Our Process – How We Operate

We have a simple and thorough rehoming process. Whenever you rehome an animal with Helping Dogs and Cats UK, we will be there to guide and support you every step of the way. 

Before we can match you with a dog or cat, you will need to complete an application form and answer a few questions related to your current living circumstances as well as your preferences. Our team will then use their rehoming experience to match you with your perfect pet, which is why we encourage you to not apply for a specific animal as, chances are, we might be able to find you an even more suitable.

The form should take no more than 15 minutes and will help us find a dog or cat that is right for you. If you are unable to complete the online form, send an email to enquiries@helpingdogsandcatsuk.org to request an application form in an alternative format.

Whether you are looking to foster or adopt please find our criteria below:

For Dogs

· We do not home to flats above ground level.

· We do not home with children under 8 years of age.

· You will require a minimum 5ft height secure  fence/wall.

For Cats

 · We do not home on main roads or close to railway lines.

· We do not home with children under 5 years of age.

After submitted your application, you will receive an automated response. Making good matches between people and pets is the most important thing to us, but it can take time. 

When we think there is a good match, we will contact you to arrange a call. A member of our rehoming team (a volunteer) will get in touch to chat about a few more details.

If we feel it is a good match and you are happy to proceed, an in-person home check with be organised. 

If you pass the home check, we will then arrange a visit for you to meet your potential new dog or cat in its foster home. We ask for a minimum of three visits for dogs, including taking your own dogs to meet your potential new arrival, and any other family members. 

Next step is to pay the adoption fee and sign and return our terms of agreement. The fourth visit will be to collect the dog or in some cases the dog will be delivered directly to you at home.

This is where your new friendship begins! We know that rehoming a pet is an exciting and emotional experience, so we will continue to give you plenty of expert advice and support to help your new pet settle in.