Frequently Asked Questions
We know adopting or fostering a rescue dog comes with lots of questions. We've put together answers to some of the ones we hear most often about our dogs, the adoption process, fostering, transportation, and what to expect when bringing a rescue dog home.
Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out through the contact form on our Get Involved page, or message us on Instagram or Facebook.
About WCP Dog Rescue
What is West Coast Paws Dog Rescue?
WCP is a 100% volunteer-run, non-profit dog rescue founded in 2022 by two friends with a shared passion for dog rescue. We find safe, nurturing homes for dogs in need and provide ongoing support to our adopters long after adoption day.
Where do WCP's dogs come from?
We currently partner with rescue organizations in Mexico (DogMex, La Casa del Mestizo, and Loved at Second Sight) and South Korea (Adogs, DoReMi, and HDS Korea). See our Rescue Partners page for more.
Is WCP a registered non-profit?
Yes. Adoption fees go primarily toward flight and medical costs for our dogs, with a smaller portion retained by WCP to fund operational costs like foster reimbursements, trainer fees, and a contingency fund.
How many dogs has WCP found homes for?
Since our founding in 2022, we've found loving homes for hundreds of dogs (293 and counting!).
Is WCP entirely volunteer-run?
Yes — everyone at WCP, from our Adoption Team to our Foster Coordinators, volunteers their time. It's a big part of why community support (fostering, volunteering, and donations) matters so much to us. See our Get Involved page if you'd like to help.
Adopting a Dog
How do I start the adoption process?
Click "Adopt" on a dog's profile on our Meet the Dogs page and fill out the application in as much detail as possible.
Why does WCP ask me to list more than one dog on my application?
Popular dogs often get multiple applications, and there's no guarantee you'll be matched with the specific dog you applied for even if your interview and house check go well. Listing a few dogs you'd love to meet widens your chances of a successful match.
What happens after I submit an application?
If your application is pre-screened successfully, we'll schedule a roughly 15-minute phone interview to chat about your lifestyle, experience, and what you're looking for in a dog.
What is the House Check?
After a successful phone interview, we ask you to send photos or video of your home and yard (including any fencing) so we can spot potential safety concerns before your pup arrives. Your home doesn't need to be showroom-ready — we're just checking for escape risks and hazards.
What happens if my application is denied?
We don't make denial decisions lightly. A denial isn't a reflection on your ability to care for a dog — it usually means we're not confident a WCP rescue dog specifically would be a good fit. If you're denied, we recommend applying with other rescues or looking for a local dog you can meet in person first.
Can I adopt if I live outside British Columbia or Washington?
Currently, we only adopt to applicants in the Pacific Northwest — British Columbia and Washington.
What happens if the dog I applied for is no longer available?
If your original dog has already been adopted by the time you're approved, our team will suggest alternative dogs or ask you to keep an eye on our website for a new match.
How accurate are the bios on dog profiles?
The information in each bio comes from the international rescuer, and WCP doesn't have in-person access to overseas dogs, so we can't always verify every detail — though we ask for video proof wherever possible. Every dog is an individual and can behave differently depending on their person and environment. We also can't guarantee a dog's exact age or breed; these are best guesses based on veterinary exams.
Four-Week Foster-to-Adopt Period
What is the foster-to-adopt trial period?
Every WCP adoption starts with a 4-week "foster" trial, so you and your new dog can make sure it's the right fit before the adoption becomes official.
Can I extend the 4-week trial period?
Yes. If you need more time to decide, just reach out — we're happy to discuss extending the trial period. You'll need written confirmation from a WCP representative to make it official.
Who pays for costs during the trial period?
All costs incurred during the 4-week trial period are the responsibility of the applicant.
What happens if it doesn't work out during the trial?
If you decide within the trial period (or an agreed extension) that the dog isn't the right fit, the adoption fee — including your $100 deposit — is fully refundable. We'll then ask you to keep caring for the dog as their "foster" until we find them a new home.
Meeting Our Dogs
How do I see which dogs are available for adoption?
Visit our Meet the Dogs page to browse current profiles, including photos, bios, and information on temperament and needs.
Can I meet a dog in person before adopting?
Because most of our dogs come from overseas, an in-person meeting before adoption usually isn't possible. That's exactly why we build in the 4-week foster-to-adopt trial — so you can get to know your dog in your own home before finalizing the adoption.
Are WCP dogs vaccinated and spayed/neutered?
Yes. Every WCP dog is vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and given a clean bill of health, including a vet-issued Certificate of Health, before they travel to Canada.
