Before you surrender your pet
We know that the decision to surrender your pet is never made lightly. We want to ensure that you’re aware there may be other solutions that could help you keep your pet, and we encourage you to explore these alternatives first.
Behavioural Problems
If your pet is displaying behavioural issues, it could be a sign of stress, discomfort, or an underlying health problem. A visit to the vet can rule out medical causes.
If it’s not health-related, many behavioural issues can be addressed with patience and positive, force-free training methods.
Working with a professional animal behaviourist can help. Behaviourists are trained to understand the root causes of undesirable behaviour and can offer tailored strategies to address it.
Health Issues
If your pet is dealing with health problems, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to understand all available options. If financial difficulties are preventing you from providing necessary treatment, some veterinary clinics offer payment plans like VetPay.
Rental Issues
If you are facing challenges in securing a pet-friendly rental, consider exploring resources like Rent with Pets, which supports pet owners and landlords in finding solutions.
If after exploring these options, you still find that surrendering your pet is the best decision, we’re here to support you.
Surrendering your pet at AWL NSW
To begin the surrender process, please follow these steps:
1. Contact Us: Reach out by phone (02 8777 4445) or email (kempscreek@awlnsw.com.au) to discuss your situation with our team. We’re here to help you through the process and to answer any questions you may have.
2. Complete the Surrender Questionnaire: After contacting us, we will send you a surrender questionnaire to gather essential information about your pet’s health and behaviour.
3. Provide Key Documents: To ensure a smooth process, please have the following ready:
- Microchip Details: The microchip must be registered to you on the Companion Animals Registry (mandatory).
- Vaccination Record: An up-to-date vaccination certificate (mandatory).
- Photo & Video: A current photo and video of your pet (mandatory).
- Desexing Certificate: If your pet has been desexed, please provide the relevant certificate.
- Medical History: Any information about your pet’s medical history, including past treatments or conditions.
- Heartworm Test Results (for dogs only): A recent heartworm test result will need to be provided for any dogs you plan on surrendering (mandatory).
Having these documents on hand before you contact us will help us review your surrender request more efficiently.
Waiting Times: Please note that surrender waiting times can vary depending on current capacity and it is possible your animal may be placed on a wait list. We will inform you of our current wait times when you reach out.
If you’re approved to surrender
Once we’ve reviewed your surrender request and confirmed your appointment, please ensure you bring the following with you:
- Medical History & Vaccination Records: Including any medications your pet requires and recent heartworm test if surrendering your dog.
- Pet Personality & Behaviour Information: Any insights into your pet’s habits, behaviour, and history will help us provide the best possible care.
- For Dogs: A quick behavioural assessment will be conducted upon arrival. Dogs must be securely restrained on a collar or harness and leash.
- For Cats: Please ensure your cat is transported in a secure, safe carry cage.
- Surrender Fee: There is a fee associated with surrendering your pet. This fee will be confirmed when you book your appointment.
Surrendering FAQs
Yes, there is a surrender fee to help cover the costs associated with care and rehoming. Our team will advise you of the fee amount when you book your appointment.
Once you surrender your pet to AWL NSW, we will assess their health, behaviour, and needs. Our team will provide the necessary care, including medical treatment, rehabilitation, and socialisation. We’ll work towards finding them a loving, permanent home through our adoption process.
While we understand the desire to ensure your pet goes to a good home, our adoption process is focused on finding the best match for the animal’s needs. Our team works hard to ensure every pet finds a suitable home, and we match them with families who are best suited to their personality and requirements.
If you’d prefer to rehome your pet yourself, consider services like Pet Rescue’s Home2Home Program.
While we recommend having all the necessary documents (e.g., microchip registration, vaccination history, etc.) to expedite the process, we understand that sometimes not all documents are available. Contact us to discuss your specific situation, and we will work with you to find a solution.
The time it takes to rehome an animal varies based on their individual needs, health, and behaviour. Some animals are adopted quickly, while others may take longer. Rest assured, our team is committed to ensuring the best outcome for your pet.
Once your pet is surrendered, you relinquish all rights of ownership and we do not allow visits. This helps them adjust and settle into their new environment. Visits can create emotional distress for both you and your pet, as it may be confusing for them to be reintroduced and then separated again.
Animal Welfare League NSW is committed to achieving zero euthanasia of healthy and treatable cats and dogs. We do not place time limits on the animals in our care, and we work tirelessly to find them loving, permanent homes for as long as it takes.
However, in some cases, if an animal is suffering from severe medical conditions that cannot be treated or has behavioural issues that make them a danger to themselves or others, humane euthanasia may be necessary. We make these decisions with the utmost care and consideration, prioritising the well-being of each animal.