Adoption FAQ

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Why do some of the profiles say “must be adopted in Canterbury”?

As we get to know the dogs in our care we set their “adopter requirements”. Sometimes this will stipulate dogs need to be re-homed local to our team in Canterbury.... Why?

1. Firstly, some dogs are not medically fit to be flown or transported and our first priority is the welfare of the dog. This can be due to a medical condition or behaviorally/psychologically it would have a significant impact on them.
2. Secondly, some of the dogs we get into rescue will require “hands on” integration and support into their new home from our team. So, for that reason they remain local where we can ensure that they have all the help needed to make this a successful transition. Our dogs come to know and trust their foster carers, so it makes sense that at times, their fosters assist with integrating them into their forever home best. Our aim is to make the process as easy as we can - for the dog and new owner. For example: we have even had some fosters go “over and above” and allow a personal dog to stay at the home of an Adopter for a week to assist in settling in a rescue dog! We will do ALL we can to support the dog and ensure a trial is successful.
3. We have vets, specialists, physios and trainers here and at times dogs will require that ongoing and specialist care that is local.
4. It can be quite a process adopting dogs out of town, we need to make sure they're those most likely to be successful so that they do not undergo the transition for no benefit!.
5. We are based in Canterbury and understand that's not for everyone and some may not be able to travel to meet the dogs or meet the extensive costs. Please consult your local rescue if this is the case - there are so many needy dogs in New Zealand deserving of a home and a local rescue will gladly assist you.
6. We put a lot of love, effort, care and money into rebuilding our loving rescue dogs and want to ensure they are properly integrated and successful in their new home. All of our decisions come down to what is best for the dog and if it is simply that they need to be homed locally, we will do so.
   

Do you adopt dogs outside of Christchurch?

Yes - We have homed dogs in other parts of the country prior and as far as Auckland! See the dogs' profiles to confirm if they are a candidate for nationwide adoption.

So what costs are likely involved?
It will depend on each circumstance but generally:

• Travel costs associated with meeting the dog in Christchurch.
• Travel costs for the dog (plane or pet bus) + a travel crate (hire or purchase)
• Adoption fee for the dog.
• Any other disbursements noted prior or return costs.

For an estimate on pricing, please consult AirNZ or the pet exporter of your choice. Read below for our recommendations. 

NOTE: This adoption fee will be used to return the dog into our care if the trial is not successful - This so that we do not spend the Rescue's minimal funds flying dogs back into our care if their trial does not work out. You will be invoiced for any surplus costs (such as returning a crate to you). If you are able to return the dog to us at no cost to the rescue, we are happy to refund the adoption fee or any excess following the dog returning into care. 

Travel options:

• You can fly the pet (unaccompanied) to you - see https://www.airnewzealandcargo.com/national-cargo-pet-services
• Travel with the pet attached to your plane ticket - see https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/travelling-with-pets
• Organize travel by road (contact PetBus)

Travel organized by a pet exporter (if unaccompanied):

There is a list of providers on the AirNZ website found here. 

"Star Pet Travel" 

SPT provide limited runs by road, but also organize flights.

Please contact Betty on 0800 PET TRAVEL or email: starpettravel@gmail.com 

see: www.starpettravel.co.nz/Information/about-star-pet-travel.html)

Pet Bus (by road): https://www.petbus.co.nz/ 

Travel Crates (as at 07-02-2024):
Please note: if the dog is traveling by air - it will need a safe and airplane compliant crate. You may choose to ship an existing crate down to us but please check it is compliant. You may also opt to speak with your transporter and hire their crates. If you wish to purchase a brand new crate (to keep) we can order on your behalf from our pet goods supplier, Brooklands. 

These Brooklands travel crates are advertised as “airplane compliant”, contain a water dish and the same crates purchased from pet stores. This crate is yours to keep once the dog arrives. We receive them at a small discount which means we can offer them at the below pricing to our adopters as follows:

• X-Small Crate (51x34x33cm) = $50.00 (RRP: 75.90) usually only for puppies*
• Small Crate (56x37x34cm) = $80.00 (RRP 104.90) Small Chihuahuas*
• Medium Crate (61x40x41cm) = $100.00 (RRP: 129.90) Standard Chihuahuas or  most Chihuahua-crosses*

*These are general estimates or guides only. But we will work with the foster parent to make sure which crate size is suitable and will be accepted by the airline then let you know. 

