Doggone Happy
Animal Recue
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about adopting, fostering, or helping a DHARling? We've got answers!
Common questions
Help! I've found a lost/stray dog, what do I do?
The first step is to make sure the dog is safe and secure. If you are able to temporarily house the dog and provide food and water, please do so. The next step is to get the dog checked for a microchip and post on lost pet websites and social media. Any veterinarian's office or animal shelter can scan for a microchip, however, even if the pet is chipped, the scan does not provide owner contact information. It will give you a number that can potentially be associated with a particular company which can then be contacted. Generally, they will be the point of contact with the owner and will not hand over the owner's information. This process can take time.If the dog has no collar and no microchip, there is a 72 hour mandatory hold period for strays before they can be re-homed, however we prefer to wait at least a week to ensure that we have exhausted all attempts at finding an owner. If you cannot hold the dog, please let us know and we will try to find a foster. We'd much rather have them in a home environment rather than in a shelter.
I need to re-home my dog. Can you help?
The best case scenario would be for us to be able to problem solve with you so that you can keep your pet, but if that isn't an option, we can discuss placement with one of our fosters. Keep in mind, our foster homes are generally full so you may have to wait until a spot opens up.
Do I HAVE to get my puppy spayed/neutered?
Yes! Please keep in mind, ALL DHARlings must be spayed or neutered unless a veterinarian deems it medically unsafe to do so. When adopting a puppy, we require that the adopter pay a $75 deposit that will be refunded after you have gotten your pup fixed. Please take in to account the cost associated with spay/neuter which can range from $150-$450 when adopting a puppy under 6 months of age.
What does the adoption fee cover?
All of our dogs are up to date on vaccinations, have been evaluated for temperament and if over 6 months of age, have been spayed or neutered. The fee covers all of their vetting prior to adoption, transport (if necessary), and all of the essential care items they need while in foster care.
ADOPTION
How do I adopt a DHARling?
Start by completing our Adoption Application. We carefully review each application and work to find the best possible match between our dogs and their future families.
Because we are a foster-based rescue, our foster families provide important information about each dog's personality, needs, and compatibility. If you are selected to meet a dog, the meet-and-greet helps everyone determine whether it is the right match.
How long does the adoption process take?
Every application is different. Applications are reviewed carefully and in the order they are received. Depending on application volume, processing may take 24–48–72 hours or longer.
Our priority isn't simply placing a dog quickly—it is finding the right forever home.
Why is the adoption application so detailed?
We know it's a lot of questions! ❤️
Our application helps us understand your household, lifestyle, experience, expectations, and what you're looking for in a dog. This information allows us to make thoughtful matches and helps prevent dogs from being bounced from home to home.
Our goal is simple: the right dog, the right family, the right forever home.
Can I adopt if I don't live in Delaware?
Yes! While our foster homes are primarily located throughout Delaware and parts of Maryland, we can adopt to families outside of Delaware.
Do I need a fenced yard?
Not necessarily. Each dog has different needs, and requirements can vary based on the individual DHARling.
Some dogs may require a securely fenced yard, while others may be perfectly happy with appropriate walks, exercise, and enrichment.
Always read the individual dog's profile carefully for specific requirements.
Do I have to be a certain age to adopt?
Yes. Adopters must be at least 23 years old and have a valid state ID with their current address.
If you rent your home, landlord approval is also required.
Will you do a home inspection?
Yes. DHAR may conduct home inspection(s) as part of the adoption process. We want to make sure the environment is safe and appropriate for the dog being considered.
Does everyone in my household need to meet the dog?
Yes. All members of the household should participate in the meet-and-greet when appropriate. This helps us make sure the match is a good fit for everyone.
FOSTERING
What does it mean to foster?
Fostering means opening your home temporarily to a dog in need while DHAR works to find their forever family.
Our foster families are an incredibly important part of the rescue. They provide love, stability, structure, and information that helps us understand each dog's needs and find the right home.
Does DHAR pay for foster expenses?
Yes!
DHAR covers essential foster expenses, including:
-
Food
-
Veterinary care
-
Collars and leashes
-
Specialized training when needed
-
Other necessary care based on the dog's individual needs
How long do I have to foster?
There isn't one set timeframe. Every dog and situation is different.
Some dogs may be adopted quickly, while others—particularly medical, behavioral, senior, or special-needs dogs—may need more time.
We work with foster families to determine what is manageable for both the family and the dog.
What if I fall in love with my foster?
Then you may have experienced the phenomenon known as a Foster Fail. 😂❤️
We won't judge.
If your foster becomes your forever dog, we'll celebrate right along with you!
Can I foster if I already have pets?
Often, yes! We consider your existing pets when determining which dogs may be a good fit for your home.
Proper introductions and compatibility are important, and some dogs may require specific types of canine companions or may need to be the only pet.
Do I need previous dog experience to foster?
Not necessarily.
We consider each foster applicant individually and try to match foster dogs with homes based on experience, household, lifestyle, and the needs of the dog.
Some dogs are great for first-time fosters, while others require more experienced homes.
What if I can't foster a dog right now?
There are lots of ways to help!
You can donate, volunteer, sponsor a DHARling, share adoptable dogs, help with transportation, or simply help spread the word.
Every person who helps gives a dog another chance.