How To Rehome Your Dog On Your Own
Prepare for Rehoming
- Do not rush: Give yourself enough time to find the right home instead of a last-minute effort.
- Create a detailed profile: Write a thorough description of your dog, including their age, gender, personality, likes, dislikes, any medical or behavioral needs, training, good with kids or adults only, potty trained, crate trained, etc.
- Gather supplies: Collect your dog's vet records, food, favorite toys, and leash to give to the new owner.
- Set a Rehoming Fee: The average annual cost to own a dog is $1500. Charge a fee that you feel is reasonable to screen out potential bait dogs for dog fighting, laboratory testing, or other unreliable future owners to ensure your dog will have the necessary care they need and deserve
Find Potential Adopters
- Network with your social circle: Ask friends, family, and coworkers if they are looking for a dog or know someone who is.
- Use social media and community groups: Post on your own social media, but also search for local pet rehoming or community groups on platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor, Lab Rescue OK, and or visit our links for mixed breed rescues https://www.labrescue.net/owner-surrender-resources/ . Make sure your posts are public.
- See Example Photos Below that will be more likely to get your dog adopted

- Spread the word locally: Ask local pet stores, groomers, and your veterinarian if you can post a flyer.
Screen Potential Adopters
- Interview applicants thoroughly:
- Ask questions about their lifestyle, experience with dogs, and how they plan to care for the pet to ensure a good fit.
- What type of fence do they have – you can easily check their home address on google earth
- Ask for their current vet information so you can ensure they vaccinate, spay/neuter, and are current on their heartworm and flea/tick medicine
- Feel free to look at the questions on our adoption application to give you ideas on exactly what to ask potential adopters https://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/9fVGc0d9cMz0Cl6618
- Arrange a meeting: Have potential adopters meet your dog in a neutral location first, and then in your home or their home to see how they interact. It is important to see how the new owner interacts with your dog and or the other potential adopters home
- Don't be afraid to say no: If you don't feel that an adopter is a good fit, it is okay to turn them down. Finding a safe, loving home is the top priority.
Finalize The Rehoming
- Create a written agreement: Draft a simple rehoming agreement that includes the dog's information, your information, and the new owner's information. Both parties should sign it to make it official.
- Be prepared for follow-up: Ask the new owner if it's okay to stay in touch so you can check in on the dog after they've settled in.