If transporting a larger cross-breed or a “bonded pair” (ie. two dogs) they can be flown in same crate, but it will need to be compliant with the airplane rules and may require the larger crates:

• Large Crate (68x51x47cm) = $155.00 (RRP 189.90)
• Xtra-large Crate (81x56x59cm) = $340.00 (RRP 379.00) 

Please note: pricing correct as at 7th Feb 2024 and an estimate only. We will confirm the exact price when you inquire if it has changed.

If I agree to travel to meet the dog, does this mean I will be accepted as the adopter?

No. Please be aware that inviting you to a meet and greet does not mean you will be chosen as the adopter. We may have invited others to meet the dog also. 

While we appreciate this might be disappointing, the adoption process if full of uncertainties. We are trying to determine the best match for the dog.  Just as you are free to meet the dog and decide you do not wish to proceed in the adoption process, we are free to decide that another applicant better meets the needs of that dog. If this process isn't for you, please seek a local rescue.

What dogs are available where I am?

Please see the "dogs in care" page. We may also have other dogs that former owners do not wish for us to advertise. We recommend you submit your form to be placed on the database if there are no dogs on our website that you match the adopter requirements of.

I don't see many dogs become available where I am?

Sorry, the first consideration is always the welfare of the dogs, if you are not a match for any in care currently - feel free to submit your application for us to keep for a later date. 

Who pays for the flights if the dog is to be flown?

The Adopter meets any costs for transporting the dog to them, or back if a trial is unsuccessful.

Will I still have a home check if I don't live in Canterbury?

Yes, we will liaise with a rescue or local Council  in your area to have a home check performed.

Do you adopt to other countries?

No, sorry, New Zealand only. We do not adopt internationally.

What if I've already applied and see a dog that matches me later on - Do I send a new application again?

If you've applied in the last 6 months and none of your information has not changed, no,  you don't need to fill out a new application. Simply email us.

I have an existing dog with behavioral issues, can I still adopt from NZCR? 

If you have a dog that has behavioral issues, we suggest you seek help from an expert before attempting to adopt another dog. If your dog is reactive, fearful, anxious, or displays any other behavior, a second dog could exacerbate this. We cannot adopt a dog into this environment.

Can I adopt TWO NZ Chihuahua Rescue Dogs at ONCE?

No - unless we have a bonded pair in our care (it will be clearly displayed on their profile!) - then our policy is we do not adopt out TWO different dogs, together.

We also ask that our Adopters do not add another dog (ie. a puppy or adult - from us or elsewhere) to their family for the period of ATLEAST one year. We would not adopt a dog to someone looking to add two new additions in the same year, as it is not fair on the dog you are adopting. It does not matter if the dog is old or a puppy – it will add stress to the life of the new adopted dog at a time where they are alraeady needing to adjust.

Why? 

Adoption is a huge adjustment for each dog. If you consider it from the dogs' perspective – they have left their first home, adjusted to foster care, undergone medical treatment, plus then the added change of moving into your home. No matter how positive their experience has been, it has still required adjustment. By moving into your home, they have to adjust again to new environments, people, routines, other pets. Please do not overwhelm them by adding a SECOND new dog to the mix earlier than one year after their adoption. 

Although your new dog may SEEM well-adjusted and friendly. Experts suggest it takes a minimum of one year for them to relax fully, understand that this is their new permanent home and feel 100% comfortable. If you don't give the adopted dog this time and space, it can lead to uindesirable behvaiours or aggresssion. That could lead to one or both dogs losing their home with you and it's simply not fair. Only adopt from us, if you are commited to that time bonding to your new dog.

We also want the dog we adopt to you to be priority. So rather than focusing on introducing a new dog to the pack, please take that one year to bond with your new adopted dog and learn about them, while giving them the space and opportunity to do the same.

