The Adoption Process:

Out of state adoption policy: We are located in Dallas, TX. We will adopt some of our dogs out of state, depending on their situation and needs; however, it is our policy not to ship dogs. This means we do not fly them via cargo nor do we utilize paid ground transport. Adopters may drive to Dallas to adopt their dogs, or they may fly them in-cabin on an airplane (via an airline that accepts Boston Terriers in the cabin). All transport costs are at the adopter's expense.

Apply: Complete the application in its entirety. If there is anything that you think we need to know that is not asked on the application or you have certain requirements or traits you are looking for in a dog, please put it in the “Other Comments” section of the application. 



Reference Check: We will contact your personal and veterinarian references. If those pass, then a home visit will be arranged.

 One of our volunteers will visit you in your home to ensure that a good match is made for you and that you have proper accommodations for the dog you are interested in**.

Personal Interview: We will contact you via phone at a time that is convenient for you. This interview lasts around 45 minutes with the purpose of getting to know you in addition to sharing our policies and answering questions you may have. We also discuss your home and expectations for the dog so we can be sure you adopt a Boston that is a great fit for you and him/her!

Home Visit: If your home visit passes, then you are approved to adopt from ABTRR!

Adoption Donation: Now that you are approved, pay the adoption donation and bring your new family member home! Adoption donations are as follows:

  • Dogs under 1 year of age: $550
  • Dogs 1 - 3 years of age: $450
  • Dogs 4 - 7  years of age: $375
  • Dogs 8 - 9 years of age: $275
  • Dogs 10+ years of age: $175 (ask us about our Seniors for Seniors program!)

**PLEASE REMEMBER: The dog(s) you are interested in may have had a number of applications received on him that were processed before yours, so please be willing to adopt another dog that suits your needs. While pictures are nice to see, looks are not everything. Age should not be a factor either. What you need to look at is personality, activity levels, and behaviors, which will help determine the best dog for you.

Adoptions are by application only! 


You can't adopt via phone or via email saying you want a dog. 
You must submit an application as the first step to adoption.