ADOPTION PROCESS

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SUBMIT AN APPLICATION

Start by checking out our adoptable dogs. It's okay if you see a few that you like, one you have your heart set on, or you don't have a clue what your family needs--the application doesn't commit you to any one dog in particular. After reviewing your application, a member of our team will work with you to decide which dogs you should meet!

MEET AND GREET

After your application has been approved, you must complete a meet-and-greet with the dog(s) you are interested in adopting. If it takes multiple visits, that's okay. Any dogs already living in the home must be included in at least one meet-and-greet.

SIGN CONTRACT AND PAY ADOPTION FEE

TAKE HOME YOUR NEW BFF

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age
All members of your household must be on board with the adoption
Be able to show proof of a valid government-issued photo ID
If applicable, review your lease for breed or size restrictions; all renters must have landlord approval prior to adoption
If you have other pets, ensure that they are spayed/neutered and up to date on annual vaccines, preventatives, and wellness care
Gather your veterinarian's contact information and alert staff that our team may be calling for a vet reference
Take pictures or videos of your home to prepare for our virtual visit

A non-refundable adoption donation is requested for all dogs.

PCS Pups is a non-profit, 100% donation-funded organization. Every penny of your
donation goes back into maintaining the rescue, caring for our pups, and rescuing more dogs.
Adoption fees vary based on the needs of the animal.*

Puppies (age 8 weeks to 11 months) - $250

Adult dogs (age 1 year to 7 years) - $150

Seniors (8 years and older) - $75

*The fees listed above are standard starting amounts. Adoption fees are subject to change without notice. Amount of fees can vary per dog depending on the care required. Actual fee may be different than the fees listed here.

View sponsored dogs here

Where can I visit the adoptable dogs?

SITS is currently a 100% foster-based rescue, but the majority of our meet-and-greets at hosted at our partner organization's facility: Red Woof Canine
I applied online. When will I hear from you?

FAQs are a great way to help site visitors find quick answers to common questions about your business and create a better navigation experience.
I live in an apartment. Can I still adopt?

Absolutely! Setting aside housing restrictions, many dogs can be perfectly happy living in an apartment. Our team will work with you to find the best fit.
Can I do an adoption trial?

Sure! We always want to ensure that we find the right fit between our dogs and their new families, which sometimes means a trial run before finalizing the adoption. Just let one of our team members know if this is something you are interested in! Sleepovers - anything longer than 3 days is no longer considered a trial. Talk to our team about foster-to-adopt!
What if I don't have a fenced in yard?

We do not require adopters to have fenced in yards, though we will be interested to hear about your plans to safely exercise your new dog. Note that some dogs may not be a good fit for homes without fences, but we will make that decision on an individual basis. Our goal is always to find the best possible fit for everyone involved.
I don't live in the area. Can I still adopt from SITS?

Absolutely. We have coordinated many out-of-state adoptions. Please note that you will be required to arrange transport and/or fund the expense of transporting your new dog.
Does submitting an application reserve the dog I want?

No. Applications are not treated on a first-come, first-served basis. Our team works to make sure that every dog goes to the best fit for his or her personality. If we feel that the dog listed in the application is not the best fit for you, we may recommend another dog in our rescue that we feel will better match your family’s lifestyle. There are times we do have to deny applications, including for those who do not meet or applicant requirements.
What does my adoption fee cover?

A collar and leash, if needed Spay/neuter surgery Age-appropriate vaccines Fecal testing (and deworming, if necessary) Heartworm testing (and treatment, if needed) All additional vetting your dog may have received in our care Post-adoption support from our team as long as you need it
My life circumstances have changed and I no longer can keep the dog I adopted. What now?

The adoption contract you will sign requires you to contact us before making any attempts at rehoming or surrendering your dog to a different organization. We have the "right of first refusal," which means that we will make any and every attempt possible to make space for the dog to return to our care. In some circumstances, this may not be possible, or there may be a required waiting period until foster space becomes available. Please do not adopt a dog if there is even a 0.2% chance you cannot commit for the duration of your new bff's life.
Where are you located?

SITS is currently 100% foster-based, which means we don't have one central shelter facility. To set up a meet-and-greet with an adoptable dog(s), please start by submitting an adoption application here.
I adopted a dog from SITS that I can no longer keep.

The adoption contract you signed requires that you give SITS the "right of first refusal," meaning that we need to be contacted before you attempt to surrender or rehome the dog on your own. We will make every possible effort to take the dog back into our care. In cases when this is not feasible, we encourage you to utilize Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.
I have a pet I cannot keep. Does SITS accept owner surrenders?

With the current animal welfare crisis, SITS prioritizes the most high-risk intakes (typically stray dogs or dogs at risk of euthanasia at one of our local animal shelters). We can only take dogs directly from the public at times when foster space is available. To initiate a surrender request, please email as much information about the situation (including pictures) as possible to hello@sanctuaryinthesouth.org. In most instances, we will encourage the use of Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com. SITS partners with Rehome to provide free community listings of pets looking for new homes. Through rehome, pet owners can find new families for their pets without them ever having to enter into a shelter. This is much better for the families and the pet. Plus, when you use SITS’ discount code, your listing fee is just $1: RCXHAQTL2U8AD8Z
I suspect animal cruelty, neglect, or abuse.

Please contact the animal control for your county: Columbus Animal Care and Control - (706) 225-4512 Russell County / Phenix City Animal Shelter - (334) 291-4847 Lee County Animal Control - (334) 737-7013
I have a complaint about a stray animal, barking dog, or other animal control issue.

Please contact the animal control for your county: Columbus Animal Care and Control - (706) 225-4512 Russell County / Phenix City Animal Shelter - (334) 291-4847 Lee County Animal Control - (334) 737-7013