What Services Are Available When I No Longer Can Care for a Dog?

You might love your dog almost as much as your own children. But maybe you no longer are physically capable of caring for the animal. It would be unfair for the dog to stay in your home because it cannot receive proper care and attention. Or, maybe this problem is that you are moving to a place where pets are not allowed. Ideas and steps to take when the beloved pooch must be given up include "re-homing" the animal and calling an animal shelter.

  1. Re-homing Your Dog

    • Contact a rescue agency certified and known for housing dogs and other pets that can no longer stay in a home. These agencies can offer a list of resources to help you make your decision. The agency then might able to place the pet in an appropriate home, if you agree to the agency's services.

      Doing this is "re-homing" your pet. Sometimes it is better for an agency to find a new home for the pet rather than doing it yourself because the agency might have more expertise and exercise sound judgment when placing an animal under new ownership.

    Be Aware

    • Be aware of people who "flip" dogs, meaning that the dog will be picked up by someone who says he or she is going to care for the animal but instead sells it to a laboratory or someone else in an attempt to make a quick buck.

    Considerations

    • A dog might be euthanized when it is taken to a shelter, especially when he or she is ill or old. Some dogs also might be traumatized after being left at a shelter. This might make the animal behave timidly or aggressively, making them unadoptable.

    Humane Society

    • Call your local humane society and explain your situation. The agency might have leads of potential adopters. Also try searching the website Petfinder.com. This might help you find a good home for your pet because the website puts you in charge of placement.

    Breed Rescue

    • Breed rescue organizations also are an option. Certain dog breeds have organizations that are knowledgeable about specific animals and can assist you in placing your dog in the right new home.

    Visit the Home

    • Try to visit the dog's potential new home before placing it without assistance. Do not visit the home alone and take notes about the visit before agreeing to leave the dog with a new owner.

    Your Vet

    • Call your veterinarian and find out whether he or she might know of someone who might like to adopt your dog. Ask the veterinarian if you would be allowed to post a picture of your pet along with its pertinent information in the waiting room at the veterinarian's office.