Ragged Mountain Dogs

REMEMBER Ragged Mountain Dogs transports the dogs we are rehabilitating for the SPCA of Northern Virginia to Weber's Pet Supermarket, twice a month for their adoption events. You can go to their website for adoption event dates. If previous arrangements are made, RMD can always bring one of our dogs to those events for you to meet! To make these arrangements e-mail info@ragmtk9.org or call us at 540-987-9207.

We are aware that many other rescue groups allow adopters to take their chosen dog home with them immediately, without checking references. However, we are committed to ensuring that each dog is placed in the best possible home. For that reason, we follow the guidelines and procedures described below.

To ensure the best possible match between adopter and pet, we ask that you read and understand the information below regarding our adoption policies and procedures. You will be asked to sign a legal contract when adopting your pet and you must pay an adoption fee/donation. The fees go directly to Ragged Mountain Dogs to help pay for medical expenses, spaying/neutering, obedience training and boarding.

Because we do pre-placement home visits, we have a limited adoption area, generally Northern Virginia. If you are interested in one of our dogs, please email or call to see if a volunteer is available to do a home visit in your area. If at any time you cannot keep the dog, you must return it to Ragged Mountain Dogs and not to another individual or shelter.

Selection - It is important that you consider the following:

Size - if you rent, does your apartment or home have stated size limits? (Landlord approval is required). Have you considered what size of dog best suits your available space and lifestyle?

Age - Dogs of different ages have very different requirements, make sure you know what these are (e.g. puppies and older dogs require extra care and attention).

Temperament - Does the dog have a temperament that would be suitable for your family?

Compatibility - Is the dog recommended for children and other pets?

Energy level - Does your schedule allow for providing the amount of exercise recommended?

Special needs - Will this dog require special care?

Application - The purpose of the application is to match the dog's needs with the appropriate environment.

Home Visit - In-home interview to ensure that you can provide a safe, loving environment. All members of the household are required to attend. Care and behavioral training principles will be discussed.

Pre-adoption Trial Contract - A two-week trial placement designed to test for compatibility. Sign two-week trial placement contract (may be terminated by either party during this period).

Sign Final Adoption Contract - Finalizes adoption. Receive medical records. Fee/donation of $200 per dog is due