Copy these prompts into your notes before you apply. This is a private practice sheet, not a rescue application. Submit your actual answers through the rescue’s official form. Keep ID, lease documents and reference contact details off Mochi Lane.
1. Save the listing
Rescue: ___
Dog’s name and listing ID: ___
Official listing: ___
What interests me about this specific dog: ___
One thing I need to learn before deciding: ___
2. Describe your household
Adults, children and animals who live with me: ___
Home setup, stairs/elevator and shared spaces: ___
Pet permission and any size, breed or number restrictions: ___
Prior experience, including tasks I actually handled: ___
First dog of your own? Say so. If you regularly cared for someone else’s dog, explain what you did. If you have never cared for a dog, describe the help you have arranged and what you still need to learn.
3. Walk through your longest workday
I leave at ___ and return at ___. Morning walk: ___. Midday care: ___. Evening routine: ___. If that plan falls through: ___. First-week plan: ___.
Example: “I work away from home four days a week. My sister has agreed to handle lunch walks on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I still need to arrange the other two days. Has this dog spent time alone in foster care?” An honest gap is more useful than promising a plan you don’t have.
4. Get documents and references ready
- NYC ACC requires adopters to be at least 18 and bring photo ID and proof of address. Its online questionnaire is followed by a care-center visit.
- Animal Haven starts with an in-person meeting and accepts applicants 21 or older. Be ready to show that pets are permitted, such as a lease or landlord contact.
- If your chosen rescue requests references or veterinary records, ask permission before sharing contact information. If you’ve never had a vet, say that rather than listing one as a past provider.
5. Review before submitting
My adoption budget: ___. Monthly care budget: ___. Backup caregiver: ___. Questions about this dog’s health, behavior or support after adoption: ___.
Reopen the listing, check that the ID and rescue match, and read that rescue’s instructions. After submitting, save the date and confirmation, note the rescue’s stated response window, and follow its instructions for checking in.
Official requirements reviewed November 5, 2026. This worksheet does not submit information or reserve a dog.