matters more than you might think. Incomplete applications often get passed over simply because we don’t have enough information to move forward. Take your time, double-check your answers, and make sure every section is filled out. A complete application helps us get to know you and your home from the start.
Choose Dogs That Truly Fit Your Family
Each dog’s profile is carefully written to set everyone up for success. If a dog’s profile says “no small children,” “needs a fenced yard,” or “best as an only pet,” those details are there for a reason. Applying for dogs that match your household, lifestyle, and experience helps us make safe, happy, and lasting placements. The best adoptions happen when expectations align.
Apply When You’re Ready to Bring Your Dog Home
Once a dog is approved for adoption, things can move quickly. Please only apply if you’re able to pick up your dog within about a week of selection. Because we’re unable to hold dogs for extended periods, timing plays a big role in the process. If your schedule isn’t quite ready yet, that’s okay — there will always be more doodles waiting when the time is right.
Hopeful adopters should respond in a timely manner when contacted by the adoption coordinator. This helps keep the process moving smoothly and shows your commitment to giving a dog a forever home!
Submit a New Application for Each Dog You Love
Falling for more than one doodle happens all the time. If you’re interested in multiple dogs, be sure to submit a separate application for each one. This allows our team to evaluate your home specifically for that dog’s needs, personality, and background.
Add Details and Make It Personal
This is where your application can really stand out! Thoughtful, detailed answers help our coordinators understand your experience, routine, and expectations. Even better? Reference things you read on the dog’s profile and explain why that dog feels like a good fit for your family. We can tell when someone has truly taken the time to get to know a dog on paper — and it makes a big difference!
Your adoption application is the only information our adoption coordinators review when making decisions. While we love seeing excitement and support on social media, coordinators do not see Facebook comments, Instagram messages, or direct messages when reviewing applications. If there’s something important you want us to know — your experience, your lifestyle, why you’re a great fit for a specific dog, or details you shared online — be sure it’s included directly in your application! Think of your application as your chance to tell your full story and advocate for why you’d be a great match.
Be Patient and Don’t Get Discouraged
Many adopters apply for several dogs before being selected, especially when demand is high. If you aren’t chosen right away, please know it’s not personal and it doesn’t mean your application wasn’t strong. Sometimes it simply takes the right dog at the right moment — and that match is worth waiting for!
Final Thoughts
Our goal is simple: happy dogs and happy families, forever. By submitting a complete, thoughtful, and well-matched application, you’re helping us make the best possible placements for our doodles. Thank you for choosing rescue and for being part of the journey that gives these dogs the loving homes they deserve!
Written By: Madelyn, DDR Volunteer