Legal Definitions - virtual adoption

Virtual adoption is a type of adoption where a person or organization takes responsibility for the care and well-being of an animal, but does not physically take the animal into their home. Instead, they provide financial support and receive updates on the animal's progress.

For example, a person may virtually adopt a dog from a shelter by paying a monthly fee to cover the dog's food, medical care, and other expenses. In return, they may receive regular updates and photos of the dog, but the dog remains at the shelter and is available for adoption by someone else.

This type of adoption is often used for animals that are not able to be adopted out permanently, such as those with medical or behavioral issues, or for people who are not able to have pets in their home due to living arrangements or other reasons.