Submit an adoption survey for an adoptable dog, cat, or bunny on our website. Applications remain on file for one year and can apply to any pet, so please do not resubmit additional applications. Please note that we have separate applications depending on the species of pet.
Before You Get Started
Be at least 18 years of age
Be able to show proof of a valid photo ID. We accept forms of drivers license, passport, state ID, or matricula consular
Check your lease or HOA for breed and weight restrictions
We strongly recommend that any resident pets be up to date on annual vaccines and wellness care before welcoming a new friend. Reach out to your veterinarian for guidance on what vaccines your pet should receive
Adoption Process
STEP 2: CONNECT WITH AN ADOPTION COORDINATOR
An Adoption Coordinator will respond to your application within 48-72 hours and let you know next steps. If you *do not* receive an email response within 72 hours, check your spam folder! If you still don’t see a response, email us at [email protected] so we can ensure your application went through our system. We respond to every adoption application we receive.
STEP 3: KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEBSITE
If the pet you originally applied for was not a great fit, keep an eye out on the website for future matches or ask our Adoption Team to curate some matches for you! We are happy to help match you to a pet that suits your lifestyle. Your application will stay on file for one year and can be applied to any pet, so there is never a need to submit the adoption application twice, simply let us know when a new pet is of interest to you.
STEP 4: LET US KNOW WHEN YOU FIND A GOOD FIT
Email us at [email protected] when a foster pet is of interest and our adoption team can connect you for an introduction. If the pet is at the Bucktown Adoption Center or PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center, simply stop in to meet them! Adoptions are on a first-come basis at both of our Adoption Centers and we do same-day adoptions, so please be prepared to bring your new buddy home! Pets in foster care are matched for introductions one-at-a-time. Adoptions for pets in foster care are typically within a couple of days of the initial meeting.
Questions? Email us at [email protected] for any adoption inquiries!
ADOPTION FACILITIES
Also, Foster Homes All Over Chicagoland!
We have many pets that live in foster homes and not at our facilities. For those adoptables, our Adoption Team will set up an introduction with the potential adopter after an application is submitted. The location of the pet can be found on the pet’s profile underneath the photo section. Not sure if the pet you’re interested in is living in a foster home or at a facility? Email us at [email protected].
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Adoption fees include: Spay/neuter, microchip, up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm test, and a wellness exam.
Walk-ins always welcome at the Adoption Centers! If you come to visit and fall in love, no worries – you can apply on the spot. Our team will make every effort to process your app while you wait so you can take your new buddy home same-day.
Already completed your application? Awesome! No need to wait for a reply, you’re very welcome to visit our Bucktown Adoption Center and/or Everyday Adoption Center to view adoptable pets!
Training required for new puppies. One Tail requires adopters of puppies 6 months and under show proof of enrollment in a positive reinforcement training class within two weeks of adoption at the adopter’s expense. OTAT provides a list of positive reinforcement training facilities we love such as Anything is Pawzible, Canine Crews, Copilot Dog Training, and Canine Therapy Corps!
Many animals have sponsored adoption fees. Use the ‘sort’ feature to determine which pets have had their fees waved thanks to their favorite volunteers, fosters, and donors!
PET ADOPTION FEES
Many pets have waived/sponsored adoption fees, many a generous donor has already paid the pet’s adoption fee! To view these pets, click “sponsored adoption fee” under the ‘sort’ feature on our Available Pets page.
Dogs
- Puppies under 6 months: $350*
- Adult Dogs: $300
- Dogs 7 years and older: $150
* Adopters of puppies: please note additional deposit fees for spay/neuter or training may apply.
Cats
- Adult Cats: $100
- Kittens: $150
- Pair of Adult Cats: $150
- Pair of Bonded Kittens: $250
Critters
- Rabbits: $100
- Guinea Pig: $50
