Help that might let you keep your pet
Updated November 8, 2026
A lot of rehoming happens over one problem that can be solved. Before you decide, check whether one of these could let your pet stay.
Money for food or vet care
- Pet food banks: many human food banks and animal shelters hand out pet food. Ask your local shelter where to find one.
- Low-cost vet care: shelters, humane societies and vet schools often run low-cost clinics for vaccines, spay and neuter, and basic care.
- Payment plans: ask your vet whether you can pay over time. For a big bill, ask for a written estimate with options, from essential to ideal.
- Charity funds: some charities help with emergency vet bills; your vet's office often knows which ones are active locally.
Housing
- Ask the landlord directly: a pet résumé (vet records, training, references from past landlords) and an offer of a pet deposit can change a "no".
- Search listings with the pet-friendly filter, and check whether a breed or size limit is the problem rather than pets in general.
- If you have a disability and your pet is an assistance animal, US fair housing rules may apply; ask a local fair housing organisation.
Behaviour
Barking, jumping, pulling, litter box problems and scratching usually have fixes. Start with a vet visit: pain and illness cause many sudden changes. Many shelters run free behaviour helplines, and a certified trainer or behaviour consultant can help with harder cases.
A new baby, allergies, long hours
- A new baby: most pets adjust with gradual introductions; plan them before the baby arrives.
- Allergies: talk to an allergist; pet-free bedrooms, air filters and regular grooming help many families.
- Long hours: a dog walker, doggy daycare a few days a week, or a neighbour may solve it.
Temporary care
If you're facing a hospital stay, deployment or short-term crisis, ask shelters and rescues about temporary foster programmes, or ask family to take your pet for a while instead of giving them up for good.
If none of this solves it, that's okay. Rehoming carefully is a responsible choice. Make a rehoming plan.