How Does Adopt a Pet Work?

Looking to bring home a new pet? FurPetVo is a free pet adoption platform that connects potential pet parents with thousands of adoptable pets through partnerships with more than 15,000 shelters, rescues, and rehoming pet parents across the U.S. and Canada.

A joyful family meeting their newly adopted dog at a sunny park

How to Find a Pet

Start your search on the FurPetVo homepage by selecting “dog,” “cat,” or “other pet,” entering your zip code, and clicking Search. Or jump right in by adding detailed criteria—like age, sex, size, breed, temperament, and compatibility with kids or other pets—to narrow results from the start.

Here’s how to make the most of your search:

  • Refine your filters anytime. As you browse adoptable pets, update your search criteria in the filter bar to better match your ideal companion.
  • Set up a Pet Alert. FurPetVo will show you all pets in your area matching your current criteria—but if your perfect match isn’t listed yet, a Pet Alert will notify you when one becomes available.
  • Start the adoption process. Every pet profile includes an “Ask About Me,” “Apply Online,” or “Apply to Adopt” button—or direct contact information—to begin your inquiry.

Find Your Match With AI SmartSearch

FurPetVo’s AI SmartSearch simplifies pet finding: instead of scrolling through filters, describe the pet you’re envisioning in plain language—like “a calm, medium-sized cat who loves quiet homes” or “a friendly, leash-trained terrier mix good with older kids.” The AI does the rest.

To try it, go to the FurPetVo homepage and click “Try our new AI SmartSearch” (located just below the standard search bar), or use the direct link provided on the site. Once you see promising matches, click any profile to learn more about the pet’s personality, history, and care needs.

Stay Updated With New Pet Alerts

If you haven’t found your match yet, set up a free New Pet Alert—FurPetVo will email you whenever a new pet meets your saved criteria.

Did you know? Roughly 20% of pets listed on FurPetVo are adopted within 24 hours. To boost your chances, consider Premium Pet Alerts, which deliver match notifications up to 24 hours before standard alerts. Subscription is $10 per month—and includes priority visibility for your inquiries.

How to Apply for a Pet

Once you’ve found a pet you’re drawn to, spend a few minutes reading their full profile. You’ll learn about their background, behavior, comfort level with people or other animals, and whether they align with your home environment and lifestyle.

At the top of each profile, you’ll see who is “Caring for” the pet—either a shelter or rescue organization, or a “Private Owner” (an individual rehoming their pet).

Applying Through a Shelter or Rescue

If the pet is listed by a shelter or rescue, you’ll see either an “Ask About Me” button (with a phone or message icon) or an “Apply Online” button. Clicking either will connect you directly to the organization caring for the pet.

Note: Sending a message via FurPetVo does not count as a formal application—and it does not place the pet on hold. Always follow the shelter’s or rescue’s official application process, typically hosted on their own website.

Applying to a Private Owner

If the pet is listed by their current caregiver, the button will read “Apply to Adopt.” The owner will review your application and reach out if they’d like to move forward. Pressing the button doesn’t guarantee adoption—it simply starts the conversation.

Because many private adoptions operate on a first-come, best-matched basis, it’s wise to submit your application promptly after reviewing the pet’s profile.

What Happens After You Ask About a Pet?

Response times vary—especially with understaffed shelters and rescues. Here’s what to expect, depending on who’s caring for the pet:

Adopting From a Shelter or Rescue

  1. Submit your application through the shelter’s or rescue’s official website or portal.
  2. Review their specific adoption requirements—these may include an interview, a meet-and-greet, and even a home visit.
  3. Complete adoption paperwork and prepare the required fee.
  4. Arrange pickup or delivery of your new pet.

Adopting From a Private Owner

  1. Submit your application via FurPetVo’s secure form.
  2. If the owner wishes to proceed, they’ll contact you directly—ideally within 72 hours (though response times may vary).
  3. If not, you’ll receive an automated status update from Rehome by FurPetVo.
  4. Connect via phone, text, Zoom, or FaceTime to ask questions and build rapport.
  5. Schedule a safe, public meet-and-greet to get to know the pet in person.
  6. Discuss expectations—including timeline, trial period options, and a plan if the adoption doesn’t work out.
  7. Once both parties agree, the owner logs into Rehome by FurPetVo and clicks “Finalize the Adoption.”
  8. You and the owner sign the digital Transfer of Ownership form.
  9. You pay the agreed-upon adoption fee directly to the owner.
  10. Coordinate a smooth, respectful handoff of your new companion.
Two people smiling while signing adoption paperwork together at a cozy living room

Commonly Asked Questions

Who cares for the pets listed on FurPetVo until they’re adopted?

FurPetVo does not house, feed, or provide medical care for any pets. All animals are cared for by licensed animal welfare organizations—including shelters and rescues—or by loving families rehoming their pets through FurPetVo’s Rehome program.

What if I haven’t heard back?

It can take up to two weeks to receive a reply—especially during high-volume periods. Be sure to check your spam and promotions folders. If you haven’t heard back within 7–10 days, send a polite, brief follow-up email.

Who responds to my application?

FurPetVo acts only as a communication bridge. The person who replies—the shelter staff member, rescue volunteer, or private owner—is the one responsible for the pet’s care and adoption decisions. We recommend reviewing the shelter’s or rescue’s website for additional guidance or policies.

How does FurPetVo screen shelters and rescues?

All partner organizations must pass an initial vetting process and agree to FurPetVo’s Terms of Service. Screening includes verification of legal registration, operational transparency, and commitment to ethical animal care standards. While requirements may vary by organization, FurPetVo prioritizes legitimacy, accountability, and compassion in every approved partner.