Purpose
This policy sets out the principles and procedures for the responsible rehoming of animals in our care. Our aim is to ensure that every animal is placed in a safe, secure, and loving home that meets their physical and emotional needs.
General Principles
Adoption is a lifelong commitment. Applicants must be prepared to care for the animal for the entirety of their natural life.
The welfare of the animal will always take priority over the wishes of potential adopters.
No animal will be adopted out for the purposes of breeding, guarding, hunting, resale, or experimentation.
We operate a non-discriminatory policy: homes are assessed on their suitability for the individual animal, not on the applicant’s age, marital status, gender, or income, provided the basic welfare needs can be met.
Application & Assessment
Application Form
All prospective adopters must complete a detailed adoption application.
Information required includes household composition, lifestyle, experience with animals, and home environment.
Home Checks
A home visit will be carried out prior to adoption to ensure suitability.
Where a physical visit is not possible, virtual checks may be conducted.
Matching Animals to Homes
Animals will be matched to homes based on their individual needs and temperament.
Families with children, other pets, or specific circumstances will only be matched with animals suitable for that environment.
Adoption Donation
A non-refundable adoption donation is required. C
Health & Welfare
All animals will be vaccinated, microchipped, and treated for parasites before adoption.
Dogs and cats will be neutered/spayed unless veterinary advice indicates otherwise.
Animals with ongoing health conditions will only be placed in homes that can provide the required care and treatment.
Adoption Agreement
Adopters must sign an Adoption Agreement confirming:
The animal will be kept as a family companion, not for breeding or commercial use.
The adopter will provide adequate food, shelter, exercise, and veterinary care.
The animal will not be sold, given away, or abandoned. If circumstances change, the animal must be returned to Dog Desk Animal Action.
The adopter consents to post-adoption follow-up checks.
Post-Adoption Support
We provide guidance and support to adopters during the transition period.
Behavioural advice and training resources are available as needed.
In cases of genuine difficulty, we will work with adopters to resolve issues.
Right to Refuse
Dog Desk Animal Action reserves the right to refuse an application at any stage if the home is deemed unsuitable. This decision will always be made in the best interests of the animal.
