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Take home a shelter dog
Always adopt, never buy
One of these dogs
could be your friend
Not seen what you feel is right for you?
we might be able to help
By clicking the “Looking for” button and completing the form, our system will flag any new dogs being taken in that match your criteria.
Do I qualify as an adopter?
Before proceeding with your application, please consider the following
- What would you do if your circumstances changed and you could no longer care for the dog?
- What if the dog develops behavioural issues?
Have you made any plans or given thought to the dog’s care in the event that you are no longer around?
Associated costs
3-point harness
10 € – 40 €
Adoption fee
180 € – 220 €
Annual vaccinations
40 €
Ad hoc vet visits
80 € – 90 €
What does the contract say?
Adoption Terms & Conditions Dogs
1. Care and Welfare of the Animal
The adopter agrees to:
Not rehome, or give away the dog. Under no circumstances should the dog be sold at any time after adoption
Not mistreat the dog physically or emotionally, or use it for hard labour.
Not abandon, chain, or cage the dog.
Provide proper shelter for all weather conditions—shade in summer, warmth in winter.
Ensure constant access to clean water, nutritious food, and both routine and emergency vet care.
Provide daily exercise appropriate to the dog’s needs.
- Use monthly anti-parasite treatments as advised by PAWS-PATAS.
2. Companionship and Lifetime Commitment
The adopter agrees:
To keep the dog as a lifelong companion, not for any commercial or experimental purpose.
To consistently provide food, water, bedding, medical care, and affection.
Never to leave the dog alone in a parked vehicle, no matter the weather or length of time.
3. Adjustment and Responsibility
The adopter acknowledges:
PAWS-PATAS cannot guarantee the dog’s behaviour, health, or temperament.
Rescue dogs may need 45–60 days to adjust to their new environment.
They (the adopter) accept full responsibility for the dog’s care, behaviour, and any associated risks.
4. Inspection and Enforcement
PAWS-PATAS reserves the right to follow up on the dog’s wellbeing, which may include a visit to the home, with reasonable notice.
If, in the sole judgment of PAWS-PATAS, the terms of this agreement are not being met, or if abuse or neglect is suspected, PAWS-PATAS reserves the right to remove the dog and conduct a further investigation.
Legal action may be pursued if the findings warrant it.
5. Release of Liability
The adopter agrees not to hold PAWS-PATAS or its volunteers responsible for:
Any issues arising from the adoption or care of the dog.
Any injury or damage caused by the dog.
6. Adoption Fees
PAWS-PATAS reserves the right to refuse adoption to any individual or household, for any reason.
Adoption fees are typically non-refundable, unless the adoption is cancelled by PAWS-PATAS before it is finalised.
What is the process?
Local adoptions
1. Complete the adoption form
Have you seen a dog you like on our website or social media?
Please complete the adoption form. Once your application is approved, this form also acts as your adoption contract — no additional paperwork is required.
2. Meet the dog
Our kennel manager will contact you to schedule a visit.
You’ll come to the shelter and take the dog for a walk.
Note: Please do not bring your own dog to this first meeting.
3. Home check
If you’d like to proceed, we’ll arrange a home visit to ensure your environment is safe and appropriate for a dog.
4. Dog introduction (if applicable)
If you already have a dog, we’ll schedule a second visit. The two dogs will meet and go for a walk together in a neutral setting, outside the shelter.
5. Adoption day
If everything is approved and the adoption fee has been paid, we’ll complete the final steps during our vet’s visit (Tuesdays on-site):
- The official ownership transfer via the RAIA microchip form (you’ll sign to register the microchip in your name)
- Administer any outstanding vaccinations
- Provide a de-worming tablet if due
- Once everything is done, you’ll take your new family member home!
International adoptions
Not local? We’ve got you covered!
- We’ll conduct the home check via WhatsApp video call.
- We work with trusted animal transport partners to deliver your dog safely to your home.
- Transport costs vary depending on:
- Crate size
- Destination country
- Distance from the shelter
- Your adoption coordinator will assist you throughout the process to ensure a safe, smooth, and stress-free journey for your new dog.
For more information on the cost of adoption select the Adoption fees section from the Adopt menu above.