10 Tips on I Surrendered My Dog and Now I Want Him Back

1. Act Quickly

When attempting to retrieve a surrendered dog, time is of the essence. Before animals are available for adoption, numerous shelters implement quarantine periods that typically last from a few days to a few weeks. Contact the shelter immediately upon determining that you wish to retrieve your companion. Describe your circumstances and articulate your aspiration to reunite with your companion. The likelihood of reuniting with your companion before they are adopted by another family or transferred to a different facility increases as you act promptly.

2. Gather documentation

Before approaching the shelter, collect all relevant documentation related to your dog. This may include:

Veterinary records
Proof of vaccinations
Registration papers
Microchip information
Photographs of you with your dog

Having these documents ready demonstrates your previous ownership and commitment to your pet. Additionally, it can facilitate the reclamation procedure and demonstrate that you are prepared to resume the care of your dog.

3. Understand Shelter Policies

When it comes to the return of surrendered pets, every rescue group and animal shelter has its own policy. Although some may be more accommodating, others may have firm no-return policies. Learn the ins and outs of the shelter’s policy about surrendering pets. It might be wise to go over the surrender documentation you signed if you have the chance. If you are familiar with these policies, you will be better equipped to handle the reclamation process and have reasonable expectations.

4. Demonstrate changed circumstances

If you surrendered your dog due to specific circumstances (e.g., financial hardship, housing issues, or personal problems), be prepared to show how your situation has improved. Shelters want to ensure that the dog won’t end up back in their care, so they’ll likely want to see evidence that the original reasons for surrender have been addressed. This might include:

Proof of stable employment
Documentation of pet-friendly housing
Letters from veterinarians or trainers if behavioral issues were a concern
Evidence of a support system for pet care

Clearly articulate how you’ve overcome the challenges that led to the surrender and how you’re now better equipped to care for your dog.

5. Be prepared for adoption fees.

Even though you’re attempting to reclaim your own dog, many shelters will still require you to go through an adoption process, which often includes paying adoption fees. These fees help cover the costs of care your dog receives while at the shelter, including food, medical attention, and housing. Be prepared to pay these fees, which can vary widely depending on the shelter and the length of your dog’s stay. Think of it as a contribution to the happiness of your pet and the capacity of the shelter to aid other homeless animals.

6. Offer to Foster

Consider offering to foster your dog if the shelter is unwilling to quickly return them or has a waiting time policy. While the shelter considers your case, you can take your dog home under this agreement. You may show your dedication to giving your dog the care it needs and ease its transition back into your home environment by fostering. During this time, the shelter personnel may visit your house to check on you or to follow up on their initial visit.

7. Be patient and persistent.

Relinquishing a dog is an emotionally arduous decision. It does not inherently render you a bad person. Occasionally, unexpected events such as financial hardships, health complications, or alterations in living conditions occur. It is essential to guarantee that your pet discovers a secure and affectionate environment. Request assistance from shelters and rescue organizations if necessary. Compassion informs prudent decisions.

8. Address any behavioral issues.

Demonstrate your dedication to resolving any behavioral issues that may have influenced your decision to surrender your companion. This may entail:

Enrolling in obedience classes
Speaking with a behaviorist or dog trainer with experience
Creating a management plan for specific behaviors
Demonstrating knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques

Being proactive about behavioral concerns can reassure the shelter that you’re serious about providing a stable, loving home for your dog.

9. Prepare Your Home

Prepare your home for your dog’s prospective return while you await a decision on your reclamation request. This preparation serves two purposes: it demonstrates to the shelter that you are prepared to reclaim your dog and it guarantees a seamless transition in the event that your request is approved. The following are the necessary steps:

Purchasing necessary supplies (food, beds, toys, etc.)
Dog-proofing your living space
Establishing a space only for your dog
Arranging for veterinary care

Take photos of your prepared home to share with the shelter as evidence of your readiness to care for your dog properly.

10. Consider Legal Assistance

Consider getting legal counsel if the shelter shows a lot of opposition or if you feel that your rights as the former owner are being unfairly ignored. Some lawyers focus on animal law, and they could be able to guide you through tricky issues. This ought to be a last resort, though, as taking legal action may be expensive and time-consuming. It could also cause tension in your relationship with the shelter, which could affect your chances of getting your dog back.

Remember, while these tips can increase your chances of reclaiming your surrendered dog, there’s no guarantee of success. Shelters prioritize the well-being of the animals in their care, and their decisions will be based on what they believe is best for the dog. If reclaiming your dog isn’t possible, consider adopting another dog in need of a loving home. The experience can still lead to a rewarding relationship with a new furry friend while providing a second chance to another deserving animal.

