Summary of the Application & Adoption or Foster Process

MNSR does not operate a central shelter. Our dogs live in foster homes, as we strive to make each dog's transition to an adoptive family as smooth as possible.

In order to best meet the needs of the dogs in our program, we require that an adoption application is completed and submitted prior to arranging a meeting with a foster dog.

Our adoptable Sheltie bios are found on the Available Dogs page. The bios explain the type of home that is appropriate for each Sheltie, indicate if a fence is required, and whether the Sheltie can be placed with children, dogs or cats. Our priority is to meet the needs of the Shelties in our care. Most of the dogs in our care have significant medical needs or are very fearful, requiring extended time in foster care. We apologize that there may be a long wait for a match for you, and we may be able to connect you with a Sheltie in a shelter in the meantime. 

Prior to submitting an application, please be sure to read our Frequently Asked Questions page as well.

Below is a summary of what you can expect during the application & adoption process

1. We adopt locally to the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. We work in cooperation with other Sheltie rescues and can refer you to these organizations when they are logistically closer to your location. We encourage everyone to look for a local shelter or rescue group from which to adopt. Our foster homes are located in the Twin Cities metro area. When your application is processed and we have a potential match, you may be asked to travel to the foster home(s) to meet the dog(s) of interest prior to an adoption.
   To find a Sheltie rescue group near you, please visit The National Sheltie Rescue.
2. When your adoption application is received by MNSR, we will send you a confirmation letter.
3. Our adoption volunteer will contact your veterinary and personal references, and will make arrangements with you for your home visit. This part of the process usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
4. Once your application is reviewed, we will recommend Shelties for whom we feel your family and your home life are a good match.
5. You will be able to speak to the foster family and arrange a meeting with the foster Sheltie.
6. Finally, the moment you and your dog have been waiting for: Arrangements are made to finalize the adoption and we celebrate another happy ending for a Sheltie in need!

Adoption Fees

• Under 4 years: $450
• 4 to 8 years: $350
• 9 years & up: $250

Our focus is to ensure that every dog we place is able to thrive in their new home. We have successfully placed over 1000 dogs since 2003. We attribute this strong rate of success to our process and the time we take with each family to educate them about the breed and determine what personality of dog will truly be the best match for their lifestyle. If you have additional questions about our process, please email us at adopt@mnsheltierescue.org.

Please fill-out our Online Application. ***Please note, we have had a few issues with our website not accepting some applications. If you submit an application and don't hear from us after 5 days, please email adopt@mnsheltierescue.org. We may ask you to download and submit a printed application. We are working to correct this problem*** 

Alternatively, you can download and print an application that may be submitted by mail. You will need to have a pdf viewer such as Adobe Reader installed on your computer to download the application.

MNSR Alum/Ambassador, Owen	Adoption team members bring Cooper to his forever home	MNSR Alum/Ambassador, Autumn