Adopt Don’t Shop
Every dog deserves a second chance and every adopter deserves to feel ready. Here's everything you need to know.
How It Works
Browse & find your match
Take your time exploring our Dogs for Adoption page. Read each profile and see who you connect with.
Submit your application
Fill out our short adoption application covering your lifestyle, home setup, and what you're looking for in a dog.
Application review
Our team reviews your application carefully and may follow up with a question or two to help us find the right match.
Visit the shelter & meet your match
Come spend time with the dogs at our shelter. Not sure who's right for you? We'll guide you based on your lifestyle and home requirements.
Home visit
We bring your potential dog to your home to see how they settle in. This can be a few hours or even include an overnight stay depending on the situation.
The 2-week trial
A two-week period for both you and your dog to see if it's the right fit. Our team checks in regularly and is always on hand for questions and guidance.
Not applicable for young puppiesMake it official
Pay the 1,300,000 VND adoption fee, sign the adoption contract, and your dog officially becomes family.
Every adoption includes a complimentary training session with Dog Walkers, Thao DienOur adoption process is thorough because the right match matters for both you and the dog.
A note on puppies: We generally don't run a 2-week trial for younger puppies - adopting a puppy is a significant commitment and we want you to be fully sure before bringing one home. That said, our team is always here to support you through the transition and happy to offer advice and guidance whenever you need it.
A Few Things to Consider First
These questions aren't meant to put you off - they're here to help you feel confident you're ready. Thinking them through before you apply makes the whole process smoother for everyone.
Your home
Do you live in a house or apartment? If an apartment, do you have building management approval for pets?
Your family
Do you have children? Are they excited about and involved in this decision?
Your schedule
How many hours a day are you away from home? Who will care for the dog while you're out?
Your lifestyle
How active are you day to day? Are you looking for a dog that matches your energy level?
Your future plans
If you're an expat, have you thought through the costs and logistics of relocating a dog when the time comes?
Your other pets
Do you have other animals at home? Have you considered how they might adjust to a new companion?
Dog-proof your home
- Check for gaps in fences, balconies, or gates they could slip through
- Set up a quiet dedicated space with a bed or crate where they can decompress
- Pick up a water bowl, food bowl, collar, harness, and a leash suited to their size
Stock up on supplies
- We'll tell you what your dog has been eating - keep things consistent at first
- For puppies, pick up pee pads and chew toys - opt for sturdy rubber or soft plush over thin plastic, which can break apart and be swallowed
- A crate is optional but can really help during the settling-in period
Preparing for Your New Dog
What to Expect When They Come Home
Every rescue dog adjusts at their own pace. The 3-3-3 rule helps you understand what those first days, weeks, and months might look like and how to support your dog through them.
Be patient, be consistent, and trust the process. The bond you'll build is absolutely worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes! Expats are very welcome to adopt with us. We just ask that you've thought through the logistics of relocating your dog when the time comes - and we're happy to point you in the right direction on that.
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The 1,300,000 VND adoption fee goes some ways in covering your dog's vaccinations, sterilisation, and all medical treatment they received while in our care.
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In most cases, yes. We'll discuss your home situation during the application and visit process to make sure it's the right fit for everyone - including your existing animals.
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It varies depending on the dog and your situation, but we move as quickly as we can while still doing it properly. Most adoptions are completed within 2–3 weeks from application.
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That's exactly what the trial is for. Please contact us - we will always work with you to find the best outcome for both you and the dog. We never want a dog to end up without a safe home.
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Every adoption includes one complimentary training session with Mark at Dog Walkers in Thao Dien. Sessions are tailored to your biggest need - whether that's walking your dog confidently on busy Saigon streets, settling into routines at home, toilet training, or introducing your new dog to existing pets. Mark is there to guide you through whatever feels most challenging in those early days.
Ready to find your perfect match?
Browse our dogs, start your application, or reach out if you have any questions. We're here every step of the way.