Understanding Pet Surrender

Reasons for Surrendering a Dog

Pet surrender is a difficult decision that many dog owners face for various reasons. Understanding these reasons can help shed light on the complexities of this situation.

Financial Hardship: Unexpected job loss, medical expenses, or other financial setbacks can make it challenging to afford proper care for a pet.
Housing Issues: Moving to a new residence that doesn’t allow pets or has breed restrictions can force owners to surrender their dogs.
Behavioral Problems: Aggressive behavior, excessive barking, or other behavioral issues that owners feel ill-equipped to handle may lead to surrender.
Time Constraints: Changes in work schedules or family responsibilities can result in insufficient time to care for a dog properly.
Health Issues: Allergies developed by family members or the owner’s health problems can necessitate pet surrender.
Life Changes: Major life events such as divorce, military deployment, or the birth of a child can impact the ability to care for a pet.
Lack of Planning: Sometimes, owners underestimate the responsibility of pet ownership and realize they’re not prepared for the commitment.
Pet Health Issues: Unexpected medical conditions in the dog that require extensive care or financial resources may lead to surrender.

The Emotional Impact of Surrendering a Dog

Surrendering a dog can have a profound emotional impact on both the owner and the pet. It’s essential to recognize and understand these emotions to process the experience effectively.

Guilt and regret: Many owners experience intense feelings of guilt and regret after surrendering their dogs, questioning their decision, and wondering if they could have done more.
Grief and Loss: The loss of a pet, even through surrender, can trigger a grieving process similar to losing a family member.
Anxiety and Depression: The absence of a beloved pet can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, especially if the dog provides emotional support.
Relief Mixed with Sadness: In some cases, owners may feel a sense of relief if the surrender alleviates a difficult situation, but this relief is often accompanied by sadness.
Worry About the Dog’s Fate: Concerns about the dog’s well-being and future can cause ongoing stress and emotional turmoil.
Self-Doubt: The decision to surrender can lead to questioning one’s ability to care for pets or make difficult decisions.
Loneliness: The absence of a loyal companion can result in feelings of loneliness and isolation.

The Process of Pet Surrender

Understanding the typical process of pet surrender can help provide context for those considering reclaiming their dog.

Decision-Making: The owner evaluates their situation and decides that surrender is the best option.
Research: Identifying appropriate shelters or rescue organizations that can take in the dog.
Documentation: gathering medical records, vaccination history, and other relevant information about the dog.
Surrender Appointment: Scheduling and attending an appointment with the chosen shelter or rescue.
Intake Process: The shelter assesses the dog’s health, behavior, and background information.
Paperwork: Completing necessary forms, which often include a transfer of ownership agreement.
Saying Goodbye: The emotional moment of parting with the dog.
Follow-Up: Some shelters provide updates on the dog’s status or allow owners to check in periodically.

Reconsidering the Decision: Wanting Your Dog Back

Reasons for Wanting to Reclaim a Surrendered Dog

After surrendering a dog, various factors may lead an owner to reconsider their decision and want their pet back.

Improved Circumstances: Financial situations may improve, housing issues may be resolved, or life changes may stabilize, making it possible to care for the dog again.
Emotional Attachment: The strong bond with the dog may prove too difficult to sever, leading to a desire for reunion.
Regret and guilt: Feelings of remorse over the decision to surrender may drive the desire to rectify the situation.
Family Pressure: Other family members, especially children, may express strong desires to bring the dog back home.
Realization of the Dog’s Value: Time apart may highlight the positive impact the dog had on the owner’s life, mental health, or family dynamics.
Changed Perspective: Reflection on the reasons for surrender may lead to new solutions or a willingness to overcome previous obstacles.
Concern for the Dog’s Well-Being: Worries about the dog’s adaptation to shelter life or potential future may motivate reclaiming efforts.

The Emotional Roller Coaster of Wanting Your Dog Back

The decision to reclaim a surrendered dog can bring a mix of intense emotions. Understanding these feelings is crucial for making a well-considered choice.

Hope and Excitement: The possibility of reuniting with a beloved pet can bring feelings of joy and anticipation.
Anxiety and Fear: Concerns about whether reclaiming is possible or how the dog will react can cause significant stress.
Doubt and uncertainty: questioning whether bringing the dog back is the right decision for both the owner and the pet.
Determination: A strong resolve to overcome obstacles and bring the dog home can drive the reclaiming process.
Frustration: Dealing with potential bureaucratic processes or waiting periods can be frustrating for eager owners.
Guilt Resurgence: The act of trying to reclaim the dog may bring back feelings of guilt over the initial surrender.
Relief and Happiness: Successfully reclaiming the dog can bring immense relief and joy.

