Adoption & Transition Guide

Step 1: Research Us

Before applying, we ask that you take a moment to truly understand who we are. Saving Balkan Boxer Dogs isn’t a typical rescue—we work differently, and we expect our adopters to care as deeply and responsibly as we do.

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What kind of dogs do you rescue?
We primarily rescue Boxer dogs, but we also help other breeds from the Balkans—often including French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers. Many of our dogs come from abandonment, abuse, street life, or unsold litters.

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Why is research important?
This isn’t about picking a dog—it’s about being the right home for one. Learn about us via our website and social channels. If we don’t align with what you’re looking for, that’s okay. We’re here for the dogs who need us most.

Step 2: Apply to Foster or Adopt

We only work with homes that are ready—mentally, emotionally, and practically—to support a rescue dog. Our application process helps us learn who you are, and whether this is a good match for both sides.

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How do I apply?
You’ll complete an online application form where we ask for information about your home, lifestyle, dog experience, and more. All applicants must be aged 18 years or older, and any children in the home must be at least 7 years of age or older. Please be honest—it helps us find the perfect match for both you and the dog.

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What if I've applied before?
If you've applied previously, and even had a home check, you still need to apply again for specific dogs. A lot can change, and so can the dog’s needs as they mature.

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Interested in Fostering? 

Fostering saves lives. It gives dogs a safe place to land, recover, and prepare for their forever home. While it’s not a permanent commitment, it’s one of the most powerful things you can do for a rescue dog.

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Do I pay to foster?
No, fostering is free. You don’t pay an adoption fee, but you do agree to provide daily care, a safe environment, and emotional support.

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What does SBBD cover?
We cover all vet costs and offer full backup and support. You’ll never be alone in your foster journey. In some cases, we may be able to assist with transport or supplies, just ask.

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What do I need to provide?
You’ll need to cover food, basic essentials (like bowls or leads), and most importantly, your time and patience. A quiet, stable home helps your foster dog decompress and grow in confidence.

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What’s expected of foster carers?
You’ll sign a foster agreement that outlines:

• Keeping the dog safe and secure

• Following our guidance on settling, introductions, and training

• Staying in touch with updates and progress

• Transporting to vet appointments if needed

Can I adopt my foster dog?
Yes—foster fails are welcome! If things work out and the dog is a match, you can apply to adopt as part of the usual process.

Step 3: Initial Review & Interview

Once we receive your application, our volunteer team reviews it. You may be contacted for a phone call—we’ll go over expectations, experience, and daily life. We try to speak to as many people as we can, but it isn’t always possible.

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What will we talk about?
We’ll ask about your home environment, family, work schedule, current pets, and how you plan to support a rescue dog emotionally and practically.

Step 4: Home Check

This is a key step in building trust—for us, and for the dog. One of our experienced volunteers will visit your home to ensure it's safe, secure, and suitable.

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What happens during a home check?
We’ll look at safety features, talk about routines and needs, and capture the information we need to dog match. It’s not about judging—it’s about setting everyone up for success.

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Will I meet a dog?
No, not at this stage. The home check is about your environment and readiness.

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Who decides if I pass the home check?
Our central team makes all decisions—home checkers do not decide outcomes. They are our eyes and ears on the ground.

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Do I pay anything during the home check?
No. You should NEVER be asked for money during this step.

Step 5: Dog Match

We don’t match dogs to people—we match people to dogs, based on each dog’s unique requirements. That means we can’t always respond to every enquiry or offer the dog you’ve seen. Our rehoming team reviews every application through a careful, anonymised process, with the dog’s welfare guiding every decision.

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How are dogs matched?
We always prioritise the dog’s needs. We look at your home, experience, and lifestyle to ensure the right fit. All applications are anonymised during the review process. If multiple people apply for the same dog, our panel carefully reviews each applicant and selects the best match based on the dog’s specific needs.

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Can I request a specific dog?
Yes—but only if you meet all the criteria listed for that dog. We won’t compromise on a dog’s requirements to suit a home.

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Can I choose a dog?
You can express interest, but the final decision is based on suitability. Many dogs are matched from our pool of approved applicants.

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Do you advertise all available dogs?
Not always. Some dogs are matched privately. This is why it’s important to stay engaged and approved even if no current dog listings feel like a fit.

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Why might I not be matched right away?
Some dogs need very specific environments. If your application isn’t a fit for a particular dog, we wait for the one who is. Trust the process—we’re doing it with the dog’s best interest at heart.

