Surrendering your pet to an animal welfare organization should be the last resort if you need to rehome your pet. You are the best advocate for your pet, and you can help them avoid the stress of transitioning from your home, to a shelter/rescue, and then to a new home.
Of course, the best solution is to keep your pet if at all possible. If you are having challenges with your pet, there are many resources available to keep your pet in your home. Just let us know, check out the resources on our website, or give Dane County Humane Society a call at 608.838.0413 ext. 100. Important to note: if your cat is having litterbox issues, your first step should be a visit to your veterinarian ASAP!
If you are unable to keep your pet, here are some steps to take to find them a new home:
- If you adopted your animal from a shelter or rescue, you should contact them first. Your adoption contract may require you to return the pet to the agency.
- If your purchased your dog from a responsible breeder, they likely have a contract in place requiring you to return your dog to them. If not and they are purebred or strongly resemble a specific breed, reach out to breed-specific rescues for help. Just google your dog’s breed and “rescue.”
- Reach out to your friends, family, coworkers, neighbors and other people you know. They probably know your pet already and may be happy to help.
- Post your animal on your social media accounts (facebook, etc.)
- Hang up posters at area businesses.
- List the animal with various rehoming sites, such as Dane County Humane Society’s rehoming service.
- Read through this great resource on finding a new home for your pet from Best Friends, including tips on screening potential adopters. PDF version of “How to Find Homes for Homeless Pets.”