How to Adopt

At NMDR, we use a welcoming, conversation-based adoption process! We look at every applicant as a partner, offering honest education about our dogs’ needs so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle. We generally do not deny adoptions based solely on yard size, housing type, adopter age, or having other pets.

Because many of our dogs are rescued from commercial breeding facilities, we maintain a few firm safety and mission-aligned policies:

  • Spay/Neuter Requirement: To help end the cycle of irresponsible breeding, all resident dogs in your home must be spayed or neutered.
  • Homes with Children: Many of our dogs had limited socialization before rescue. Older kids are often a great match! Homes with younger children are considered individually based on the dog’s needs and the adopter’s experience with home management.
  • Companions Only: Our dogs are adopted as beloved family companions. Adopters should not expect their dog to serve as a service, therapy, emotional support, protection, or working dog, but rather to become a cherished companion and family member.
  • Out-of-State Adopters: You are welcome to apply, but you must travel directly to the specific shelter housing the dog (in CO or MO) to complete the adoption. We do not ship or transport dogs.
  • A Supportive Safety Net: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes a match isn’t perfect. We discuss long-term safety nets with all adopters, and if a placement doesn’t work out, we welcome our dogs back with zero judgment.
  • Fees: Adoption fees vary by age and directly offset the extensive veterinary care, dental work, and rehabilitation each dog receives before adoption.

    Have questions about a specific dog or our adoption process? We’re happy to help.

    Customer Service
    customerservice@nmdr.org
    719-683-3334

    How to Adopt

    Thank you for your interest in adopting an NMDR dog! Every adoption creates a new beginning for a dog in need, and we’re honored to be part of that journey.

    Complete the application below and select whether you are interested in adopting from our Peyton, Colorado or Humansville, Missouri campus. Dogs are not transported between locations.

    To ensure the best match for both dogs and adopters, we follow an application and interview process. All adoptions are currently by appointment only.

    Many of the dogs in our care are puppy mill survivors who require patience, understanding, and time to heal. The rewards of helping a dog discover safety, trust, and love are immeasurable.

    After submitting your application, an Adoption Coordinator will contact you within 48–72 hours. Please check your spam or junk folder regularly, as our emails are sometimes filtered there.

    Your adoption fee helps provide the medical care, rehabilitation, and support our dogs need on their journey to a brighter future.