Adoptions
The majority of our dogs are adopted through our pre-adoption program. This means most of our dogs are not currently located in New Jersey.
We partner closely with rescue groups across the country, allowing us to save dogs from high-need areas.
Pre-Adoption
Once your application is approved, your dog is transported to New Jersey. Upon arrival, each dog enters a 24–48 hour monitoring period during which they are bathed, groomed, and closely observed to ensure they arrived safely, comfortably, and in good health. If any veterinary care or special attention is needed, it is addressed immediately. After this period, dogs go directly to their forever homes. While the journey is long, it is truly worth it.
Meet & Greets
We typically have a small number of dogs on each transport that go directly into foster care. However, it’s important to note that most of our dogs do not participate in meet-and-greet visits.
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Meet-and-greets are available only for:
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Local adult dogs currently in New Jersey
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Senior dogs​
We understand that this type of adoption program is not for everyone, and some adopters prefer to meet a dog in advance. If that is your preference, we completely understand and encourage you to choose the adoption path that feels right for you and your family.
How to Adopt
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Apply here to adopt a Southern Paws pup.
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Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, so timely submission is important.
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We verify vet references and confirm approval with landlords or management companies, when applicable.
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An adoption coordinator will then contact you to complete a phone interview, answer your questions, and determine if the dog is a good fit for your home.
If approved, a $105 non-refundable deposit is required to hold the dog and move forward. This deposit is applied toward your total adoption fee. A home check will be scheduled, and references will be contacted. Once approved, the dog is officially yours—it’s simply a matter of time until they arrive in New Jersey.
Adoption Fees
The total adoption fee is $555 for all dogs.
This fee helps reimburse the extensive care each dog receives, including:
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Multiple dewormings
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Fecal exams and blood work
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Heartworm testing
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Spay or neuter surgery
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Vaccinations
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Veterinary examinations
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Health certificate required for transport
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Transportation to New Jersey
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Any medical care needed upon arrival
After the phone interview, the $105 deposit is due, with the remaining $450 payable on adoption day.
Our Safety Net
We do have a back-up program in the rare event that a dog does not adjust well in their new home. While we carefully match dogs with adopters to avoid this outcome, if it does occur, the dog will return to foster care and be placed for adoption within New Jersey.
Learn More About Us
If you’re unsure whether our pre-adoption program is right for you, we encourage you to learn more about our work by visiting and liking our Facebook page and reading reviews from past adopters:
👉 www.facebook.com/southernpawsnj
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We are proud of the community we’ve built and the families we’ve helped create. We look forward to working with you!