Adoption Procedures
National Great Pyrenees Rescue (NGPR) encourages all potential adopters to learn all they can about the Great Pyrenees breed. Owners who are unaware of the breed's characteristics are the reason that many dogs end up in rescue. Pyrs are excellent companions but can be stubborn, and may shed, drool, bark (loudly), or roam if not enclosed in a fenced yard. This breed is not for everyone. If you haven't yet done so, we strongly suggest that you thoroughly research the breed, starting with our About the Breed page and other resources available on this site.
Step 1: Completing the Application
NGPR's adoption process starts with the completion of an adoption application. This gives us the information we need to start the process of learning about your needs, lifestyle and requirements. Please use our online application. If you change your mind at any time during the adoption process, please let us know. We will not be offended if you write back and tell us. We will appreciate hearing from you and will remove your name from the list of potential adopters.
Step 2: References and Interviewing
Once an online application is received, you will get a return message confirming that we have your application.
- We will check your veterinary reference as a first step. Please include all veterinarians used over the past 5-10 years.
- A rescue volunteer from the rescue group fostering the dog will call you to discuss your requirements and determine what dog would be a good match for your family. Sometimes this takes a while, so please be patient.
- A local rescue volunteer near your home will contact you about setting up the required home visit. During the home visit, the rescue volunteer will spend time visiting with you and learning more about your home, so we can confirm that the dog selected will be the right match for your family.
- Because many rescue dogs come from out of area, transport arrangements will be made through the rescue group fostering the dog.
Step 3: Assuming Ownership
Once a suitable dog has been agreed upon, the adoption fee will be paid directly to the rescue group fostering the dog. These fees are generally used for rescuing, sheltering and rehabilitating dogs in this organization's care. In most cases, the adoption fee is set by the fostering rescue group and is paid directly to them. Transport fees may also be applicable and are paid to the organization arranging transport. Current fees and transport costs are explained in the acknowledgment letter at the time an adoption application is received.
The adoption process starts with completing the adoption application and ends with signing the adoption form and assuming ownership of the dog. As the new owner, you assume complete responsibility for the dog's health and well-being. There are several basic principles that all Great Pyreness rescue groups require of the new home. This information is usually stated in the adoption application.
- The dog will not be tied or allowed to run free.
- The dog will be enclosed within suitable fencing.
- The dog will reside in the home or, if placed as an livestock guardian dog, will have access to suitable housing which provides shelter from heat, cold and the elements.
- Water and nutrition suitable for a large breed dog will be provided.
- Proper veterinary care, including heartworm prevention, will be provided.
- If for any reason the adoption does not work out, you must contact the rescue group who placed the dog with you. NGPR only works with rescue groups whose contracts state specifically that they will take their dogs back in the event an adoption does not succeed.
This is a big dog, and a big responsibility. But we believe that you, like most Pyr owners, will find that the time and effort you have expended will be more than rewarded by your wonderful dog's lifelong love and devotion to you. And if you don't believe us, visit our Happy Endings page to see what other new Pyr owners have had to say.
