Considering giving up your dog?

We'll help you make the right decision for your dog.

Handing over a dog to us

Giving up your dog is a tough decision, but one that is sometimes out of your control.

There are many reasons why you might feel you need to give up your dog, and we’re here to help. We won’t judge you if you decide it’s best to find them a new home.  

We have different options depending on what suits your circumstances.  

  • Continue caring for your dog while we find them a home. With our Homestay service, your dog stays with you in your home while we look for their new home, meaning we don’t need to wait for a kennel or foster home to become available. When you get in touch with us, we’ll discuss this option with you.
  • Alternatively you may prefer your dog to come into our care, staying in kennels or temporary foster care, until we can match them with a new family.

Please contact our team using the form below, letting us know which option you prefer, and we will take you through the next steps.   

If you're struggling to cope with a dog you've rehomed from us, get in touch with us. We're here to support you, whatever the reason and however long it is since you first adopted from us.

Alternatives to consider before giving up your dog

We understand that considering giving up your dog can be a heartbreaking decision, so before you decide, consider some alternative options that might help you stay together.

Try our advice tool for helpful support tailored to your situation. 

Let's get started

Alternatively, read our advice on alternatives to consider before giving up your dog.

What happens if you give your dog up to us

Find out how to give up your dog to us; how the process works; how you’ll be supported through this difficult journey and how we care for each dog as an individual while we search for a new owner for them.

10,023 dogs

rehomed through us last year

Illustration of a yellow beagle dog wagging its tail

It’s an emergency, can you take my dog now?

We understand how challenging this time can be, and we are dedicated to helping wherever possible. To give every dog in our care the best attention, we operate at full capacity, so there is usually a wait before a kennel becomes available for immediate intake.

Give us a call on 0300 303 2188 to talk to our team about your situation, or submit an online form, and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Can you look after my dog temporarily?

We’re unable to offer temporary boarding for dogs. This is because we need to prioritise caring for those who are without a home and are most at risk of being put to sleep. If you need temporary boarding for your dog, we recommend contacting your vet who may be able to recommend kennels close by. 

I don’t live near a Dogs Trust location. Can I go somewhere else?

You don’t need to live near one of our locations to give up your dog to us – we take in dogs from all over the UK. You will need to travel to one of the areas in which we work, though. Give us a call on 0300 303 2188 and we’ll do everything we can to help.    

If it’s not possible for you to come to one of our locations, look for an alternative rehoming organisation that is a member of the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes. You’ll have the reassurance that they meet the minimum animal welfare standards required by law and will take good care of your dog.   

What if I can't complete the online form?

If you’re unable to complete the form online, please call us on 0300 303 2188 and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

Contact us for help

If you are struggling and need to give up your dog, we'll listen without judgement. We will always try our best to keep you and your dog together but, if there are problems that cannot be overcome, we'll work together to find the right solution for you.

We will do our best to help as many dogs as possible, and prioritise dogs previously adopted from us. 

To start the process please complete our online form. This helps us build a better understanding of your dog's individual needs and circumstances. Please answer as openly and honestly as you can. 

If we are able to help, we will be in touch within five working days. 

Complete our form

Have you explored the alternative options available before giving up your dog?