Sheltie Shack Rescue, Shell Knob, Missouri

Adoption process

At Sheltie Shack Rescue, we prioritize the quality of our adoptions over the number of adoptions completed. Our mission is not to sell pets; we are committed to ensuring that each dog finds a lifelong "fur♥ever home." Our adoption process is thoughtfully designed to match pets with families based on their lifestyle and the individual needs of the dog. Although this process may take some time, it has resulted in a high success rate for happy adoptions. Our ultimate goal is to provide a permanent and joyful home for each sheltie. If you are interested in adopting one of our dogs from out of state, please be aware that we do not ship our dogs. To adopt from Sheltie Shack Rescue, you must be willing to travel to meet us and your potential new family member. We require all family members, including current canine companions, to attend the meeting to ensure compatibility among all pets. We have successfully facilitated many out-of-state adoptions and encourage you to apply if you can meet these travel requirements. We do not place dogs in homes where current pets are not properly vaccinated, not on heartworm preventive, or not spayed or neutered, unless there is a medical reason or the dog is actively shown in conformation. All dogs must be indoor pets and cannot be left outside unattended. For most puppies and adult dogs, a fenced yard is required. In certain cases, a well-socialized, leash-trained adult or senior sheltie may be suitable for condo, townhouse, or apartment living, provided the adopter agrees that all outdoor activities will occur on a leash. Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. We do not approve the use of electric or invisible fences, dog runs, or tie-out chains. All shelties adopted from us must remain on heartworm preventive medication (Interceptor, no Ivermectin-based products). To submit an application, you can apply online or download an application in MS Word format. We will review your application and contact you by phone or email with any questions. If your application is approved, a home visit will be scheduled. Since our home visits are often conducted by volunteers, we will reach out to you after receiving their report to inform you if you are approved to meet the dog(s) you are interested in adopting. If your application is not approved initially, we will notify you within 24 hours. If, at any point during the process, we determine that you are not a suitable match for the dog you are interested in, we will also inform you via phone or email. Adoption fees cover the costs of spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, heartworm testing (and treatment if necessary), dental care (when needed), and worming. Additional medical needs are addressed on an individual basis for each dog. Our adoption fee is generally lower than the costs associated with obtaining a dog from a breeder, as our veterinary partners support rescue organizations and offer reduced rates for their services. While we ask for a minimum adoption fee, we appreciate any additional donations that help cover costs such as travel expenses, food, bedding, toys, and grooming services that are not included in the adoption fee, as well as ongoing operational expenses. As the final step in the adoption process, an Adoption Contract will be signed for each dog. This binding legal document allows the dog to be returned to Sheltie Shack Rescue if the adopter can no longer keep the pet, and it facilitates swift action in cases of abuse, if the animal is found roaming, or if the dog is suffering from neglect. We will follow up with inquiries about how your adopted dog is doing, and we encourage you to share your success story with us for posting on our website. Since we do not operate a shelter facility, only approved applicants will be invited to meet the dog(s) they are interested in adopting. Because not all dogs are located at the same foster home, arrangements will be made individually regarding where these meetings and adoptions will take place.