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Why
should I...

rescue a dog?

Dogs who have not gotten off to the best possible start in life – who have been neglected or even abused – tend to be very loyal and affectionate.

Adoption Information

Find out how to adopt a pet quick & easy
Remember that dogs are pack animals, and they take their treatment by the “pack” – their owners and families – very much to heart. A dog that has been neglected or abandoned once is usually eager to become part of a loving pack, where they will feel safe and secure, and is likely to act accordingly.

How do I adopt a pet?

Are there any adoption requirements?

  • We require verifiable veterinary references.
  • If renting your home, we require written permission from your landlord or a copy of your lease, stating that pets are allowed.
  • You may be requested to provide photos of your living arrangements.
  • The application must be filled out completely.
  • All animals will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption, unless medical needs prohibit. If an animal needs to be spayed/neutered after adoption, a spay/neuter contract (with a refundable deposit) must be completed.
  • We reserve the right to deny an adoption to any home for any reason.
  • You must be at least 25 years old.
  • Special considerations will be made for families experienced with special needs and abused animals.
  • Rhode Home Rescue (RHR) does everything in its power to discover and treat any pre-existing medical conditions or illnesses, but cannot guarantee the health of an individual animal, post adoption. At our discretion, RHR will not cover costs or bills for medical anomalies after a reasonable amount of time, post adoption.
  • We do not make “deals,” adopt dogs to the highest bidders, or give discounts just because you are a great person. Prior to adoption will pay for medical treatment, spaying, neutering, vaccinations, physicals, medications, and emergency surgeries and procedures. Sometimes we have to pay fees just to get the dogs released to our care. We do not make a profit, our funds are always tight, and we are usually in the “red” with vet bills that need to be paid. However, in some cases (dogs with special needs, seniors, etc.) we may lower adoption fees.
  • Discounts are available to active-duty military and veterans. Inquire to receive more details.
  • If you have any questions, please use the form below to contact us for more information.

How to avoid picking the wrong pet?

Pets add fun, companionship, and love to our lives, but they’re also a big responsibility. Choosing to add a pet to your family is a very important decision. Is it the right time for you?

Take this quiz to help you decide if this is the best time to adopt a pet. Check off the following events that have occurred in the past six months, or that you think may occur in the coming six months:

  • Divorce or end of a relationship
  • Getting Married
  • Change in living arrangements (new roommates or moving in with significant other)
  • Move to a new residence
  • Pregnancy or new baby
  • Longer hours or increased responsibility at work
  • Financial concerns
  • Children leaving home or moving back home
  • Care-taking responsibilities for elderly or ill family member
  • Significant changes in family routine
  • Death of a family member
  • Death or disappearance of a family pet
  • Relinquishment of a pet (given away or brought to an animal shelter)
  • Significant health problems of a family member
  • Change in working status of a family member (begins work, changes jobs or retires)
  • Frequent travel, either for business or pleasure
  • Limited leisure or free time
  • Graduation from high school or college
  • Disagreement among family members about adopting a pet


  • Add one point for every pet you currently have (one aquarium counts as one pet)

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Vet Q&A: Are pets for adoption healthy?

All dogs adopted through Rhode Home Rescue receive full veterinary care prior to adoption. This includes: