Adopt a dog

Before you start your journey...

Adopting an animal is a big decision, have you thought about what is involved? Take a look at our care guides to learn how to prepare for, and look after your new animal.

Step 1: Submit your application form

Please complete an application form to tell us about your home, lifestyle, experience and the type of animal you are hoping to share your life with. Please provide as much detail as possible to help us find you the best match. If you are having difficulties with our online form, please call our Rehoming Team on 01825 880468; they will be happy to assist you.

Due to the high volume of enquiries we receive, we regret that we are not able to respond to every application but please be assured we have your details.

Step 2: Don’t be a stranger

Once you have registered with us, please keep checking our website for new arrivals.

If you spot an animal you think might be a match, there is no need to submit another application form, just email us at info@raystede.org to highlight your interest.

When animals arrive at Raystede, we get to know them through behavioural and medical assessments. Our expert animal care teams use this information alongside your application to see if the match could be a success.

Finding the perfect animal can take time. Please be patient; they will be worth the wait.

Please watch our film to find out why rescue animals are the best.

Step 3: A meet and greet invitation

You will be invited to Raystede to meet your match where we will discuss the animal’s background, health, and behaviour. This sometimes requires a few visits so you can get to know one another.

Please note that booking a visitor ticket to Raystede does not enable you to meet an animal you are interested in adopting.

Step 4: Take your new animal home

When your animal is ready to come home, our Rehoming Team will be in touch to arrange an adoption appointment. They will talk you through caring for your new animal. Your adoption fee will help us continue our work to help more animals in need and find their forever homes.

The real adventure begins when you take your new animal home! Our team are here to help if you need any extra support with your adopted companion.

Thank you for considering rehoming an animal from Raystede.