Questions about Rehoming?
Let’s talk about your options — and what to do when you can no longer care for your pup.
We get it — life happens. Whether it’s a move, financial strain, behavioral challenges, or something else, making the decision to rehome your dog is never easy. At Rescue ATX Dogs, we’re not here to judge. We’re here to help you navigate the situation with compassion and care — and to do right by your dog.
💡 First: Can You Keep Them With a Little Support?
Before you make the final call, explore whether you might be able to keep your dog with a little help. We’ve seen a lot of dogs stay with their families thanks to:
🛠️ Resources That Can Help:
Behavior Support: Reach out for low-cost or donation-based training help — message us and we can recommend options.
Pet-Friendly Housing Lists: Some nonprofits maintain up-to-date housing resources.
Temporary Fostering: If you're in a short-term crisis (hospitalization, housing limbo), some organizations may offer crisis fostering or boarding assistance.
Reach out — we may know of support you haven’t found yet.
🐾 If You Still Need to Rehome
We understand. And if it’s truly time, there are responsible ways to rehome that give your dog their best chance at a safe and happy future.
Option 1: Rehome Through Friends & Community
The best person to rehome your dog... might be someone you already know.
Share with trusted friends or family
Post on your personal social media
Use Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet: rehome.adoptapet.com
Be sure to screen adopters — ask for vet references and do a meet & greet.
Option 2: Reach Out to Rescue Groups
We are a small, foster-based rescue, which means we don’t have a physical shelter or holding space. When we take in dogs, we need a foster home or funding already lined up — and we’re often at capacity.
But we still want to help where we can.
When contacting any rescue, it helps to include:
Photos of your dog
A short personality bio (energy level, behavior, how they are with kids/dogs/cats)
Medical info (spayed/neutered? up to date on shots?)
The more information you provide, the easier it is to get your dog noticed and supported.
Option 3: As a Last Resort – Austin Animal Center
The Austin Animal Center (AAC) is our city’s municipal shelter and takes in strays and owner surrenders from Travis County.
They are frequently full. Call ahead: (512) 974-2000
If you must surrender, ask about:
Safety net programs
Return-to-owner options
Appointment-based surrendering
AAC is doing the best they can — surrendering directly should always be the last option.
❗ Please Don’t Abandon Your Dog
We know how hard it is, but leaving your dog tied up, dropped off at a park, or turned loose puts them in extreme danger — and it’s illegal. Many of the dogs in our care came to us that way, and it’s heartbreaking.
If you’re overwhelmed, talk to us. We’ll do everything we can to offer guidance, even if we can’t take your dog in directly.
Reach Out Anytime
📩 info@rescueatxdogs.org
📱 DM us on Instagram: @rescueatxdogs
You’re not alone in this. Rehoming is hard — and your dog deserves the best chance at a soft landing. Let’s work together to make that happen.