For some animals, finding a new home takes an unusually long time. Age, color, breed type or even a minor medical issue can cause uncertainty in the mind of a potential adopter. And in some cases, an animal's true personality isn't apparent in the shelter environment. Barking dogs or shy cats and rabbits don't always make good first impressions.
But these animals have the potential to make wonderful pets - if only they had the chance to prove themselves!
Which is why we've launched a new trial adoption program called "Take A Chance On Me." Cats, dogs and rabbits chosen for this program have been available for adoption for more than 30 days. Some don't "show well" in their kennel. Others at first glance don't seem as cute-n-cuddly as their more attractive shelter mates. Whatever the reason, given a trial period in a loving home environment, we're confident that their wonderful personalities will shine through!
Here's how it works:
- Animals eligible for a trial adoption will have a "Take A Chance On Me" sign on the front of their cage/kennel or under their photograph on the Web site.
- Potential adopters must still meet the regular adoption requirements and pay the adoption fee before bringing an animal home.
- All trial adopters must have a pre-adoption behavior consult.
- The trial period will be up to 1 week. We will keep in contact with the trial adopter throughout this period.
- If the potential adopter feels they haven't made the right match, they will return the animal to the shelter (the adoption fee will be reimbursed). If they decide to make the adoption permanent, they must come to the shelter to complete the adoption paperwork.
"Adding a new dog into an already established pack can be tricky. The Take A Chance On Me program allowed us some time to make sure that Jack would fit into our family. Jack is eager to please us and smart enough to learn fast. Now our two dogs and cat just love him. I think having the trial period was very helpful."
The Stokes Family
For more information on the Take A Chance On Me program, please call the Adoption Department at (415) 506-6225.
