Frequently Asked Questions

How does the adoption process work?

The first step is to submit our online adoption application. Once we receive it, we begin searching for a collie that matches your household. When we find a solid match, the adoption coordinator reaches out to discuss the dog. If both parties feel it is a good fit, we introduce you to the foster home—either virtually or in person with all family members and resident pets. If that meeting goes well, we prepare the contract and schedule a home visit. After the home check is complete and everyone agrees, the adoption is finalized.

Do you adopt outside Illinois?

Yes. We adopt to neighboring states but we do not ship dogs or arrange third-party transports. Adopters must pick up their collie and complete the process in person.

Why are home checks required?

Our mission is to place each collie in a safe, loving environment. Home checks help us confirm safety and offer personalized guidance. For example, if we know a dog is prone to rummaging in trash, we may suggest a covered garbage can. It’s an opportunity to support you while advocating for the dog’s needs.

Do you require a fenced yard?

Not always. We evaluate every collie individually. Some dogs thrive with a securely fenced yard and it may be a requirement for that particular adoption, while others do well on leash walks and supervised yard time. Each dog’s profile will note if a fence is mandatory.

Can I visit a shelter to meet the dogs?

Our collies live in private foster homes, not in a central shelter. We introduce approved applicants to the foster families once we’ve identified a potential match.

Where do the collies come from?

We welcome collies from owner surrenders, shelters, and transfers from other rescues. Families may relinquish their collie due to moves, health changes, finances, or lifestyle shifts. Shelters also reach out when a collie needs breed-specific support.

Is there something “wrong” with rescue collies?

Most collies arrive through no fault of their own. Some lacked routine veterinary care or consistent training. CRGI provides comprehensive medical treatment and partners experienced volunteers with our foster homes so each dog gets the coaching and structure they need before adoption.

I submitted an application but haven’t heard back.

CRGI is entirely volunteer-powered. We process many applications and reach out when a dog matches your profile. All applications stay on file and we connect as soon as we can discuss a potential match.

Can I adopt a collie to breed with my dog?

No. Every collie is spayed or neutered before entering a foster home. Our focus is on rescue, not breeding.