Ownership of above pet described is being transferred by Marleigh's Friends to Adopter, with the understanding the adopter is taking possession of the pet to keep and provide for this pet for his/her lifetime.
Adopter is adopting this pet SOLELY as a domestic pet for the adopter and/or adopter's family.
Adopter will pay Marleigh's Friends the non-refundable adoption donation listed on the pet's profile before pet is transferred and adoption is finalized.
*Marleigh's Friends has no paid staff. 100% of your adoption donation is used to help off set costs of vetting and help the next pet in need.
On the rare occasion we approve an adoption out of state, adopter is responsible to also pay transport costs and the cost of health certificate. (Required by law for transporting pets across state lines)
Adopter understands and agrees that although Marleigh's Friends makes every attempt possible to ensure the health of all animals in the rescue, it makes no guarantees or representations regarding the pet's behavior, health or temperament. Adopter accepts full responsibility for any risks associated with owning this pet and hereby forever, releases Marleigh's Friends and it's agents from any and all liability arising out of adopter's ownership and possession of this pet, including but not limited to; any claim of damages to persons or property caused by this pet. Marleigh's Friends advises that all interactions with your pet and children or unfamiliar persons should always be closely supervised.
Adopter will always provide this pet with adequate food, fresh water, bedding, shelter, appropriate grooming, (including nails and anal glands), and loving companionship. Adopter will never physically abuse, neglect or harm the pet in any way. Adopter will provide both routine and emergency veterinary care as needed, including an annual physical exam, vaccines, boosters, heartworm test and preventative care, (including heartworm, flea and tick preventatives.) Adopter will also research the area they live for recommended vaccinations.
**Heartworms can be very damaging to your pet's health and are extremely expensive to treat in dogs. There is no treatment for heartworms in cats. Even if your cat NEVER goes outside, a mosquito can get inside your home, therefore there is a risk of infection if left unprotected.
If the pet is a cat, adopter agrees to never declaw the pet under any circumstances. Adopter understands that declawing a cat can cause serious (often permeant) physical, psychological and behavioral complications and understands that scratching is a normal behavior for a cat. Adopter will provide scratching posts or pads for cat and keep nails trimmed.
If the pet is not sterilized prior to adoption, adopter agrees to take pet to their spay/neuter appointment, set and paid for by rescue at one of their partner vets.
Adopter agrees to never a) abandon the pet, b) give or sell pet to another entity or; c) deposit pet at an animal shelter or research facility for ANY REASON. If at any time in the future you can no longer provide proper care or a home for your pet, adopter agrees to contact Marleigh's Friends to arrange the return of the pet. Adopter agrees to give Marleigh's Friends atleast five business days notice before returning pet and will provide safe and loving care for the pet until it is returned. However, before returning the pet to Marleigh's Friends, adopter agrees to exhaust all available options, including but not limited to obedience training, a behaviorist, crate training or veterinary advice to solve a physical or behavioral problem that may occur with this pet.
Adopter understands that the normal adjustment period for a new pet is approximately 30 to 45 days and is prepared to make adjustments accordingly as the pet gets used to his/her new surroundings. Adopter also agrees to have the pet seen by a veterinarian and get a health certificate within 48 hours of returning pet to Marleigh's Friends.
Should it come to the attention of Marleigh's Friends that the adopter is not abiding by the terms of this agreement, or is abusing, mistreating or neglecting this pet, Marleigh's Friends has the right to take the pet into protective custody while the allegation is investigated. Should the allegation prove to be true and accurate, Marleigh's Friends has the right to resume permanent ownership of the pet and adopter shall relinquish all rights and this agreement will be terminated.
Adopter agrees to update and keep all microchip information current, including address, phone number and veterinarian information.