We have had repeat adopters come to us a few years later and happily adopted another dog to them. We are not unwilling to adopt future dogs to our current adopters, it is all about timing and ensuring we do what is right for each individual dog.

If a dog profile says they need a friend, and I don't already have a dog. Can I just adopt two NZCR dogs at once?

No, see above.

Can we come and see the dogs, and which one we want to adopt, before we fill out the adoption paperwork?

No. The adoption form is the first step. Please see the adoption page for our adoption process to understand how it works. We require the adoption application prior to any meet and greets.  There are no exceptions to this. As we do not have a center, our dogs are housed with different foster carers throughout the country. As a result, we only disrupt the foster carers schedules and organize a meet and greet with dogs and prospective adopters once we have received a completed application and photos of the property, so we can be sure the Adopter is a match. 

Profiles for individual dogs are found under “dogs in care” if you see a dog you are interested in, please submit an application and indicate who is your preference, where noted on the adoption form. If the dogs available currently are not in your area, or suitable for your lifestyle, we are happy to retain your application in the database. Some dogs received in by the Rescue are not listed on the website or social media, at the preference of the former owner. We adopt these dogs out by consulting the database.

I would like to adopt a Chihuahua as a gift for [INSERT FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND HERE] How can I do this?
Sorry, we do not adopt Chihuahuas out as “gifts" or "surprises". All of our rescue dogs have  need someone who is committed to them from the outset. If you know someone who is looking for a dog, or that you feel would suit one of our Chihuahuas, invite them to submit an adoption form. Our applications forms need to be filled out by the person who will be the “main care-taker” of the Chihuahua as that is who we are assessing in terms of their suitability. You could assist them however.

I'm looking for a small dog as a gift for my child, can you assist?
We definitely do not recommend parents purchase dogs as gifts for children. Chihuahuas live 15-20 years and although a child may enjoy a puppy when they are young, as the child grows and friends, work, university and travel become more important – the dog inevitably becomes less of a priority.

There are also regular expenses to consider that your child will need to be aware of and responsible for. Vaccinations, regular dental work, quality (non-supermarket) food, worming and flea treatments, de-sexing, micro-chipping etc. all comes at a cost. In addition to this cost it is the things that you don't consider or plan for (such as when they suffer an illness or accident) that can also mean an instant $1000 vet bill. 

Adopters need to be over the age of 21 years.

I am looking for a disability support dog or a therapy dog. Do you provide these?

Sorry, no. As a rescue we do not train or provide support dogs. There are specialist agencies to assist with this - please contact the Perfect Partners Assistance Dogs Trust (http://www.ppadt.org.nz/) for example. Our dogs are companion dogs and many have their own quirks that would render them unsuitable as therapy or assistance dogs.  Please consider those agencies specifically that cater to adopters looking for service dogs.

Do you ever get puppies into rescue? I am looking for a specific age / gender.

We can’t be sure what ages, colors or genders will come into our rescue and when. If you have specific wants or needs in terms of a dog (including age), please note this in your application.  Be as specific about what you want in a companion as possible. We need to know as much information as possible to be able to find a great match for you. 

If I submit an adoption application and I am unsuccessful but placed on the database, or I ask to be placed on the database and see a dog I’m interested in, what do I do then?

Email us and let us know what dog you’re interested in - no need to submit another form and photos if your circumstances are the same (ie. working hours, family members in the household, medical conditions etc). If anything has changed you will need to complete a new form. If all information is the same, please email us to let us know you have applied prior and the name of the dog you wish to be considered for.

Do you adopt out un-neutered dogs or bitches?

No. We believe that breeding should be left to the experts, the DogsNZ accredited and ethical  breeders. We do not support private individuals purchasing dogs to mate. If you are not an accredited and ethical breeder or showing your pedigree dog, we advocate desexing- spay and neuter.

Do you adopt to full time workers?

When we assess applicants, we look for the best home possible for that dog. Chihuahuas are a companion breed and like to be around people. So with that in mind - we would be unlikely to adopt a dog to a full time worker who was out of the home 8+ hours per day, 4-5 days a week. 

