Adoption events are currently shut down because of COVID-19

Tips on Attending Adoption Events

Attending adoption events can be fun, rewarding and lead to potential adoptions. It is important to be prepared when going to an adoption event. Below are some things to consider when attending an adoption event.

Be sure the adoption event venue is the "right fit" for your foster. Some events are large and loud. Some have children running around. Some will request GPG be the only pet there. Knowing which events would be ideal for your foster is key to a successful adventure for your pet!

Taking an adoptable to an event that is not yours? You are a Rockstar! THANK YOU! Make sure to ask the foster about any quirks that you should keep in mind. (For example, fearful of men, fearful of children, pulls on leash, etc.) Also ask the foster how much exposure the dog has had to new people, children, or meeting dogs on leash. Have they ever shown any issues with any of these things? How many events have they been to? Have they been out of the house on a leash before? How are they about taking treats? Do they have any issues with being touched anywhere? Know enough about the foster to keep them safe during the event but also enough to PROMOTE them to any potentially interested people!

Before the event, print out your adoptable's written profile bio!

These can come in handy to pass out information about the pet. Bios can be found at www.gatewaypets.org/adopt

At the event, dress your foster in "ADOPT ME" gear.

Making it very visible that your foster is adoptable is a great way to spark up conversation and interest in your foster. Don't have adoption gear? The Adoption Event Lead should have a few bandanas to lend during the event. Additionally, there are often times extra bandanas at the shelter - so be sure to ask for one during the next Foster Swag day!

Safety is key to a successful outing!

Every time a new person approaches, it's an opportunity to socialize the dog. Make sure all experiences are positive! As the handler, you may need to educate the public (especially children!) how to approach a dog. Never be afraid to say nicely, "oh, I think she's getting nervous" and walk away instead of letting your dog have a bad experience or show negatively.

If a child is approaching a dog, please make sure it’s one dog at a time. Make all other dogs leave the immediate area. Don't be afraid to ask another volunteer to move a dog away for a little bit. And keep a sharp eye on how the child and dog interact.

Leave toys and treats at home - or at least out of sight!

Do not introduce treats and toys to dogs at an event. If you would like to reward your dog for good behaviors during the event, please walk away from other dogs in the area to avoid guarding or fighting.

Walk around! Enjoy the experience.

If you are at an event where there is space, please do feel free to walk around and mingle. If your dog needs a break, please walk around (or walk outside). Some dogs need extra walks before, during and after to release pent up energy. If someone is interested in your adoptable and want to walk the dog, allow them to take the lead while you walk with them. This will allow you extra time to discuss more things about the dog with them.

SPECIAL TIPS FOR PUPPIES, CATS, AND KITTENS

Handling Puppies

1. DO NOT allow puppies to interact with other dogs in the area. They are not fully vaccinated and could risk being exposed to disease.

2. Make sure puppies are held or in their designated space throughout the entire event.

3. Wash your hands before and after the event, and use hand sanitizer between handling each puppy.

4. Encourage others to use hand sanitizer when handling puppies.

5. Allow frequent potty breaks in designated potty areas.

6. Allow frequent resting time.

Note: Our puppies cannot be adopted until they are spayed/neutered (8 weeks or 8 pounds), although we do accept applications at any time. Make sure to talk to the puppy's foster about their age and when they will be able to go to their forever homes.

Handling Cat & Kittens

1. Be sure to bring a wire crate so cats/kittens can be easily seen.

2. Be sure to bring a litter box

3. DO NOT allow cats/kittens to be removed from the crate, unless the pet is already harnessed and leashed.

4. Consider bringing an extra blanket to half cover the crate, toys and catnip to all help create a calm environment.

5. Allow cats/kittens to "hide" within their crate if they are stressed or overstimulated.

Note: Our kittens cannot be adopted until they are spayed/neutered (8 weeks or 2 pounds), although we do accept applications at any time. Make sure to talk to the kitten's foster about their age and when they will be able to go to their forever homes.