Adoption Procedure

This Page Lets you Know How our

Adoptions work at SFD

To make sure we make the best possible match and give our dogs the best possible chances of finding their forever happy homes, we follow certain procedures. The dogs in Semper Fidelis Domus have arrived there through various routes. Some were born there and have been there all their lives, never knowing the delight of living in a family home. Some have been picked up as strays wandering the streets, starving and in danger from the dog catchers. Some have been found foraging in the woods and around buildings for food. All are given a thorough health check, parasite treatment and are neutered as soon as possible. They have plenty of space, they are kept spotlessly clean and are well fed and groomed. They are as happy as shelter dogs can be. But they are not in a home with family and loved ones. That is where you come in. Please browse through Our Dogs on this site, or go to our Facebook Page and look there. Contact us to ask for further details. If you decide you would like to pursue adoption with us, then follow the link to the Preadoption Form. Completion and submission of this will give us an idea of the type of dog that would suit your home, family and lifestyle. On receipt of your preadopt form we will arrange for a representative of the Shelter to visit you and your family in your home to discuss this further. It helps if the whole family can be present along with any other pets - this gives the representative a picture of your family dynamic and enables him or her to ensure that the whole family is committed to adoption. Once the formalities are out of the way, your dog will be reserved for you and prepared for transport in accordance with DEFRA rules and regulations. It usually takes around three to four weeks to arrange the trip - which gives you and your family plenty of time to prepare at your end. Your dog will be transported on a specially equipped and professionally manned “Happy Bus” with full air conditioning and all the comforts possible for such a long journey. More often than not, your dog will be brought to your door - this could be any time of the day or night but the driver and nanny will be in touch during the journey to keep you updated. BEFORE YOU EMBARK ON EVEN THE PREADOPT FORM, PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ADOPTION OF A SHELTER DOG IS RIGHT FOR YOUR FAMILY. READ THE “ADVICE” PAGE FOR DETAILS ON WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM AN ADOPTED DOG AND WHAT HE OR SHE WILL NEED FROM YOU. ALSO PLEASE READ THE SECTION ON “SETTLING IN” ON THE ADVICE PAGE. DO NOT BE FOOLED INTO THINKING THAT YOU WILL BE TAKING DELIVERY OF A BRAND NEW CUDDLY TOY! A non refundable reservation fee of £50 will be requested upon confirmation of your intention to adopt, following receipt and acceptance of the preadoption form. The total adoption fee of £250 must be paid prior to your adopted dog leaving the shelter. The adoption fee may vary for puppies or elderly dogs or those in need of ongoing medication and veterinary attention