Rescuing and rehoming dogs and cats in Calera, AL and surrounding communities.

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Adoption Process for Dogs

Adoption Process for Dogs

Ready to Adopt a Dog? Here’s What to Expect:

Adopting a dog from All the Paws Animal Rescue is simple, welcoming, and designed to help you find the right match. We facilitate same-day adoptions, meaning the day you're approved to adopt is the day you take your new dog home!

Please Note: Most dogs are adopted at our weekend adoption events, and participating dogs are typically posted each Thursday.

Step 1: Find a Dog

Browse our available dogs and check the dog’s profile to see if they’ll be at an upcoming adoption event. Dogs are usually posted by Thursday for Saturday events, and not every dog attends an event each weekend. If you are interested or have questions about a specific dog, submit an Adoption Inquiry on the dog's profile.

Step 2: Submit an Adoption Application

This is a general dog adoption application (good for 90 days) and may be used for the adoption of any dog.

  • Required before any interview can be conducted.
  • Complete the adoption application in advance of attending an adoption event.
  • Only one general application is needed (not dog-specific).
  • Already applied in the past 90 days? No need to apply again.

Step 3: Meet Your New Best Friend

  • You don’t need a specific dog in mind — everyone is welcome at our events!
  • Dogs are not held or reserved, so please arrive during the priority period (the first 15 minutes) if you’re interested in a specific dog.
  • Adoption events are held every weekend at various local pet stores and community businesses.
  • At adoption events, dogs are handled on leash by volunteers (puppies may be in playpens).

Upcoming Adoption Events

Calera Community Dog Adoption Event

Calera Community Dog Adoption Event

August 8, 2026

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Adoption
Alabaster Local Adoption Day

Alabaster Local Adoption Day

August 8, 2026

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Adoption
Weekend Puppy Meet & Greet

Weekend Puppy Meet & Greet

August 9, 2026

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Adoption

The Adoption Process at Events

Step 1: Arrive at Event

  • Arrive at the event and immediately visit the All the Paws Welcome table to express your interest in adopting.
  • Meet the adoptable, participating dogs to decide which dog you're interested in adopting.
  • Our volunteers will assist you in how to sign up to speak with an Adoption Counselor about a specific dog.

Step 2: Sign Up for an Adoption Counseling Session

  • Scan the Interview Sign-Up QR Code at the event to indicate which dog you're interested in adopting.
  • QR codes are posted at the All the Paws Welcome table and on volunteer name badges.
  • Sign-ups are handled in the order they are received during the priority period.

Step 3: Meet with an Adoption Counselor

  • An Adoption Counselor will review your application and talk through your home, schedule, and experience.
  • This is your chance to ask everything you want to know about the dog.
  • Counselors help confirm the match is right for both you and the dog.

Step 4: Take Your New Dog Home

  • We facilitate same-day adoptions — the day you're approved is the day your dog comes home.
  • Complete the adoption contract and pay the adoption fee.
  • You'll receive medical records and guidance for the first days at home.

Start Your Adoption Application

Submit your application and our adoption team will review it and contact you about next steps and meeting your dog.

Adoption Application

Tell us about your home and the dog you're interested in.

A rescued dog waiting for a home

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