First and foremost, remember that your pet depends entirely on you to do what’s best for his future, even if you can’t keep him anymore. Finding the right home for your pet will take time, effort and patience but prior to making that decision consider the following questions.
Do you really have to give up your pet?
Is there something you can do to help you keep your pet? Is it because of behavioural problems or a change of circumstances as there are ways to overcome these issues without giving up your pet.
Here are some of the most common reasons for surrendering a pet and some solutions that might help you keep yours.
I’m moving
There are rental houses that allow pets, so widening your search may be helpful. It may mean a longer drive to work, but at least you’ll be able to keep your furry best friend!
If you’re searching for pet-friendly rental accommodation, speak with your local real estate agents to make pet-friendly property suggestions. To give yourself a better chance of securing a pet-friendly rental, prepare a Pet CV, including a record of your pet’s medical history, training certificates and references from neighbours, previous landlords and veterinarians. Don’t rely on rental ads, often landlords will consider pets if you approach them directly or find a real estate agent that will help you. Offer to sign an agreement to define appropriate behaviour for your pet on the rental premises. Encourage the owner/landlord to meet your well-behaved, well-groomed flea-free pet – meeting your furry housemate might just clinch the deal.
I don’t have enough time for the dog
Pets require time and effort, but probably not as much as you think. Dogs need minimum exercise; food but most importantly time just being near you.
Dog walking services are relatively inexpensive, but getting exercise is good for your health and well-being too. Taking just half an hour to get out and about with your dog before and/or after work will work wonders for both of you.
Cats and dogs can also benefit from environmental enrichment. Setting aside a few minutes each day to make their lives more interesting could make a big difference to their behaviour.
I’m having a baby
When introduced correctly, there shouldn’t be any problems with your pet and new baby.
There are some useful resources on bringing a baby into a home with pets, including:
Tell Your Dog You’re Pregnant – by Dr Lewis Kirkham
Cats and Bubs – Tips form Dr Katrina Warren
We have an allergy problem
There are some wonderful products on the market that will help keep you healthy and allergy free, so surrendering your pet for adoption could be the last option. It certainly shouldn’t be your physician’s first recommendation.
Look for a physician who will be sensitive to your feelings and do everything possible, within reason, to help you keep your pet and stay healthy.
My pet has behavioural problems
If your pet is badly behaved, it’s highly unlikely that anyone else is going to want to take it on.
Most pet behaviour problems are easily managed and overcome with the right support and approach. Before you re-home your pet, get advice from a qualified trainer or speak to your vet.
NRAS can provide contact details for local experts.
Always be totally upfront about behavioural problems when you’re dealing with potential adopters. Misinforming can leave you open to legal prosecution.
My dog is aggressive
If your dog displays signs of aggression or behaviours that may lead to aggression, you must understand that you are putting others at risk. No matter how much you love your dog, if he has ever bitten anyone you need to take him to a professional trainer for assessment and possible rehabilitation.
Never advertise your pet as a guard dog, as they may be neglected, abused or used for dog fighting. We know it’s a very hard decision to make, but putting a dangerous dog to sleep is often the safest and most responsible thing to do.
Getting ready to Re-home your Pet
Give yourself plenty of time
There are dogs and cats that have been in shelters or foster care for some time waiting for the right home, so you have to accept that it could take a while to find a new home for your pet.
Give yourself plenty of time to place your pet responsibly, seeking out the right family who are willing to care for them for life.
Call the person you got the pet from originally
Make your first call to the breeder, rescue, or person you originally got your pet from. Responsible breeders will either assist you in finding a new home, or take the pet back to rehome themselves.
If your pet can’t be returned, evaluate their adoption potential
When considering putting your pet up for adoption, you need to be realistic. If your pet is old, a large breed dog, has health issues, or is unfriendly towards strangers it will take a long time to find a new home, possibly many months. Realise that rehoming won’t happen immediately.
Identify the ideal home for your pet
Make a list of what you feel is most important for your pet. What kind of environment does he need? Is he ok with children? Is he OK with other pets? What kind of people would suit his personality and energy levels?
Once you have a firm idea of what you’re looking for, it will be easier to plan your search and get the results you want for your pet.
