Moony Tunes · 1★ · 2025-04-09
My recent experience with Fedwell Farms has left me feeling incredibly disappointed, anxious, and frankly, heartbroken. Just two days ago, I was hopeful and excited to adopt a dog from them, having recently lost my beloved companion and moved into a new apartment where I also work.\nDuring my initial conversation with the representative, I clearly outlined my specific needs. I explained that I was looking for an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), a calm dog who would be comfortable being left alone for short periods, as I live and work in the same space. I also mentioned that I live on the second floor and have a pet rabbit. I was explicitly assured that the dog I was being considered for would be fine on his own and would not bother my bunny.\nDespite initially wanting to take my time with the decision, I felt pressured into adopting a particular dog that very day. It was only during the adoption process that the $200 "donation" fee was firmly requested, which I promptly paid out of my excitement.\nUnfortunately, issues arose almost immediately. On the first day, it became apparent that the 87-pound dog was physically unable to navigate the stairs to my second-floor apartment. Side note: I’m a female who lives alone and can’t carry an 87-pound dog upstairs so my boyfriend carried him. Concerned for his well-being and not wanting to force him into a difficult situation, I contacted Fedwell Farms to inquire about returning him and was instructed to wait until the day after the next. On the second day, I had to leave my apartment with my boyfriend to run essential errands. Upon our return, I was met with a devastating scene. The dog had completely destroyed my blinds, ripped the bottom of my door, torn the door frame off, and even chewed through the wall. My rug was also ruined. While I felt sympathy for the dog, as it clearly wasn't his fault, this was the exact opposite of the calm, self-sufficient dog I was promised.\nHowever, upon returning the dog, the representative offered no alternative solutions whatsoever. Instead, I was blamed for leaving him alone (something I was assured would be fine) and was informed that I would not receive my $200 "donation" back, nor would I be able to adopt another dog, as none of their current animals were deemed suitable for my situation. The reasoning was that I couldn't "just throw them in a room," which is something I never did and would never consider doing to any animal.\nI left Fedwell Farms that day in tears, without a dog, $200 poorer, and facing significant damage to my apartment that I now have to pay to repair. This dog was supposed to be an ESA to provide comfort, but the entire experience has instead left me feeling incredibly anxious and has sadly made me hesitant about getting another dog at all.\nWhile I don't believe the representative I dealt with was intentionally malicious, the way this entire situation was handled was incredibly unprofessional and frankly, cruel. To take a "donation" under the guise of helping a dog find a good home, only to then refuse a refund or offer an alternative when their assurances proved completely inaccurate, is unacceptable. I spent $200 for the companionship of a dog for a mere two days, and now I'm left with a damaged apartment and a broken heart.\nI am sharing my experience not to discourage all adoptions from Fedwell Farms, as I believe all rescue animals deserve loving homes. However, I strongly urge potential adopters to exercise extreme caution and thoroughly question the descriptions provided about a dog's personality and suitability for their lifestyle. Remember that shelter environments can be very different from a home setting, and the assurances given may not always reflect reality.\nThis whole ordeal has been a deeply upsetting experience, and I sincerely wish Fedwell Farms had handled this situation with more empathy, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to finding the right match for both the animal and the adopter. The attached pictures clearly illustrate the extent of the damage caused in such a short period.