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Adopting a pet in Ireland

Common questions about finding and adopting rescue animals in Ireland.

How do I adopt a dog in Ireland?

To adopt a dog in Ireland, browse available dogs at carashelters.ie/adopt. Find a dog you'd like to adopt, click 'Apply to adopt', and fill in a short application form. The rescue shelter will review your application and contact you — usually within a few days. If you're a good match, they'll arrange a meet-and-greet or home visit before the adoption is finalised.

Where can I find rescue animals in Ireland?

You can browse all rescue animals currently available for adoption across Ireland at carashelters.ie/adopt. The page lists dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals from rescue shelters around the country. You can filter by species and county to find animals near you.

How do animal shelter adoptions work in Ireland?

Animal shelter adoptions in Ireland typically follow a few steps: you find an animal you'd like to adopt, submit an application to the shelter, and the shelter reviews your suitability. Most shelters carry out a home check to make sure the environment is right for the animal. Once approved, you sign an adoption contract and pay a small adoption fee (which usually covers vaccinations and neutering). The whole process typically takes one to two weeks.

Is it free to adopt a rescue animal in Ireland?

Most rescue shelters in Ireland charge a small adoption fee, typically between €50 and €250, to cover the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, neutering, and veterinary care during the animal's time in the shelter. This fee is not profit — it helps the shelter care for other animals waiting for homes.

What rescue shelters are in Ireland?

There are rescue shelters across every county in Ireland, from large organisations like the Dublin SPCA and Cork Dog Action Welfare Group to small volunteer-run rescues in rural areas. Many of these shelters list their available animals on carashelters.ie/adopt, where you can browse and apply directly.