The Adoption Process

Thank you for thoughtfully filling out an application for one of our Career Change Dogs—we appreciate your interest in our program and thank you for choosing to rescue!

The following application questions will provide us with the necessary information to help us match you with the best dog for your home. Please read this page in its entirety before starting your application.

As you consider your adoption application, please keep in mind that these dogs are categorized as “Career Change Dogs” because they are not suited to become Assistance Dogs through our training programs. This can be for a variety of reasons, and we will be happy to discuss with you the details of why a particular dog did not complete the program.

After submitting your application, a trainer will reach out within 48 hours (about 2 days). If you have not heard from us after 48 hours (about 2 days), please first check your junk mail before calling our offices.

Filling out an application does not guarantee that you will be matched with a dog. Our primary concern is finding homes that are most suitable for each dog. In some cases, a yard check must be done by a SSF representative prior to approving the adoption application. We require that all family members living in the home be present at the appointment to meet the dog they are interested in adopting.

We are committed to the happiness of our dogs and their new families, especially during the transition of welcoming a new family member into the home. To best support our dogs and their new families, each dog is delivered to their new home upon adoption, accompanied by one of our trainers who will provide guidance to the new family. Following successful adoption, we will continue to be available for home visits to address any questions or concerns.

Since all dogs are personally delivered to their new homes by a SSF representative, we aim to keep adoptions within 50 miles of Malibu, CA. Thank you for understanding!