Responsible breeders may either assist you in finding a new home, or take the pet back to rehome themselves. Many rescue groups also state in their adoption agreements that they will take back an animal no matter how long has passed.

Some vets may assist in rehoming pets with either having their own rehoming program or allowing you to put up posters in the clinic.

Please note, if you advertise a puppy, kitten, dog or cat for sale or to give away in Victoria, you will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register. This source number must be displayed on all your advertisements along with each animal’s microchip number.

Although we don’t endorse advertising your pet on buy, swap, sell pages, you could post your pet’s photo and profile to your friends and family on your private social media channels. Give a brief explanation of why you have to rehome your pet.

Please note, if you advertise a puppy, kitten, dog or cat for sale or to give away in Victoria, you will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register. This source number must be displayed on all your advertisements along with each animal’s microchip number.

Some of the best homes are with people who already know and like your pet. Friends and family may be willing to offer your pet a new home or at least foster it for a while, so ask around your immediate circle first.

If you’ve found a stray – there are lost and found services you can access.

Firstly, if the animal is injured, immediately take it the closest vet.

Otherwise, report the animal to your local council. They may have animal management services who can collect or accept the animal, or direct you to local shelters or vet clinics who can accept lost pets for reunification.

Ask trusted people in your community if they would be interested in offering your pet a forever home.

Contact your local council or animal welfare organisations as they often work closely with reputable Rescue Groups who may be able to assist with rehoming animals via their shelter or foster care network.

Whether it be a classified ad, club newsletter or local flyer drop, there are people out there seeking a pet. Be sure to mention if your pet is desexed and don’t advertise “Free to Good Home” as this will ensure you’re only attracting locals with your pets best interest at heart.

Please note, if you advertise a puppy, kitten, dog or cat for sale or to give away in Victoria, you will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register. This source number must be displayed on all your advertisements along with each animal’s microchip number.

You have every right to screen all potential new owners who enquire about your pet. Don’t let anyone rush or intimidate you. Think of it as an adoption, not a sale. Choose the person you think will make the best companion for your pet.

If someone responds to your advert, you should screen them over the phone before introducing them to the animal. This will help you rule out any unsuitable adopters early on.

To start, you might say: “This dog/cat is very special to me, and I am looking for just the right home for him/her. Would you mind if I asked you a few questions about yourself and your home?”

Once you’ve chosen a family (or families) that you feel are good candidates, arrange for the potential new owners to meet the pet.

We strongly advise that you do not hand over your pet until you’ve seen the adopter’s living arrangements. It’s all too easy for people to tell you what you want to hear, rather than how it actually is. Request to see photographs of their home so you’ll be able to gauge their suitability as an owner.

Let all applicants know you will be checking references and need to speak to their vet (if they’ve had pets before).

If you’re meeting someone in person, arrange your meeting in a public, well-lit area during the day. Create and share a meeting plan with a trusted friend or family member.

Get your pet desexed which makes it more attractive for rehoming and to ensure the animal is not used for breeding for financial gain.

Desexing has other benefits, including:

• Healthier pets: Desexed animals are generally less likely to suffer from disease and certain illnesses.
• Preventing roaming & injury: Desexing commonly reduces behavioural problems such as roaming, aggression and mating behaviour. Reducing the desire to roam also decreases the risk of being injured in a fight or a traumatic accident such as being hit by a car.
• Prevent unwanted litters: Dogs can become pregnant as early as 6 months of age, and cats by 4 months of age, so it is important to desex them before this time to protect them from unwanted pregnancies.
• Longer life: Research also shows that desexed animals can actually live longer.

Clean and freshly groom your pet. Bathe your pet, trim nails, clean ears and groom their coat. Get out your grooming tools or get down to the grooming parlour.

Make a list of what you feel is most important for your pet. What kind of environment do they need? Are they OK with children? Are they OK with other pets? What kind of people would suit his/her personality and energy levels.

While your pet is clean and freshly groomed, take his photo to place on posters and websites. A good photo plays a big part in helping potential adopters connect with your pet, so make sure your pet is relaxed and doesn’t look anxious or scared. Keep the photograph simple. Ideally, the pet should be looking at the camera, with a focus on the face and eyes.

Providing a care package with all of your pets favourite items – food, toys, blankets etc will help them feel more at home during their first few weeks in their new home.

Your pet portfolio should be positive but also truthful, feature the best things about your pet and give people an idea of your pet’s personality. Accurately describe the appearance, size and age of your pet.
– Include the pet’s name and a good photograph
– Mention that the pet is desexed
– Describe his/her nature and appealing qualities
– Define any limitations the pet might have (e.g. not good with cats or small children)
– Don’t forget your phone number and the times you can be reached.

Please note, if you advertise a puppy, kitten, dog or cat for sale or to give away in Victoria, you will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register. This source number must be displayed on all your advertisements along with each animal’s microchip number.

Update your pet’s microchip details, council registration and change of ownership papers with the new owner’s details once the adoption/rehoming process is successful. If paperwork isn’t completed, you will remain the legal owner and potentially attract any fines.