Give up an animal

There are many reasons why you may be considering giving up your animal and it can be a very sad time. We are here to support you through this process.

If you need to give up your animal, we are here to help.

Our Frequently Asked Questions may offer some reassurance and answer any queries you have about the benefits of rehoming through a rescue centre, how we can help, and what to expect during your animal’s journey with us.

Submit a Request to Give up an Animal Frequently Asked Questions

At Raystede, we take into our care and rehome over 1000 animals every year. With a dedicated team and exceptional facilities, we will aim to help to find your animal a suitable new home and a fresh start, whilst supporting you at this difficult time.

Are you considering rehoming your animal?

If you are considering finding a new home for your animal it is a good idea to speak to an expert and get some advice initially.

There are many reasons why an animal’s behaviour may change and we recommend getting some advice and guidance from an approved behaviourist or vet. An adjustment in their care, routine or training can have positive results and may mean that you do not need to rehome your animal after all.

However, we understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances mean you are unable to continue to care for your animal and that the most difficult decision has to be made.

If you need to rehome your animal, please contact us as soon as the decision is made. We are here to help.

Step 1

Please complete a 'Request to give up an animal' form to tell us about your animal. If you would prefer to speak with a member of our Rehoming Team, please call 01825 880468 (8:30am to 4:30pm, seven days a week).

Step 2

Once we have agreed to accept your animal, we will book an appointment with our Rehoming Team to tell us more about your animal and complete the paperwork.

The more detail you can give us the better to ensure we find the most suitable new home. We like to receive copies of your animal’s vaccination card and a health history from your vet.

We also encourage you bring along some of your animal’s personal belongings to help them settle in at the centre.

As Raystede is a charity, some people choose to make a donation to help towards their animal’s care. Whatever you feel able to give is very gratefully received, thank you.

Step 3

During your animal's stay with us, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers will ensure they receive the best possible care. A mixture of home comforts, quiet-time, and positive interaction, such as walks, playtime, grooming and cuddles, is essential. All animals have a thorough behaviour and medical assessment before we start looking for their ideal new home.

“Thank you for loving and looking after my dog. I really appreciate everything you’ve done for him. He was a truly lovely, remarkable, loyal companion.”

Our commitment

We are committed to giving all animals at Raystede the best possible standards of care and welfare.

This is a confidential service; please be aware we cannot share details of new owners, nor can we provide updates. Please be assured that our animal care staff are experienced and dedicated to your animal’s welfare.

Even after an animal leaves us for their new home, we are always available to support the new owner, however far down the line, and we can be contacted for advice and guidance at any stage in the animal’s lifetime.

“We would like to thank the team for all your help with the cats through what has been a difficult period for us as a family.”

We rely on your donations to help animals like Topsy.

When Topsy arrived with us, he was severely underweight and needed a lot of care. We couldn't help the amount of animals we do without your support. Please donate to help more animals get the care they deserve.

Donate