Category: Rehome

In most cases, animal control will pick up a stray dog. Some will pick up the animal, while others may require that you bring the pup to their facility. Start by calling your local animal control to find out your area’s policies on strays.

You Found a Stray Dog. Now What? 

Thank you for caring enough about a lost or stray dog to do something about it. If you can safely catch the dog without chasing him and are comfortable doing so (see safety tips on doing so here), take the dog to a veterinarian, some grooming salons, or your local shelter to check for a microchip. If the dog is chipped, his owner can be contacted. If the dog is not chipped, these organizations can help you with next steps. 

You may not feel comfortable catching the dog and that’s okay! If this is the case, call animal control. You can dial 411 and ask for the closest agency. You can report the stray’s information and some agencies will come out immediately if you are on a cell phone and “tracking” the pet. Others will send an officer as soon as possible depending on the urgency of other calls. For more tips and tricks on what to do if you find a stray dog, click here.

Animal control is important to call for the following reasons: 

• If someone loses a pet, they usually turn to animal control in the hopes of finding him.
• In most locations, it’s illegal to keep a found pet for more than 24 or 48 hours (the time varies by location) without notifying animal control. 

If you’re interested in keeping the dog, let animal control know that when you turn him over. Typically, they are required to hold a found pet for up to two weeks to give the owner a chance to come forward. If that doesn’t happen, you may be able to have “first rights” and be first in line to adopt him. 

You may find other groups who will pick up a stray dog, but animal control usually provides the best chance for a reunion with the pet’s owners. 

The fastest way to rehome your English Bulldog is by talking with someone you already know who wants to adopt. However, you still need to be certain that this person is the best match for your dog. There are other ways that you can rehome your dog relatively quickly and easily, as well. Let’s look at the options available and the things you need to keep in mind when rehoming. This way, you’ll be sure to find the perfect new home for your English Bulldog.

Rehoming Quickly with People You Know 

When you have to give up your English Bulldog, you should let your friends and family know your situation and why you need to give her up. You may find that one or more of them is interested in providing her with a home and becoming her owner. If that’s the case, it’s a fast way to rehome her with someone that you already know and trust.

Of course, you must make sure that this new owner is the right fit for her. You know your English Bulldog better than others including all of her quirks and behaviors that other owners might not like. For example, maybe she doesn’t like to be around small animals like cats. Perhaps she has a health condition that requires medication and trips to the vet regularly. Always be sure the person who adopts her can provide for all of her needs whatever they might be.

Rehoming with an Online Service

Another option to consider when you’re rehoming your dog is to use an online service like Rehome. This is a platform from Adopt-a-Pet.com that provides an easy way to connect with people looking to adopt. You can create a profile with a bio, photos, and video that can show potential adopters all they need to know about your English Bulldog.

When creating the bio, it’s important to include all of the elements discussed above about any issues that your dog might have. This way, the adopters will have a better idea of whether she’s the right dog for them. For example, you wouldn’t want your English Bulldog to go to a home where there are cats if she doesn’t like cats. The more the prospective adopters know about your dog before applying the better.

Once you start to receive applications, you can review them. Rehome can even help you understand what types of things you should be looking for in the applications to make the process of finding a new home easier.

You’ll be happy to know that the platform is free for owners to use, as well. The adopters will only have to pay a small rehoming fee. This fee, which is about the same they would pay at a shelter or rescue, goes back into finding homes for other pets. It’s a simple process that helps you find a home for your English Bulldog that is perfect for her. You can rest easy knowing she’s in a safe and loving environment.

Several options are available if you have to give up your Yorkie. No one enjoys the thought of giving up their dog, but it could be necessary. He’s been a good companion for you, and you’d love nothing more than to keep him. However, life may have thrown you a curveball, and you find that you’re no longer capable of caring for him for one reason or another. You might have to move into a retirement home that doesn’t allow pets. You might have had an injury or illness that prevents you from caring for him.

There could be any number of issues. The important thing is to do your best to find a place for your Yorkie. Several options are available, and some are better than others.

