How to Adopt

ADOPTING FROM OUR ADOPTION CENTER

STEP 1: The dogs available at our adoption center change often. Please review our AVAILABLE DOGS page to see who is here!

STEP 2: Fill out an application online to be pre-approved. Walk-ins will be accommodated as best as possible.*

STEP 3: Bring the entire family during open adoption hours to spend time with the dog you’re interested in.

STEP 4: If it’s a good match and your application has been approved, you can adopt your new best friend and take him/her home that day! Please note that we do not hold dogs.

*Please note: Adopters with approved applications have priority in meeting dogs. Walk-ins will be accommodated as best as possible, and may only meet dogs that are potential adoption matches. Our adoption center is not set up to accommodate “browsing” at this time. Thank you!

ADOPTING A DOG IN FOSTER CARE

STEP 1: An Adoption Counselor (AC) will screen and review your application within 48 hours. The AC will then contact you and answer any questions you may have and set up an introduction to meet the dog.

STEP 2: If all goes well at the introduction, the AC will arrange a time to either finalize the adoption or start a “Foster-to-Adopt” (FTA).*

STEP 3: Adoptions shall take place immediately if the prospective dog gets along well with all members of the family. After your dog is finalized, you will receive benefits and support for the lifetime of the dog!

*Please note: FTA is only available on a case-by-case basis (as determined by adoption counselors) for dogs with medical/behavioral issues or to ensure a smooth transition for multi pet households. This is a maximum 2-week period for serious and committed adopters to work on making the dog’s transition to a permanent member of your family successful. During the FTA, we will provide all supplies and access to our dog daycares, trainers, and veterinarians should a medical need arise.

Adjusting & Training

Our DOG RESOURCE GUIDE offers simple solutions to problems you may face such as unwanted barking, mouthiness, housebreaking and more. You will also find information about supplies and ideas on how to adjust to life with your new dog.

DOG TRAINING BY KIKI YABLON: 20% off in-home training for One Tail adopters within 3 months of adoption; 10% off after 3 months.

One Tail at a Time Programs

DUTCH’S FUND was created as a way for One Tail to care for dogs suffering from medical problems, or needing on-going treatment to remain healthy and happy.  Fund’s from Dutch’s Fund also help dogs that have already been adopted.  The DUTCH’S FUND GRANT allows One Tail adopters to apply for up to $500 in assistance in paying for unexpectedly large veterinary bills.  Email heather@onetail.org for more information and to receive a grant application.

STELLA’S FUND was created to assist adopters in need of financial assistance to pay for training. If a dog presents with a troubling behavior after the adoption and you need help getting training, please contact us. We will guide you to a trainer suited to your needs, and help you with training costs. Email heather@onetail.org for more information and to receive a grant application.

Health & Nutrition

HIGGINS ANIMAL CLINIC: First visit free and 15% off dental services if an appointment is made within 30 days of an exam.  Be sure to mention One Tail when making your appointment and $15 will be donated to our foster dogs!  Dr. Damiana at Higgins offers all veterinary services you need to care for your dog.  Discounts can also be used at Higgins’ partner, Wheeling Animal Hospital.

Pet Care Services

CANINE CREWS: 10% off boarding, daycare, and local dog walks for adopters.  Many of our foster dogs come here for socialization and we love and trust the staff!

FETCH! PET CARE OF GREATER CHICAGO: 10% off monthly bill for first 6 months + one-time coupon for $25 off $50 worth of services.  Company offers in-home boarding and affordable dog walking.

DOG COUNTRY DOG CAMP: like summer camp for your dog!  OTAT adopters receive $10 off the daily fee.  Located in NW Indiana, dogs get supervised play on 6 acres of doggie heaven.  The company picks up dogs throughout the north side of Chicago daily and returns them to your home.