VET APPROVED
REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY
Dr. Karyn Kanowski
BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian)
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn more »
As a pet owner, deciding to give up your dog can be a tough choice you may face. Sometimes, circumstances change drastically, making it necessary. Here are some key steps to help you surrender your dog responsibly and compassionately.
Before You Start
If you are thinking about surrendering your dog, the first step is to ask for help. Whether dealing with behavioral issues, medical conditions, or financial constraints, there are resources that can assist you in keeping and managing your pet. Local shelters, veterinarians, animal rescue groups, and online platforms can provide support.
Rehoming your dog could be the best option for its well-being if you are unable to meet all its needs. However, if you are struggling with specific traits or behaviors, explore other solutions besides rehoming.
If you cannot provide your dog with the necessary care, it is better to find them a new home where they will not be neglected or unhappy.
Consider Rehoming with Someone Trustworthy
Before surrendering your dog, explore all possible alternatives. This could involve rehoming within your circle of friends, family, or neighbors. Personal connections often lead to seamless transitions for pets as they may already be familiar with these individuals, allowing you to stay informed about your pet’s well-being.
Seek Professional Assistance
If behavioral issues are causing your decision, consider seeking help from a vet, professional dog trainer, or behaviorist. Many behavioral problems can be resolved through patience, consistent training, and expert advice. It’s advisable to exhaust these resources before resorting to surrendering your pet.
Consulting a veterinarian is crucial. If health issues are hindering you from keeping your dog, a vet can offer advice and possible solutions. They may recommend treatments or management techniques you haven’t considered.
Furthermore, your vet can advise you on maintaining your dog’s health throughout the transition, including vaccinations, parasite control, and managing existing health conditions. They might also suggest suitable rehoming organizations.
Reach Out to Pet Care Organizations
If affording your dog’s care is a challenge, certain organizations can help. For instance, some organizations offer assistance with veterinary care expenses. Additionally, the Humane Society of the United States provides a directory of organizations that provide food, supplies, vet care, and other pet care services.
9 Steps for Surrendering a Dog
Deciding to surrender your dog is a complex decision that requires careful deliberation and planning. If you have explored all options and must surrender your dog, here are essential steps to guide you through this challenging process responsibly.
1. Explore Surrender Options
After exhausting all options to keep your dog, understand the surrender process. Research the available options in your area as shelters and rescues have specific policies for surrendering pets. Familiarize yourself with these policies and inquire about updates on your dog’s status post-surrender.
If your dog belongs to a specific breed, there are breed-specific charities and rehoming organizations that connect those seeking a particular breed with dogs in need of a new home.
2. Abide by Legal Requirements
Each jurisdiction may have distinct legal prerequisites for surrendering pets, such as proof of ownership or vaccination records. Be aware of these requirements to facilitate a smooth surrender process.
Following these legal requirements safeguards you, the shelter, and most importantly, your dog. Surrendering a dog is a significant decision with potential legal implications, so understanding the process is crucial.
3. Ensure Your Dog’s Health
Before surrendering your dog, have them examined to ensure they are in good health. Address any health issues before surrendering and inform the shelter of any ongoing treatment or medication your dog needs.
Providing the shelter with your dog’s medical records is essential. These records offer a complete health history, enabling the shelter to continue necessary treatments and inform potential adopters of any health considerations. Transparency is key here.
4. Collect Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents for the surrender, including your pet’s medical records and any additional paperwork requested by the shelter or rescue.
5. Contact Local Animal Welfare Organizations
Local animal welfare organizations can offer valuable support. Their primary focus is animal well-being, and they can provide guidance and assistance during this challenging period. They may have connections to foster programs or potential adopters.
Additionally, these organizations may provide other services that could address your situation. For example, some run pet food banks for financially strapped pet owners or offer temporary foster care during emergencies.
6. Complete Necessary Forms
When surrendering your dog to a shelter or rescue, you will likely need to fill out various forms. These forms provide crucial information about your dog’s health, behavior, and preferences. This information helps the shelter care for your dog and match them with the right adoptive family.
Take your time completing these forms and be detailed and honest, especially regarding health conditions or behavioral issues. Accurate information equips the shelter to care for your dog effectively and find them a suitable new home.
7. Provide Detailed Dog Information
When surrendering your dog, providing detailed information about their personality, preferences, and routines can greatly assist shelter staff. This information helps them understand your dog’s needs and behaviors, enabling them to provide the best care until your dog finds a new home.
This information is invaluable in finding a suitable home for your dog. Potential adopters can assess if they are a good match for your dog’s needs and lifestyle.
Providing comprehensive information helps rehoming organizations find the best match for your dog upfront, reducing returns due to undisclosed health and behavioral issues.
8. Bid Farewell Appropriately
Saying goodbye to your dog can be emotional. When the time comes, try to remain calm and affectionate. Dogs are intuitive and sense your emotions.
Spend quality time with your dog before parting ways. Enjoy a favorite walk, play a beloved game, or simply cuddle. This can be comforting for both you and your pet.
9. Seek Emotional Support
Feeling sadness after surrendering your dog is normal. It’s a challenging time, and seeking support from friends, family, or counselors can be beneficial. Sharing your feelings with understanding individuals can be therapeutic and comforting.
Remember, grieving your pet’s loss is okay. It reflects the love and bond you shared. Over time, the pain will lessen, and you can cherish the memories of your time together.
Other Questions on Surrendering a Dog
Q: Can I track my dog after surrender?
A: Policies differ, but some shelters may allow you to receive updates on your pet’s well-being post-surrender. However, without private rehoming, contacting their new owners directly may not be possible.
Q: What happens to my dog after surrender?
A: Shelters typically assess your dog’s health and behavior to find a suitable new home for them.
Q: Can I reclaim my dog after surrender?
A: Policies vary, but generally, surrendering your dog relinquishes all rights, and reclaiming them requires going through a prospective adopter’s application process.
Q: Is there a cost to surrendering a dog?
A: Some shelters may request a surrender fee to cover the care and rehoming of your dog.
Q: Can I directly surrender my dog to a new owner?
A: Yes, if you find a suitable new home for your dog, direct rehoming can be an alternative to shelter surrender.
Q: What if a shelter fails to rehome my dog? Will they euthanize them?
A: Unfortunately, this is a possibility. Approximately 12% of surrendered dogs face euthanasia if they are deemed unsuitable for rehoming due to health or behavioral issues. Keeping them in a shelter indefinitely is neither financially feasible nor humane.
Q: Will I be notified if my dog is to be euthanized?
A: Shelter policies and the agreement at surrender time determine this. Ensure you are clear on all policies and have asked any necessary questions before leaving the shelter.
Conclusion
Surrendering your dog is a challenging decision usually considered as a last resort. By following these steps, you can ensure a responsible and compassionate surrender, prioritizing your dog’s well-being above all else.
Sources
- https://carenorthshore.org/pet-financial-aid#:~:text=The%20Pet%20Fund%20is%20a,expensive%20surgery%20or%20medical%20treatment.
Featured Image Credit: dogboxstudio, Shutterstock
