How to Rehome a Dog

Sadly, there are times when a much loved dog can no longer be cared for. There are many reasons why this might happen. A new baby or change of job means that there is no longer the time to look after a dog.

Sometimes a person may simply become too ill or infirm to be able to care for a dog properly. In situations like these, finding a permanent and loving home for the dog is the kindest solution. Keeping a dog when it cannot be looked after properly is unfair to all concerned.

Options for Rehoming a Dog

There are many options available for someone looking to rehome a dog. These include:

• Private adoption – sometimes family or friends may be happy to adopt a dog. They will already know the dog and he will know them so this will make the process more straightforward. The original family will still be in touch and see the dog from time to time which is also a benefit of this arrangement.
• Advertising – many pet shops offer advertising space in their windows and this can be a good way to advertise a dog. People who are looking at the adverts in pet shop windows are likely to be existing pet owners and as such can make knowledgeable and experienced owners for an adopted dog. Other advertising opportunities include local newspapers and even the vets. It is useful to include a photograph with the advertisement so people can get a good appreciation of the type of dog that is being offered for rehoming.
• Rescue centres – this might be a last resort for many people, however rescue centres, such as the RSPCA, have an excellent reputation for caring and rehoming pets. There are large support networks attached to rescue centres and dogs who are awaiting rehoming will be given regular exercise and be in the company of other animals. When taking a dog to a rescue centre it is important to provide as much information as possible as this will help to find him a new home. Organisations such as the RSPCA will never put people under pressure to keep a dog that they can no longer cope with and are very understanding of the difficult decision that has been made.

Alternatives to Rehoming Dogs

There may be alternatives to rehoming dogs and sometimes a little extra help or support is all that is required for a person to be able to care for their dog.

Sometimes dogs are rehomed because an elderly or ill person is unable to give them the exercise that they require. Professional dog walkers offer an excellent service and this might be a good solution.

Grooming can be another problem for people. Colleges often welcome working with pet dogs. People learning dog grooming, for instance, require dogs to work with when practicing their skills.

This can be an excellent way of getting help with grooming for a person who can no longer cope. Asking for help can sometime produce surprising results.

Rehoming a dog is a difficult decision to make. Knowing that the dog is going to a new home that will give him much love and care will help people through this distressing and sad time.