If you are interested in adopting from MAESSR, please follow the steps below.
Also, be sure to read all the information provided on this page.
Steps to Adoption
1. Fill out an adoption application
2. Interview with one of our adoption coordinators
3. Wait for approval
4. If you are approved, you will then be matched with a dog
5. Learn about your dog, and possibly arrange a meet-and-greet
6. Sign all contracts
7. Work with our transport team to arrange transport
If you have any questions about this process, contact our adoption coordinators.
Things to Know
In order to ensure the safety of our Springers and to guarantee our ability to reclaim them if necessary, MAESSR does not place dogs outside of the Mid-Atlantic area (Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, New York and New Jersey) except under very limited circumstances. If you do not live in the Mid-Atlantic Region and would like to contact a rescue coordinator in your area to find a local rescue and/or adoption opportunities, click here.
MAESSR requires a nonrefundable administrative fee of $15.00. You can pay by credit card or GooglePay. You can also mail a check to:
MAESSR
PO Box 807
Goochland VA 23063
Adoption Timeline & Guideline
Approval Time: 7–10 days after submitting your application
Wait for Placement:
Usually 12–16 weeks before a dog becomes available.
Senior Dogs (8+ years):
Process may be faster.
Fewer Dogs Available:
Incoming dogs fluctuates year to year.
Before Adoption:
All dogs are spayed/neutered.
We work hard to match the right dog to your family.
If You Can No Longer Keep Your Dog:
Return them to MAESSR—do not surrender to shelters, other rescues, or individuals without MAESSR’s approval.
Application Tips:
Provide as much detail as possible.
Use the comments section for extra info that may help us find your match.