We would consider adopting to a full time (at home) worker. 

Aside from it being unfair and not fun for the dog, many of our dogs (being rescues) have quirks that would mean daytime companionship is a must. A dog needs to be fairly independent to have an owner away for 6-8 hours each weekday. See the adopter requirements on the dog profiles, found under “dogs in our care” to determine whether/not a dog needs a part-time worker or someone who is retired. 

Although it may be hard - It’s also important to consider whether or not you could really provide all that a dog needs. Dogs are great companionship for a human - but also consider things from the dogs perspective. If you are working full time or extended hours. It can be tough on the dog waiting all of that time for their buddy to come home!

What about Doggy Daycare or Taking the Dog to Work?

Not all dogs are suitable to be taken into a workplace or for a doggy-daycare. Many of the dogs would find this far too overwhelming and stressful. So it is not a replacement for working full time

Do you have a cut off age for applicants?

No. As long as applicants are physically and mentally capable to care for a dog, we’re happy to consider them. This does require honesty on behalf of the Adopter. 

However. If we attend a meet and greet and have concerns, this will be discussed with you. We do appreciate when Adopters have considered what should happen to the dog if they entered care or pass away and communicate this. We sometimes have to make a difficult call, but we do ask you to consider things like age and activity level when considering a particular dog. 

Do I need to have a fenced property to adopt from you?

If you live in a suburb within a City, yes. We expect that there is no danger of the dogs we adopt out roaming or getting hurt on roads. Child gates may also need to be utilized to ensure dogs can't dash out front doors and onto the road. We understand some rural properties may not be 100% fenced. But a portion of the property and any areas the dog can get to need to be fenced in. But in short, yes, it is our preference.

What if it says the dog is "Unavailable?" how do I know when they will become available? Do you have a timeline?

No, we don't provide timelines. If it's not on the profile already - we don't know! The profiles are very comprehensive and updated regularly with all the information available. The dogs will be available and noted as ready for adoption once medically and behaviorally cleared and that time-frame is different for each dog. This also may depend on the availability of our vet clinic or trainer to address any issues.

If you're interested in a particular dog, and their requirements are on their profile, please ensure you meet those and then if so, submit an application. If their adopter requirements are not listed, it's too early to apply. Please just keep an eye on their profile and apply if those requirements are added and you meet them. Please note: adopter requirements are strict - you need to ensure you meet them fully! No exceptions. If you do not meet the adopter requirements, sorry, we will not consider you for that dog.

Do you adopt to people who live in caravans?

As a rescue, our aim is to have dogs find their forever, stable and loving homes. We would adopt to someone who owned the caravan and the land it was situated on (providing also it was fenced and hazard-free). We may ask for documents confirming the same. 

Sorry, we would be unlikely to adopt to someone who didn't own the vehicle, or lived in a caravan park. There is too much uncertainty and therefore risk the dog may need to be re-homed if the owner couldn't remain at their current spot and needed to move to a dog-free location.

How strict are the adopter requirements? (For example: the profile says no cats but I have a dog savvy cat!)

The reason we have Adopter Requirements is to ensure that we find the most suitable home for the dog listed. We do not feel it is fair to put a dog in a situation where they will have to adjust to a new family and surroundings without certainty there is a high chance of the adoption working out. In terms of the above example, we feel that placing a dog that has a history of not being cat friendly in a home with cats is setting them up to fail. We feel this only puts the dog under the stress of having to adjust to new people and surroundings unnecessarily. 

Furthermore, when a dog leaves foster care, usually their place is quickly filled so if it doesn't work out, we may have issues locating another foster carer in order to have the dog returned into the care of the Trust. 

As such, the adopter criteria is strict. We have noted these requirements after speaking to the foster carer. It is not personal or designed to exclude anyone on purpose. We put a lot of time and care into picking the 'right' home, All of our decisions come down to what is best for the dog. 

Please check that you are a match for the prospective dog before you apply to avoid disappointment!

Do you adopt to families with children?