Rescues and Shelters

A rescue or a shelter might be the first place that you consider when you need to give up your Yorkie. Shelters and rescues do their best to ensure adoption, but it’s never a guarantee. While rescues will keep dogs for the remainder of their lives, shelters are unable to do this. They have a limited amount of room. While these types of facilities are methods that can be used to give up your Yorkie, you may want to try some other options first.

Talk with Friends and Family

If you have trouble taking care of your Yorkie for one reason or another, you may want to speak with friends and family before giving him up. For example, if you have trouble watching your dog during the day while you’re working, you might have a family member that can come over and walk him or watch him during the day. If you have some issues financially, you might have some family that could help you out so you don’t have to give up your dog.

It’s also possible that you may find someone you know who wants to adopt a dog. They might be interested in adopting your Yorkie. This could be a good fit since you already know the person and can be sure they’ll take good care of him.

Rehoming on Your Own

Although it may take a little longer, rehoming is an option. You can do this on your own by finding online pet adoption sites. Always be sure you’re using a quality, reputable site, of course, and steer clear of places like Craigslist. When you’re allowing someone to adopt, be sure to charge a rehoming fee, as well. This helps to reduce the risks for your dog. People who have ill intentions toward him won’t want to pay money for the dog.

Using the Rehome Platform

One site that you should consider using is Rehome from Adopt-a-Pet.com. It’s a peer-to-peer platform that will let owners create detailed profiles of their dog. Provide all of the most important information about your Yorkie, including any issues that they might have. Add some photos and videos, too. Then, potential adopters can look at the profile to get a better idea of whether he’s the right dog for them. You’ll review applications and find the perfect new home for your Yorkie. It’s fast, easy, and safe.

A reasonable rehoming fee for your English Bulldog will typically be somewhere between $50 and $150. However, it’s important to understand that many factors can affect the cost of this fee. Some of the biggest factors include whether your dog is purebred, their age, and your location. Certain parts of the country may have higher rehoming fees, for example.

Research Your Area 

To get a better idea of what a reasonable rehoming fee would be for an English Bulldog, you should look into the typical prices in your area. This is something you should do whether you’re an owner that’s looking for someone to adopt your dog, or you’re someone looking to adopt an English Bulldog.

Look at what private individuals are charging for rehoming fees, as well as the costs online and through shelters and rescues. You’ll usually find that the rehoming fees from individuals will be similar to what the rescues and shelters charge for their adoption fees. If the price is a lot higher, they aren’t truly rehoming fees.

Once you get a sense of the typical rehoming fees in your area, it will give you a better idea of what you should charge for a rehoming fee for your English Bulldog —or what you should be paying if you’re adopting.

Why Are Rehoming Fees Needed?

Many people wonder why there are rehoming fees at all. They may think that if someone has to give up their dog for whatever reason, they should be happy to find someone willing to take her. However, the rehoming fees are there for a reason, and that reason isn’t to line the pockets of the owner.

Instead, the rehoming fees are used to avoid giving the dog to someone who doesn’t want to invest in a dog and who may not have the means to care for her properly. The rehoming fees are also important because they help to reduce the risk for your dog. Some are looking for dogs that could be used for righting or that could be sold to labs. You don’t want your dog to go through any of those situations. Rehoming fees help prevent this.

Make Rehoming Easier with Rehome

Rehome is a platform from Adopt-a-Pet.com that helps to make the entire process of rehoming easier. It’s free for owners to use, and adopters will pay a small rehoming fee right to the site. This ensures owners don’t have to worry about finding the right rehoming fee. The price through Rehome for adopters is about the same as what they would pay at a shelter or a rescue.

Rehome lets you create a profile for your English Bulldog that you have to give up. You can add videos, pictures, and a bio that lets the potential adopters know everything needed about your dog.

The platform makes it possible for you to find the perfect new owner for your dog. You’ll rest easy knowing that you’ve found a place where she’ll be loved and happy.