Dogs Coming to Canada
How do the dogs get to Canada?
Our rescue partners abroad find "Flight Volunteers" — kind travelers willing to add a dog as extra checked luggage on their existing flight — to bring dogs to Vancouver or Seattle.
How long does it take for a dog to be flown to Canada?
Wait times vary depending on the dog's country of origin and flight volunteer availability. We'll do our best to give you an estimated timeline, but dogs are sometimes placed on a waitlist depending on how many other pups are also waiting for flights.
What happens once a flight is booked?
We'll email you your dog's flight details along with specific pickup instructions — where to park, what time to arrive, and what to bring.
Are there extra costs when picking up my dog at the airport?
Yes. If your dog flies into Vancouver, expect a $36.50 CAD Agricultural Inspection Fee plus a typical $20 CAD porter fee (similar fees may apply in Seattle) — please bring cash for these. If your dog flies into Seattle, you can drive down to pick them up yourself, or WCP can arrange a Pet Transport company to bring them to Langley, BC for a $235 CAD fee.
Local Fostering
Does WCP need local fosters?
Yes! Since WCP doesn't have a physical shelter, foster homes are essential — they're how dogs get from the airport to their forever family. Fosters are needed when a dog arrives without an approved adopter yet, or in emergencies when an adopted dog needs to be rehomed.
What are the requirements to become a foster?
You'll need to meet the same criteria as someone adopting. Start by clicking the "Foster" button on a WCP dog's profile.
How much time does fostering take?
It's flexible and built around your availability — we ask fosters to be open to meet-and-greets with potential adopters and to bring their foster pup to any needed appointments or training sessions.
Foster Expenses
Do I have to pay for anything as a foster?
No. WCP covers all foster-related costs, including food, supplies, and medical bills. All a foster needs to provide is the home and the love.
How do I get reimbursed for foster expenses?
Check with your Foster Coordinator before making purchases where possible — many supplies can be provided directly, and WCP will cover approved expenses like food, supplies, and vet bills.
Preparing for a Foster Dog
What should I do to prepare my home for a foster dog?
Dog-proof your space the way you would for a new puppy: secure trash cans and food, tuck away cords and small objects, and check your yard fencing for gaps or escape routes. Have the basics ready — a crate or safe space, food and water bowls, a leash and collar or harness, and some basic toys.
What supplies does WCP provide to fosters?
WCP covers foster-related costs like food, supplies, and medical bills, so reach out to your Foster Coordinator about what's available before you buy everything yourself.
Rescue Dog Adjustment
How long does it take for a rescue dog to settle in?
Every dog is different, but many rescuers use the "3-3-3 rule" as a rough guide: about 3 days to decompress and feel overwhelmed, 3 weeks to start settling into a routine, and 3 months to fully feel at home and trust their new family. Be patient — a dog that seems shut down or anxious in week one is often a completely different dog by month three.
What's normal behavior in the first few days?
It's common for a newly arrived rescue dog to be withdrawn, hide, sleep more than usual, have a reduced appetite, or seem unsure of house rules. Give them a quiet, low-pressure space, stick to a predictable routine, and avoid overwhelming them with new people or busy outings right away.
When should I be concerned about my foster or newly adopted dog's behavior?
If you notice signs of illness, injury, aggression, or extreme distress, reach out to WCP right away — we're here to help and can point you toward a trainer if needed.
Separation Anxiety and Time Alone
How do I help my rescue dog get used to being alone?
Start with very short absences (even just stepping outside for a minute) and gradually build up the time as your dog stays calm. Keep departures and arrivals low-key rather than big emotional events, and give them a comfortable, safe space of their own — like a crate or a designated room — while you're gone.
What are signs of separation anxiety?
Excessive barking or howling, destructive chewing, pacing, or accidents in the house that only happen when you're away can all be signs of separation anxiety. If this continues past the first few weeks, a WCP-recommended trainer can help you build a plan.
Condos and Apartments
Can I adopt or foster a dog if I live in a condo or apartment?
Yes — many of our adopters and fosters live in apartments or condos. During your House Check, we simply want to see the space your dog will live in and check for any safety concerns, not judge the size of your home.
What should apartment dwellers consider before bringing home a rescue dog?
Think about noise (barking can affect neighbors), exercise needs (some breeds need more daily activity than a small space allows), and building rules around pets, weight limits, or breed restrictions. A regular walking and enrichment routine goes a long way in a smaller space.
Children and Other Pets
Can I adopt a WCP dog if I have kids or other pets?
