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Frequently Asked Questions

General Adoption

Why are there so many steps in the adoption process?

A rescue organization operates much differently than a physical animal shelter. Our Adoption Process is thorough so that we can truly understand your household to make a terrific match that will bring years of happiness to your family. Think of it as the Millionaire Matchmaker…Pibble Style. We invest time in both our deserving dogs and potential adopters to make sure you feel supported every step of the way.

Why do I have to be a homeowner?

Housing issues are probably the number one reason pit bulls are surrendered to shelters and a huge reason why more pit bulls are not adopted from shelters. Have you recently searched for pit bull friendly housing? You would be discouraged to say the least. Rescues across the nation are inundated with requests to take pit bulls from loving owners who have had a change in housing and are unable to keep their beloved pit bull, which is why being a homeowner is a requirement of our rescue. The harsh reality is that insurance companies treat pit bull type dogs differently, which limits what landlords will allow. We are watching out for the highest chance of a permanent placement, which is what all of our dogs deserve. That being said, we do make exceptions to our adoption policies on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to us for an honest discussion.

What are your adoption fees?

All Crops and Flops Rescue dogs come spayed/neutered, microchipped, up-to-date on rabies and distemper vaccines and monthly preventatives, have received fecal testing and 4DX testing for parasites and tick-borne illnesses, and are sent home with an extra month supply of heartworm preventatives. The adoption donation is listed on the bottom of each dog’s individual listing.

When will I hear back after I submit my application?

One of our experienced volunteer matchmakers will typically contact you within 48 hours of submitting an application and keep you in the loop as the status of your application and the availability of our dogs every step of the way. Our rescue does not work on a "First Come, First Served" basis, and though we process applications in the order they were received, we are looking for the best possible match for each of our dogs (and each of our adopters!). Make sure to check your spam folders for email communication and realize we will be calling from an unfamiliar phone number in terms of call screening on your end.

Can I meet a dog before I apply?

Our rescue operates as a foster-home based rescue and does not have a physical location. Because of this, dog meets happen only for approved applicants at the end of our adoption process. We respect and value the time of our volunteers and fosters, who are already selflessly donating their personal time to help dogs in need. This policy ensures they are not sacrificing additional personal time meeting a candidate who wouldn't be a great match for their foster dog.

Are your dogs good with kids?

As a responsible rescue placing pit bull type dogs into forever homes, we always err on the side of caution and make safety for both humans and dogs our first priority. We will match up dogs who have a known and successful history with kids into homes with young children and this will be noted on the listing. Regardless of how dog-savvy young children are, they are still kids with age-appropriate energy and curiosity. Thank you for your understanding in allowing us to keep your children (and our dogs) safe.

Do you adopt out of state?

Due to volunteer manpower, our rescue focuses on adopters in the New England area.

Will you adopt a dog to be used as a guard dog?

No. Despite their looks, most pit bulls make terrible guard dogs. We believe our dogs deserve to be living in a warm home, being treated as a beloved family member.

Do you have to spay/neuter my puppy before adoption?

YES! YES! YES! There are simply not enough loving homes to go around for the homeless pit bull type dogs in this country and accidental litters happen more often than you realize. Making sure every single dog adopted out is already spayed or neutered is crucial in helping to reduce the number of homeless dogs.

Fostering

Won't I get attached to a foster dog and have a hard time letting him go?

Saying goodbye is a swirl of emotions that are happy and sad all at the same time. While there is potential for real emotional attachment (after all, we are human), the fulfillment of seeing a dog thrive and find an amazing and loving forever family is a special feeling. Isn’t it hard to say goodbye? Yep, but it’s always worth it. We make sure our fosters feel great about where the dog is going, and most fosters keep in touch with the adopters.

Does fostering really make a difference?

The short answer…YES! Fostering reduces shelter overcrowding, allowing shelters to take in more animals in need. This is more critical now than in the past with the excess of homeless dogs we are experiencing across the country. Dogs in foster care gain valuable skills just by being in a home and often have better chances of being adopted, as their personalities are better understood. There is a direct community impact through fostering…you truly make a difference!

What are some of the other benefits of fostering?

There are so many emotional rewards to fostering! You, alone, can save lives by providing a temporary home for dogs in need and helping them transition to their forever homes. Foster dogs offer companionship, love, and joy without the long-term commitment of adoption. Our fostering program offers flexible durations, from a few days or weeks to several months, accommodating different lifestyles. And fostering is an opportunity to join a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about animal welfare.

What if I want to keep my foster dog?

Fosters have the first right of refusal in adopting their foster dog. If someone extra special comes through your door, you’re given the first opportunity to adopt your foster dog. And if not, we keep you in the loop on potential adopters to make sure you feel great about where your foster dog ends up.

How do I apply to foster?

Fosters go through our adoption process, which starts with completing a Foster Application, having a conversation with us so we understand your household, a reference check, and virtual home visit.

I've never had a dog – can I still foster?

Yes! Fostering can be an incredible learning experience! It’s a great way to learn more about dog care and behavior, which can be so valuable for future pet ownership. We provide our fosters with training to ensure you are well-prepared to care for the dog and 24/7 support to address issues or concerns. We want you to succeed!

Can I foster a dog if I work full time or have a busy life?

Yes! Fostering can fit into busy schedules, with many dogs requiring minimal time for exercise and care. You will have guidance and support every step of the way and can help choose the type of dog that best fits your lifestyle.

Is fostering expensive?

We provide the food, preventatives, medical care, extras, training, and support – you provide the love. You’re welcome to pamper your foster pup, but we are equipped to provide all that you need.

What if I don't want to foster a pit bull?

While we are passionate about helping the underdogs and love pibbles to pieces, our rescue will pull any breed of dog if we have an available and committed foster.

Is fostering hard?

We can’t sugar coat it – the first few days are work. You’re allowing the dog to decompress and are all learning about each other. Once everyone settles into a routine, everything gets significantly easier. We are here to support you through any bumps in the road these first few days and provide specific training prior to fostering that equips you to handle integrating a foster dog into your home.

How do I know the foster dog will be the right match for our home?

We pride ourselves on matchmaking and have a great track record of matching potential fosters with dogs that suit their lifestyle and preferences. We want to make fostering as easy and seamless as possible, so you enjoy your experience. All of our dogs are local and your family and resident dog(s) will meet the dog before you commit to make sure we are all on the same page. You will have guidance and support every step of the way and can help choose the type of dog that best fits your lifestyle.