Can I adopt a dog from overseas?
You are considering adopting a dog and know you can adopt a dog from the UK or abroad, but how do you go about adopting a dog from overseas? There are dogs in need in the UK and also many deserving dogs in countless other countries, from rescue dogs in bustling shelters of Thailand to companions patiently waiting in Romanian rescue centres. Adopting a rescue dog from abroad can be a wonderful experience, but navigating the process can seem daunting. This guide will walk you through the steps to adopting a dog from overseas, helping you find your perfect pup and give them a loving forever home.
How do I start looking for a dog to adopt?
The first step is to find a reputable rescue organisation that facilitates overseas dog adoption. These organisations partner with shelters in other countries to find forever homes for dogs in need. A quick online search for "adopt dog overseas" or for terms specific to a country that interests you, like "Spanish rescue dogs" or "adopt a dog from Spain" will give you a good starting point. At Spanish Happy Tails Rescue UK, we support dog rescue from Spain to the UK.
Once you've chosen a rescue organisation, you'll typically follow these steps:
Adoption Application: Fill out an application that details your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and the kind of dog you're hoping to adopt. Be honest about your living situation, daily routine, and experience level. This helps the rescue organisation ensure a good match between you and your new dog.
Home Check: A volunteer from the rescue organisation may visit your home to ensure it's a safe and suitable environment for a dog. This might involve checking your living space for potential hazards and your garden to ensure it is secure for a new dog. Home checks are not always in person, they can also be done via video call if distance is problematic.
Matching You with Your Perfect Match: The rescue organisation will consider your application and try to match you with a dog that fits your lifestyle. They'll take into account the dog's age, temperament, and activity level. They may also have information about the dog's personality and past experiences, which can help determine a good fit. You may have fallen in love with a particular dog, but if their needs do not match what you can provide for them, they are not the dog for you. Remember, a rescue organisation is looking to find the right family for the dog.
Learning About Your Dog's Background: The rescue organisation will provide information about your dog's medical history and any known past experiences. This could include details about vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and any behavioural traits to be aware of.
Welcome Home! Once everything is finalised, your new rescue dog will be transported safely to your home country. This process typically involves following import regulations and ensuring all necessary paperwork is in order. There has been some bad press in the past about some organisations not following regulations which lead to a restriction on the import of dogs from certain countries. It should be clear what the organisation will do and if you are in any doubt, ask.
How much does it cost to adopt a dog?
Adoption fees vary, some may cover the dog's travel expenses, vaccinations, and health checks, sometimes you will pay an adoption fee to contribute to the shelter’s expenses and a separate transport fee directly to a transport company. These fees can vary depending on the organisation, distance, and any specific needs of the dog, but generally, the total will fall around £500.
Should I adopt a dog from overseas?
Adopting a dog from overseas is a big decision, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Research: Choose a reputable organisation with a good track record. Look for reviews, if a page has disabled reviews, be wary. Ensure the organisation prioritises the well-being of the animals and has a transparent adoption process.
Patience: The adoption process may take some time, so be patient. Depending on the organisation and your location, it could take several weeks or even months to complete the process.
Preparation: Ensure your home is ready for a new dog. Research any import regulations for your country, including required vaccinations, quarantine periods, and necessary paperwork. Stock up on essential supplies like food, bowls, lead and bed.
Considerations for a Smooth Adoption
There are a few additional things to consider to ensure a smooth adoption process and a successful transition for your new dog:
Adjusting to a New Environment: Remember, your dog will be coming from a new and unfamiliar environment. Be patient as they adjust to their new home, routine, and family. Provide them with a safe space to feel comfortable and ensure you know how to read their body language to enable you to support them going forward.
Understanding Their Background: If possible, gather as much information as you can about your dog's background and past experiences. This can help you understand their behaviour and potential needs. Some dogs may have had a difficult past and require extra patience and understanding. It is common for dogs to be rescued from the streets with no known background. If this is the case, the shelter/rescue organisation will be able to tell you how the dog is in their observations. Ask as many questions as you need to find out about your potential new rescue dog.
Considerations: In some countries, stray dogs may not have had much human interaction. Be prepared to socialise your dog slowly and positively, and be patient as they learn basic commands and proper behaviour.
Would you like to adopt a dog from Spain?
Adopting a dog from overseas is a chance to change a life – both yours and the dog's. By following these steps and working with a reputable rescue organisation, you can ensure a smooth and successful adoption process. At Spanish Happy Tails Rescue UK we help rescue dogs from Spain find loving homes in the UK.
Adopting a dog from Spain is more straightforward than you might think, we deal with everything for you and with full Rescue Back Up, we are there for you from adoption and every day after that.
