It takes a very special canine to work in the field of Search and Rescue. When a dog who is accepted into our training program does not have everything needed for this highly specialized line of work, he or she enters our Lifetime Care community. Some of these dogs are trained for another career like drug detection or companion dogs to Veterans suffering from PTSD.
Others are destined to become beloved family pets. SDF finds an adoptive family for each one of these extraordinary animals, trains the canine and the family, stays in touch with the household, and acts as the dog’s advocate for life, making sure that he or she is receiving excellent care in a happy, healthy environment. The program ensures that every dog in the SDF family has a wonderful life and is in no risk of re-entering the shelter system. This is SDF’s unwavering commitment.
We’re always on the lookout for suitable homes in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties.
Which dogs are currently available to adopt?
All of the dogs that come to SDF are high energy, high drive canines. When they cannot complete our program, we list all of our adoptable dogs on Petfinder! See the dogs currently available listed below:
How is the dog prepared for Lifetime Care?
Each dog is:
- Up-to-date on vaccinations
- Spayed or neutered
- Micro-chipped
- Crate trained
- Trained in basic obedience
- Backed by SDF
How do I join the Lifetime Care community?
The first step is to complete an application online below. Tell us what you are looking for in your new four-legged companion. Next, an SDF staff member will complete a home check to review important safety tips and make sure your house is dog-ready. Once a canine becomes available, SDF trainers determine which of our applicants is most suited for the particular dog in order to find the best fit possible. At that time, you will receive a phone call and invitation to meet the dog at our kennel.
Anyone who is looking to give a great home to a great dog is welcome to submit an application. We seek pet owners who are able to provide love and good care to any dog. We do ask that you be located in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties so that SDF staff can offer support as necessary from a shorter distance.
Is there a fee?
As of October 1, 2020, our adoption fee will be $450. This fee includes: 1-2 week supply of food, one month supply of flea, tick and heartworm medications, up-to-date vaccinations, obedience skill training, one or more training sessions with our professional staff, in-home training tips and suggestions, and the support of Search Dog Foundation throughout the canine’s life to ensure your happy and successful life together. All our dogs have been spayed or neutered.
What is the ongoing relationship with SDF?
In order to ensure that each dog we recruit remains healthy, happy and safe, SDF staff and volunteers make two phone calls and one physical visit to our Lifetime Care Community annually. This process allows us to check up on how dog and family are doing. We’re also on call 24/7 to offer support and advice.
Questions? Contact a member of our staff at [email protected] or 888-4K9HERO.
Please fill out our Lifetime Care Home application below if you would like the opportunity to provide one of these great dogs a great home!