Written by Claire Duffin and Matthew Barber
00:43 February 19, 2024, updated 01:03 February 19, 2024
For dog owners struggling with having to give up their pets, a charity with a system similar to online dating could ease their fears.
PetRehomer connects owners who can no longer care for their animals with prospective adopters online.
New owners are vetted for suitability before details are passed to the original owner, who selects the pet's new pad.
The charity conducts home inspections before prospective adopters meet the animals. The previous owner can then keep in touch with the pet.
In its first year, PetRehomer has already facilitated the adoption of 450 dogs and numerous cats and rabbits. Dogs with a history of biting or prohibited breeds are not accepted into the charity.
Applications are judged on a case-by-case basis and there are no hard and fast rules, unlike many shelters that refuse to adopt people over the age of 80.
Most people who are re-homing a pet cite 'change of circumstances' as the primary reason, along with a cost of living crisis.
Founder Colleen Long, 56, describes the charity as “Rightmove for pets.”
She says, “Sometimes rehoming a pet is the best thing for everyone involved.” However, giving away an animal to someone who is deemed unsuitable is unacceptable. We offer safe alternatives. ”