Yes. Just let us know about your household during your application and phone interview so we can help match you with a dog whose temperament suits your family.
How should I introduce a new rescue dog to my resident pets?
Go slowly — many trainers recommend a neutral first meeting (like a walk together) before bringing a new dog into the home, followed by short, supervised interactions that gradually increase over days or weeks. Keep feeding areas and favorite resting spots separate at first.
How should I introduce a new dog to my children?
Teach kids to let the dog approach them rather than the other way around, keep initial interactions calm and supervised, and give the dog a safe space they can retreat to if they feel overwhelmed.
Foster & Post-Adoption Support
What support does WCP offer after I adopt?
Support doesn't end at pickup. You'll get a follow-up check-in within 7 days of your dog's arrival, plus trainer recommendations and open-door support for as long as you need it — there's no expiration date on our help.
Does WCP offer training advice?
Yes, we highly recommend consulting a trainer early in your adoption to nip unwanted behaviors in the bud, and we're happy to make trainer recommendations.
What if I have a problem with my foster dog?
Reach out to your Foster Coordinator any time — WCP provides ample support to fosters and will help troubleshoot behavior, medical, or logistical questions.
Adoption Fees
How much does it cost to adopt a WCP dog?
Adoption fees depend on the dog's age: $750 CAD for dogs under 3 years, $650 CAD for dogs 4–7 years, and $550 CAD for dogs 8 years and up, plus applicable taxes. See our Adoption Fees page for full details.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes — Tri-Paw dogs (three-legged) receive $50 off, bonded pairs get $100 off per dog, and dogs who are disabled or need a cart get $150 off.
What does the adoption fee cover?
It covers rescue-related costs (initial rehabilitation, overseas foster costs), flight costs (TSA-approved crate, extra baggage), two rounds of distemper vaccination, rabies vaccination, heartworm testing, microchipping (except for dogs from Guadalajara), deworming, and the medical certificate required for international travel.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, a $100 CAD deposit reserves your dog and pauses their profile. It's sent by e-transfer or PayPal to info@wcpdogrescue.com, with your dog's name in the memo.
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes, as long as you tell WCP you've changed your mind before your dog is booked on a flight. Once your dog has been booked, the deposit becomes non-refundable.
How do I pay the rest of the adoption fee?
Once your dog is booked on a flight, you'll receive an official invoice with a full cost breakdown, payable any time between the invoice date and the day before your dog arrives — again via e-transfer or PayPal to info@wcpdogrescue.com.
After Adoption
What happens if my adopted dog isn't a good fit after all?
If, even after the foster-to-adopt trial, you determine your dog isn't a good fit within 28 days of arrival, the adoption fee (including your deposit) is fully refundable, and WCP will ask you to keep the dog as a "foster" until we find them a new home. If you need more than 4 weeks to decide, just ask about extending your trial — you'll need written confirmation from a WCP representative.
Does WCP check in after I adopt?
Yes — expect an email from our Follow-Up Team within 7 days of bringing your dog home, and know that our support has no expiration date.
Important Expectations
What should I realistically expect in the first few weeks with a rescue dog?
Ups and downs are completely normal. Many rescue dogs — especially those who've traveled internationally — need time to decompress, learn the household routine, and build trust. Patience during this period pays off enormously later.
Does WCP guarantee a dog's temperament or health history?
We do our best to provide accurate information from our overseas rescue partners, including video proof where possible, but WCP can't always verify every detail firsthand since our dogs come from abroad. Every dog is an individual and may behave differently once home.
What if I need to travel or my life circumstances change after adopting?
Reach out to WCP as early as possible — we're here to help you problem-solve, whether that means finding pet care resources or talking through your options.
Owner Surrenders
What if I can no longer keep my WCP dog?
Please contact WCP as soon as possible rather than rehoming the dog on your own. Per our adoption agreement, you become the dog's "foster" until we help find them a new, suitable home.
Will I get any of my adoption fee back if I surrender my dog?
Refund eligibility depends on timing — see the "After Adoption" and "Four-Week Foster-to-Adopt" sections above, or reach out to us directly to discuss your specific situation.
Does WCP take back dogs it didn't place?
Our surrender process applies to dogs adopted through WCP. If you're looking to surrender a dog you didn't adopt from us, we recommend contacting your local municipal shelter or a rescue that specializes in owner surrenders, since our overseas-partner model isn't set up for local intake.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to answer questions about our dogs, adoption process, fostering, and international transportation. We're a 100% volunteer-run team, so please bear with us as we do our best to respond quickly.
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