We ask all potential adopters to fill out an application for adoption which is sent to them as soon as an inquiry is received. The application is reviewed, and the applicant's vet reference is checked by phone. If the applicant does not have a good vet record, the application is denied. If the applicant is renting a home, we ask for his landlord's name and phone # and check to make certain the applicant is allowed to have a pet. If there are any concerns regarding the application, we bring them to the applicant's attention and ask for clarification. This is done before the applicant meets the pet. We then set up a meeting at a mutually convenient time and place. If the applicant wants the pet, we ask for a check made payable to CFAW at the time the applicant takes the pet. The adoption donation is held for 3-5 days during which the potential adopter can decide whether (or not) he wants to permanently adopt the pet. If he decides not to adopt and returns the pet to us, his check is returned at that time. There is also a Pet Adoption Contract which basically states that the adopter will take good care of the pet. This is signed by both parties.