BSR volunteers are currently processing a large number of open applications and need time to catch up with the backlog since summer responses from references are typically slower.  
In the meantime, please read our FAQ's below about how the application process works and so that you'll be ready to file an adoption application when we re-post the form.

FAQ's About Adopting from BSR

1.  The application process takes several weeks to complete; submitting an application is the starting point, not an immediate access to available dogs.
2.  There is a $25 non-refundable application processing fee for each submission.
3.  You will be interviewed by a volunteer, your vet will be contacted, and your references will be interviewed as part of the process.
4.  A virtual or in-person home visit will be conducted.
5.  If you are approved, you will be sent an email with a link to create an account on our website as an approved adopter; this is the only way anyone can submit their interest in available dogs.
6.  If approved, your application will be open for 2 years, and you may apply for any dog shown on the "available dogs" page by clicking the "I'm Interested" button below the dog's biography.  IF YOU ARE NOT AN APPROVED APPLICANT, THE BUTTON WILL NOT WORK FOR YOU!
7.  Applying for a dog does not mean you will be selected to adopt him or her; we typically see 10-20 applicants for each dog, and the younger dogs, especially females, see many more applicants than that. 
8.  Dogs go on the "evaluating" listing for approximately 2 weeks before the full biography is posted and the dog moves to an "available" listing.  No advance information about the dog or it's location is provided to keep the process fair for all.
9.  Available dog listings run for 10 days-2 weeks. Every applicant is interviewed by the foster before a decision is made.
10.  Dogs are not adopted out on a first come, first serve basis, nor on an applicant's proximity to the foster.  THE DOG'S NEEDS ARE OUR SOLE DETERMINING FACTOR IN SELECTING AN ADOPTER.
11.  There is no way to predict how long it will take any applicant to successfully adopt from BSR, since every dog is different in its needs, and every applicant presents different qualities that may or may not fit a particular dog.
12.  BSR does not transport dogs to adopters, so travel may be necessary for an adopter to pick up a dog from a foster.  We do not allow dogs to be flown.