Sometimes you will receive multiple adoption inquiries from different families, all at once. To guide you along the way, think about these 3 things:

• Stay focused on “finding the right fit”. In correspondence with each family frame your discussions around the “best fit” – let this guide you in selecting the best few homes. A family set on adopting your dog can be disappointed if another home is selected instead, but a “its-not-you-but-what-seems-the-best-fit-for-Fido” explanation can help to soften the news.
• Be candid throughout. Let each family know where you are in the rehoming process, and that you’re speaking with other families. Don’t make them wonder about things stand or when a decision will be made.
• Go with the flow. Be sure to check references. And then trust your instincts.

What if you already have plans with a family to meet and greet, when another family contacts you that might seem better suited to meet your dog’s needs?

In this case a phone call right away to the first family is in order. Let them know that another family is interested that also seems like a good fit, and that you are considering this other family for the adoption as well.

We suggest that you proceed with the meet and greet with the first family as scheduled, just don’t plan for a “same day” adoption. Take the same time with second family – but keep the first family always informed.

The “best fit” usually becomes quite clear after you’ve checked each family’s references, corresponded with them a bit and met them also in person during the meet and greet. From here – trust your instincts and decide which family provides the best opportunity for your dog’s success and long life!

Finally, if a family becomes upset with this process – in which you’ve been candid and foremost concerned about the best home for your pet – well, then this may itself inform your decision.