Assessing Your Current Situation

Before attempting to reclaim a surrendered dog, it’s crucial to honestly evaluate your current circumstances to ensure you can provide a stable and loving home.

Financial Stability: Assess your ability to cover food, veterinary care, and other expenses associated with dog ownership.
Housing Situation: Confirm that your current living arrangement allows for pets and is suitable for the dog’s needs.
Time Commitment: Evaluate your schedule to ensure you can dedicate sufficient time for exercise, training, and companionship.
Family Agreement: Ensure all family members are on board with the decision to bring the dog back.
Long-term Planning: Consider future life changes and how they might impact your ability to care for the dog.
Support System: Identify friends, family, or pet care services that can assist with dog care if needed.
Addressing Previous Issues: If specific problems led to the surrender, assess whether these have been resolved or if you have a plan to manage them.

The Process of Reclaiming a Surrendered Dog

Legal and ethical considerations

Getting a surrendered dog back requires balancing several moral and legal issues. Before moving forward, you must comprehend these elements.

Ownership Transfer: When surrendering a dog, owners typically sign over their rights to the animal. This legal transfer can complicate reclaiming efforts.
Shelter Policies: Different shelters and rescue organizations have varying policies regarding the reclamation of surrendered animals. Some may have waiting periods or restrictions on former owners adopting.
Best Interest of the Dog: Ethical considerations include whether reclaiming the dog is in its best interest, especially if it has already been adopted by a new family.
Time Constraints: Many shelters have limited holding periods for surrendered animals before they become available for adoption or, in some cases, euthanasia.
Documentation Requirements: Proof of previous ownership and the ability to provide adequate care may be required for reclamation.
Adoption Fees: Even as a former owner, you may be required to pay adoption fees to reclaim your dog.
Contractual Obligations: Review any contracts or agreements signed during the surrender process for clauses related to reclaiming.

Steps to Reclaim Your Surrendered Dog

If you’ve decided to attempt to reclaim your surrendered dog, follow these steps to increase your chances of success:

Act Quickly: Time is of the essence. Contact the shelter or rescue organization as soon as possible after deciding to reclaim your dog.
Gather documentation: Collect any proof of previous ownership, such as veterinary records, registration papers, or photographs.
Contact the shelter: Reach out to the organization where you surrendered your dog. Explain your situation and inquire about their reclamation policies.
Provide Reasoning: Clearly articulate why you want to reclaim your dog and how your circumstances have changed to allow for proper care.
Complete Required Forms: Fill out any necessary paperwork provided by the shelter for the reclamation process.
Prepare for Home Checks: Some organizations may require a home visit to ensure your living situation is suitable for the dog.
Be Patient: Understand that the process may take time, especially if the shelter needs to verify information or if there’s a waiting period.
Offer to Foster: If immediate adoption isn’t possible, inquire about fostering your dog while the reclamation process is underway.
Seek Legal Advice: If you encounter significant obstacles, consider consulting with an attorney specializing in animal law.
Prepare for Alternatives: Be open to adopting a different dog if your original pet has already been rehomed or is unavailable for reclamation.

Potential Outcomes and How to Handle Them

When attempting to reclaim a surrendered dog, several outcomes are possible. It’s important to be prepared for various scenarios:

Successful Reclamation: If you’re able to reclaim your dog, focus on reestablishing your bond and providing a stable environment.
Dog Already Adopted: If your dog has been adopted, respect the new family’s bond with the pet. Consider adopting another dog in need.
Dog No Longer at the Shelter: If your dog has been transferred to another facility, work with the original shelter to locate and contact the new organization.
Reclamation Denied: If the shelter denies your request, ask for a detailed explanation and see if there are steps you can take to address their concerns.
Waiting Period Required: Some shelters may impose a waiting period before allowing reclamation. Use this time to prepare your home and gather the necessary resources.
Conditional Reclamation: The shelter may allow reclamation with certain conditions, such as regular check-ins or completion of a pet ownership course.
Unable to Locate the Dog: If you’re unable to find your surrendered dog, consider volunteering at local shelters or adopting another pet in need.

Rebuilding Your Life with Your Dog

Addressing Previous Issues

To ensure a successful reunion with your reclaimed dog, it’s crucial to address the issues that initially led to surrender:

Financial Planning: Create a budget specifically for pet expenses, including an emergency fund for unexpected veterinary costs.
Behavioral Training: If behavioral issues are a factor, invest in professional training or work with a certified dog behaviorist.
Time Management: Develop a schedule that accommodates your dog’s needs for exercise, attention, and care.
Home Modifications: Make necessary changes to your living space to accommodate your dog comfortably and safely.
Health Management: If health issues (yours or the dog’s) were a concern, consult with healthcare professionals or veterinarians for long-term management strategies.
Support Network: Build a network of pet sitters, dog walkers, or trusted friends who can assist with pet care when needed.
Education: Invest time in learning more about dog care, behavior, and training to better understand and meet your pet’s needs.

