adoptability
Adoptability is a term used to describe the likelihood that an individual, typically an animal in a shelter or a child in foster care, will be adopted by a suitable new caregiver. In animal welfare contexts, adoptability focuses on the animal's ability to form a lasting bond and live in a home environment. In child welfare, the term is used less frequently but can refer to readiness for permanent placement through adoption.
Factors that influence adoptability include health status, behavior and temperament, age, history of trauma or neglect,
Assessments are conducted by shelters and agencies to estimate adoptability. Methods may include behavioral evaluations, medical
Ethical considerations address concerns that labeling an animal or person as unadoptable can reduce opportunities and
Efforts to improve adoptability include early socialization and positive reinforcement training, medical treatment for treatable conditions,
See also: adoption, foster care, animal welfare, child welfare.