Step 6: Meet & Greet (UK Only)

If the dog is in the UK and you're matched, you may be invited to meet them at their foster home or a kennel facility. This is a calm, structured introduction—not a test or casual visit. It’s also your opportunity to see how your energy, space, and other pets may interact with the dog.

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What should I expect?
Let the dog come to you on their terms. Avoid eye contact, sudden movement, or loud voices. Keep your body language relaxed—standing sideways or gently crouching is less intimidating. Don’t offer food or toys unless instructed.

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What if I bring my own dog?
Use a long line or non-extendable lead. Keep dogs separated initially and do parallel walking at a safe distance. Allow them to sniff and observe each other at their own pace. Never force an interaction.

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If the meet is at a kennel:

• Be on time and respect staff instructions.

• Never approach other dogs or open kennel doors.

• Keep your dog on lead and under control at all times.

• Don’t allow your dog to bark or lunge at other dogs—it creates stress and disrupts the environment.

• Ask the staff about the dog’s routine, quirks, and behaviour—they know them best.

Safety tips:

• Always ask before entering any area with dogs.

• Don’t bring children unless pre-approved.

• Remain calm—even if the dog is shy, overexcited, or withdrawn.

• Keep intros brief and positive. If things go well, we’ll guide you on next steps.

Step 7: Contract & Fee

Once matched, we ask you to sign an adoption contract and pay the adoption fee. This formalises your commitment and helps us continue our work.

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What does the contract cover?
It includes your responsibility for vet care, proper handling, training, and agreement to return the dog to us if things don’t work out. If the dog is unneutered, it becomes your responsibility post-adoption (proof required).

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Fees:

• £450+ for dogs under 1 year

• £400+ for dogs over 1 year

• We may sponsor fees for some dogs in special cases

How to Pay:

• PayPal: paypal.me/sbbdboxers (Use 'Family & Friends')

• Bank Transfer: Saving Balkan Boxer Dogs Rescue | Acc: 83493460 | Sort: 30-98-97

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​What about fostering?
Fostering does not require a fee. However, foster carers will be asked to sign a foster agreement outlining responsibilities such as providing a safe, supportive environment, covering food costs, and communicating regularly with the team. We cover vet care and offer ongoing support throughout the fostering period.

Step 8: Getting Ready for Your Dog

Now it gets exciting—but preparation is everything. The more you do now, the easier the transition will be.

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What do I need?

• Starting Out Right With Rescue Dog Training

• Slip lead (non-negotiable)

• Crate or soft bedding area

• Food/water bowls

• Quality food

• Long line lead

• Pet gate(s), clutter-free space

• Travel-safe setup (crate or seatbelt harness)

• ID tag with your name, address, and postcode (legal requirement)

Can they go off lead?
Not for at least 3 months—and only once recall is proven. Use long lines or secure paddocks only.

Step 9: Your Dog Arrives Home

When adoption day arrives, we use two main types of dog handover: DEFRA transport or UK collection. Each comes with responsibilities to ensure your dog’s arrival is calm, secure, and stress-free—for both of you.

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Scenario 1: DEFRA Transport (From the Balkans)
Your dog will travel in a DEFRA-approved transporter, usually 4Paws Express. You must be fully available during the scheduled delivery window. There are no options to select or adjust your timeslot.

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What to Expect:

• Dogs travel in DEFRA-certified vans.

• Example schedules:

  • Depart Saturday → UK Arrival Monday lunchtime

  • Depart Wednesday → UK Arrival Friday lunchtime

• Deliveries to adopters begin within 48 hours of UK arrival, depending on:

  • Your location

  • Number of vans and dogs

• Most dogs are delivered direct to your home. Some go to kennels for later collection — only by prior arrangement with us.

Transport Communication:

• We will invite you to the dedicated 4Paws Transport Facebook Group on the day of departure – DO NOT search for or try to add yourself.

  • Use this group for updates.

  • Keep comments minimal.

  • Direct all questions to your SBBD contact — not the transport team or other adopters.

• Remember:

  • Not all dogs on the transport are from SBBD.

  • Dogs are collected from various locations at different times.

  • Transporters are focused on care and delivery; updates are provided as needed and when safe to do so.

When Your Dog Arrives:

• The transport team will:

  • Collect your slip lead (no other leads, collars, or harnesses allowed).

  • Deliver your dog, passport, and TRACES document — store these securely.

• Immediately secure all doors/gates.

• Allow your dog to toilet (on lead) in the garden before entering the house.

• For introductions to children, dogs, or cats, see our Extra Guidance.

DEFRA/APHA Home Visits:

• You may receive a call or visit within 72 hours for a quick chip/passport verification (takes 3 minutes).

