Adopting is one of the most wonderful decisions you can make, and also one of the longest-lasting. A dog or a cat stays with a family for many years. That's why the sanctuary's adoption process exists: to protect the animal and to protect the person adopting.

Before adopting, ask yourself

  • Do I have the time? Walks, play, training, trips to the vet. An animal needs attention every single day.
  • Is my home suitable? Space, fencing, stairs, other animals, young children.
  • Is the whole family on board? Including whoever will be walking the dog in the rain at seven in the morning.
  • Can I afford it? Food, vaccinations, worming, vet appointments and the unexpected.
  • And in ten years' time? Moving house, changing jobs or changes in the family should not be a reason to give an animal back.

Choose the right animal, not the prettiest

The photo is the first contact, but what counts is temperament. A very active dog may not be happy in a flat with owners who are out all day. An older, calmer animal can be the perfect companion for someone looking for peace and quiet. The team knows every animal and helps find the right match.

Don't forget adults and seniors

Puppies are the first to be chosen. But an adult animal already has a settled temperament, often already knows how to live in a home and needs less training. Seniors, who tend to wait longer, repay you with a gratitude that surprises those who adopt them.

How adoption works at the sanctuary

  1. Get to know the animal: look at its profile under adoptions, read its story and send an adoption request from the animal's page.
  2. Talk: we'll call you to talk about your home, your routine and what the animal needs.
  3. Visit: come to the sanctuary, by appointment, take it for a walk and come back as many times as needed.
  4. Make it official: we sign the adoption contract. The animal leaves microchipped, vaccinated and neutered.
  5. Follow-up: after the adoption we stay close by, to help with settling in.

The first few weeks

Give the animal time. Moving home is very demanding, even for one coming from a good place. Keep routines steady, give it a corner of its own, and introduce it to the family, the home and the neighbourhood little by little. It's normal for there to be some fears, little accidents or restless nights at first.

Still not sure?

Becoming a foster family is the best way to find out whether you have room in your life for an animal. And if adoption isn't possible, you can always sponsor one of the sanctuary's residents.