Finding a New Home for Your Pet—With Support Every Step of the Way

At The Canine Corner, we understand that life can change in unexpected ways. Sometimes, despite our love and best intentions, we may no longer be able to care for our pets. When that happens, surrendering to a shelter isn’t the only option—supported self-rehoming can help you find a safe, loving home for your pet while keeping them out of a stressful shelter environment.

The Situation in New Jersey

Right now, animal shelters and rescues across New Jersey are overflowing due to a growing companion animal overpopulation crisis. Every day, more pets arrive than can be adopted out. The result? Many shelters are facing heartbreaking decisions—including the euthanasia of adoptable pets—simply because they don’t have the space, resources, or staff to humanely care for the overwhelming number of animals in their facilities.

Supported self-rehoming is one way we can work together to ease this burden, giving pets a chance at a new home without ever entering the shelter system.

What is Supported Self-Rehoming?

Supported self-rehoming means you, the pet’s current owner, take the lead in finding your pet’s next family—but you don’t have to do it alone. Shelters, rescues, and community volunteers can help with:

• Listing your pet on trusted rehoming platforms.

• Taking great photos and writing a bio that captures your pet’s personality.

• Hosting safe meet-and-greets with potential adopters.

• Offering low-cost veterinary services like spay/neuter, vaccines, or exams.

• Providing sample adoption questionnaires and guidance.

Why Choose Self-Rehoming?

• Less Stress for Your Pet – They stay in their familiar home until adoption.

• Better Matches – You know your pet best and can help find the right fit.

• More Shelter Space – Your pet’s spot in your home could save the life of a shelter animal in urgent need.

How to Start

1. Explore Rehoming Platforms

   • Home To Home – Free to list, shelter staff help manage profiles, accepts all pet species.

   • Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet – Nationwide reach, owner-managed listings, small fee waived with referral code.

2. Gather Your Pet’s Information

   • Good photos that show their personality.

   • A clear, honest description including age, breed, temperament, and any medical needs.

3. Promote Your Listing

   • Share on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, Craigslist) and ask friends to share too.

   • Ask your local shelter or rescue if they can post your listing on their website.

4. Screen Potential Adopters

   • Use a simple questionnaire to ensure your pet’s needs will be met.

   • Arrange safe meet-and-greets at a public place or shelter.

5. Make It Official

   • Always complete a Transfer of Ownership Agreement. This legal form confirms you are the rightful owner, transfers all rights to the adopter, and protects both parties.

A Note for Shelters and Rescues

If your organization isn’t already offering supported self-rehoming, consider starting today. These programs:

• Reduce shelter overcrowding.

• Improve adoption matches.

• Build stronger community trust.

• Help prevent euthanasia for space.

🐾 Need help getting started?
  Click on the link for the guide to:

• Step-by-step rehoming guides.

• Sample adoption forms and transfer agreements.

• Links to trusted rehoming platforms.

• Marketing tips to help your pet’s listing get noticed.

Your pet’s next chapter can be filled with love and security—and you can help write it.