Compassionate Support from PAWS
Life circumstances can change, and sometimes rehoming a beloved dog becomes the most responsible and loving decision. If you’re facing this difficult choice, Powell Animal Welfare Society is here to help.
Through our partnership with Adopt-a-Pet’s Rehome program, PAWS helps dog owners safely and responsibly find new homes for their pets—without placing them in a shelter. This allows dogs to move directly from one home to another, reducing stress and uncertainty during an already emotional time.
You are not alone, and you deserve support—not judgment.
Why Rehoming Can Be a Kind and Responsible Choice
Choosing rehoming over surrender allows you to remain involved in your dog’s future while protecting their emotional well-being.
Benefits of rehoming through Adopt-a-Pet’s Rehome include:
- Your dog remains in your care while you search for the right adopter
- You review and select potential adopters yourself
- Less stress for your dog compared to a shelter environment
- Greater transparency about your dog’s personality, needs, and history
- A smoother transition into a loving new home
At PAWS, we believe dogs deserve stability, honesty, and care—especially during times of change.
How Dog Rehoming Works with PAWS & Adopt-a-Pet
PAWS has partnered with Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet, a trusted national program designed to help pets find safe, permanent homes.
Step 1: Create Your Dog’s Profile
Share photos and information about your dog’s personality, routine, and needs. Your dog’s profile will be visible to millions of potential adopters searching on Adopt-a-Pet.
Step 2: Review Adoption Applications
Interested adopters apply directly to you. You can review applications, ask questions, and take your time identifying the best fit. PAWS can provide guidance throughout this step.
Step 3: Schedule Meet-and-Greets
Meet potential adopters in a safe, comfortable setting to ensure the match feels right for both your dog and the adopting family.
Step 4: Finalize the Adoption
Once you’ve chosen the right home, Adopt-a-Pet’s Rehome provides a secure adoption agreement to officially and responsibly complete the process.
How PAWS Supports You Through the Process
While PAWS is a foster-based rescue with limited capacity and may not always be able to take dogs directly into our program, our commitment to animal welfare doesn’t stop there. We can help by:
- Offering guidance on creating a strong, honest rehoming profile
- Sharing tips for evaluating potential adopters
- Helping you prepare your dog for a smooth transition
- Talking through whether rehoming is the best option for your situation
- Training Support: We can provide behavior/training resources when needed. We can offer you a free 30-days of expert training advice from certified R+ trainers through PetCademy. Simply text woof to (380) 800-6611 OR scan the QR code below to get started.
Our priority is always the long-term well-being of your dog.
Important Things to Know Before You Start
We want you to feel informed and supported every step of the way.
- Finding the right home can take time—patience leads to better outcomes
- Full honesty about your dog’s behavior, health, and needs is essential
- Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet may charge a small fee to help prevent scams and encourage responsible placements
If your situation is urgent or complex, please reach out to PAWS directly (pawsintake@gmail.com) so we can help you explore available options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rehoming Your Dog
Can PAWS take my dog into rescue?
PAWS is a 100% foster-based, volunteer-run organization with limited space, so we are not always able to take dogs directly. We need a commitment from one of our volunteers to foster your dog in order to accept them into rescue. Rehoming allows your dog to stay with you while you search for a suitable adopter.
Is rehoming guaranteed?
No adoption can be guaranteed, but Adopt-a-Pet’s large audience significantly increases visibility and adoption opportunities.
Can dogs with medical or behavioral needs be rehomed?
Yes. Many adopters are willing and prepared to care for dogs with special needs. Transparency leads to more successful placements.
How long does the rehoming process take?
Every dog is different. Some find homes quickly, while others require more time to find the right match.
How long will my dog be posted?
Rehome will list your dog for 30 days or until 20 applications for your dog have been received.
What if the Rehome fee is a hardship for me?
If you are unable to pay the required fee to Rehome to list your pet, you may use code PAWS71053 to reduce the cost of the listing fee.
What if I need help right away?
Please contact PAWS as soon as possible. We’ll help you navigate next steps and available resources. Free 30-day support is available with our PetCademy partner by texting woof to (380) 800-6611 or by scanning the QR code 
A Thoughtful Path Forward
Rehoming a dog is never an easy decision—but choosing a safe, responsible path forward is an act of compassion.
The Powell Animal Welfare Society is honored to support you and your dog during this transition.
Ready to take the next step?? Click the Rehome logo below to get started!
