Rehoming your retired guide dog

Rehoming your retired guide dog is a difficult decision to make, but in many cases, it can be the right choice for both you and your dog. Every situation is different and we’re here to support you and explain your options to help you choose the path to a happy and healthy retirement for your dog.

If, after careful consideration, you feel that it would be best for your retiring dog to move onto another home, this should be done as soon as possible so we have every opportunity to find them a loving retirement home.  

Why you might rehome your retired guide dog 

Many reasons can prompt this route, but the most common reason for rehoming your retired dog is being unable to meet the needs of an ageing dog and the inevitable health challenges they may face.

Another consideration is that some retired guide dogs find adjusting to having a new working dog in the house difficult. They may struggle to transition from being your primary companion to sharing your attention, particularly when they're left at home while you're working with your new guide dog. Developing your relationship with a new guide dog can be more challenging if your retired dog is around.

Who will your dog be rehomed to?

If rehoming is the best option for you and your dog, you can propose a nominated friend or relative who is able to provide a good home. If you don't have anyone in mind, we have many potential homes to consider, carefully chosen by our experienced team. We always put our dogs' health and happiness first.

Nominated homes

If you have somebody you would like to nominate to home your retired guide dog, speak to your Guide Dog Mobility Specialist, who will inform your area’s dedicated Rehoming Officer. This will involve completing a form with detailed information about the potential rehomer, which will be assessed by our rehoming experts. Your nominated rehomer will need to meet the following key criteria:

• Rehomers must be over 18 years old
• Rehomers must be able to provide written permission from their landlord to keep a pet if they live in rented accommodation
• Rehomers should have no more than two existing pet dogs
• Rehomers must not leave the dog alone for more than four hours in any 24-hour period - we don’t accept people coming home at lunchtime, dog walkers or neighbours as part of this arrangement.
• Rehomers should be well-known to both the dog and guide dog owner
• Rehomers should be able to cover all costs involved in order to look after the dog

Rehoming your dog to another home

While deciding to rehome your guide dog can be difficult, you can be reassured that our rehoming process involves thoroughly assessing potential homes and owners. It’s a requirement for all rehomers to complete a rehoming agreement in which they agree to meet specific criteria and responsibilities. The assessment will include discussions about your dog's habits, preferences, and health to ensure we find the perfect retirement environment where your dog can continue to thrive and enjoy their retirement.

Will you still have contact with your retired guide dog?

You may lose contact with your guide dog if they don't go to a nominated home. Your Guide Dog Mobility Specialist will talk to you about this possibility and why this might happen. While it’s difficult to think about losing touch with your dog, it's important to remember that they’ll continue to be happy and safe in their new home.