Giving up a dog for adoption
If you’re struggling to look after your dog, you may be considering giving them up for rehoming. Before you make the decision, explore all the available support and advice that can help keep you together – surrendering a dog should be your last resort.
Find an alternative to rehoming your dog
It’s an incredibly difficult decision to give up a dog for adoption – they're our companions and form strong bonds. But looking after pets can be difficult too.
Before deciding to give up a dog to rescue, explore the help we have available to make sure you’ve tried everything you can to keep them with you.
We understand that things don’t always work out and circumstances change, so we also have support for those who decide that rehoming a dog is their only option.
I’m experiencing...
Financial issues
Expensive vet bills
Looking after a dog can be expensive and result in unexpected bills, so it's always worth considering pet insurance.
Available support
For those struggling to pay for vet care, there is financial support available.
Pet food cost
If your financial circumstances change, you may find it difficult to feed your dog.
Available support
RSPCA Pet Food Banks provide pet food, supplies, guidance, and assistance to support owners and their dogs during challenging times.
Behaviour and training
Behavioural issues
It can be distressing when dogs develop behavioural problems, but you don’t have to tackle it alone.
Available support
There are qualified behaviourists up and down the country ready to help you. Dogs' Trust also offer a free behavioural support line where you can speak to a trained expert about your dog's needs.
Dog Training
Training your dog is essential to ensure you encourage good behaviour and help them enjoy life. It’s never too late to teach your dog with positive, reward-based training.
Available support
Read our dog training tips and advice to help your dog develop good habits and behaviours.
Health and living situations
TIME TO CARE
Dogs are a big time commitment and they need exercise and play to be happy and healthy. Sometimes, circumstances change and owners struggle to give their pet the time they need.
Available support
Dog walkers or dog sitters can help, but make sure you vet them properly.
Dog Allergies
If your pet experiences allergies, it can be difficult and distressing.
AVAILABLE SUPPORT
Talk to and seek advice from a vet about how to protect your pet and manage their allergies.
RENTERS' Rights
If you rent your property, or need to move into rented accommodation, you will need to ask your landlord if you can keep pets.
AVAILABLE SUPPORT
The Renters' Rights Bill 2025 (law from 1 May 2026), means private landlords can no longer have a blanket ban on pets. Learn your rights and follow our template to approach your landlord with your request.
ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, you may also be concerned about the welfare of a dog in the home.
AVAILABLE SUPPORT
There is help available. Pet fostering services run by a number of charities can offer a lifeline to those escaping an abusive relationship.
Life changes
welcoming new PETS
Looking after a dog can be expensive and result in unexpected bills, so it's always worth considering pet insurance.
Available support
Read our advice on how to introduce them safely and help your dog get used to the new arrival.
CARE HOME TRANSITIONS
Looking after a dog can be expensive and result in unexpected bills, so it's always worth considering pet insurance.
Available support
Many care homes allow pets, so do your research, or speak to friends and family who may be able to help. The Cinnamon Trust also helps older people plan for their pets if they have to move into a care home.
EMIGRATING
If you’re looking to move abroad, it’s important to plan ahead.
Available support
The government sets out the steps you need to take to ensure your dog can join you in your new home.
Always choose a dog based on their health and temperament, while considering your own lifestyle and finances. Choosing a dog based on trends or appearance can lead to a mismatch in expectation vs reality. If you find yourself here, there’s lots of support available to keep you together.
How can I rehome my dog?
If you make the difficult decision to rehome your dog, you must take them to a reputable rehoming organisation. As the RSPCA needs to prioritise animal victims of cruelty and neglect, our national centres can’t take in unwanted pets. Your local RSPCA branch may be able to help and there are other rehoming organisations who can support you. To find out how to surrender a dog, research each organisation carefully before taking them in.
Frequently asked questions
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Many rescue centres ask for a donation to help towards the cost of caring for the dog, but if you’re struggling financially, they would still be able to help.