This question largely depends on what dog a prospective adopter is interested in. We have rescue dogs that may have personality quirks and not all will be suitable for a noisy family environment and/or children.  We consider the needs of that dog specifically when searching for the best fit for their family and what ages we think the dog would be fine around. Children do need to be old enough to understand not to pull tails, overwhelm dog etc. We certainly have adopted dogs into families with children prior. Generally, the youngest child in the home must be over 5 years old and doggy knowledgeable. We consider each applicant family on a case by case basis.

Do you home to families with larger breeds in the home?

This question largely depends on what dog a prospective adopter is interested in. Some Chihuahuas are great around larger breeds and we certainly have adopted dogs to families with larger breeds (for example: Rhodesian ridge backs) prior. We don't have any pre-set rules in this regard, we consider each applicant family on a case by case basis.

What if I want a particular Colour dog?

We are not breeders or a pet store and do not act in a demand and supply manner. We take in dogs that need assistance and cannot guarantee as to when new dogs will arrive. We do not match dogs based upon appearance . We do not fulfill requests for specific colors, size, or any other superficial desires. 

We take in dogs that need assistance and often have their own unique "quirks". We then match our dogs by getting to know their personality quirks, energy level and social-ability, to an owner that will be at the same level as the dogs are.. The only criteria we consider is age of the dog, gender preference and social-ability. The appearance, coat or color should be irrelevant. If it is a big deal to you - we are not the rescue for you.

Can I foster a dog to see if it fits in with my family?

Foster forms are to be utilized for those who strictly wish to foster not adopt. We do not offer a foster to adopt programme. We do however, offer a one month trial on all adoptions to see if a prospective dog fits into our life and family. If you want to add a dog to your family permanently, please see the adoption process page for information and an application.

Can you call me to discuss a particular dog with me over the phone? I'm looking to adopt.

No - We do not contact prospective applicants via phone to discuss individual dogs without the adoption forms and supporting information. 

As you can appreciate, we receive a large volume of queries daily and all of the information we require from you in order to consider you as an applicant is noted on the form. 

As volunteers who work full time outside of the Rescue, it is a more efficient way of us confirming whether you and your family are a match for any particular dog. If we require more information from you after the forms are filled in, we will make contact to confirm. Accordingly, if you are interested in any of our dogs, please submit your application and if you are a match for the dog, we will be in touch  to progress this. 

Does it cost to adopt a dog from NZCR?

Yes. The fee is payable in full to the trust account prior to the day of adoption. Fees for dogs are noted on the dog's profile on this website as the dogs have different fees assigned. All fees are to be paid to our Westpac Account - New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue Trust 03-0823-0074502-000  We do not accept cash on collection of the dog. We will not be able to complete the changeover if the fee remains outstanding.

See below (bottom of the page) for our "expenses table" which shows what we spend incoming funds on.

What determines the adoption fee as I notice they aren't all the same price? 

Our adoption fees for each dog are listed on their profile under "dogs in our care". Older dogs or those who have ongoing health issues may be assigned a lesser fee to reflect the fact there will be ongoing regular costs associated with them.  We NEVER charge what we spend on these dogs - but our goal is not to make money, it’s to forever home the dog. These adoption fees are used to pay for the next dog coming into care. 

See below (bottom of the page) for our "expenses table" which shows what we spend incoming funds on.

Why do you charge an adoption fee?

The adoption fee assists us with: transport costs for dogs being surrendered from all over NZ, de-sexing, micro-chipping and registering the dog on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register ("NZCAR"), vaccinations, flea and worming, Council registration, disposables (such as bedding and crates) and any extra necessary medical care required. For example, we also complete dental work on dogs that require it and orthopedic surgeries fairly regularly. All of these treatments cost and we need to ensure that we recoup even a small percentage of these costs.

We never "make" money from adoptions and all of our team are Volunteers. As such, the full adoption fee goes towards the dogs in the care of the Rescue. We pride ourselves on being able to confirm that when a dog leaves our Rescue, they have had all of the medical treatment and investigations deemed necessary  and obviously, this costs money to complete.