Alternative Transporter:

• If an alternative transporter is covering the journey for your dog, we will always advise of bespoke schedules and arrangements. For example, transporting from some locations in the Balkans may require dogs to be delivered to kennels (TRACES) and a 48-hour rest period before collection.

Scenario 2: UK Foster or Kennel Collection

If your dog is already in the UK, you will arrange collection. Most kennel partners are private businesses, and respectful conduct is essential (with the exception of Thornwood—see below for additional support details).

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Before the Journey:

• Plan your route and ensure your vehicle is equipped with a crate or a seatbelt harness attachment.

• Do not allow your dog to travel loose or with their head out of a window.

• Do not bring other pets or family members unless necessary and agreed in advance.

• If bringing another dog, seat them separately and avoid introductions until safely home.

At the Kennel or Foster Facility:

• Be punctual and respectful. Arrive on time, follow any procedures, and bring ID if requested.

• Let staff lead the handover. Unless invited, allow them to fit the lead or harness.

• Stay calm and quiet. No hugging, sudden movements, or loud greetings.

• Ask questions. Staff or foster carers can share important insights about feeding routines, medical needs, or quirks.

Safety Reminders:

• Never approach other dogs or open kennel doors.

• Ask before entering any dog-handling area.

• Don’t bring children unless pre-approved.

• Remain calm—even if the dog is shy, excitable, or withdrawn.

Transporting the Dog:

• Use a secure crate or crash-tested harness.

• Keep the car environment quiet—no loud music, air fresheners, or shouting.

• Go straight home without stopping—minimise stress and overstimulation.

• If a stop is needed, plan this carefully and look for the safest and minimal disruption for your new dog.

Once Home:

• Give your dog a garden toilet break (on lead), then calmly guide them inside.

• Limit access to one or two quiet rooms at first.

• No toys, treats, or excessive attention.

• Allow them to observe, decompress, and rest without interruption.

This is one of the most fragile stages of the adoption journey.

Avoid overwhelming your dog with new experiences. Slow, structured settling leads to calmer, more confident behaviour. Trust the quiet moments—they matter most right now.

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Thornwood Kennel Support (if applicable):

• Thornwood provides care and behaviour support for some SBBD dogs.

• While the same pick-up etiquette applies, you are welcome to ask about the dog's habits, health, or settling advice.

• Some dogs adopted from Thornwood come with a complimentary behaviour support plan, as agreed.

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Every Dog Has a Story!

When our dogs arrive, their condition can vary greatly. Some look tired and worn down, carrying the weight of where they’ve come from, whether that’s the trauma of being chained, the exhaustion of travel, or simply the stress of stepping into a brand new world. Others may appear remarkably composed, as if they’ve just stepped off a red carpet, full of curiosity and hope.

You may notice physical signs of their past: swollen nipples from overbreeding, rough coats, pressure sores, or a generally scruffy, unwashed appearance. And yes, some arrive a little bit smelly, but please don’t rush to bathe them. For dogs already overwhelmed, a bath can be too much. If they’re comfortable with it, a gentle wipe-down with pet-safe wipes can help. But the most important thing is to go slow. Trust takes time, and every kind, calm moment helps build that bond.

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Many of these dogs have never lived inside a home. The sounds, smells, and surfaces are all new, even a television or a staircase can be unfamiliar and frightening. There’s no one story. Each dog brings their own history, resilience, and spirit. What they need now is space, patience, and understanding as they begin again.

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Please remember — every dog has a story. Some wear it physically: in their eyes, their scars, or the way they move through the world. But with time, kindness, and patience, that story can begin to change.

Step 10: Check-In & Aftercare

This isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning. We stay involved because we care, and we want this to work long-term.

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Will anyone follow up?
You may get a DEFRA or APHA visit within a week—this is routine. We also check in to see how you're settling and offer ongoing advice on training, behaviour, and health.

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Can I reach out for help?
Always. We want our adopters to feel supported, not stranded. We provide every member of our community with access to free resources that are the foundation to success. We have contacts with specialists should other services be required for purchase.

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We're also part of an online community that shares stories, photos, advice, and encouragement.

Extra Guidance: Settling, Training & Health

Settling In: Helping Your Rescue Dog Feel Safe

Bringing home a rescue dog is exciting—but for them, it can be overwhelming. Whether they’ve come from the streets, a shelter, or a foster home, they’re leaving behind everything they’ve known. You may be ready to love them from day one, but they may need time before they feel safe enough to respond.

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That’s why this phase matters just as much as any other part of the adoption process.

