How to adopt a GRRMF dog

A thoughtful path to lifelong companionship

GRRMF dogs have been surrendered to us for a variety of reasons, and we work hard to make sure they are healthy, happy and well matched to their new family to ensure a long and loving relationship.  Our goal is a positive adoption for our dogs and adoptive families. We are proud of our successful process and invite you to apply!

Fees

Our adoption fees help defray expenses including medical costs, transportation, or unexpected charges incurred while the dog is in our care which can run over $2,000. Donations from individuals help offset the rest of the cost.

Please note that adoption fees are subject to change. There is a $25.00 non-refundable application fee for completing an adoption application.

The adoption process

STEP 1 The basics

Be sure you meet the basic requirements noted in the guidelines below and on our website including geographic area, fences, landlord approval for renters, and more.

STEP 2 Submit an application

A Complete Application Starts Here

Please ensure you prepare the following documents before starting. If you do not submit these applicable documents, your application will not proceed.

Required documents – help us understand your heart and home

• Veterinary Records: Document to upload containing vet record reflecting your current dog (if applicable) or previous dogs within the last year, vaccinations and Heartworm/Flea/Tick current medication receipt.
• Housing Documentation: If you rent or belong to a condo association, upload a document that indicates 70+ lb dog is eligible to live on the property. Landlord agreement, apartment lease or HOA document for the property recommended along with governing documents that indicate size and breeds of dogs that are allowed.
• Required Photos: Show us where your future golden will thrive!
  • Yard
  • Pool
  • Fence
  • Inside of home where the dog will:
    • Hang out with you
    • Play
  • If you have a dog, also upload a photo of their happy face ready for a buddy!

Processing time and what to expect after you apply

Processing time from start to finish can take approximately 2 months, depending on the number of applications and completeness of applications received. (Step 3).

Found a match elsewhere?

If you find a match outside of GRRMF at any time during the process, we ask you send us your happy news to info@grrmf.org advising us to close your application.

STEP 3 We call you!

After reviewing your application, a phone interviewer will call you for a quick discussion on the particulars and answer questions you may have.

STEP 4 A home visit

A GRRMF volunteer will come to your home to let you know what is required for our dogs. Virtual home visits may be an option as an exception.

STEP 5 Review & matching

Our adoption team reviews your information and preferences to match you with the perfect dog. Please understand the dog you may have seen on our website and mention in the application may already be matched. We do not reserve dogs and work very hard to find the right family match who can best meet the needs for every dog in our rescue. Interested to know what happens next? Click Here

CLICK HERE TO START YOUR ADOPTION APPLICATION

GRRMF Guidelines

1. Area of coverage

We approve adoptions only for families living in the Mid-Florida region. If you have questions about your area of coverage,  email us at info@grrmf.org before filling out an application. If you are outside the state of Florida or outside Mid-Florida, do an internet search with key words of golden retriever rescues near me.

Our adoption service area includes families living:

• West coast: Gainesville to Sarasota
• Central and north-central Florida
• East coast: South of Jacksonville to Vero Beach
• Tampa/St. Pete and surrounding areas, including Bradenton

• We do not cover Jacksonville or areas in north Florida, South Florida (east coast south of Vero Beach), West Coast south of Sarasota, or Big Bend or Panhandle regions.

2. Renter’s requirement

Submit a letter from your landlord or the specific section in your lease allowing you to have a dog (70+ pounds) along with your application.

3. Fences and doggie doors

A fenced yard is encouraged for dogs under 4 yrs and for families with young children. Doggie doors, electronic or invisible fences are not acceptable. Read more on Fencing Your Yard.

4. Training

We believe in force-free, pain-free training for all our dogs. We suggest continuing education for you and your dog. This will ensure a much better success rate for your new family member. Read more on the Benefits of Force-Free Training.

5. Seniors wanting to adopt

GRRMF loves senior citizens, however, we try to balance the needs of our rescues with the needs of the human caregivers.  Please review our specific guidelines for senior applicants.