WAAG’s Rehoming Guide

Rehoming a pet is never an easy decision. It can be a heart-wrenching process filled with guilt, sadness, and worry about your pet’s future. However, sometimes circumstances change, and finding a new home for your pet becomes the best option for both you and your furry friend. Here’s a compassionate guide to help you through the rehoming process, ensuring your pet finds a loving, safe, and happy new home.

1. Assess the Situation

Before deciding to rehome your pet, take a moment to assess the situation thoroughly. Ask yourself:

Have I explored all possible alternatives, such as training, veterinary advice, or lifestyle adjustments? If you’re unsure, give us a call and we can help you assess your situation.
Is rehoming truly the best option for my pet’s well-being?

If you’ve exhausted all other options and determined that rehoming is necessary, proceed with the following steps to ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

2. Prepare Your Pet

Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, spayed or neutered, and in good health. There are many low-cost mobile clinics in Longview for vaccinations, and we recommend Columbia Vet in Astoria for spay/neuter.
Gather all medical records, vaccination certificates, and any other relevant documents. This information will be crucial for the new owner and can help ease the transition for your pet.

3. Create a Pet Profile

A detailed pet profile is essential for attracting potential adopters who are a good match for your pet. Include the following information:

Name, Age, and Breed: Basic details that help potential adopters get a sense of your pet.
Personality Traits: Describe your pet’s temperament, likes, dislikes, and any quirks. Are they good with children? Do they get along with other pets?
Medical History: Provide a summary of your pet’s health, including any ongoing medical conditions or special needs.
Daily Routine: Share insights into your pet’s daily routine, including feeding schedules, exercise needs, and favorite activities.
Reason for Rehoming: Many sites require an explanation for why you’re rehoming your pet.
Photos and Videos: High-quality photos and videos can make a big difference. Capture your pet in various situations to showcase their personality.
Rehoming Fee: We recommend requiring a rehoming fee, as free animals are often targeted for abuse (like dog fighting bait) or immediate reselling.

4. Reach Out to Friends and Family

Start by reaching out to friends, family members, and coworkers. Someone in your immediate circle might be willing and able to provide a loving home for your pet. Personal connections can often lead to more trustworthy and reliable adopters.

5. Utilize Social Media

Social media platforms are powerful tools for spreading the word about your pet. Post your pet’s profile on your own accounts and ask friends to share. Join local pet rehoming groups on Facebook or Nextdoor to reach a wider audience. WAAG posts in the Facebook groups below. Please read the Rules before joining, as some have strict rules about what can be included in your rehoming post.

6. Contact Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Groups

Reach out to local humane societies and other rescue organizations. Many of these organizations offer rehoming services or can assist in finding a new home for your pet. Some may even have foster programs that can temporarily care for your pet while searching for a permanent home.

Cowlitz County Humane Society is not taking animals from Wahkiakum, but South Pacific Humane Society, Southwest Washington Humane Society and Oregon Humane Society might. Please note these organizations likely have a several-month long waitlist, so contact them at your earliest convenience.

7. Use Pet Rehoming Websites

Several websites specialize in pet rehoming, providing a platform to connect pet owners with potential adopters. Some popular options include:

Rehome by AdoptAPet: A free service that helps pet owners find new homes for their pets.
RescueMe: Allows you to create a profile for your pet and reach a large audience of potential adopters.

8. Screen Potential Adopters

Carefully screen potential adopters to ensure they are a good fit for your pet. Consider conducting phone interviews, home visits, and meet-and-greets to get to know the adopters better. Ask questions about their experience with pets, lifestyle, and why they are interested in adopting your pet. Ensure they understand the commitment involved in pet ownership. Be upfront with any difficulties you’re experiencing with your pet, so the animal is less likely to be returned or abandoned.

9. Create an Adoption Agreement

An adoption agreement is a formal document that outlines the responsibilities of the new owner and ensures your pet’s well-being. You can find examples of agreements online. Include information such as:

The adopter’s commitment to providing proper care, food, and medical attention.
Agreement to return the pet to you if they can no longer care for it.
Any specific needs or requirements for your pet.

10. Ease the Transition

Once you’ve found a suitable adopter, help ease the transition for your pet by providing the new owner with familiar items such as your pet’s bed, toys, and food. Share detailed information about your pet’s routine and preferences to help the new owner provide a smooth transition.

11. Follow Up

Check in with the new owner after a few weeks to see how your pet is adjusting. Offer support and advice if needed, and ensure that your pet is settling in well.

Conclusion

Rehoming a pet is a difficult and emotional decision, but by taking the right steps, you can ensure your pet finds a loving and suitable new home. Approach the process with compassion, patience, and diligence to make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and your beloved pet. Remember, the goal is to provide your pet with the best possible chance for a happy and fulfilling life. If you have any questions along the way, please feel free to reach out to WAAG for advice and assistance!