BY COURTNEY ELLIOTT

itla / Stocksy
Are you thinking about getting a dog? Maybe a rescue dog? What exactly is a rescue dog anyway? While it may seem like a straightforward question, there’s more to being a rescue dog than being a mixed-breed shelter pup. There are actually plenty of purebred rescue dogs out there too.

We spoke with  Emily Verna, an animal rescue expert and president of Furry Friends Rescue in Fremont, California, to find out more about rescue dogs. Learn the true definition of what a rescue dog is, what makes them so resilient, and how you can help them.

What is a rescue dog?

A rescue dog is a dog available for adoption from a rescue group or shelter who has been saved from mistreatment, neglect, or abandonment. They may be surrendered or brought to shelters or rescue organizations to receive care, attention, and rehabilitation. These incredible dogs come from various backgrounds, but what unites them is their need for a loving home and caring family.

What types of dogs are rescues?

Rescue dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds — from purebreds to mixes, puppies to seniors, young pregnant moms to moms with litters, and everything in between. Many dogs in shelters have not been provided the chance to show that they can be well-behaved and loving companions.

Dogs of all breeds

“We see more young adult dogs, especially large dog breed types,” Verna says. Some of the most common dogs at shelters are also the most popular breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Pit Bulls, and Dachshunds. “This year [there are] tons of German Shepherds — smart and loyal working dogs — and Huskies — cute and fluffy as pups but need more as adults.” The majority of shelter dogs, however, are mixed breeds — up to 80 percent, according to some studies.

Dogs of all ages

Despite popular misconception, there are many puppies at shelters. They may be brought in with their mom and littermates or born in shelters when pregnant dogs are surrendered or found as strays. But oftentimes, most dogs at shelters are adolescents. According to one study, around 47 percent of dogs across 12 U.S. shelters were between five months and three years of age when they arrived. The majority of the dogs in the study (37 percent) had only been with their pet parent between seven months and one year. At Furry Friends Rescue, they estimate up to 90 percent of their dogs are puppies or adolescents.

Is a rescue dog the same as a shelter dog?

While both rescue dogs and shelter dogs often come from challenging situations, whether as strays or as surrendered pets, there are some distinctions between the two. Shelter dogs typically reside in facilities — these can be municipal shelters run by the government or private shelters managed by nonprofit organizations. Shelter dogs are usually housed in kennels (enclosed areas with easy-to-clean concrete floors) with limited outdoor time, playtime, and human interaction due to the sheer volume of animals.

On the other hand, rescue dogs may be housed in kennels but they are more often placed in foster homes. Rescue organizations, often nonprofit groups, provide a network of temporary foster care, offering a more home-like environment for these dogs while they wait for their forever homes. “The impact is real home training, holistic quality foods, and TLC.  Many shy and scared dogs rescued from a shelter, relax at a foster home and feel safe, then happy and lovable,” says Verna.

Rescue organizations might offer supplementary services such as medical care, training, and behavioral support, ensuring that both the dogs and adopters receive more personalized attention and assistance throughout the adoption process. “Due to the high triple overload of dogs at shelters right now, we are [saving dogs from euthanasia] by paying for emergency boarding at private kennels. The goal is to give the dog time to find a foster home or adopter,” Verna says. “[It’s] very costly for us.”

Where do rescue dogs come from?

Over three million dogs enter shelters every year. Rescue dogs come from many backgrounds, but 48 percent of dogs come into the shelter as strays who roam without a home, often found wandering the streets by Good Samaritans or brought in by animal control. Dogs also might be rescued as:

• Owner surrender. Nearly 25 percent of dogs find their way to rescue organizations or shelters after being surrendered by pet parents facing difficult circumstances, such as financial struggles, moving to places where pets aren’t allowed, or unexpected life changes. 
• Accidental litters. “Many puppies are the result of accidental litters due to lack of low-cost spay and neuter clinics,” Vern saysa. People often underestimate how soon a young dog is able to become pregnant — as early as six months.
• Puppy mills. A significant number of rescue dogs are seized from puppy mills. These are unethical commercial breeding facilities where dogs are often kept in poor conditions for mass production. These dogs might end up in rescues after being abandoned due to health issues or when they’re no longer deemed profitable. 
• Breeders. There are also instances where breeders surrender dogs to rescues for health or behavioral reasons.

