Surrendering
Reach out for help Early.
Prioritize the animal’s Wellness.
We want to Help.
Overview
Surrendering an animal is a serious decision. It is one that heavily affects animal and people’s lives and should not be done without immense consideration and considering all possible options prior to giving up the animal. At Happy Tails Happy Homes, we are here to help during this difficult time, and we want what is best for the animal. However, as badly as we want to save all animals and help them find their forever home, this is not always possible. We are a smaller 100% volunteer-run rescue and have limited resources and capacity. We do our best to support each family the best we can.
Step 1- Fill out the Animal Surrender Form here. Provide as much information as possible.
Step 2- Give volunteers up to 10 business days to respond. You will be contacted via email or phone.
Step 3- If HTHH has foster availability or can assist with an owner foster situation, we will schedule a temperament test to make sure that HTHH can accurately describe the dog to potential adopters and find the best placement.
Possible REHOMING SUpport
Owner Foster—Happy Tails Happy Homes supports the owner with rehoming their dog while the owner continues to care for the animal. Happy Tails Happy Homes can help with veterinary expenses and supplies during this process. Dogs must pass the temperament test to qualify.
Foster Home—We have a foster home open and a dog can be moved directly into foster. Dog must pass the temperament test to qualify.
Courtesy Listing—Owner just wants help with advertising the dog, or Happy Tails Happy Homes is unable to take the dog into the rescue because of one or more of the following reasons:
- Dog does not pass the SAFER Temperament test.
- Dog has a bite record.
- We do not have the resources to support the dog in our rescue.
In any of these situations, we can offer the owners an option of posting their dog on our adoption sites. However, the owner is responsible for the adoption process. Happy Tails Happy Home does not take any ownership of the animals who are courtesy listings.
*As badly as Happy Tails Happy Homes wants to help every dog in the world, we are sadly restricted by resources and our insurance policy.
RE-Evaluate Your Situation
Many pet-related problems can be frustrating, and you may feel that relinquishing your pet is the only solution. But before you take that drastic step, be aware of the wealth of resources available to help pet owners deal with problems that can seem overwhelming.
Behavior Problems
If you are dealing with a pet behavior problem, consider first consulting with your veterinarian. Many problems may be due to treatable medical conditions. For example, a house trained pet may begin urinating in the house due to a urinary tract infection rather than a behavior problem. Your veterinarian will be able to rule out any physical causes of the problem and may also be able to refer you to an animal behaviorist or trainer in your community who has the experience and expertise to help address your pet’s problem.
Second, consult with a professional behaviorist or trainer. Sometimes it takes working with multiple trainers to solve the problem. One solution does not always work for all dogs. Remember change does not happen overnight. Training takes time, consistency, and patience.
Animal Aggression
Often times people report dog aggression towards people or other animals as a reason for relinquishing. This is a behavioral or medical issues that needs to be evaluated by a veterinarian, behaviorist, or trainer. Many behaviors considered aggressive can be addressed with training and management.
Housing Problems
In a recent study, “Moving” and “Landlord won’t allow” were among the top reasons for the relinquishment of pets. If you are moving and having trouble finding animal-friendly housing, look online for “Pet-Friendly rentals” in your area.
Family Heath Problems
Do you or a family member have a health problem that makes it difficult to keep your pet? Check first with your physician for medical opinion before taking a drastic step or relinquishing an animal.
