27/08/2025
Let’s Talk About Adoption Applications, shall we? — And Why You Might Not Hear Back 🌟
We know some people have been extremely frustrated by not receiving a response to their adoption application. We get it! We REALLY do! We are frustrated too! We want to explain why this happens and also what goes into our decision-making. Here goes...
First, please understand: we are not an open-intake shelter. We have a super tiny staff and a small group of dedicated volunteers who rescue cats directly from the streets of RHODE ISLAND. That's right, all of our rescues come directly from the backyards of our community. Many of our rescues have been abandoned (tossed out on the street from once living in a loving home), neglected, born on the streets, or are in deplorable condition when we rescue them. We pour our time, money, energy, and love into helping them heal physically and emotionally. Because of this, we are deeply protective of where their journey continues on. Also, I would like to note, this is our right. WE started Scruffy Paws Animal Rescue, WE get to decide how we do things... Don't like? Thats ok! There are so many rescues/shelters out there that all do things differently, its totally ok to find one that aligns with what you're comfortable with.
Adoption is not first-come, first-served. It’s about the most suitable match.
We know our cats, their quirks, their trauma, and their needs. The adoption application is a tool that helps us find the best suitable fit. Unfortunately, some applications show little to no thought. We’ve seen answers like “I want a cat” when asked why someone wants to adopt a specific cat. If this were a job interview, would that answer get you hired? Ummmmm we don't think so.
We have clear, non-negotiable policies in place to protect our cats. No, we don’t list them publicly. Why? Because we don’t want people tailoring their answers just to get approved. We want adopters who are genuinely aligned with what the cat needs, not just saying what they think we want to hear.
So why might you not get a response?
1. We’re a tiny team of volunteers who are also juggling full-time jobs, families, and the daily care and rescue of these cats.
2. Adoptions are only one aspect of the shelter. We are also providing veterinary services to not only our shelter animals but other shelters and owned animals who need some low-cost vet services. We are currently caring for over 200+ in our program and the shelter is ALWAYS over capacity. Do you have any idea how long it takes to fully do the shelter? Feeding, cleaning, laundry, dishes, ordering, re-stocking, vacuuming, mopping, talking to the public (this takes a LOT of time and energy as well), fundraising, paying bills, we can continue on but you get the gist.
3. Because most of our rescues come in pretty sick and debilitated they require a lot of medical and observation. This right here, comes first above anything. Bottom line.
4. We receive applications of all kinds, daily. Adoption applications, surrender requests, foster applications, volunteer applications, fundraising opportunities, etc. Also just general emails, how do I adopt, is so-and-so available for adoption? Most of the time, our lack of response is not intentional, we just really can't keep up.
5. When we send declines/denials, we are often met with rude or aggressive responses. It’s emotionally exhausting and takes energy away from the animals we’re trying to save. We just don't know the answer. Even with having it clear on our application and applicants initialing the following: "I understand that Scruffy Paws Animal Rescue often receives multiple applications for the same cat—especially for kittens—and may choose to move forward with another applicant. I also understand that the rescue reserves the right to deny any application for any reason, and the reason for not selecting my application may not be disclosed. Due to the high volume of applications received, I acknowledge that not all applicants will receive a response." We STILL get yelled at.
‼️Please read bios carefully.
If we say the cat must be adopted with a sibling or needs another cat in the home and you don't have one, please don’t apply for only one.
If we say the cat needs a pet-free home, don’t apply if you have other animals.
If we stress the cat shouldn't be with young kids, don't apply if you have children, for the safety of your children AND the cat.
Every application is appreciated, truly, but no one is entitled to a cat. Our goal is not to make anyone feel rejected. Our goal is to protect cats who have already been let down.
Thank you for understanding, and thank you for supporting our work. This is tough, emotional work, and we do it because we love these animals.
