Owning a pet is one of the most wonderful aspects of life, and for many owners, their dog or cat is an irreplaceable part of the family. This is why installing and updating their microchip is such a vital part of their care.
However, there are some situations where, after exhausting all alternatives, you feel you have no choice but to surrender your pet and give them up to be rehomed.
Giving up a beloved pet is always an option of last resort, typically the result of a change in circumstances (often financial), allergy problems or behavioural issues that cannot be overcome. It is a choice that should never be taken lightly.
If all other forms of support are not enough, and you feel like surrender is in the best interests of your pet, then ask your vet, an organisation such as the RSPCA, or look for rescue organisations and animal shelters in your area to see what their surrender services involve.
They can provide advice and assistance, and the earlier they are involved in the process of transition, the less traumatic it will be for your pet and the better their chances of finding the perfect home.
They typically need to be up to date on vaccinations and care, as well as being microchipped, as the details will need to be updated once you give up the pet. You should also make sure you have your pet’s belongings in place to help with the transition.
Once you find the right place, you will need to fill in a surrender form that will ask about your pet’s health, temperament and overall condition. This information is vital to ensure that the shelter is the right fit and has a place for them, so please answer honestly.
Once the form is completed, the pet will undergo a health and behavioural assessment before the decision is made to adopt. Make sure to spend some time with your pet and give them a lot of love and affection. Surrendering a pet is not an easy process for the owner or the animal, and it is okay to feel strongly about it.
You can often follow up with the shelter to check how they are doing or if they have found a new forever home.
