Buddy FAQ for Adopters
- What is Buddy, and how does it work?
Buddy is a completely free pet adoption platform designed to help you find your best buddy—whether it's a cat, dog, kitten, or pure breed puppy. We're dedicated to helping you find the pawfect match and assisting you in caring for your new pet, furever.
- How does Buddy match me with pets? How do I know if a pet is a good match for me?
Buddy uses an AI lifestyle-based matching system to connect you with pets that fit your daily routine, activity level, and home environment. Our goal is to ensure the best quality of life for both you and your future pet—reducing the chance of pets being returned or surrendered. Prefer to search on your own? You can also browse Buddy's pets by breed, age, and other filters.
- How is Buddy different from other pet adoption platforms?
In addition to lifestyle matching, Buddy provides free post-adoption support to help you smoothly transition into your new role as a pet parent. Whether you have questions or challenges about behavior, training, or health, we're here to support you every step of the way—we're your partner every step of you and your pet's journey.
- What kind of post-adoption support is offered?
- 💊 Health advice - potential toxins, dietary needs, and much more
- 🐕 Behavioral Issues - chewing, House training, and much more
- 🐾 Basic and advanced training - commands, leash training and much more
As a result, Buddy's AI Veterinarian and Trainer enables adopters smoothly transition into becoming pet owners and gives them the confidence to solve health and behavioral challenges early, reducing returns and easing your team's workload.
- Can Buddy's AI vet replace a veterinary visit?
No, Buddy's AI vet is not a substitute for an in-person veterinary visit. While our AI can provide detailed advice based on your input, always consult your local vet if you have urgent or serious concerns. (Terms of Service apply. Read themhere.)
- Is Buddy really free?
Buddy is completely free and always will be for adopters. Our mission is to help all animals, regardless of age, breed, or ability, find loving forever homes.
- Can I apply for multiple pets?
Once you complete your first application, it's saved for future use. You can apply for multiple pets—just review and confirm your details for each application.
- What happens after I submit an application?
Your application is instantly sent to the rescue for review. If you're the right match for the animal, the rescue will reach out with next steps. Be sure to have notifications on!
- How long does it take to hear back from a rescue? Will Buddy update me on my application status?
Most rescues respond within a few days, but please be patient—many are volunteer-run and very busy. Buddy will notify you immediately through the app when your application is approved or denied. Make sure notifications are enabled!
Rescues are generally overworked and underfunded, consider participating in some of our featured fundraisers! You could be saving a life!
- Can I contact a rescue before applying? How do I learn more about a pet?
Yes! If you have questions about a pet before applying, you can call the rescue directly through the app on the pet's profile page. Note that some rescues may require you to submit an application before they answer questions about their pets.
- Can I adopt an animal out of state?
Many rescues allow out-of-state adoptions, while others do not. Check each pet's profile for specific location policies.
- I'm not ready to adopt. Can I foster?
Absolutely! Many rescues on Buddy offer foster programs. Simply apply to foster, and the rescue will reach out with more details about fostering opportunities near you.
- Does Buddy work with all rescues or only specific ones?
Buddy nearly every rescue – big and small, across the U.S. We aim to support every animal organization that wants to find pets forever homes. If you're a rescue that wants to use Buddy, you can learn more here.
- Is Buddy selling my information?
Buddy does not sell your personal information to anyone. Your data is used only to help match you with pets and assist in the adoption process. Your privacy is a priority.
- Can I follow and get updates on specific rescues?
Coming soon! We're working on features that let you follow your favorite rescues and receive updates on new pets, events, and foster/adoption opportunities. Stay tuned!
- Can I search for hypoallergenic pets on Buddy?
Yes! Use our breed and filter search tools to find pets that are considered hypoallergenic or have low-shedding coats. While no pet is 100% hypoallergenic, we can help you find a pet that may be a better fit for allergy sensitivities.
- I need to rehome my pet. Can Buddy help?
Yes—we understand that life happens. While Buddy focuses on rescue adoptions, we can connect you with local rescues and rehoming resources to help your pet find a safe, loving home. Contact us through the app for guidance.