Adoption FAQ’s

We are committed to finding the best fit for the animals and our goal is to place each dog in an environment appropriate for that dog’s background, personality, temperament and needs. Therefore, we do NOT place animals on a “First come, first serve” basis. We carefully review all applications and then make a decision.

How much does it cost to adopt a dog or puppy?

We have 2 set adoption fees, depending on the age of the dog. All our adoption fees include necessary vet-care, including spay/neuter surgery for all dogs, DHLPP and rabies vaccinations as well as de-worming. Most dogs will also be on heart-worm preventative and flea and tick treatments.

Dog: $300

Puppies 6 months and under: $350

What is the adoption process?

Step One: Fill out the application.
Begin by completing our adoption application. You can also download the pdf version and fax to 703-444-2668, email it to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or bring it with you to one of our adoption events.

Step two: Meet the dog!
Our dogs will be available at various adoption events. Check our events page for the next adoption event. If you would like to meet a specific dog, please email us in advance at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to confirm the dog will be at the adoption event.

Step Three: The interview.
You will be interviewed by two PAWS Rescue of Northern VA adoption coordinators. During the interview, your application will be reviewed and you will be asked general questions about yourself, your family, your lifestyle, and living situations. The purpose of the interview is to determine if you are a good fit for the dog you are trying to adopt.

Step Four: Vet check.
If you have had a pet as an adult in the recent past, PAWS Rescue of Northern VA will be contacting your vet to verify that the animal is up to date on vaccinations.

Step Five: Home check.
If everything has checked out, the final piece of the approval process is the home check. On the home check, the dog will come with the PAWS volunteer. If the home check goes well, your application will be approved. The dog will stay in your home and the adoption paperwork will be completed during the home visit.

Do you adopt out of the area?

Unfortunately, no. All applicants MUST live in an hour radius of Herndon, VA to be eligible. We are a small rescue and do not have the resources to go any further out geographically.

What happens if there is more than one applicant for a dog?

We are committed to finding the best fit for the animals and our goal is to place each dog in an environment appropriate for that dog’s background, personality, temperament and needs. Therefore, we do NOT place animals on a “first come, first serve” basis. We carefully review all applications and then make a decision. If you are not chosen for a particular dog, but are approved as an adopter, we will work with you to find a dog that better suits your family.

What happens if I have trouble with my dog?

Contact us immediately!! We have resources that can help you with your new addition. Some dogs take some time adjust to their new environment. We will work with you to make the transition as smooth as possible.