1. First, browse our available dogs. If you find one you like, you can either submit an adoption application so we can learn more about you or contact us directly to meet the dog and see if they are a good fit for you. Many people meet the dog first, learn about them and their personality, and then apply to adopt.

2. Our team reviews your application, checks your references, and if applicable verifies landlord approval of having a dog at your rental property.

3. Next, we contact you to set-up a home visit.

4.If the dog and you are a good fit, you will be notified you are approved and sent an electronic adoption contract to sign. We will also arrange a day and time for you to come get your new best friend!

5. Your adoption fee of $200 is payable at time of pick up.

Some dogs are located at our company partner, S&B Kountry Kennel, 18050 Bunge Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. Other dogs may be located with a foster home in Council Bluffs or Omaha and an appointment is needed to meet them.

The adoption fee is $200 per dog. This fee helps cover the cost of vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchipping, and general care while the dog is in our program.

♦ Full vaccinations

♦ Spay or neuter surgery

♦ Microchipping

♦ General veterinary care while in our care

Yes. All dogs are up to date on their core vaccinations before being adopted out.

Yes. Every dog is spayed or neutered before adoption, no exceptions.

If at any point you're unable to keep your adopted dog, you are required to return the dog to our rescue rather than rehoming it yourself, giving it away, or surrendering it to a shelter. This is outlined in the contract you sign at the time of adoption.

Yes. All adopters sign an adoption contract that outlines your responsibilities as a pet owner, including the return policy above, proper care standards, and other terms of the adoption.

Yes, we encourage it! Meet and greets help make sure it's a good match for you, your family, and any other pets in your home. Contact us to arrange meeting any dog you see available for adoption that you are interested in.

Yes, you'll need to fill out an application so we can learn more about your home, lifestyle, and experience with pets before moving forward.

Yes. As the final step in the approval process, we visit your home to learn more about your family lifestyle, children and other pets you may have, where the dog will be kept when you are away, and your yard and surrounding areas.

Yes, but this is individualized per dog and their disposition or required needs.

We are always here for advice and support. We partner with S&B Kountry Kennel who offers obedience training, advanced training, and other paid professional services.

Dogs from our rescue do not come with any long term health guarantees. Dogs in our rescue come from all walks of life and at times we do not know their background. Many are given to us when an owner falls on hard times and can no longer care for them, have a death in the family to the dog’s primary caregiver, or have a living situation that changes. Some dogs come to us as strays with no known history.

There are a few ways you can help Heartland Rescue, even if you aren’t able to add a dog to your family in a permanent way. Fostering an adoptable dog is always needed. Contact us to learn more about the requirements and commitment. Another great way to help is volunteering at an upcoming event or coming to our facility to help with exercise or care. Lastly, your donation is greatly appreciated and always welcome!

We can be reached by calling us or filling out a contact form.