How to adopt a farm animal
Thinking about rescuing a farm animal? This guide explains how to adopt a goat, rescue chickens near you, or give other farm animals a safe and caring home.
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Farm animal adoption process
Find a rescue farm animal
Use our Find a Pet search to browse farm animals looking for homes. Whether you’re hoping to adopt a goat or rescue chickens near you, you can filter by location and species to find the right match.
Each profile explains the animal’s background, needs and the type of environment they’re looking for, helping you decide whether they could be a good fit for your land and setup.
Apply to adopt a farm animal
Once you’ve found a suitable animal, complete an online application. We’ll ask about your land, shelter, fencing, and experience caring for farm animals. Our teams review each application carefully to make sure the animal’s needs can be met.
Speak to the team about your setup
If it looks like a good match, our team will contact you to discuss your setup in more detail.
This may include talking through space, grazing, housing and whether the animal will have companions. This step helps us make sure everything is in place for safe and successful rehoming.
Prepare your home
Before bringing your animal home, our team will guide you on shelter, fencing, feeding and daily care. Farm animals have specific needs depending on the species. For example, rescue chickens need secure housing and companionship, whereas if you want to adopt a goat, you’ll need suitable land and strong fencing.
Taking time to prepare properly will help them settle in safely and comfortably.
Complete the adoption
Once everything is agreed, we’ll guide you through the final paperwork and adoption fee.
You’ll collect your animal from the centre or an agreed location. Our team will provide information on their routine, care needs and how to help them settle into their new environment. We can offer ongoing support and advice if you need it.
Find a pet
Meet our farm animals
Before you apply
What we need from you
Farm animals need the right care, space and environment to thrive and are a significant long-term commitment, whether kept as companions or part of a smallholding.
Before applying to adopt, we ask that you:
- Are aged 18 or over
- Have permission from your landlord if you rent
- Have suitable land, shelter and secure fencing
- Can meet the animal’s dietary, health and behavioural needs
- Understand the long-term commitment involved
- Are prepared for ongoing costs, including veterinary care
If the animal you apply for isn’t the right match, we’ll help you explore other suitable options.
Farm animal adoption fees
If you’re wondering how much it is to adopt a chicken or other farm animal from the RSPCA, fees vary depending on the species and individual animal.
Our team will explain what’s included for your chosen animal.
Your fee contributes towards:
Veterinary checks and treatment
Transport and care while in our centres
Neutering where appropriate
Frequently asked questions
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No. Animals rehomed by the RSPCA must be kept as pets or companions, not used for commercial purposes.
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No. Farm animals need appropriate outdoor environments that meet their welfare needs.
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Yes, most species are social and should live with others of their kind.
Further resources
