Including Transfer of Ownership agreement template, registration links, and shareable checklist.
With shelters and rescues facing unprecedented overcrowding and limited resources, self-rehoming has emerged as a key strategy for improving animal welfare. This approach allows dogs to find loving homes more quickly, easing the burden on shelters and improving animal welfare. It is particularly relevant in communities facing socioeconomic challenges, where studies show 80% of owners opt for this method over surrendering their dogs to shelters.
However, navigating the necessary dog self-rehoming paperwork can be daunting for owners, potentially leading to unregistered pets and future complications. Shelters and rescues can play a crucial role by providing guidance and resources for successful self-rehoming. By empowering owners with the right information, we can increase the likelihood of proper registration, reduce the chances of dogs ending up in shelters, and ensure a smooth transition for both the dogs and their new families.
A Checklist for Successful Self-Rehoming
The following checklist outlines essential steps and documents for a smooth and legal dog transfer. We encourage shelters and rescues to share this information with their communities.
(Click to enlarge and save. Feel free to share. Please contact us if you would like an editable copy of this dog self-rehoming document checklist.)
1. Transfer of Ownership Agreement
A formal transfer of ownership agreement is crucial for protecting both the previous and new owners. It provides legal clarity, confirming the new owner’s rights and relieving the previous owner of future liabilities.
- Utilizing Online Platforms: Some rehoming platforms, like Adopt-a-Pet and Home-to-Home, automatically generate these agreements.
- Facilitating Private Transfers: For adoptions arranged through community platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor, shelters and rescues can offer templates. The Human Animal Support Services (HASS) provides a comprehensive transfer of ownership agreement template and self-rehoming toolkit upon registration (link below). Other templates are also available:
- Human Animal Support Services (HASS): Transfer of Ownership Agreeement Template
- Great Plains SPCA: Transfer of Ownership Agreement Template
- KC Pet Project: Transfer of Ownership Agreement Template
- City of Great Falls, Montana: Transfer of Ownership Agreement Template
2. Dog License and Other Legal Registrations
Many regions require dog licensing. Upon transfer, ownership details must be updated with the relevant local authority. This is a legal requirement in numerous countries, including Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and many parts of Canada and the US.
3. Microchip or Tattoo Registration
Updating microchip information is essential for reuniting lost pets with their owners. Shelters can assist owners in locating the relevant microchip registry by using the following resources:
- US: Microchip Registry Lookup – AAHA
- UK: Find out where your pet is registered – Petlog
- Australia: Pet Address
4. Vaccination & Veterinary Records
The previous owner should inform their veterinarian of the transfer and arrange for the dog’s medical records to be shared with the new owner and their chosen veterinarian. This ensures continuity of care and access to vital health information.
5. Kennel Club Registrations
If the dog is registered with a kennel club (e.g., AKC, Kennel Club UK, CKC), ownership must be officially transferred through the respective organization:
- US: Transfer Ownership of Your Dog – American Kennel Club
- UK: Change your dog’s registered ownership | Kennel Club
- Australia: Submit your Transfer of Ownership Applications Online | CKC
6. Other Important Records
Share any additional relevant documentation with the new owner, including:
- Puppy contracts
- Health certificates (for the dog and parents)
- Breeding records
- Any behavioral training records and notes.
Conclusion
This checklist and the support offered by shelters and rescues are vital tools for responsible self-rehoming. In addition, shelters should take the time to recognize that rehoming can be emotionally challenging for both the previous and new owners. Offer resources and support to help them through this transition. This might include tips on introducing the dog to its new home, managing anxiety, and addressing common concerns.
By embracing this approach, shelters can extend their reach beyond their walls, empowering dog owners to make informed decisions that benefit both their pets and the wider community. Ultimately, this contributes to a future where more dogs thrive in loving homes, properly registered and receiving the care they deserve.