Our Adoption Process:

  • Applications are accepted per dog. This allows us to know exactly who is interested and to consider how each application aligns with the specific needs of the dog.

  • If you’re trying to submit an application but the dog's name you're interested in is not an option to select, it’s because we are either not accepting applications yet or the applications have closed because the dog is pending adoption.

    All applications are initially reviewed based on the individual needs of the dog we are placing (e.g., other dogs in the home, lifestyle, etc.) and are narrowed dog based on those specific needs.

  • Our next step is to check veterinary references. We will contact your veterinary clinic to ensure all current and previous pets are up to date on preventative care, spayed/neutered, and have received recommended treatments.

  • Now, the fun part! We will contact you by phone to chat about your lifestyle, your expectations for a new dog, and to answer any questions you have for us.

  • Lastly, we will schedule a home visit. While we aren’t looking for dust bunnies, it’s important to ensure that our dogs are placed in a safe environment that sets them up for success. Depending on location, this may be done in person or via video chat.

Please note that our adoptions are not done on a first-come, first-served basis. Our goal is to place our rescue Scotties in the most ideal home possible, based on their needs, personality, behavioral history, and health situation. Our priority is to ensure that the home we select is the perfect fit for both the dogs in our care and your family.

 FAQs

 

  • The only dogs available to select on the application are those for which we are currently accepting applications. If the dog you're interested in is not listed in the dropdown menu, it’s either because we are not yet accepting applications (as we are still learning about the dog’s needs) or we have closed applications because the dog is pending adoption. For the most up-to-date information, you can visit our Adoptable Dogs page or follow us on social media.

  • We are based out of Spartanburg, SC and Charlotte, NC but our volunteers (transport, evaluation, fosters) are located all over the southeastern US.

  • We begin reviewing applications by prioritizing those who best meet the needs of the dog being considered. If your application looks like the best fit, we will contact you by phone to chat more. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we do not contact every applicant. Once a decision is made, this will be updated in a blanket post on our social media platforms and website.

  • No, we don’t offer preapproval, as each dog has unique needs that require careful consideration. We evaluate applications based on the specific requirements of the dog you’re interested in. If you’ve submitted an application in the past and would like it to be considered for a current dog, you’ll need to submit a new one. We receive many requests, and this process helps us streamline applications, so we can spend more time focusing on the dogs that need us most.

  • Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unable to reach out to every applicant. If we have additional questions or need clarification, we will contact you directly. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

  • No, each application is specific to the dog you are interested in. While we appreciate your support and love seeing so many eager adopters, managing applications can become challenging. By requiring a new application for each dog, we can better assess how your lifestyle matches the unique needs of that particular dog and ensure you’re genuinely interested in adopting that specific animal.

  • Yes. Our goal is to find the best possible fit for each dog. We will adopt to homes as far north as Pennsylvania and as far south as Florida.

  • Fenced yards are not a requirement. This is based on each dog as an individual. For example, for a dog who is a flight risk or has minimal socialization, a securely fenced yard may be needed. For our more confident, social dogs, being out and about could be what’s best for them.

  • Yes. If there is a medical need that prevents current pets from being spayed/neutered we are happy to discuss this but as a general rule of thumb we do require all other pets in the home to be spayed/neutered.

  • Our adoption fee is $400 and includes EVERYTHING our dogs need to be happy and healthy. Every Scottie adopted from STRSE will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, fully vaccinated, bloodwork (chemistry and CBC), urinalysis, heart worm tested (confirmed negative) and current on preventions. Any dog who is heart worm positive is treated while in our care. They will have any and all medical concerns throughly addressed with our trusted veterinary teams. This often includes dental cleanings. Providing comprehensive veterinary care prior to adoption is our top priority.

  • While Scotties are our focus and priority, as resources (foster homes, funds, etc) allow, we will also assist in breeds who share similar needs. Examples are Cairn Terriers, Westies, Schnauzers, etc.

  • STRSE supports ethical breeders. We are working to compile a list of quality breeders.

    Here are a few things you can look for when choosing a breeder:

    • Health testing: Has the breeder provided any type of health or genetic testing of the parents prior to breeding and for the puppies?

    • Are the dogs being bred titled? This will be seen after their registered name. Dogs who are shown and win titles are proven to be behaviorally sound and meet breed standards. Titles may include sporting trials, Canine Good Citizenship, or Therapy Dog.

    When discussing a purchase with a breeder, they should have an application process and ask plenty of questions to ensure they are properly placing the puppy.

    While not always the case, having puppies readily available can often be a red flag. Most ethical breeders plan litters and have homes prearranged for the puppies. This means you will likely be placed on a waitlist, so be patient.

    Delivery/pickup: If you can make a quick phone call, have a puppy shipped, or meet the breeder at a location other than their premises, these should be red flags.

    If you are considering purchasing a dog from a breeder and would like help reviewing that choice, feel free to reach out. We’d be happy to help you make an informed decision.

  • We are based in Spartanburg, SC, and Charlotte, NC. If you are selected to adopt, we ask that you come to one of these areas/foster homes to meet the dog in person and, if it’s a good fit, take the dog home with you.

  • 21 years or older.

Adoption Application