you are the rescue

Be the Forever Home

Welcome to the first step in changing a life—maybe even two. At DeSoto Animal Rescue Society (DARS), our goal is to match every cat and dog in our care with the perfect loving home.

adoptable Pets Apply to adopt

Why Adopt From DARS?

Health ✔

All pets are fully vetted, spayed or neutered, and up-to-date on vaccinations.

Love ✔

Every animal lives in a foster home, so we know their personality and needs.

Life ✔

We are committed to lifelong support—for the pet and the people who adopt them.

Civic ✔

Adopting rescue pets keeps animals out of shelters and reduces strain on the system.

Good ✔

Every adopted rescue enables us to save more at-risk animals.

Chance ✔

Rescues aren’t broken, they’re animals who need another chance.

Adoption: Just the Beginning

Adoption is not a transaction—it’s the beginning of a story.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the adoption fee?

The adoption fee for cats is $75. The adoption fee for dogs is $125. The fee helps cover veterinary costs and is non-refundable.

Do I need to own my home?

No. Renters may adopt, but we may require landlord approval.

A relaxing scene of a dog and cat lounging together on a sunny day, capturing the essence of companionship.

What if it doesn’t work out?

We always take our animals back—no judgment.

Can I adopt if I live out of state?

Possibly. We prioritize local adoptions but consider out-of-state on a case-by-case basis.

Adoption Process

Click on each step for details on our adoption process, each step intended to find our rescues their forever home.

Apply to adopt a dog or cat here.
We use this information to ensure a good match between the pet and your home. Renters must confirm pets are allowed; we may contact your landlord directly. After submission, the application is forwarded to the pet’s foster parent. If you don’t see a confirmation page, please resubmit or use the printable version.

The foster parent will reach out to:

  • Clarify your information Answer questions
  • Discuss concerns
  • Arrange a meeting with the pet

We do not adopt on a first-come, first-served basis. We aim to place each pet in the best forever home. Since our fosters live in homes, we understand their personalities and needs well.

If you and the foster agree to proceed:

  • A home visit is arranged (with all household members and pets present)
  • Some pets require a fenced yard, which we’ll assess if needed
  • A trial sleepover may follow (ranging from a few days to a few weeks)

After everyone agrees, the adoption needs to be finalized, which includes:

  • Spay/Neuter
  • Heartworm test & 1-month preventative (dogs)
  • FIV/FeLV test (cats)
  • Vaccinations (incl. rabies)
  • De-worming
  • Vet records
  • Educational materials
  • Follow-up from the foster parent

You’ll also sign an adoption contract agreeing to provide:

  • Ongoing veterinary and preventative care
  • Adjustment time and training as needed
  • Surrender of the pet back to DARS if rehoming becomes necessary
Adorable English Bulldog looking up at the camera with an inquisitive expression while sitting indoors.

💕 Success Stories

Want to see what adoption looks like in real life? Here are a few of our Happy Tails:

  • Side-by-side photos of a girl hugging a black puppy, then the same girl hugging the grown dog in a car.

    Allie’s Happy Tail: From Under a House to a Forever Hug

  • Darby’s Happy Tail: From the Dirt to a Lifelong Friendship

  • Side-by-side photos of Molly: one traveling with her mom, the other smiling indoors with tongue out.

    Molly’s Happy Tail: From Heartworm to Life on the Road

  • Rescue dog Sissy relaxing and sailing on a boat while wearing a red life vest.

    Sissy’s Happy Tail: From Abandonment to Life at Sea

  • Veterinarian smiling and holding Mr. Miyagi, a Siamese kitten, inside an exam room.

    Mr. Miyagi’s Happy Tail: Special Siamese Kitten Heals with Love

  • Before-and-after photos of Joey, a rescued Chihuahua, showing recovery from severe neglect to health.

    Joey’s Happy Tail: From Puppy Mill Survivor to Family Pet

  • Rescue dog reclining belly-up on couch in his adoptive dad’s arms, both looking relaxed and happy.

    Abby’s Happy Tail: Love at First Sight at Walk for Wags

  • Adoptive couple smiling and holding their fluffy white rescue dog outside a pet store.

    Jack’s Happy Tail: From Street Survivor to King of the Castle

  • Senior Yorkie in a pink harness being gently held, looking alert and calm against a neutral background.

    Pepper’s Happy Tail: A Senior Dog’s Final Days Full of Love

Read More Happy Tails »

What are you waiting for?

Your next best friend is waiting for you.

View adoptable pets