We also do not advocate that anyone offer a “free dog” for adoption or  re-homing. Firstly, those looking for bait dogs will not pay for a dog that is just going to end up injured and/or dead and often utilize these listings. Secondly, dog ownership costs money. Dogs are a commitment and shouldn’t be purchased on whim! An adoption fee prevents  opportunists and people making spontaneous decisions to adopt a free dog  without really having the long-lasting financial means to be a dog  owner. 

See below (bottom of the page) for our "expenses table" which shows what we spend incoming funds on.

 
Why do you charge what you charge? Do you think it's a little high?

Firstly, see above for information on what determines an adoption fee and why we charge an adoption fee. Secondly, see the  "expenses table" which shows what we spend incoming funds on.

1. We are 100% volunteer operated, meaning nobody makes ANY money off our rescue dogs. We are paid only in love and doggy cuddles! The total adoption fee (as with donations) goes towards the essential needs of our rescue dogs. The only reason we charge adoption fees is so that we have money for the next dog coming into care that needs assistance. and will require money to be spent on them

It should be noted that not all charities are registered and it is not a legal requirement to do so. However, we have gone above and beyond to ensure that we are, as we believe that the public deserves such transparency. Our incoming and outgoings are uploaded annually to the charities register. It is here that you will see we do not "make" money from adoptions. In fact, we actually lose money to expenses in most cases and only recoup a small portion of those costs back for use on the next dog.

2. As breed specific rescue we face a couple of unique and expensive challenges relating to the Chihuahua breed (and toy breed) dogs. Many of the dogs surrendered to us require costly orthopedic surgery (ie. single or double patella luxation) and a full dental with extractions. This means we may have a higher fee then some all breed rescues just to recoup a portion of the costs we spend on each dog that comes into our care. We need to be able to spend money on dogs to make them adoptable and we constantly have new dogs coming in who require money to be spent on them too.

3. We may charge slightly more than some all breed Rescues or the SPCA. However, as a small organization, we do not receive the benefit of subsidized care and the large donations that other more well known Rescues and organizations benefit from. This means we charge a higher rate for adoption as we need to recoup more funds for the expenses we have met in relation to each dog, because we pay more also!

4.  Adoption from us works out to be better value for money overall. Our dogs do not cost as much as puppies or even older dogs from private sellers or breeders, even though they have had all of their veterinary work completed. Accordingly, we do not feel that our adoption fees are unreasonable. For your money, you are given a Chihuahua that comes completely legally compliant and healthy. 

Our dogs come fully and thoroughly health checked, de-sexed, vaccinated, micro-chipped, registered with the NZ Companion Animal Register, registered with their local Council, flea and wormed treated and having had any further issues unique to the specific dog, addressed. If required, we also complete bloods, dentals and orthopedic surgery, yet we do not charge the full expense of these surgeries. . For example, you can pay $2,000 - $5,000 on TradeMe for an 8 week old Chihuahua (or Chihuahua cross puppy) without a fraction of that work having been completed.

5. When you adopt from us you get the peace of mind that you have adopted a healthy and legally compliant dog.  Or that any medical ailments have been investigated and disclosed to you. This is peace of mind you cannot get from private sellers (ie. strangers). If we cannot medically clear a dog, they cannot be adopted and remain in foster care while we address their medical issues.

6. Some of our dogs are also pedigree ("papered") and would be over $2,000 due to this fact alone. However, we do not charge extra for pedigree dogs, aside from a $30.00 disbursement fee to transfer the dog into the Adopters name with DogsNZ. This is the actual cost of doing s, we do not keep that money, it goes to DogsNZ.

For more information on how much it actually costs us to take in these dogs and ensure they are medically (and mentally) fit for adoption - see the table of expenses located at the bottom of this page.

Do you allow adopters to pay-off fees? 

No. Adopters need to consider their financial circumstances prior to applying. Any dog will require a constant stable source of funds in terms of vaccinations, ongoing Council registration and veterinary care at some point in their lives, etc. We need to be sure that the Adopter can provide for the dog in any and all ways, including financially. 

What do I need to buy for the dog prior to the trial beginning?

