What Happens After I Click “Ask About Me” or “Apply to Adopt”?

After hours of searching for a pet, you think you’ve found the one. You see the sweetest face staring back at you from your screen, and your heart does a little happy flip. You’re ready to learn more, and maybe even meet your potential new best friend. But you’re not quite sure what to do next. What actually happens when you click “Ask About Me” or “Apply to Adopt” on Adopt a Pet?

These buttons appear on a pet’s profile page (the individual page that opens when you click on a pet from the search results). And depending on who listed the pet, you may see one or more options, such as “About Me,” “Ask About Me,” or “Apply to Adopt.” Each button connects you directly with the shelter, rescue, or current pet parent caring for that pet.

Once you reach out, the next steps depend on who listed the pet and how they manage their adoption process. This sounds like a lot — and you may be feeling confused — but we’re here to help you feel confident about this whole adoption process. 

I found a pet I’m interested in. What’s next?

When you see a pet you’d like to know more about, you’ll notice different options on their profile. Each one serves a specific purpose.

• About Me (Phone): This option appears when a shelter or rescue prefers phone contact. The listing will include their number so you can call to ask about the pet’s availability or temperament.

• Ask About Me (Message): Clicking this opens a short message form where you can contact the organization or individual directly. It’s a great way to introduce yourself, ask questions about the pet’s personality, or clarify any adoption requirements.

• Apply to Adopt: This option means the pet’s caretaker uses an adoption application to get to know potential adopters. You’ll fill out a few questions about your lifestyle, home setup, and experience with pets. Think of it as a way to help determine if you and the pet are a good match.

Each button starts the same process: connecting with the person responsible for that pet’s care and adoption. Adopt a Pet provides the platform, but shelters, rescues, and pet parents handle communication, review applications, and directly finalize adoptions.

What happens after clicking “Ask About Me”

When you click “Ask About Me,” you’re sending a message directly to the person caring for the pet you’re interested in. Here’s what typically happens next.

1. Your message is sent securely through Adopt a Pet’s system: You’ll provide your name, email, message, and maybe a bit about yourself. Once you hit send, the inquiry goes straight to the shelter, rescue, or current pet parent.

2. The caretaker reviews your message: They’ll read your note, check if the pet is still available, and decide how to follow up. Response times can vary based on staff or volunteer availability.

3. You’ll receive a response directly from them: Replies are sent to the email address you entered, not through Adopt a Pet, so it’s a good idea to check your inbox and spam folder just in case.

4. The conversation continues: If the pet is still available, the caretaker may ask follow-up questions, share more details, or arrange a meet-and-greet. If the pet has already been adopted, they may suggest others who might be a good fit.

Things to note

• Adopt a Pet doesn’t make adoption decisions. The shelter, rescue, or individual pet parent manages that process.

• Response times can vary, especially for volunteer-run shelters and rescues.

• A kind, patient tone goes a long way when communicating with organizations handling many inquiries at once.

• Many pets are available for adoption for less than 48 hours before being snatched up. Keep this in mind when you make contact, so you’re not too disappointed if that “perfect match” is no longer available.

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What happens after clicking “Apply Online”

If you click “Apply Online,” you’re taking the first step in a more formal process. This option typically means the organization or individual uses an adoption application system. Here’s how it usually works.

1. Complete the adoption application: You may be directed to the organization’s website, where you can fill out your application, or to Rehome by Adopt a Pet. Either way, you’ll answer questions about your household, schedule, and experience with animals. These details help caretakers determine if the pet’s needs align with your lifestyle.

2. The application is reviewed: Shelters and rescues may take several days to review applications. Popular pets can receive many inquiries, so caretakers often contact multiple applicants before making a decision.

3. A follow-up conversation may occur: You might receive an email or phone call with additional questions or to schedule an interview. This step helps both sides confirm if the match feels right.

4. A meet-and-greet is scheduled: If things are moving forward, the next step is meeting the pet in person. This is the best opportunity to see how the pet interacts with you and your family.

5. Finalizing the adoption: Once everyone agrees it’s a good fit, the caretaker will guide you through signing an adoption contract and paying any applicable fees. You’ll then receive records such as medical history, microchip details, or vaccination dates.

Things to note

• Each organization has its own adoption process. Some may include home checks, references, or trial periods.

• Timelines vary: Some adoptions move quickly, while others take a week or more.

• Submitting an application does not guarantee adoption. However, it does open the door to communication and next steps.

What if I haven’t heard back?

It can be hard to wait when you’re excited about adopting, but a little patience helps. If you haven’t received a response after about a week, try some of these tips.

1. Check your email folders again: Sometimes messages from end up in spam or promotions tabs.

2. Be patient: Many organizations are run by small teams or volunteers. Delays don’t necessarily mean the pet is unavailable. Stressing isn’t going to help anyone.

3. Send a polite follow-up: After seven to 10 days, a short, friendly message is perfectly appropriate. For example: “Hi! I sent an inquiry about [pet’s name] last week and wanted to check if they’re still available. Thank you for your time.” If the organization listed a phone number, you can also try giving them a call. Sometimes that is faster than email. 

4. Keep exploring: If you don’t hear back or the pet has been adopted, continue your search on Adopt a Pet. New pets are added daily, and another match might be waiting just around the corner.

Adopting a pet is an exciting journey that starts with one simple click. Whether you’re messaging a rescue, applying through a shelter, or connecting with a private owner, each inquiry helps animals find loving homes faster. Stay patient, stay open, and soon enough, that click may lead to a lifelong companion.