Pet adoption

Adoption process for dogs

If you are a first time dog owner please read the ‘For New Dog Owners’ section of the site. This will ensure that you understand the implications of owning an animal and help you choose a pet that is compatible with you and your lifestyle.

There are a few required steps before you can take home your new pet. These steps are crucial to ensure the health and safety of both you and the animal. 

An animal management officer will visit you at home during the dog adoption application process to check that your property is suitable for a dog, e.g. that your property is fenced appropriately and an adequate size for the dog you are adopting.

If your property is suitable, you will be advised and able to proceed with adopting your dog.

The council ensures adopted dogs have health checks and are neutered, registered and micro-chipped. Dogs are vaccinated before they leave the shelter. However puppies will require booster shots.

If you live in rental accommodation you must obtain a letter from the property owner giving approval to have the dog on the property.

All other animals for adoption may involve a property check.

Animal Management staff have the right to refuse an adoption if they believe the interests of the animal may be compromised.

View dogs available for adoption