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Adopt a Dog

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Dog Adoption Information


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We're happy to hear you have decided to adopt a dog!

When adopting a dog you are gaining a family member for the rest of its life. For a puppy, this can be a commitment of 10 to 15 years.

Our shelter rescues lost dogs, which mean these dogs have gotten away from their owner or have been abandoned. While some of the dogs we care for are reunited with their owner, many are left needing a new home. 

SEARCH ADOPTABLE DOGS

Start Your Search Online

  • Website: First, find your four legged family member on our website here: Search Adoptable Dogs
  • Download the Adoption Questionnaire: Be sure to completely fill in the  Adoption Questionaire for the dog(s) you are interested in so that the staff can more accurately assist you when they review your questionnaire.
  • Act Quickly:  The dog(s) you are interested in may no longer be available if you wait to send in your questionnaire.
  • Return the completed Adoption Questionnaire to: adopt@co.marion.or.us

The Adoption Process

  • Meeting the dog: A staff member will contact you in the order that adoption questionnaires are received.  Some of our dogs are highly desirable and MANY questionnaires are emailed in.  It may take up to two business days to receive an answer.
  • Appointment:  If the dog is still available, an appointment will be scheduled for you to meet the dog.
  • Bring your family:  Bring your immediate family members to your appointment to spend some time with your chosen dog to see if it will make a good companion for you and your family members.
  • Already have a dog(s)?:  Ask staff about whether a dog-to-dog meet is needed before bringing your current dog(s) to the appointment.
  • Plan your time:  The adoption process at the shelter can take up to two hours.

Adoption Resources

Adoption FAQ
Adoption QuestionaireMicrochip FAQ

Behavior Handouts

Dogs and Children
Fear of People
Home Alone
Housetraining
Hyper Dog
New Adult Dog

Enjoy your new forever friend

Call us if you have questions or concerns about your dog; we will do everything we can to help you and your dog have a successful long term relationship.