The Adoption Journey

Step 1: Learn About Us

Before applying, take a few minutes to read about who we are and how we work.

We mainly rescue Boxers and occasionally other short-snouted breeds such as Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs from the Balkans. Many come from neglect, abandonment, or life on the streets.

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Adopting a rescue dog isn’t about “choosing a dog” — it’s about being the right home for one. If our values of patience, responsibility, and lifelong care sound like yours, you’re in the right place.

Step 2: Apply to Foster or Adopt

You can apply online to foster or adopt. We ask about your home, lifestyle, and experience so we can understand what kind of dog would thrive with you.

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• Applicants must be 18 + and children in the home at least 7 +.

• Please be honest — it helps us make the best match.

• Even if you’ve applied before, we ask for a new form each time so information stays current.

Thinking of fostering?
Fostering gives a dog a safe place to land before adoption. We cover vet costs and provide full backup. You provide daily care, food, and time to help your foster dog settle. Many foster carers later decide to adopt — we call that a happy “foster fail.”

Step 3: Initial Review & Chat

Once your form arrives, one of our volunteers will review it and may arrange a friendly phone call.

We’ll talk about your routine, other pets, and what kind of support you might need. It’s a chance for both sides to ask questions and make sure the fit feels right.

Step 4: Home Check

A volunteer will visit (or occasionally video call) to check your home is safe and suitable.

It’s not an inspection — it’s simply to make sure fencing, space, and lifestyle all support a happy, secure dog.
You’ll never be asked for money during this stage.

Step 5: Dog Matching

We match dogs to people based on each dog’s individual needs — temperament, energy, medical care, and history.

Sometimes the dog you applied for isn’t the right fit, but we may suggest another who is. We prioritise what’s best for the dog first and foremost.

Step 6: Meet & Greet (UK Dogs)

If the dog is already in the UK, we may arrange a calm, structured meeting — either at the foster home or kennel.

Please arrive on time, keep noise low, and let the dog come to you at their own pace. If you bring your own dog, we’ll guide you through safe introductions using parallel walking.

Step 7: Adoption Agreement & Fee

If it’s a match, you’ll sign an adoption contract and pay the fee:​

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• £450 – Puppies (under 1 year)

• £400 – Adults (1 year +)

The fee helps cover rescue and transport costs.
If the dog isn’t neutered, you’ll agree to arrange this within the agreed timeframe and send proof once done.​

Fostering remains free, covered by a foster agreement instead of an adoption contract.

Step 8: Preparing for Arrival

Get set up before your dog arrives:​

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• Slip lead and ID tag (legal requirement)

• Crate or safe resting area

• Quality food and bowls

• Long line for secure walks

• Pet gate or calm, clutter-free space

Plan finances too — rescue dogs sometimes need extra vet visits at first, so insurance or an emergency fund is strongly advised.

Step 9: Arrival Day

If your dog travels from abroad:

They’ll arrive via DEFRA-approved transport. We’ll confirm the delivery window and keep you updated through our team.

Have your lead ready, secure all exits, and keep the arrival calm and quiet.

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If collecting from a UK foster or kennel:

Bring photo ID, a slip lead, and a travel crate or seat-belt harness. Go straight home afterwards and give your dog time to rest.

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At home:

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• Keep things quiet and predictable.

• Let them decompress in one or two safe rooms.

• Short, calm garden breaks only — no walks for a few days.

Remember: rescue dogs are often overwhelmed at first.

The quieter you are, the faster they feel safe.

Step 10: Ongoing Support

Our involvement doesn’t end on adoption day. We’ll check in to see how things are going and you can contact us anytime for advice or guidance.

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If you ever face difficulties — behaviour, health, or life changes — please reach out. We’ll help with options or, if needed, safe rehoming.

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We’re here for the dogs, always.

Settling Your New Dog – Quick Guide

The 3-3-3 Rule

• 3 Days: Decompress — expect confusion or exhaustion.

• 3 Weeks: Start to settle — routines form, personality appears.

• 3 Months: Confidence grows — the bond begins to shine.

Top Tips

• Keep visitors minimal and routines calm.

• Feed simple, regular meals — stress can upset digestion.

• Use gentle reassurance, not correction, for fear or confusion.

• Always supervise around other pets or children.

• Delay vet trips (unless urgent) for a few days to let them rest.

Every dog has a story — patience, kindness, and time will help them write a new one.