Paula Nourse often tailors her adoption contracts depending on the dog. The cheaper the adoption fee, the more eager she seems to be to place the dog quickly.

The document shown here is the adoption contract for the dog featured in our recently shared video. While it includes standard terms about care, updates, and returning the animal, there is also a troubling clause buried within it.

The Problem Clause

The contract states that if an adopter fails to comply with certain terms or rehomes the dog outside of Paula’s approval, they must pay a $1,000 “cancellation fee” plus recovery costs.

This kind of clause is unenforceable. It functions as a form of intimidation and financial extortion designed to scare adopters into compliance.

• If Paula Nourse ever threatens you with this clause, you do not owe her this money.

• Idaho law does not recognize or enforce this type of penalty.

• No rescue or individual has the legal right to demand money as a punishment for returning a dog.

Adopters should always feel empowered to protect themselves from intimidation tactics like these. The priority should be the well-being of the animal, not compliance with unlawful contract terms.

GEM STATE SERVICE DOGS & RESCUE

Kuna, Idaho 83634
(208) 509-7245

Microchip #: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“Changing Lives, One Dog at a Time”

Canine Adoption Agreement

New Owner: XXXXXX
Address: __________________________
Phone: __________________________
Email: __________________________

Dog’s Name: Stormy
Breed: Staffordshire
Date of Birth: 2/1/21
Adoption Fee: $150 + food

Terms & Conditions

1. I (we) are the new owner(s) of the dog listed above as of today, and agree to the following.

2. I (we) are adopting this dog as a family pet. The dog will be treated as a member of the family and allowed both inside and outside. The dog will never be made to live outside permanently, subjected to extreme heat or cold, or tethered by rope or chain.

3. I (we) agree that this dog will not be used for fighting, resale, or given to another party, laboratory, etc.

4. I (we) take full responsibility for this dog. I (we) understand that Paula Nourse makes no guarantees regarding health or behavior. The dog must be established with a veterinarian within 30 days of adoption.

5. Paula Nourse recommends enrolling in an obedience class to assist with bonding and transitioning into our home. A discount is available on training through Impact K9 for the first 30 days after adoption.

6. I (we) agree to keep Paula Nourse updated with information, pictures, and/or video periodically, and agree to periodic home checks. Adopter must notify Paula Nourse of any address changes by text after moving.

7. The dog is microchipped. Paula Nourse will remain an emergency contact on the chip for the lifetime of the dog.

8. At any time during the lifetime of the dog, if he/she cannot be kept, the dog MUST be returned to Paula Nourse. No refund of adoption fee will be given. The dog may not be rehomed, released to a shelter, or euthanized.

   • If a foster is unavailable, the adopter agrees to foster the dog for a maximum of 4 weeks or until a foster is located.

   • If the dog is returned, it is at the adopter’s expense.

   • Prior to relinquishing the dog, the adopter must attend and complete a training program through K9 Training at their own expense.

9. If any part of sections 1–7 is not adhered to, or if the dog is released to anyone other than GSSDR, and the rescue must recover the dog, the adopter will incur a $1,000 cancellation fee plus any expenses incurred to recover the dog.

10. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Idaho.

Signatures

New Owner Signature: __________________________
Date: __________________________

Rescue Representative: Paula Nourse
Date: 6/26/25

Notes: 2x once daily w/ warm water & cottage cheese