Reintegrating Your Dog into Your Life

Bringing a surrendering dog back into your life requires patience, understanding, and careful reintegration.

Gradual Introduction: If you have other pets, introduce them slowly and under controlled circumstances.
Establish Routines: Set up consistent feeding, walking, and playtime schedules to provide structure and security.
Create a Safe Space: Designate a comfortable area in your home where your dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and affection to reward good behavior and rebuild trust.
Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of stress or anxiety, and address them promptly with gentle reassurance or professional help if needed.
Patience with Adjustment: Understand that your dog may need time to readjust to your home and family.
Consistent Rules: Establish and maintain clear boundaries and rules to help your dog feel secure in their role within the family.

Building a Stronger Bond

Strengthening your relationship with your reclaimed dog is essential for a happy and lasting reunion.

Quality Time: Dedicate one-on-one time each day for play, training, or simply being together.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise not only keeps your dog healthy but also strengthens your bond through shared activities.
Training Sessions: Engage in positive reinforcement training to improve communication and trust between you and your dog.
Grooming Rituals: Regular grooming sessions can serve as bonding time and help your dog associate you with positive experiences.
Respect Boundaries: Learn to recognize and respect your dog’s cues for when they need space or attention.
Create Positive Associations: Ensure that interactions with you are consistently positive and rewarding for your dog.
Seasonal Activities: Plan dog-friendly outings or activities that you can enjoy together throughout the year.

The Impact of Reclaiming a Surrendered Dog

On the Dog

Reclaiming a surrendered dog can have various effects on the animal’s well-being and behavior.

Emotional Response: Dogs may exhibit a range of emotions, from excitement and joy to confusion or anxiety upon reunion.
Behavioral Changes: Some dogs may display new behaviors or revert to old habits as they readjust to their previous home.
Trust Issues: Depending on their shelter experience, some dogs may need time to rebuild trust with their former owners.
Health Considerations: The stress of changing environments can impact a dog’s physical health, requiring close monitoring and veterinary care.
Attachment Patterns: Dogs may form stronger attachments or become more independent based on their experiences during separation.
Routine Adaptation: Adjusting to new (or old) routines and expectations may take time and patience.
Sensory stimulation: familiar scents and surroundings can help ease the transition, but some dogs may need time to reacclimate.

On the Family

The process of reclaiming a surrendered dog can significantly impact the entire family.

Emotional Healing: Reuniting with a beloved pet can bring closure and healing to family members who struggled with the initial surrender.
Renewed Commitment: The experience often leads to a stronger commitment to pet ownership and animal welfare.
Family Dynamics: Reintroducing the dog may shift family roles and responsibilities, requiring open communication and adjustment.
Educational Opportunity: The experience can serve as a valuable lesson in responsibility, compassion, and perseverance for children.
Stress Management: The initial period of reintegration may introduce new stressors that the family must navigate together.
Strengthened Bonds: Successfully reclaiming and reintegrating a dog can strengthen family bonds through shared experiences and challenges.
Lifestyle Changes: Accommodating the dog’s needs may require lifestyle adjustments that affect the entire family.

On the Community

The act of reclaiming a surrendered dog can have broader implications for the community.

Shelter Resources: Reclaiming a dog frees up valuable shelter resources for other animals in need.
Awareness Raising: The story of reclamation can raise community awareness about responsible pet ownership and the challenges faced by animal shelters.
Stigma Reduction: Successful reclamations can help reduce the stigma associated with surrendering pets and encourage others to seek help when needed.
Volunteer Engagement: Families who have gone through the reclamation process often become advocates for animal welfare, volunteering, or supporting local shelters.
Policy Influence: High-profile cases of pet reclamation may influence shelter policies or even local legislation regarding animal surrender and adoption.
Community Support: The process of reclaiming a dog often involves community support, strengthening local networks, and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for animal welfare.
Educational Opportunities: Shelters and rescue organizations can use reclamation stories to educate the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of thorough consideration before adopting.

Alternatives to Reclaiming Your Surrendered Dog

Adopting a New Dog

If reclaiming your surrendered dog isn’t possible, considering the adoption of a new dog can be a positive alternative.

Second Chance: Adopting allows you to provide a loving home.

I Surrendered My Dog, and Now I Want Him Back

Introduction

I want to get my dog back from a rescue that surrenders.