Our goal is to place every dog in the right home for life. These guidelines help us ensure the best possible match for both our dogs and their future families.

General Requirements

• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• You should have lived at your current residence for at least one year and not anticipate moving within the next 12 months.
• Everyone living in the home must be supportive of adopting a dog.
• No household member may have a severe allergy to or fear of dogs.
• We do not place dogs in homes that rely solely on an invisible/electric fence for containment.
• Our dogs are not adopted into homes where they will routinely be off leash outside of a securely fenced area or designated off-leash location.
• Applicants must be willing to participate in a home visit (virtual or in person) and a post-adoption follow-up.
• An adoption fee is required for every adoption.

Children & Resident Pets

Please note that individual dogs may have additional requirements listed in their adoption profile.

• Children should generally be 6 years of age or older. Exceptions may be considered based on the individual dog and the family's experience.
• Children should understand and practice respectful interactions with dogs.

Resident pets must:

• Be spayed or neutered (unless age or medical condition prevents it).
• Be current on vaccinations.
• Dogs must be on year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
• Have stable temperaments and be appropriately socialized with other animals.

If You Rent

Please provide either a copy of your current lease or a signed letter from your landlord or property manager.

Your documentation must confirm:

• Dogs are permitted on the property.
• Your chosen dog meets any applicable breed, weight, or size requirements.
• There are no restrictions that would prevent you from keeping the dog after adoption.

Out of Area Adoptions

Our foster homes are located throughout Wilmington and the surrounding communities, but we proudly accept applications from anywhere in North Carolina and from out of state (additional adoption fee applies for out-of-state adoptions).

Our Promise

Because every dog deserves a forever home—not just a home—we carefully review each application to ensure the best fit for both the dog and the adopter.

Thank you for considering First Mate Dog Rescue. We look forward to helping you find your perfect first mate. ⚓🐾