Options for Giving My Dog Away

Giving up a dog that is a part of your family for any reason is hard. Finding a good place for your dog to live is challenging, but there are some good options that most people don't think about when the need arises to get rid of a dog.

  1. New Home

    • People read newspapers and view websites on the Internet that have pet classified ads looking for that one special dog. Placing an advertisement takes time, but you might find someone looking for a dog. However, due diligence is needed on your part, checking out the potential new owners. You need to verify that the person who wants the dog is going to be a good, loving and caring provider. Ask for references and, if the person has other pets, ask for the veterinarian's name so you can check on past animals and their care.

    Dog Rescue

    • Dog rescue groups take breed-specific dogs, but there are some rescues that take mixed breeds that need a home. Although these organizations work with donations they receive, they don't turn down dogs that need somewhere to go. Dogs that go into rescues are cared for in foster homes, and any issues the dog has are corrected so the dog can be adopted out.

    Animal Shelter

    • Local animal shelters take dogs. However, shelters can be overrun with animals at any time of the year and there is no assurance that your dog will find a home or how long it will take to find a home. If you take your dog to a local shelter, find a no-kill shelter, which means that animals are not euthanized. Unfortunately, this means your dog could stay in a cage for a long time if it is not adopted.

    Breeders

    • Some breeders take breed-specific dogs even if the dog is spayed or neutered. Reputable breeders work with the dog and look for a good home or keep the dog themselves. Breeders who are sincere in helping the dog will ask you about medical conditions, behavior and any concerns you had about the dog while it was in your care.