Working with animals at a shelter, one question that always seems to come up is how do I rehome my pet. This can be for a variety of issues, however, its important that if you plan to rehome, have a plan.
First let’s talk about the reasons people rehome. I put these into 2 different categories
- Rehoming due to factors that cannot be changed owner has passed away – homelessness – Health issues
- Rehoming due to controllable factors but don’t know what resources to turn to or just don’t want to try.
- Moving- well you could always find a place that takes pets
- Having a baby- people all around the world have pets and children
- Getting a new pet or your new pet doesn’t get along with old pet- the old pet had ranking rights return the new one or train.
- No more time for the pet and it’s just no fair for the pet- make time, I will tell you what is not fair, a dog ending up at the shelter because you have to work 10 extra hours a week at work . Your pet will be happier at home alone than at the shelter trust me.
- Dog needs training- there are many classes and trainers available to help you train your pet
- Cant afford it anymore.. There is a really great program called Furry friends relief program they focus on keeping pet with their families. They have a wide range of resources from low cost vaccinations to free spay and neuter and even can help with pet food monthly.
If you’re thinking about rehoming due to any of the reasons in category #2 please reach out to Furry Friends Food Relief Program and they can give you helpful info or even resources to help your keep your pet. You may also visit them on Facebook.
The Do’s
- Do give plenty of time to rehome. No one wakes up today to realize they must move tomorrow
- Have your pet spayed or neutered before rehoming.
- The last thing we need is your dog to turn into a puppy mill.
- Make sure your pet is up to date on shots obviously for health reasons
Ask a rehoming fee
This really is a personal decision. I personally think rehoming fees are a MUST. Rehoming fee can be used as a tool to detour Animal flipper (some people actually cruise craigslist and swap sites looking for free pets to take in, to only turn around and sale). Rehoming fee can also save your pet from becoming a bait dog or cat to train dogs for dog fights.
A good idea is to ask for the interested to pay for a vet visit as a rehoming fee. After they have done a meet and greet with your pet and have decided they want your pet you can meet at a local vet and have the vet do a well visit. The new owner will be happy to know they are getting a healthy pet and you will be happy to know your pet is going to a home that actually cares.
Interview all potential new families
This includes everyone who lives in the house hold. I suggest a visit to their home, meet all pets and anyone who lives in the home to make such it is going to be a good fit.. The last thing you want is to get a call a week later because it just didn’t work out.
Contact Rescues
A great way to know your pet is going to a good home is to have a rescue adopt the dog out. A reputable rescue will insure your pet is fixed, is up to date on shots and even micro chipped before being rehomes. They interview all adopters and even do home inspections. Don’t limit your rescue search to only rescues in your area. There are breed specific rescues, age specific rescues (for seniors), and health specific rescues (blind or deaf).
Market your animal (sometimes all it take is a good bio and great picture’s)
Start by writing a detailed bio of your beloved pet. Include things like age, sex, description of personality, how it gets along with kids and other pets and the reason your rehoming.
As much as you don’t think it’s important for people to know why you’re rehoming it really is. If you leave this out people may feel like your hiding something and remember you’re asking for the public’s help and you must be prepaid to answer any and all questions.
Take great photo and if you’re able a video would also be great. Next list your bio and photos on social median site like Facebook, within face book exists pages for rehoming and networking. Post everywhere you can, Tag friends ask them to share. You can also post to craigslist put ads in newspapers. Don’t forget to add contact info into the bio section.
10% of animal that wind up in shelters are owner surrenders and if everyone would fallow these steps we could reduce intake number and potentially reduce the number of animal Euthanized in the shelter each year.