Research shows that the majority of dogs surrendered had not been trained when they arrived at the shelter. “Most are not spayed and neutered, have been neglected and not trained, thus we know they were not [previously] adopted from a rescue or shelter,” Verna says. Regardless of their origins, rescue dogs have an incredible amount of resilience and eagerly await the chance to become cherished members of new families.

Why rescue dogs are the best

Rescue dogs have an unparalleled charm and bring a tail-wagging enthusiasm to our lives. Here are a few reasons why they often become the best companions.

Unwavering gratitude

Rescue dogs are unmatched in their ability to show gratitude and loyalty. They know what it’s like to face tough times, and that gratitude shines through in their love for their new families. Their loyalty is off the charts — they’ll stick by your side through thick and thin.

Adaptability

Rescues have faced diverse environments and circumstances. They’ve seen a lot and learned to roll with the punches, making them perfect pals for any lifestyle or living situation.

Charming personalities

Rescue dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and their personalities are as unique as their paw prints. Whether they’re goofy, cuddly, or a mix of everything, their individuality brings a lot of fun surprises to your day.

Saving a life

By adopting a rescue dog, you’re not only giving them a second chance at a better life, but also gaining a loyal companion who will bring boundless joy and love to your life. The act of rescuing a dog becomes a rewarding experience for both the adopter and the adopted, creating a positive impact that ripples beyond the home.

Are you ready for a rescue dog?

Thinking about welcoming a rescue dog into your life? It’s a big decision, but one that comes with an immense amount of joy and love. Before taking the leap, it’s essential to assess whether you are ready for it. “Dogs are family members and their adoption is for life,” Verna says. It’s important to look for a match to your lifestyle and activity level. “Giving the once neglected and abandoned dog a second chance with the right quality care, food, training, and love, and they’ll be your devoted and loyal best friend.”

Here are some key signs that you’re prepared for the rewarding journey of bringing a dog into your home.

• Stable lifestyle. Your routine is relatively consistent, allowing you to provide the necessary time and attention for a dog.
• Financial preparedness. You’re ready to cover expenses for food, veterinary care, grooming, and unexpected medical costs.
• Space and environment. Your living space is pet-friendly, with enough room for a dog to move around comfortably.
• Time commitment. You have ample time to spend with a dog, ensuring they receive the exercise, training, and companionship they need.
• Patience and flexibility. You understand that rescue dogs might have specific needs and require patience, love, and support as they adjust to their new environment.
• Understanding of responsibility. You’re ready for the long-term commitment of caring for a pet and recognize the responsibilities that come with it.

Adopting a rescue dog is an incredibly fulfilling experience, but ensuring you’re prepared for the commitment is crucial for both you and your potential new pet. If these signs resonate with your current situation, you might just be ready to offer a loving home to a deserving rescue dog.

Where can I adopt a rescue dog?

If you’re ready to adopt a rescue dog, the next step is knowing where to find one. From local shelters and breed-specific rescues to online platforms like Adopt a Pet, there are plenty of options to ensure every rescue dog gets a second chance.

• Local shelters and rescues: Your nearby animal shelters and rescue organizations are fantastic places to find a wide variety of rescue dogs. These facilities often have a diverse range of dogs of different breeds, ages, and sizes. They work tirelessly to give abandoned or surrendered dogs a new home.
• Breed-specific rescues: If you have your heart set on a particular breed, breed-specific rescues might be your best bet. These organizations specialize in rescuing and rehoming a specific breed. They have in-depth knowledge of the breed’s characteristics and needs, ensuring a great match between the dog and the adopter.
• Targeted rescues: There are rescues specifically dedicated to certain types of dogs, such as smaller breeds or senior dogs. These organizations focus on the unique needs of these dogs, providing them with specialized care and attention while searching for the perfect homes that can meet their specific requirements.
• Online platforms like Adopt a Pet: Websites, such as Adopt a Pet, serve as an online platform connecting prospective pet parents with rescue organizations and shelters nationwide. They provide a wide database of available dogs, allowing you to search based on location, breed, age, and other preferences.

