Adopting from AdvoCATs!

The Application and Interview.

Now that you've found your favorite (or at least narrowed down the list), take a look at the application. You will need a PDF viewer which you can download for free at adobe.com. Please read it thoroughly and complete all portions. You may fax the application to (703) 525-2159. Bring the application with you when you meet with our volunteers.

The interview is pretty simple. Our volunteers will review your application and ask about your experience with cats and other pets, your home life, and your expectations of a relationship with a cat. We will need to know:

• Do you rent or own your home? If you rent, we will need to speak to your landlord or see your rental agreement to confirm you are allowed to keep a pet. If you live in a condo or co-op, we will need to be sure your condo agreement allows pets. If you own your home, we will need to see proof of ownership.
• Do you currently have pets? We will need to see current veterinary records for your pets. This helps us make sure our adoptees will be well cared for.
• Is everyone in your family ready to adopt? It's very important that all members of the family participate in the adoption process. We'd like to meet all the adults and possibly the older children in a house to make sure the relationship will be a healthy and successful one!

Once the interview is completed and all records have been reviewed, we will let you know immediately if your application has been approved. In some cases, we may need to do a home study before finally approving an adoption. This is especially true if not all family members can be present for the interview. If the adoption is approved, we will prepare an adoption contract. It takes a few minutes to review the important points and give you a chance to read the fine print. At that time, we will collect the adoption fee. As of August, 2006, that fee is $150.00 per cat. We can only accept checks and cash.

After that, we'll make copies of your paperwork and review the cat's health records with you. We'll take a photo of you and your new family member to appear in our Family Album. Then you're headed home!

Read more about bringing your new friend home in the next section