Homing a Dog

FOAL Farm has dogs of all shapes, sizes, ages and temperaments that are looking for a new home. Before looking at the dogs, please consider the following:

Have I got the time to give a dog?

Dogs are social animals that need exercise, attention, grooming, training, socialising and feeding.

Can I afford a dog?

Dogs need yearly boosters to protect from disease, regular flea and worm treatment, and daily feeding. They may require veterinary attention at some stage of their life, and we recommend taking out pet insurance.

Does everyone in the family want a dog?

Everybody that lives in the house with the dog should be involved with the dog's wellbeing and keen to instill the ‘house rules' to prevent confusing the dog.

Is our home environment suitable for a dog?

Consider not only the size of a dog but also their energy levels; a Great Dane may not suit somebody in a studio flat, a Border Collie is not going to suit someone who wants a companion to walk around the local park once a day.

Homing guidelines

If you would like to offer a dog a home please follow these guidelines:

1 Choose a dog

Click on the link opposite to see the dogs that are currently available. Please read the notes about each dog carefully to ensure that you are compatible. Please be aware that to minimize stress levels for the dogs, our kennels are not open for free public access.

2 Apply for your chosen dog

Once you have chosen a dog complete the application form.

3 We contact you if your chosen dog in suitable for you

If your chosen dog is a suitable match we will contact you to arrange an introduction during our opening hours. If you have not heard from us within 7 days you are welcome to contact us by email to find out how your application is going.

4 Introduction

Your chosen dog will need to meet all members of the household including any canine companions. Some dogs will require you to meet with them several times to ensure we have matched you with the right dog.

5 Home visit

If your introductions are successful you will be required to complete a Booking Form. You will be informed of the set donation for your chosen dog and be given the number of two home checkers in your area. You will need to contact them directly and arrange an appointment for them to visit you in your home. If your home visit is successful they will complete and sign your Booking Form.

6 Collect your dog

Once the home check is complete please contact us by phone or by emailing dogs@foalfarm.org.uk. Please bring your signed Booking Form with you. You will also need to pay the set donation and any additional charges. The set donation includes neutering, vaccination, micro-chipping and flea and worm treatment. Fees typically vary between £50 and £215. We accept cash, cheques and credit/debit cards. You will be able to purchase food and accessories for your new dog in the Pet Shop at Foal Farm.

7 Enjoy your dog

Having a dog should be a rewarding and joyful experience. However dogs that have lived in kennels will require time, patience and training to get used to you and their new surroundings. If you have any problems, please read the section called “FAQ's about owning a dog” or call the Dog Team at Foal Farm.

Are you looking to give up your dog? Review our re-homing guidelines.