Kwame S.
Yelp
Before I get into the TLDR part, I'd like to share a couple of tips. Note this review is stricktly about dog adoption.
1. Even if you are just looking, definitely complete the application and screening interview before attending an adoption event. If you complete these two items, the adoption process will go a bit smoother when/if you decide to adopt a pet during one of the adoption events. If you find an animal that you like but haven't completed the prescreening step, the pet might be adopted by the time you complete this step.
2. LDAR has both small (~12 dogs) and large (40+ dogs) adoption events. If you want more 1:1 with the dogs and their handlers, I highly recommend the smaller events. We attended two events - one large and one small. I think we had a better experience with the smaller event. In the larger event, I found it a bit difficult to gather information about the dogs. Also, I think many of the dogs (and human handlers) were simply over it because it was quite warm out; and they probably were a bit tired from interacting with a lot of folks. On the other hand, the smaller event we attended was pretty nice. I could actually spend a decent amount of time with the dogs. I could extensively speak to the folks fostering or handling the dogs. Also, I could get a better sense of how the dogs interact with other dogs and their general temperament.
3. If you adopt a dog, definately read through the adoption PDF that LDAR provides. Not only will you find information about acclimating your dog to its new environment, the PDF has a bunch of coupons and deals for pet services. For instance, we took advantage of Great Falls Animal Hospital's free vet examination.
Our adoption experience:
Overall, we thought the adoption process was fairly straightforward. While some might think it's a bit detailed, I think it's necessary to ensure that a pet is placed in a good and loving home. The first step of the adoption process is completing an adoption application. Eventually (within a week), you will have a 30-45 minute conversation with an adoption coordination. Our coordinator, Emma, was very friendly, patient and full of information. As a means to save time, if you adopt a pet with another person, it's probably best to find a time when both of you can attend the phone meeting. A few days following the conversation, an adoption matchmaker will reach out (if you are interested). Wait, I forgot a step. If you are interested in the matchmaking service, you will have to fill out a brief questionnaire, then a matchmaker will reach out. The questionnaire, is somewhat similar to the adoption application, so save your answers from the initial adoption application for the matchmaking one. You will pretty much complete questions regarding things/characteristics that you would like in your new pet (e.g., age, temperament, sex, etc.) and any concerns you might have regarding the pet. The matchmaking service will send a weekly list of potential pets that you might be interested in adopting.
The organization holds several adoption events of various sizes during the weekend. If you join the matchmaking service, you'll receive a list of adoptable dogs that might fit your preferences. Fortunately, for us, we found our dog (or he found us) at our second event. After we selected our pup, we had two additional on-site conversations mainly to provide more information about our living situation, plans to socialize and exercise the dog. Also, we were provided information about the rules and stipulations of adopting a dog e.g., vet visits, what could happen if you do not follow the contract, check up calls, etc.
While the process is detailed, I thought all aspects of the adoption process was fair and the employees/volunteers were pretty professional throughout the process.
Some might think the adoption fees ($400+) are a little pricey, but you have to realize that it costs quite a bit of money to house/board, provide vet services for, transport, the animals.