Rehome a Dog Safely in South Africa

Private, respectful, and judgement-free guidance — at no cost to you.

Life changes. Moving house, emigration, financial pressure, a new baby, a change in health — sometimes rehoming your dog is the kindest choice. Whatever your reason, you deserve support that is private, respectful, and free of judgement. Your details are shared only with the appropriate rescue partner so they can review your situation and guide the next step. Nothing is published publicly.

Find the right rescue for your dog

Each of these rescues handles a specific type of dog. Choose the one that matches your dog's breed and situation.

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Rehome a Yorkie

SA Yorkie Rescue helps owners rehome Yorkshire Terriers and Yorkie crosses across South Africa. Private guidance, no cost.

Visit SA Yorkie Rescue →
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Rehome a Small Dog

Little Doggy Rescue handles small breeds — Jack Russells, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and other small dogs across SA.

Visit Little Doggy Rescue →
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Rehome a French Bulldog

French Bulldog Rescue SA specialises in Frenchie rehoming. They understand the breed's specific needs.

Visit French Bulldog Rescue →
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Rehome a Maltese

Maltese Rescue South Africa handles Maltese and Maltese crosses. Reach out for rehoming support.

Visit Maltese Rescue →

⚠ïļ Thinking of rehoming privately?

Posting your dog on Gumtree or Facebook can put them at risk. Dog fighting rings, breeding mills, and flip-for-profit buyers watch these platforms. Before you post anywhere, read about the risks and safer alternatives.

Learn about private rehoming risks →

What happens when you reach out

  1. You contact the right rescue for your dog's breed and province.
  2. They'll ask about your dog — age, health, temperament, and your situation. This helps them find the best path.
  3. You may keep your dog during the search. Many rescues encourage this — it's less stressful for the dog and helps the rescue focus on emergencies.
  4. They'll screen potential adopters — home checks, interviews, and matching to the right home.
  5. Your dog moves to their new home when the right match is found.

The process varies by rescue and situation. The important thing is that your dog goes to a safe, loving home — not to whoever answers a Facebook post first.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything?

Rehoming guidance through our partner rescues is free. Some rescues may ask for a voluntary donation to help cover costs, but there is no fee for rehoming support.

Can I stay in touch with my dog?

This depends on the rescue and the adopter. Some adopters are happy to share occasional updates. The rescue can advise on what's typical.

What if my dog has health or behaviour issues?

Be honest with the rescue. Most rescues have experience placing dogs with manageable health conditions or behaviour quirks. Hiding issues makes rehoming harder — being upfront gives your dog the best chance.