Adopting a dog can be a rewarding way to give a rescue dog a second chance at a happy life. Across the UK, hundreds of charities care for dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds and at Rescue Finder you’ll find thousands of dogs looking for a loving home. While each charity has its own process, the adoption journey usually follows the same steps and here we'll help you understand how the process usually works so you know what to expect.
Am I Eligible to Adopt a Rescue Dog?
Every charity has their own requirements when it comes to letting someone adopt a dog, so always speak to them or check their terms first. However, there are a few things that will be required in most cases:
- Be 18 or over
- Have permission from a landlord if renting
- Have a secure garden
- Commit to any training or behavioural support recommended
- Ensure the dog isn’t left alone longer than they can cope with
- Provide suitable daily exercise and care
It's also advisable to look into the costs of owning a dog, especially if you are a first time owner. Unexpected costs can lead to dogs being returned to kennels, so we've written a detailed guide here on the costs of owning a dog.
How to Find a Dog to Adopt
Firstly, you need to find a suitable companion for your home. Most people begin by browsing dogs online, and Rescue Finder has been designed specifically to make it easier than ever to find the right match by listing dogs from charities all across the UK in one place. Filter by age, sex, breed, location and more to find the right dog for you. You can read a description of the dog to learn more about them, and add them to your ‘Saved Dogs’ list if you’ve found a few that you think could be right for you.
Some dogs may have come from difficult circumstances, while others may simply have been handed over because their previous owners could no longer care for them. Every dog is different, so take time to read profiles carefully and think realistically about what will suit your lifestyle.
It’s also worth remembering that not all dogs in rescue are advertised online, so even if you don’t immediately find the right one, applying or visiting a centre can still be worthwhile.
Complete an Adoption Application
Once you’ve found the right dog, make sure to visit the charity website where you’ll usually need to complete an application form. In some cases, you’ll have to contact the charity directly instead via phone or email, so be sure to read their adoption process to see how to proceed. An application helps the charity understand your home, lifestyle and experience with dogs. You won’t always be applying for a specific dog; instead, the goal is to help the charity match you with a dog that fits your situation but you can usually give a preference.
They'll often ask you questions about:
- Your household size and location
- Any children or other pets
- Your garden or access to outdoor space
- Your experience with dogs and training
Many charities only require one application, which they’ll keep open for a set period while they look for a suitable match.
Meet and Get to Know the Dog
If a charity thinks you could be a good match for a dog in their care, they’ll invite you to meet them at the rehoming centre. Some dogs may need several meetings to feel comfortable and to make sure the match is right for everyone involved.
All members of the household are usually encouraged to attend (including any dogs you may already have), as this helps identify any potential issues. This stage is as much about you getting to know the dog as it is about the charity ensuring the dog’s long-term welfare.
Home Check and Preparation
Some charities carry out a home visit or home check before adoption, or they may ask to see photos or videos of your home and the garden. This is to make sure it's safe and suitable for any dog that may be coming to live with you. Once checks have been carried out, you’ll get some guidance on how to prepare for your new best friend coming to live with you. This could include:
- Preparing your home and garden, making sure it’s secure
- Making sure you are aware of any potential health issues that may need to be addressed in the future
- Food, bedding and toys
- Helping your dog settle during the first few weeks
We have a great guide here on how to prepare your home for a rescue dog.
Taking Your New Dog Home
Once everyone is happy, you’ll be able to collect your dog and complete the adoption paperwork. Most dogs are rehomed with:
- Microchipping
- Vaccinations
- Neutering (or a voucher if this is done later)
- Flea and worming treatment
You’ll usually receive an information pack with advice on settling in, training and healthcare. You’ll likely have to pay an adoption fee before you can bring the dog home and these vary between charities. They help cover the significant veterinary and care costs involved in rescue and allow the charity to continue running and helping more dogs.
Settling in at Home
It’s very normal for rescue dogs to feel nervous or unsettled at first, especially if they've had a difficult past or not lived in a home before. Give them time and patience and allow your dog to adjust at their own pace. Many charities offer post-adoption support, including follow-up calls or visits and ongoing advice if you have any difficulties.
Remember, adopting a dog can take time, but the reward is a loyal companion and the knowledge that you’ve changed a life for the better. If you’re ready to begin, start browsing on Rescue Finder to find your perfect match.