Important Update on Adoptions & Petfinder Changes

Dear Friends,

First and foremost, thank you for your continued patience, dedication, and unwavering support of our dogs. We know how emotionally invested you are, and we want to be transparent about the challenges we are currently facing.

Recent updates and changes implemented by Petfinder have created rescue-wide issues that have significantly slowed adoptions, particularly out-of-state placements. This is not something impacting only our organization—rescues across the country that rely on Petfinder have been affected, and the situation has gained broader attention, including coverage on television.

Because of these changes, dogs are receiving far less visibility than they previously did, resulting in fewer applications and longer wait times for adoption. While this has been incredibly frustrating, please know that this slowdown is not a reflection of your foster dog, their behavior, or their adoptability.

What We Are Doing

While Petfinder works through these changes, we are actively taking steps to adapt and minimize the impact:

• Adding our dogs to multiple additional adoption platforms
• Exploring collaborations with other rescues and shelters to expand visibility
• Continuing to promote our dogs through social media and direct outreach
• Actively communicating with Petfinder to advocate for urgent improvements

We are asking for your patience and understanding as we navigate this transition and adjust our adoption strategy. Your role as a foster is more critical than ever, and we are deeply grateful for the care and stability you provide during this extended wait.

How You Can Help

If you are willing, we encourage you to:

• Reach out to Petfinder directly to express your concern for all the animals who will suffer for this change. They can be reached at the following contacts:
  • Petfinder -  800-778-7462 outreach@petfinder.com
    1812 N. Moore St. Arlington, VA 22209
    Tel: +1-818-549 6000
    Fax: +1-818 549 6952
    CONSUMER SERVICES Tel: +1-800-225-2270
  • Purina Monday – Saturday, 8am – 5pm CT at 1-800-778-7462

Your voices matter, and collective feedback helps bring attention to the real-world consequences of these changes.

Thank you again for standing by us—and by your foster dogs—during this challenging time. We will continue to keep you informed and are committed to finding every dog the loving home they deserve.

With sincere gratitude,

Angelique Strickler, founder of WUWF & All the dedicated volunteers

Waiting Under the Willow Foundation