The Rehoming Process

SHWA(UK) Rescue/Rehome Process

Dogs coming into Welfare

	Where SHWA(UK) is approached by the current owner of a Siberian Husky, attempts must first be made to identify the issues which have led to the decision to rehome. Where in the judgement of the SHWA(UK) representatives, there is a possibility that with support and advice, the owner(s) may be able to keep the dog in acceptable conditions, such advice and support should be offered.
	Where it is ascertained that there is no realistic possibility of the situation being resolved, the owner(s) or those in possession of the dog (rescue centres etc) may pass ownership of the dog to SHWA(UK).
	SHWA(UK) can only take possession of the dog where the owner(s) or those in possession sign over ownership using the SHWA(UK) Relinquishment Form. All documents relating to the dog (KC papers, vaccination certificates, pedigrees etc) must be surrendered to SHWA(UK) at the time of handover.
	The dog should have up-to-date vaccination certificates before handover.
	The dog will then be taken into the possession of SHWA(UK) where it will be fostered by a SHWA(UK) co-ordinator or volunteer foster home for a period. In the case of a volunteer foster home, the fosterer must complete a SHWA(UK) Foster Contract.

Rehoming Process

	During the time the dog is being fostered, it will be assessed for temperament, health, socialisation and suitability for rehoming. Where health problems are suspected, SHWA(UK) will have the dog vet-checked. Wherever possible, un-neutered dogs will be neutered before rehoming. Where there are no vaccination certificates (eg strays), SHWA(UK) will arrange for the vaccination of the dog.
	During the period of assessment, the SHWA(UK) rehome-co-ordinator (national or local) will match the dog to an individual/family on the SHWA(UK) rehome register and arrangements will be made for the individual/family to visit the dog and see how they get on together.
	If the individual/family and the dog look like a good match, the new owner will sign a SHWA(UK) adoption contract and take over ownership of the dog.
	The dog is adopted at the new owner’s own risk and no responsibility can be taken for the dog’s behaviour once it has left the care of SHWA(UK).

Individuals/Families wishing to rehome a dog.

	Individuals wishing to rehome a dog from SHWA(UK) should complete a SHWA(UK) Rehome Application Form and return it to the National Rescue/Rehome Co-ordinator or a Local Co-ordinator (who will forward it to the National Co-ordinator for action and eventual entry on the Rehome Register)
	They will then be contacted by a SHWA(UK) co-ordinator who will arrange to visit and home-check the individual/family. As a result of the home-check, suggestions might be made as to security/suitability of the house/garden. A reference will also be sought from the individual’s/family’s vet.
	If the home-check/vet references are suitable, the individual/family will be placed on the Rehome Register and will be considered when dogs become available for rehoming.

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