First, some general info: we asked several rescuers what they look for in an adoption application. The number one answer: the feeling that the applicant thinks of their pets as part of the family, and cares for them responsibly. Some important clues are: previous pets have lived long lives, if other pets at home are spayed or neutered and up-to-date on shots, and that pets live in the house, even when alone, not in the yard or the garage.