REHOMING DOGS
Every dog that comes onto our books for rehoming is visited (the number of visits varies according to the age and circumstances of each dog), at least once to be assessed, and for us to gather as much information as possible about that dog.
This is vital if we are to find the best home for the dog.
We go to great lengths to ensure, as far as we can, that the dog goes into the 'right' home - one that best matches the profile of the dog. Every effort is made to minimise the chances of the dog coming back into rescue, and to ensure that the dog goes into a home for life, unforeseen circumstances excepted.
When someone expresses an interest in one of our dogs, a homecheck is carried out. This involves meeting people in their own homes and gathering as much information as possible, so that we can ascertain firstly if they are suitable to be dog owners,
and secondly if they are indeed a suitable match for either the dog of their choice,
or one of the others on our books.
Once a homecheck has been carried out and passed (not everyone passes),
a meeting is arranged between the potential new home and the chosen dog.
Everything can look perfect on paper, but if there is no 'spark' between them,
there is no point in continuing. In these cases the homecheck is held on file,
and we continue looking for a suitable dog.
Once a dog is adopted, the new owners are supported with a number of follow-up visits throughout the first six months of ownership. This is so that we can see
that the good welfare of the dog is ongoing, and to provide advice and support
to the owners if necessary. Owners can phone for help and advice between
visits if necessary. If problems occur outside our area of expertise,
we can arrange contact with trainers and behaviourists.
Unforeseen circumstances can affect us all, and in the event of owners being
unable to keep a dog we have placed with them, the adoption contract
makes provision for the dog to be returned to us.
