How NorCal Shiba's Adoption Process Works
Adopting a Shiba from NorCal Shiba is a multi-step process. We do it this way because Shibas are not for everyone and a wrong placement hurts the dog more than waiting for the right one. Here is what to expect.
Step 1. You submit an application
You fill out our adoption application online. The application asks about your household, housing, prior pet experience, and what you are looking for in a Shiba. By submitting the application, you certify that the information is true and complete to the best of your knowledge.
Step 2. Every adult in your household signs a Household Acknowledgment
We require written acknowledgment from every adult living in your household confirming they are aware of and consent to the adoption. This is not legally binding for non-applicant household members but eliminates the most common reason adoptions fail later.
Step 3. We review the application
We review applications at our sole discretion. We may contact you for more information. We may contact your references, landlord, veterinarian, or employer to verify information. We may decline your application without stating a reason.
Step 4. If approved, we schedule a meet-and-greet
If your application is approved for a specific dog, we schedule a meet-and- greet at a location we choose. Before the meet begins, every adult attending signs a Meet-and-Greet Waiver acknowledging the inherent risk of meeting an unfamiliar dog.
Step 5. You meet the dog
You meet the dog with our facilitation. We share what we know about the dog's history, behavior, and health. We do not guarantee future behavior or health. Either party may decide the match is not right and end the process.
Step 6. Adoption Agreement
If both parties want to proceed, you sign the Adoption Agreement. This is the main contract that transfers ownership and sets the terms of the adoption. The Adoption Agreement controls over anything said in conversation or written on this website.
Step 7. Optional: Lifetime Placement Promise
You may purchase the Lifetime Placement Promise ($295) as an optional rider. The Promise gives you priority access to NorCal Shiba's lifetime return and rehoming program if your life changes and you need to surrender. The Promise is a service, not a guarantee of any specific outcome.
Step 8. Final payment, in person
Final adoption fee is paid in person at the meeting where the Adoption Agreement is signed via Zelle to our business account, bank transfer, or check. We never request payment by DM or text. See our Payment Policy for full instructions.
After placement
We stay in touch. We require microchip update within 14 days. We strongly recommend you carry pet liability insurance. If at any point you cannot keep the dog, you must return the dog to NorCal Shiba. You may not transfer the dog to a third party, sell the dog, or surrender to a shelter.
Approval is at our discretion
We turn down more applications than we approve. The reason is the breed. A Shiba in the wrong home becomes a surrender within 18 months in most cases. We would rather decline an application that does not fit than place a dog that will be returned.
Questions
Email norcalshiba@gmail.com.