Adoption Process
Many of our cats and dogs have traumatic histories and need a loving home, where they can feel safe and will be properly cared for, sometimes for the first time in their lives. So it is important that each animal is adopted into a home that is suitable for its needs. If you are contemplating taking in a rescued animal you need to consider certain points to make sure you can offer a secure, healthy and happy forever home. To the right are a few pointers that should be considered before adopting.
Are we suitable for each other?
Do I need a garden?
If you don’t have a garden, you will need to be prepared to take your dog out very regularly. If you do have one, is it big enough for a dog to let off steam in and is it safe for him? Some dogs are escape artists and will do so once your back is turned. Also, if you pride yourself on the perfection of your lawn, would you be happy to have it ruined by your dog?
Do I have time for a dog?
Unless you adopt an old dog, your dog will need plenty of exercise, training and time to play. Will you be willing, and have the time, to go out whatever the weather to exercise it and to play with it?
Do you have the energy?
Larger, younger or certain breed dogs won’t be easily satisfied with a quick walk round the block– they’d rather have a hike in the woods or a run on the beach. Do you have what it takes to do that on a regular basis?
Can you afford a dog?
Unfortunately, getting a dog doesn’t just mean buying a lead, a bed and a food bowl, plus a few tins of dog food each time you go to the supermarket. There will be vet’s bills from time to time, insurance, yearly vaccinations, regular flea treatments, kennels when you go on holiday, grooming for some breeds, and so it goes on.
Consider family members
Do you have children, particularly small ones, or ones who visit you regularly? We do not re home to households with children under the age of 6. The same goes for existing family pets. Some dogs get on well with other dogs,cats, etc, others hate them. Introduce them before making the final decision. Make sure your existing pet(s) is happy to accept a new dog into your home.
A few things to note
And last, but not least, remember that all our animals have had a life before they come to Easterleigh, and for many that life has been difficult, if not one of cruelty. Even if they’ve had a good home, but had to be given up due to the ill-health or death of their owner, they arrive frightened and confused, not understanding what is going on. So they all come with a certain amount of baggage, which will require lots of love, understanding and time to resolve. The worst thing you can do to an animal is take it without adequate consideration, only to have to return it because you can’t cope or it doesn’t come up to expectations.
Our Adoption Application Process
Please click on the tabs below to navigate the application process
Stage One : Download rehoming form
If you are interested in one of our animals or generally interested in rehoming, please:
- Download and save an application form (click on the links below)
Complete the form, save it completed, attach it to an email and send to [email protected].
It is important at this stage that you consider if this is the right animal for you. Please consider if this animal can be rehomed in a household with other dogs, cats or children. This information is on each the animals post.
Stage Two : Vetting
The application form will be vetted by our staff to determine if this animal is suitable for you and your home circumstances.
Stage Three : Visit the animal
We will contact you to arrange a visit to meet the animal. Dependent on the animal you are visiting we may require a number of visits to be undertaken to allow the animal to get to know you and your family.
Stage Four : Home visit
We will arrange a home visit to see how your animal is in and around your home surroundings. This stage may require more than 1 visit and may include leaving the animal in your care for a day or overnight trial.
Stage Five : Interview
Final Interview with two Easterleigh staff. This is done to ensure you understand as many aspects, traits and needs of the animal you are rehoming and allows us to ascertain that your home is the right home for our animal to go to. If we establish this is the case, the animal will be signed over to you at this stage. We also normally ask for a donation for the animal at this stage.