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Follow the 3-3-3 Rule

This is a simple guide to help you set realistic expectations and avoid putting pressure on your dog, or yourself:

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• 3 Days to decompress: They’re adjusting to new smells, spaces, and people. They may seem shut down, sleep a lot, refuse food, or pace.

• 3 Weeks to begin to settle: Routines start to feel familiar, and they begin to test boundaries or show more personality.

• 3 Months to feel truly at home: With consistency, they build confidence, form bonds, and learn what to expect from life with you.

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This is not a strict timeline. Some dogs need more time. Some move faster. What matters most is going at their pace.

The First Few Weeks: What to Prioritise

Rescue dogs don’t need a big welcome party, they need safety, calm, and routine. These early days are when trust starts to build.

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Keep things quiet and predictable:

• Avoid having visitors over.

• Keep rooms calm and distractions low.

• Create a simple, repeatable daily routine.

• Watch for stress behaviours like panting, pacing, hiding, vocalising, or over-alertness.

Reward calm behaviour gently, and avoid correcting fear-based reactions. Most of the time, what they need is space and time, not intervention.

Feeding & Food:

Stress can suppress appetite at first, so don’t panic if your dog eats very little in the beginning. Routine and simplicity are key:

• Feed small portions of bland, high-quality food at set times.

• Avoid free-feeding or frequent treats.

• Remove uneaten food after 15–20 minutes to help establish structure.

• Sensitive stomachs are common, especially in Boxers. Some may experience loose stools or even slight traces of blood—this is usually caused by a combination of stress, travel, food changes, or strong wormers.

• We strongly recommend Pro-Kolin (by Protexin), a gut-calming paste. It’s effective and available on Amazon.

In the first few days:

• Stick to bland, high-quality food in small meals.

• Avoid free-feeding or offering constant treats.

• Remove uneaten food when they walk away from the bowl to establish routine.

Once your dog has settled and their tummy is stable, it's a good time to look into a long-term food that suits their individual needs. Here’s how to use allaboutdogfood.co.uk to make a smart, informed choice.

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Step-by-Step: How to Use allaboutdogfood.co.uk

1. Use the Dog Food Directory

Go to the Dog Food Directory and use the filters to narrow down by:

• Food Type (Dry, Wet, Raw, Cold Pressed)

• Protein Source (Fish, Lamb, Duck, etc.)

• Grain-Free or With Grains

• Allergies or Sensitivities (tick boxes for chicken, beef, dairy, etc.)

• Budget – set a realistic price range per day

2. Check the Nutritional Ratings

Each food is rated out of 100 based on ingredients, transparency, meat content, and how suitable it is for dogs. Aim for:

• 70+ for good quality

• 80+ for excellent nutrition

• Lower-rated foods often contain fillers, low-grade meat, or artificial additives

3. Read the Reviews & Ingredient Analysis

Click into the food to read user reviews, feeding guidelines, and a breakdown of ingredients. Look for:

• Named meat sources as the first ingredients (e.g., “salmon,” not “meat meal”)

• Avoid vague terms like “animal derivatives” or “cereals”

• Look for prebiotics, natural preservatives, and added supplements like glucosamine for joints

Toileting:

• Take them out on lead to a quiet, secure garden space.

• Praise calmly when they toilet in the right place.

• Remember, they may have never lived in a home or used a lead. Be patient—they’re learning everything from scratch.

Sleep:

Rescue dogs are often exhausted, mentally and physically.

• Let them sleep where they feel safe: crate, quiet corner, or designated bed.

• Don’t disturb them while they rest.

• Make sure their space is undisturbed, peaceful, and consistent.

Sleep helps their brain and body reset. What looks like laziness is often the first step toward healing.

Other Pets & Children:

Early introductions can shape the whole relationship. The goal is slow, structured exposure, not instant friendships.

• Don’t allow children to hug, grab, or crowd the dog.

• Use barriers, leads, or crates to manage space.

• Give both your dog and your other pets time to observe at a distance.

• Reward calm behaviour, and separate if tension builds.

• Always supervise. Even friendly dogs can react under stress.

Let relationships build over time, not through force. A gradual approach leads to lasting trust.

Insurance:

Get pet insurance from day one. We recommend it strongly.

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One Last Thing

Unless there's an urgent medical issue, don’t rush your dog to the vet in the first few days. They’ve just been through major change. Let them settle. You can schedule routine visits later once they’ve had time to decompress.

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All our dogs are fully health-checked before arrival, and any known medical conditions are disclosed in advance. We’re also here to guide you if anything changes post-adoption.