Puppy Offer & Reservation Process

At Oakover Retrievers, we carefully match each puppy with the family we feel is the best long-term fit.

As we receive a high volume of enquiries, the following process helps ensure fairness, clear communication, and a smooth experience for everyone involved.

Pregnancy Announcements

Once a litter has been confirmed via ultrasound, an email notification will be sent to families currently on our contact list.

At this stage, families are invited to confirm whether they would like to be considered for that specific litter.

Shortlisting Process

Families selected for further consideration will receive both a text message and email confirming they have been shortlisted for the litter.

Due to the time-sensitive nature of puppy placements, shortlisted applicants are asked to confirm their continued interest within 24 hours where possible.

If we do not receive a response within this timeframe, the opportunity may be offered to the next suitable family.

Follow-Up Conversation

Once interest is confirmed, we will arrange a brief 5–10 minute phone call to:

  • discuss the litter and puppy expectations,

  • answer any questions,

  • and ensure the placement feels like the right fit for both parties.

If both parties wish to proceed, the reservation documentation and contract will be sent shortly afterwards.

Reservation & Holding Fee

To secure a puppy offer, families will be asked to:

  • return the signed contract, and

  • pay the reservation fee in full within 24 hours of receiving the documentation.

If additional time is required, we appreciate prompt communication and will always try to accommodate reasonable requests where possible.

Failure to complete the reservation process within the agreed timeframe may result in the puppy being offered to another family.

Communication Expectations

As we often work within very small timeframes when allocating puppies, applicants are expected to remain reasonably responsive throughout the process.

Consistent lack of communication may result in an application being paused or withdrawn so that other waiting families may be considered fairly.

Breeder Discretion

Oakover Retrievers reserves the right to:

  • decline any application,

  • withdraw a puppy offer at any stage,

  • or amend the reservation process where necessary,

in order to prioritise the wellbeing of each puppy and ensure the best possible placement outcome.