Please begin by reading our Frequently Asked Questions about adopting. This will help explain how SPDR works, how the adoption process works, and what to expect. Please remember that we serve ONLY the Puget Sound Area of Washington State, USA.

If you are contacting us about a specific dog that you saw on SPDR’s home page or on the PetShelter website, please proceed to Step 3.

If you are not contacting us about adopting a specific dog that you saw, you must first consult our Breed List to see if the breed you are interested in is currently being handled by SPDR.

If you see a green check mark by the name of the breed you are interested in, proceed to Step 3.

If you see an “X” by the name of the breed that you are interested in, this means we do not currently have a volunteer able to help you with that breed. You may check back periodically to see if we have a new volunteer for that breed, or you may find a dog through the following alternate resources:

1. Visit the PetFinder website to view available dogs from other rescue groups and shelters in your area: PetFinder.org

2. Visit your local shelter in person -- a listing of shelters in your area is also available on the PetFinder website: PetFinder.org

3. Locate a breed club via the internet, by clicking on the following link, and typing in the name of your breed followed by the word “club” in the search line: Google.com

4. Consult a list of national rescue contacts for most AKC-recognized breeds by clicking on this link: National Breed Rescues.

The most important step in SPDR’s adoption process is to read and complete TWO forms: “Terms Of Adoption” and “Adoption Application.”

These two forms help us understand why you want a dog, how you plan to provide care, and what kind of home you will provide. It also helps us choose the best dog to match your family and situation.

There is a $5.00 non-refundable fee for your application forms to be processed.

To print the two forms, click on BOTH of the following links:

If you do not have access to a printer, please see this page for our address.

SPDR will forward your completed forms to the appropriate Breed Rep (or reps, if you are looking for more than one breed) for approval. On average, you will be contacted by the Breed Rep within 7-10 days after we receive your application.

Applicants for dogs may be declined if the SPDR Breed Rep feels the applicant cannot provide a suitable home for the dog. Please remember that we serve ONLY the Puget Sound Area of Washington State, USA.

If you have additional questions, please send us an e-mail or call the SPDR Message Line at (206) 654-1117.

We look forward to helping you find your new dog!