I ask for three references of people that are not related to the adopter and who have known them for at least three years. I also get the name and number of their veterinary and contact them with a list of questions. If the vet tells me they can't release the information then I contact the adopter and request that they give a release of information to the vet. I then call the vet back usually the next day, if still no information then no adoption.
I also ask alot of questions of the people that I contact as references and if they seem iffy I will ask them straight out what their honest feelings are.
I have a list of questions that I ask the adopter also with one of the main questions being have they ever given a pet up to a shelter or rescue? If so why, when and what rescue or shelter. If it has been resently done I contact that shelter of rescue and ask questions, you'd be surprised what you can learn about a persons care of their animals.
Also ask about kids, how old, have they ever been around small dogs, will the puppy be left unsupervised with the children?
If you want to email me at
littletsyorkshires@littletsyorkshires.com I will be happy to give you a list of questions I ask. I hope this helps you out.