How Long Does It Take to Adopt a Dog?
Most Dogs 2nd Chance adopters go from application to bringing their dog home in one to two weeks. Start with our adoption application.
How fast you hear back depends on your references. If you live out of state, the timeline also depends on when the next transport run leaves.
What Happens After You Apply
We read every application in the order it comes in. We call your references as part of that review.
We sometimes contact your landlord too. Once those checks come back, we approve the application and set up a time for you to meet the dog.
Local adopters can often meet their dog within a few days. Out-of-state adopters reserve a seat on the next available transport route, which runs roughly every two weeks.
What Slows the Process Down
- A reference who takes a few days to call back
- Landlord or HOA approval for renters
- Waiting on the next transport date if you live outside Tennessee, Mississippi, or Arkansas
- A specific dog already in process with another applicant when you apply
How to Speed Things Up
Give your references a heads-up that we’ll be calling. Answer your phone for unknown numbers around the time you apply.
If you’re set on one particular dog, list a couple of backups on your application. Dogs get adopted fast, so having a second choice keeps you from starting over if your first pick is already spoken for.
Ready to start the clock? Browse adoptable dogs and apply today.