Prepare a pet profile
A pet profile needs to be positive, feature the best things about your pet and give people an idea of your pet’s personality.
- Accurately describe the appearance, size and age of your pet
- Include the pet’s name and a good photograph
- Mention if the pet is desexed, microchipped, registered and currently vaccinated
- Describe his/her nature and appealing qualities
- Define any limitations the pet might have (e.g. not good with cats or small children)
- Don’t forget your phone number and the times you can be reached
Prepare a general history
Add a profile of your pet’s history to their file, including details about their food preferences, favourite treats and toys, relationships with other animals and other likes and dislikes. All this information will help potential adopters get acquainted with the pet and make the transition to a new home much easier for your pet too.
Advertising your pet
To give your pet’s advertisement maximum exposure, make use of all the available resources.
Family members and friends first
Some of the best homes are with people who already know and like your pet. Friends and family may be willing to offer your pet a new home, so ask around your immediate circle first.
Facebook and social media
Post your pet’s photo and profile on Facebook. Give a brief explanation of why you have to re-home your pet. Don’t threaten that if he’s not rehomed tomorrow he’s going to the pound – stay positive. Ask your friends and family to share the post as widely as they can.
Out and about
Do you visit a dog park? Ask around to find out if anyone is looking for a new pet. If your pet stays at a boarding kennel when you go on holiday, ring them to see if they can ask around. Ask your vet, ask neighbours. Dog washers and dog walkers are also good contacts to find out who’s looking for a new pet. Ask pretty much everyone you deal with on a daily basis – you never know who might come forward!
Classified ads
Don’t be afraid to use classified ads to advertise your pet. For many people seeking a pet, the local newspaper is the first place they look. Be sure to mention your pet is de-sexed to ensure you only receive enquiries from people genuinely seeking a family companion.
Club newsletters
If you’re a member of a church, club or group, ask if you can place an advert in their newsletter or on their noticeboard.
Flyers
Put up flyers in your local supermarkets, vets and community centres. Email a flyer to all of your friends and ask them to add it to their work noticeboards.
Screening callers
You have every right to screen all potential new owners who enquire about your pet. Don’t let anyone rush or intimidate you. Think of it as an adoption, not a sale. Choose the person you think will make the best companion for your pet.
If someone responds to your ad, you should screen them over the phone before introducing them to the animal. This will help you rule out any unsuitable adopters early on.
To start, you might say: “This dog/cat is very special to me, and I am looking for just the right home for him/her. Would you mind if I asked you a few questions about yourself and your home?”
Let all applicants know you will be checking references and need to speak to their vet (if they’ve had pets before).
Once you’ve chosen a family (or families) that you feel are good candidates, arrange two meetings with the potential new owners – the first appointment for them to meet the pet, and the second for you to see their home.
We strongly advise that you do not hand over your pet until you’ve seen the adopter’s living arrangements. It’s all too easy for people to tell you what you want to hear, rather than how it actually is. By seeing their home you’ll be able to gauge their suitability as an owner.
Trust your instincts. If you have any concerns, don’t be afraid to discuss them or to reject them. To make a non-confrontational exit, tell them other people are also interested in meeting your pet and that you’ll get back to them.
Important things to mention to the new owners
- All rehomed pets go through an adjustment period as they get to know their new people, learn new rules and mourn the loss of their old family. Most pets adjust within a few days, but others may take longer.
- Advise the new family to take things easy at first, avoiding anything stressful, such as bathing their new pet, attending obedience training classes or meeting too many strangers at once. Assure them this will give the pet time to settle in and bond with them.
- Tell them not to worry if the pet does not eat for the first day or two – he’ll eat when he’s ready.
- Some of the best house-trained pets can temporarily forget. Assure the new owners that it’s not unusual for re-homed pets to have an accident during the first day in their new home.
- Keep cats indoors for at least four weeks after a move.
- Tell the family to call you if the adoption isn’t working out and let them know you want to keep in touch and will call in a few days to see how things are going.
The paperwork
Ensure your pet’s microchip details, council registration and change of ownership papers are updated at the time of adoption.
