How adoption works
Every rescue organisation runs its own process, but adoption in the UK usually follows the same six steps.
- Step 1
Search honestly
Think about your household before you fall in love with a photo. How many hours will the animal be alone, do you have a garden, are there children or other pets? Our filters use the rescue's own assessment of each animal.
- Step 2
Send an enquiry
Your enquiry goes straight to the rescue caring for the animal. Tell them about your home, your experience and your routine — it helps them judge the match quickly.
- Step 3
Talk it through
Most rescues will call or email you, sometimes with a short questionnaire. This is your chance to ask about behaviour, health needs and costs.
- Step 4
Home check
Many UK rescues carry out a home visit or a video walkthrough. It isn't an inspection of your housekeeping — they're checking fencing, space and safety.
- Step 5
Meet the animal
You'll usually meet at the rescue or foster home, sometimes more than once, and dogs may be introduced to any resident dog on neutral ground.
- Step 6
Adoption and settling in
You'll sign an adoption agreement and normally pay an adoption fee that contributes to vet care, vaccinations, microchipping and neutering. Good rescues stay in touch afterwards.