Puppy FAQ
Thank you for your interest in adopting a CHR puppy. Adopting a puppy Is an exciting adventure and we are excited for you as you begin this journey!
Below are answers to the most common questions we have had about the puppies—we hope that they answer any questions you have. Please bear in mind that we are a small, all-volunteer group of dog lovers who work full-time jobs and that, while we try our hardest to respond to emails within 2-4 days, we sometimes get behind and our response time slows down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I apply for one of the puppies?
1. The first thing to do is complete our application by visiting this link: https://fs8.formsite.com/Caringhearts/form13/index.html
2. Puppies are popular--please be patient with us as we process applications for them. They will not be available for adoption until they are at least 10 weeks old. You will receive an email response from our Adoption Team within 2-4 weeks regarding the status of your application. Please understand that applications will be screened in the order received. If you receive an email indicating that the dog you want is not a good match for you based on the dog’s needs and history, please don’t be discouraged. There are many rescue dogs needing homes on sites such as Petfinder.com and your commitment to finding the right match will pay off in the long run.
3. If your application is approved, we will contact you over the next 2-4 weeks to set up a phone interview.
What is the background of the puppies?
The puppy’s mother is part of a group of 15 dogs that were rescued by Caring Hearts Rescue from a hoarder/backyard breeder who abandoned them. The dogs may have been indoor pets at some point but were found outdoors. None had been spayed or neutered but appeared to be well fed. The puppy’s mother was already pregnant when rescued.
How old are the puppies?
The puppies were born on January 11, 2016.
How much will each puppy weigh when fully grown?
The puppies will be somewhere between 10-20 pounds when fully grown. We will have better estimates of their adult weights in a few weeks and will post the information in their online biographies.
3-2-16 UPDATE- Estimated weights on the puppies full grown coming soon. Check back this week for an update.
What breed are the puppies/are they purebred?
The puppies are of mixed breed. We don’t know what exact mix of breeds they are because their mother was found abandoned and we don’t know the identity of their father. We think they look mostly like Shih Tzus.
Can I come and see the puppies and pick the one I like best?
We do not have a facility where you can come and meet our dogs. All our dogs are housed in private foster homes. We will do our best to describe each puppy as accurately as possible in their online biographies. If you apply and are approved for adoption, you will have the chance to meet the puppy you selected and decide if you want to adopt him/her.
Will the puppies be available for viewing at a community adoption event?
We do not like to expose puppies to the stresses of being exhibited in public so we are not planning any adoption events for them.
Is there a number I can call for more information or can someone from your group call me?
We do not have a public phone number. Because we are a small, all-volunteer group with irregular hours, we are unable to make or return calls. We suggest that you complete our application and put your questions in the Comments box at the end. If you are matched with the dog, a volunteer will call to discuss the dog with you and answer your questions.
What is the adoption fee for a puppy?
The adoption fee for puppies is $400. It includes an exam by a vet, deworming, fecal and standard vaccines.

We look forward to meeting you and helping you provide a forever home for one of our dogs.
Please email us at babies@caringheartsrescue.org with any questions.
FAX: 703-483-9350
Mailing address:
Caring Hearts Rescue
P.O. Box 6592
Springfield, Va. 22150