Dog adoption from rescue out of state.

Question

I got approved to adopt a dog from a rescue, signed the papers, and did everything required. I was told that the dog would be here on April 22nd. I had been in a wheelchair for a year, but now I am doing better and using a walker. However, they never asked how I'm doing now; instead, they asked what put me in a wheelchair. To my surprise, I saw my dog up for adoption. They kept my money and claimed that the dog is not safe with me in a wheelchair. I called them, but they won't respond. This feels like discrimination. All I want is my dog; we signed paperwork finalizing the adoption. My husband is here 24/7 to help with taking care of the dog. What can I do to get my dog back?

Answer

It is unusual for an adoption to be finalized until the adopter actually receives the dog. Also, it is unusual for a shelter or rescue to put off an adoption date for weeks, unless an animal is too young or is being treated for an illness. Shelters/rescues do not typically collect an adoption fee and then refuse to turn over the animal or refund the fee. People who believe that they have been discriminated against based on a disability can contact government agencies and private organizations that protect the rights of persons with disabilities. An attorney can also be contacted to intervene. Shelters/rescues deny many adoption applications for a variety of reasons, including that a particular animal may not be a good fit for the person wishing to adopt that animal. For example, shelters/rescues often choose not to adopt out a rambunctious dog to a family with young children or to an elderly person, and that would not normally constitute illegal discrimination.