How to Pass a Pet Adoption Interview: What Shelters Look For

Adopting a pet isn’t quite as simple as falling in love with a furry face (though that’s usually how it starts). Before you can bring your new companion home, reputable shelters and rescues will ask you to complete an adoption application and participate in a brief interview, either over the phone or in person. 

These interviews help shelters increase the chances that their animals end up in safe, stable homes. They’re not looking for perfection. They just want to make sure you meet the basic requirements, are prepared, and are genuinely committed to caring for the animal. 

So, what exactly do shelters look for when interviewing potential adopters? Here’s what to know before your chat. 

Understanding the application process through the shelter’s POV

The pet application process can feel a bit daunting, or even unnecessary, if you already know you’d be a great pet parent. But from a shelter’s perspective, these forms and interviews are important screening tools, helping increase the chances that each animal is matched with the right person and home.

It likewise encourages potential adopters to think through the day-to-day responsibilities of pet care and decide if they’re truly ready for the commitment.

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The adoption process can look different from one organization to another, and many are taking steps to make it less intimidating. “Pet adoption barriers such as long applications, high adoption fees, home checks, background checks, and veterinarian references only eliminate potential loving homes,” says Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society.

Castle explains that, instead, Best Friends Animal Society uses and recommends a questionnaire, followed by what she calls “conversation-based adoption counseling.” During this process, staff have an open, friendly discussion with potential adopters about each dog or cat’s unique qualities and needs, then assess how well they match the adopter’s lifestyle and abilities.

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Common pet adoption interview questions 

Although some questions might feel a little personal, they’re not meant to trip you up or catch you in a “gotcha” moment. Shelters ask these questions to understand your lifestyle, experience, and expectations so they can match you with a pet who truly fits your home and routine.

Here are some common questions you might encounter, and why they’re asked.

“Why do you want to adopt a pet?”

This question helps shelters understand your motivation. What matters is that your reasons reflect a true long-term commitment, not a temporary impulse.

“Have you had pets before?”

This question isn’t about gatekeeping first-time adopters. It helps shelters understand which animals or breeds are the best fit for your experience level. If you’re new to pet parenting, they may recommend an easier-going companion.

“What’s your home environment like?”

Shelters ask about your home environment (like if you live in an apartment or a house, have a yard, and so on) to determine if the animal’s needs match your living situation.

For example, if you live in a small apartment without a yard, a large or high-energy dog might struggle to get enough space and activity. In that case, a cat or a smaller, lower-energy dog could be a better match.

“Do you have other pets?” 

Shelters ask this to understand your current pet dynamics and if the new animal will fit comfortably into the mix. They’ll consider factors such as temperament, age, and energy levels to minimize conflicts.

“Who else lives in your household?”

“Knowing who else the pet will interact with on a daily basis is instrumental in determining the right pet for every home,” Castle says. “Shelters and rescue groups may have information on how pets are around children or other pets that can be very helpful in finding a proper match for your family.”

“How much time will the pet spend alone each day?”

This question helps determine if a pet’s temperament suits your schedule. For example, a puppy, kitten, or dog with separation anxiety would not be suitable for a household where nobody is home for long stretches.

“What’s your plan for veterinary care and expenses?”

Caring for an animal means being prepared for both routine and unexpected costs. Shelters ask this to understand your financial readiness and confirm that you’ve considered the long-term responsibility.

“Are you familiar with the care needs of this breed?”

Care needs often vary by breed, especially when it comes to dogs. This question helps shelters gauge if you understand what you’re signing up for. For instance, if you’re adopting a dog breed known for high energy or protective instincts, they want to know you’re prepared to meet their needs and not be caught off guard.

“What is your activity level?” 

Castle emphasizes the importance of matching a pet’s energy level with that of their potential family. “For example, a young, active dog would fare best with a family that enjoys regular exercise and frequent outings,” she says. “On the other hand, if you and your family are more low-key and prefer to hang around the house, a mellow, older dog or cat would be a better fit.”

“Can you care for the animal for their entire life?” 

This question helps shelters gauge if you’re prepared for a long-term commitment. Dogs and cats generally live for 10 to 20 years. Shelters want to feel confident that you’re committed to caring for them through every stage of their lives. 

If you’re a senior, the shelter might suggest adopting an older pet, or if your heart is set on a younger animal, they may ask if you have a trusted friend or family member who could take over care if you’re ever unable to do so.

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How to impress during a pet adoption interview

Most shelters and rescues want to speak with potential adopters before finalizing an adoption. It’s their chance to put a face (or voice) to your pet adoption application and get to know you beyond what’s on paper. 

Here are some tips to help you make the most of that conversation and leave a positive impression.

Be honest and open

When it comes to pet adoption applications and interviews, honesty truly is the best policy. If you’ve never had a pet before, say so. If you work long hours but plan to bring them to doggie daycare, share that. 

The whole point of the interview is to make sure this is a good fit on both sides, and that only works if you’re upfront about your lifestyle. You don’t want to bring home a pet who won’t mesh with your schedule or energy level, because that’s not fair to either of you. 

Show you’ve done your homework

Do a little research about the pet you’re applying for, or about the species or breed in general. Understanding their exercise, enrichment, grooming, and training needs shows that you’ve thought through what life with that animal will realistically look like. 

Express your commitment

Let them know you’re in it for the long haul. Talk about how you’ve prepared your home, who’ll help with care, and what excites you most about welcoming a new pet.

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What questions should I ask when adopting a dog or cat?

It’s important to remember that you’re also interviewing the shelter. Asking the right questions during the process can help you understand the animal’s personality, needs, and background, so you can make an informed, confident decision.

Plus, asking questions demonstrates to the shelter or rescue staff that you’re serious about finding the best match. Here are some important questions to ask (if they don’t naturally come up) when adopting a dog or cat.

• Do they get along with kids or other pets?

• What is their personality like?

• Do they have any health issues or special needs?

• How do they handle being left alone?

• What kind of training or socialization have they had?

• What food or routine are they used to?

• What’s their energy level like?

• What type of person do you think is best suited for this animal? 

Although shelter staff may not have detailed answers for every question, they’ll share everything they do know and offer their best, experience-based guesses.

Commonly asked questions 

How do you pass a pet adoption interview?

Be honest, prepared, and genuine. Explain your lifestyle, daily routine, and how you’ll meet the pet’s needs. Shelters want to see responsibility, understanding, and long-term commitment. 

Should I be nervous for a pet adoption interview? 

There’s no need to be nervous. A pet adoption interview isn’t a test. It’s just a friendly chat to help match you with the right animal. Be honest, ask questions, and show genuine interest. Shelters want you to succeed as much as you do.

When do I get to meet the pet I want to adopt? 

Most shelters and rescues arrange meet-and-greets once your application is approved. In some cases, you may have already met the animal before applying. If you decide you’d like to adopt, a brief interview usually follows to confirm it’s a good match.

Where can I find a pet to adopt?

You can find adoptable pets through local shelters, rescue groups, or online databases like Adopt a Pet, where you can filter by location, species, breed, age, and more to find your perfect match.

References 

“Literature Review: Adoptions.” Best Friend Animal Society, 2024, bestfriends.org/sites/default/files/2025-09/Literature%20Review%20-%20Adoptions.pdf

“Picking the Right Adopter” Kitten Lady, 2025, www.kittenlady.org/pickingadopters.

Sheofsky, Kate. “Get the Inside Scoop on Adoption Applications.” Kinship, 2022, www.kinship.com/pet-lifestyle/get-the-inside-scoop-on-adoption-applications.