Our adoption process
Thank you for your interest in adopting a dog from Chilterns Dog Rescue Society.
We know that inviting a dog into your home is a very big decision so, whether you have a wealth of experience or are a first time dog owner, we are here to offer support at every step along the way.
STEP 1: Let’s find the dog that is just right for you
- We politely suggest you register by post or email first but visits are also welcome by appointment.
- Our Welcome Pack contains an adoption application form to complete and return to us so we know about the home you have to offer and the age, size and type of dog you would prefer
- If you would prefer us to post you an application form, please provide your postal address and we would be happy to send one.
- Once we have received your completed application, we will get in touch to talk through it with you and answer any questions you may have.
STEP 2: Meet and Greet
- We rescue dogs of all ages, sizes, types and backgrounds. Some people find the right dog on the first visit, for others it may take longer but we will retain your application until you find the dog you are hoping for.
- As soon as a potential match is identified, a mutually convenient time will be made for your first 'meet and greet' visit and to spend time with that dog, or dogs, on a one-to-one basis.
- Please be advised we do not offer 'open' kennels where you can view all the dogs in our care because they would find this very stressful, but we have a lovely woodland route around the site where you can walk and get to know each dog a little better.
STEP 3: Follow Up Visit(s)
- We want to ensure both you and your new dog will be happy together.
- When you think you have found the perfect canine friend, we want you to take time and get to know them better.
- A second visit is a chance to clarify what the dog does and does not know and to ask about the things that are important to them and to you.
STEP 4: Time to Decide
- We hope your new dog will be with you for a long time so, if you feel you have not yet met the right dog, we will happily go on looking for you.
- For CDRS it is about meeting the needs of individual dogs, so the right long-term home is achieved, and each adopter is completely happy with the new addition to their home.
- No homing is done on a ' first come, first served basis ' so, while some adopters can be helped very quickly, others may wait longer for a dog that meets their expectations and home circumstances.
STEP 5: Adoption
- When you find the right dog, we will be as delighted as you!
- Experienced staff, trainers and behaviourists will be there to guide you through the inevitable adoption paperwork and to support your early weeks together - and as far into the future as you feel you need.
Costs
- As a registered charity, Chilterns Dog Rescue Society receives no government funding and relies heavily on the generosity of our members, adopters, and other dog lovers.
- The adoption fee you make will help us to continue our rescue and rehoming work.
- Crossbreed puppies and dogs up to the age of 7 years: current adoption fee - £300.00
- Dogs 7 years and above: current adoption fee - £50.00
- An additional supplement may be charged for purebred puppies and dogs.
The adoption fee includes
- Vet checks, inoculations and, parasite treatments
- Microchip transfer
- With every adoption, 4 weeks free insurance from Petplan is included
- After care help and advice
Available for purchase at the Rescue Centre
- A selection of collars and leads
- A variety of dog toys and Kongs
- Long lines and other training equipment
- Small, medium and large crates
- Food and water bowls
- Additional dog food – 2kg and 12kg bags
And finally…
Thank you for giving a home to a dog in need. We wish you many happy years together.
Emails, letters, photos and visits are always appreciated so please keep in touch.
Meet the dogs
Here are details of a few of the dogs we have at the Rescue Centre.
Donations
Without donations from the public we could not ensure the continued work of Chilterns Dog Rescue Society. If you are able to donate any amount it would be greatly appreciated - even if it is as little as £10. The money you give will help us to save the lives of dogs with nowhere else to turn to.
Through our partnership with CAFonline, a leading donation processing agency, you can now donate online over a secure connection. Just click on the DONATE button below. Please remember to indicate if you are a UK taxpayer, as we will receive an extra 25p from the Government for every £1 donated under the Gift Aid scheme. Pledging your gift online is the most efficient way to support Chilterns Dog Rescue Society as it saves us time and money, and is quick and easy for you too.
If you would like to become a member please contact us.
