If you are interested in adopting please follow the 6 step process as detailed below.
Most dogs live on average for 10-15 years, therefore finding the right dog to fit into your family and lifestyle is very important to us.
Whilst each case is different, our adoption process generally takes between 7 and 14 days. During the process you are asked to visit the dog at least twice. We respectfully ask that you do not apply to adopt if you cannot offer this time to the process or if you have any prebooked arrangements (such as holidays or visitors etc)
Step 1 - Initial Contact
If you wish to apply to adopt one of our dogs we ask that you complete an Adoption Application form. Please be honest and explicit in your answers and from this form we will try and match you with a suitable dog. If we feel we have a dog which is a good match for you we will contact you by telephone. At that point we may arrange for you to visit the centre to meet the dog.
Step 2 - Meeting the Dog
We work on a strict appointment basis. This means that you will have as much time as you need to spend with the dog(s) and staff. If you have a resident dog you should bring him/her with you. Your initial meeting may take place in our exercise arena or enrichment room (weather dependent). You are welcome to take the dog a walk and spend as much time with them as you want. Introductions to resident dogs is controlled very carefully and will be guided by one of our team. After this meeting we ask that you go home to consider the situation carefully.
Step 3 - Homecheck
There are 3 pieces of documentation that we require before we can progress. We need proof of identification, proof of address and (in the case of rented accommodation) proof that you are permitted to keep a dog. Adoptions cannot progress without this documentation. The last step would be a video of your home and garden area. This should be detailed and specifically include entry/exit points of the property as well as any areas the dog will be.
Step 4- Second Visit
On your second visit you are permitted to take the dog to Dumfries House. This allows you to see how the dog interacts in a busier setting. If you plan to take the dog off the premises you must ensure you have a means of safe transport for him/her.
Step 5- Adoption Day
If all visits have been successful and the documentation and home video are suitable then you will be invited to adopt the dog. Our adoption fee is generally £400 which goes directly towards saving the lives of dogs just like yours. PLEASE BE AWARE THIS IS A DONATION TO OUR CENTRE AND IS NON-REFUNDABLE. When you collect your dog you are required to bring an engraved identity disc with your name and telephone number on it as well as suitable restraint for the dogs journey home. If you do not have these then the dog will not be allowed to leave the rescue centre. You will be supplied with a collar and lead as well as a Burns Starter Pack and details of your dogs current feeding. This will enable you to either keep the dog on the same feed or transition to your own choice. Your dog will be microchipped to the rescue centre. If you wish to transfer this to your own name you are welcome to apply to do so. In the case of young/old dogs they may not be neutered and this will be discussed during your visits. You will be issued with 5 weeks free insurance from Agria.
Step 6 - Rescue Back Up
Islay Dog Rescue provide rescue back up for the lifetime of any of their adopted dogs. This means that should your circumstances change or you feel unable to care for the dog then they can be returned to us. We would ask that this is not viewed as a “quick fix” and that should you require us to take the dog back we have at least one weeks notice. We are happy to offer basic advice on training but recommend that a suitable dog trainer/behaviourist is sought should you need guidance at any time.
Interested?
If you are interested in adopting one of our dogs, please complete our Adoption Application which can be accessed by clicking the button below.