When Rehoming May Be Needed

Sometimes a Sheltie needs a new home. Often the previous owner has passed away, faces long-term ill health, or must change circumstances. We know this is hard, and we will act with compassion.

What We Do

When the owner or a legally authorised representative contacts us, we move quickly to help. Our aim is a smooth, stress-reduced move for the dog and the owner.

• We maintain a waiting list of people who want to adopt a Sheltie.
• We match each dog to suitable adopters on that list.
• We carry out a physical home check to confirm safety and suitability.

Paperwork and Confidentiality

• Both the owner and adopter complete our paperwork.
• The owner signs ownership to ESSC Welfare & Rescue. We must confirm the person handing over the dog has legal authority.
• We cannot accept a dog if ownership is disputed or unclear.
• The adopter signs to confirm ESSC Welfare & Rescue retains ownership. The adopter agrees to return the dog if they can no longer care for them.
• If available, we do not pass registration documents and pedigrees to the adopter.
• We do not put the original owner and adopter in contact. We do not disclose the adopter’s name or location.
• We ask adopters not to publicise the adoption or the dog on social media, to protect confidentiality.
• With consent, we may request updates and photos for the original owner.

Foster Assessment

Where possible, we place Shelties with experienced foster homes for assessment and health checks before rehoming. Dogs may need veterinary care, such as dental work, neutering, or microchipping. Foster carers provide helpful insights so we can find the best home. They prepare each dog for the next stage and play a vital role in Welfare & Rescue.

Temporary Incapacity

If illness or another short-term issue prevents you from caring for your dog, and no family or friend can help, we will find a trusted foster home. In these cases, you do not sign the dog over. Please keep us updated about when your dog can return home.

Private Rehoming

We do not recommend private rehoming unless the new home is a reliable person you know personally. Advertising a Sheltie, online or offline, is risky. Unscrupulous people may target unneutered dogs for breeding. If you use Welfare & Rescue, the dog is safe for life and cannot be passed on. In a private deal, you usually have no right to reclaim your dog if things go wrong. Avoid that distress by using our service.

Purchase to Rehome

Welfare & Rescue will not buy a Sheltie for rehoming under any circumstances. Buying dogs encourages unethical behaviour.

Insurance

In exceptional cases, and at the ESSC committee’s discretion, we may help where financial hardship exists. ESSC Welfare & Rescue does not replace pet insurance.

Conclusion

ESSC Welfare & Rescue exists to help Shelties and their owners in times of need. If the ESSC committee considers a request genuine and deserving, we will help. The committee decides the form and level of support in each case.