Each of these options offers a fantastic opportunity to find a dog that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Whether it’s a local shelter, breed-specific rescue, targeted rescue, or online pet search tool, there’s a wide range of avenues to explore in your quest to give a rescue dog a forever home.

How much does it cost to get a rescue dog?

Adoption fees for dogs vary depending on the shelter or rescue, the dog’s age, and current health conditions, but you can typically expect to pay between $50 and $300. Opting to adopt not only costs less than buying one from a breeder (which can cost thousands of dollars) but also extends a helping hand to an animal in need.

Following the adoption, the first year of being a dog parent involves other expenses, such as  vet visits, spaying or neutering, microchipping, licensing, and the essential supplies for your new companion — estimating these costs — the initial year could range between $420 to $3,270. To be financially prepared, it’s advisable to budget a minimum of $2,000 for your first year as a dog parent. This range accounts for the necessities while ensuring you can provide the best care for your new family member.

References:

The 6 Most Common Dogs in Animal Shelters — And Why You Should Consider Taking Them Home

Human and Animal Factors Related to the Relinquishment of Dogs and Cats in 12 Selected Animal Shelters in the United States

Courtney Elliott, a proud Cleveland native living in Manhattan, blends her decade of writing and editing expertise with her unshakable devotion as a pet parent to her French Bulldog, Gus. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find her frolicking in Central Park or engrossed in a good book at a local coffee shop.

For most pet owners adding a pet to the family is a permanent decision, but there are times when unexpected circumstances can make caring for a pet difficult. At Adopt-a-Pet.com, we believe that every pet deserves a loving home, but we’re realistic that not every home is right for every pet.

Every year, millions of pets find themselves needing new homes. Often times owners find themselves in financial hardship or they are forced to relocate to an area that is not pet friendly. There are many circumstances that lead pet owners to consider rehoming their pet, but safe options for finding their companions a loving new home have been limited. Everyday, we were seeing pets surrendered to overcrowded animal shelters and rescues or posted on dangerous classifieds sites like Craigslist. This had us thinking that there had to be a better alternative. Now, there is!

Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com and the Petco Foundation is the safe, reliable, and free way to find a loving home for your pet. Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet owners to post pets needing new homes on Adopt-a-Pet.com to be seen by the millions of adopters who visit our site each month. Rehome also provides pet owners with all of the tools and guidance they need to screen applicants and choose the right new family for their pet. We can even help to set up safe meet and greets with potential adopters at well-lit, public places like Petco stores. Additionally, 100% of the adoption fee the new owner pays is donated to a local animal shelter or rescue!

“Adopt-a-Pet.com has extensive experience in helping pets from our network of over 17,000 animal shelters and rescues to find new homes,” said Abbie Moore, Adopt-a-Pet.com Executive Director and Chief Product Officer. “Now, with Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com and the Petco Foundation, we bring our deep knowledge and understanding of the pet adoption process to pet owners in crisis – keeping more pets from entering shelters and giving owners peace of mind that their pets are happily and safely joining new families.”

In addition to guiding users through the process of safely rehoming a pet, Rehome also provides guidance to pet owners who wish to explore solutions that would allow them to keep their pet. For example, users can easily access valuable information around troubleshooting behavioral issues, finding pet friendly housing and accessing affordable veterinary care.

“Rehome is a win for everyone involved, pet owners needing help, pets, adopters and animal shelters throughout the country; and we are proud to join forces with Adopt-a-Pet.com to make this happen,” said Susanne Kogut, Petco Foundation’s Executive Director. “At the Petco Foundation we believe that when we develop innovative solutions and empower communities to participate and help in saving animal lives, we will create life saving communities everywhere and assure that every pet has a loving home.”

For more information on this groundbreaking and innovative service developed in collaboration with the Petco Foundation, visit rehome.adoptapet.com.