Obtaining a pet from a person or family looking to rehome their animal is an option for people looking to find their next pet. By rehoming a pet, an animal can stay with their owners and be kept out of a stressful shelter situation.
There are many ways to meet local pets being rehomed by their current families. The MSPCA partners with Adopt-A-Pet to host listings for members of the community who are seeking to rehome their pets. Rescue Me and Home to Home are also good options thta include small animals looking for a new home as well. Local Facebook groups and community web platforms like Nextdoor may be a place to find a neighbor who is looking to rehome their pet.
If you plan to obtain an animal from a rehoming site:
- Reach out to the caregiver to gather and verify important information, including medical history, behavior, and any bite incidents.
- It is often recommended that people rehoming their pet charge a small adoption fee. A modest fee is not an indication of a problem.
- A person rehoming a pet may wish to visit your home and do an introduction there. They also may wish to see an ID or check references.
- Be prepared to sign a contract. This could include provisions stating that future veterinary care is the responsibility of the new owner and an agreement to contact the past owner if the pet does not work out.
- Trust your instincts. If a person or situation does not seem right, it is up to you to make a decision about whether to continue.
- Things to ask someone who is rehoming their pet:
- How active is the pet?
- What are some of the pet’s favorite activities?
- Has the pet lived with other animals?
Has the pet lived with children (and what ages?)
- How often does the pet stay alone?
- Where will the pet sleep at night?
- Is the pet up-to-date on vaccinations?
- Are there any behavioral concerns?
- Ask what happens if it doesn’t work out with you and the pet. Will they take the pet back? Consider including this in a contract.