 It is the Adopters responsibility to purchase general items such as: a crate, leash, harness, food and water bowls and the essentials of dog ownership. 

We will bring an Adopter pack with some goodies inside. We will also bring any beds and bedding, favorite toys the dog has been using to provide a sense of familiarity. They may also have some items from their prior home transferred to the Adopter.

What happens during the trial?

Just enjoy your time with your new dog! Make sure you are a match for one another. We will check in with you to make sure all is going well. Although it may be difficult, please be honest and let us know if there are any issues. We may be able to work with a trainer and address these and it is easier sooner rather than later! Feel free to message or email us as often as you like, we love hearing how you and the dogs are doing! 

How does the trial end?

If unsuccessful - If you feel the dog is not a right fit for your family - please contact us ASAP and we will arrange to place the dog back into care.

If successful - Prior to the last day, we will contact you to discuss your feelings, once you are happy to confirm the trial as successful, we will send you a letter confirming the dog is officially adopted! We will also advise you the Council registration and microchip has been changed.

What about Council registration? 

All dogs come registered with the Christchurch City Council. Once adopted, the dog needs to be changed into your name with your local Council. A transfer in Christchurch district is simple and quick. We will inform the Christchurch City Council and copy your district into the email once the dog is confirmed as adopted (ie. after the trial period). This is when the legal ownership of the dog officially changes. If outside of Christchurch - you will need to contact your Council to see whether they require any signatures from you to effect the change at their end.

Are the dogs micro-chipped?
Yes! Each dog in the care of the Trust is micro-chipped and added to the New Zealand Companion Animal Register.  The Adopter will be added to the database as the owner and primary contact.  The Trust (or Managing Trustee of the Trust) will remain as the "breeder or rescue" contact on the dog’s microchip.

Are the dogs vaccinated?

Yes! Dogs come vaccinated up to date. Their vaccination details will be in the vet book provided to you.

How do I know when to next flea and worm or vaccinate the dog I have adopted ?

Dogs come vaccinated and their vet book will be provided to you, please consult this as we ask the foster parents to note the dates in their vet books.
 

How do I get the 30 day Pet Plan insurance trial or sign up for pet insurance? 

Please see the  "How you can help us" on this website.

Can I change the dogs name? What do you recommend?

For the period of the one month trial, we ask you call them by their current name, so that if it is unsuccessful they are not confused. However, once they are confirmed as adopted that is up to you. We have had Adopters retain the dog's names and change names prior. 

In terms of our recommendations - it is our experience that some dogs do know their names and respond well to them. We also feel that particularly if are older, it is somewhat unfair to change the name as they will already be going through a lot of change in the re-homing process. Too much change is overwhelming and it can be quite comforting for them to realize you know their names. For older dogs or dogs that know their names we suggest it maybe fairer to retain their names.

In the case of puppies, young dogs, or those not attached to their names, once the trial is over, again, this is your choice. 

Do you offer ongoing support to Adopters? 

Absolutely, yes! Trust dogs and their Adopters are part of the NZCR family. If you need anything please get in contact with us. We also love to receive updates and photos!

Do you take the dogs back if we can no longer have them?

Absolutely! Obviously, our aim when re-homing dogs is that it is forever. However, sometimes things happen and circumstances change and this cannot happen. The Agreement each Adopter signs provides, if for any reason the dog cannot stay with you, the Trust is to be contacted and we will take the dog back into care. The dogs cannot be privately re-homed.

As a Rescue, we feel we owe a duty of care to each and every dog that has been and will ever come into our Rescue. This duty is for life. If for any reason any of our ex-Rescue dogs need assistance in future please do not hesitate to contact us. We are not here to pass judgement - we just want to ensure our dogs (and ex-dogs) are safe and happy.

What if I want the dog to go to a family member, because I can no longer look after it?

Please contact us immediately to discuss. We will meet with you and your chosen family member to come up with a plan. Our goal is just to ensure the dog is looked after and safe and that we know who they are with. We always feel responsible for ex-trust or current trust dogs and ensuring they always have a safe and loving home and are never home-less again.

Please join our closed Adopters Group on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NZCRAdopters