Complete Guide to Adopting Rescue Dogs and Cats | From Welcoming to Preparation

Why Choose Rescue Dogs and Cats — Current Situation and Significance

In Japan, tens of thousands of dogs and cats are taken to animal welfare centers (health departments) each year, and those without adopters within a certain period face euthanasia. While the number of euthanized animals has been declining in recent years due to collaboration between government agencies, private shelters, and individual volunteers, many animals still await rescue.

Adopting a rescue animal is not only a direct action to save a life, but also a sustainable choice that refuses to support the **overproduction structure of breeders and pet shops**.

Ways to Adopt Rescue Dogs and Cats

**1. Animal Welfare Centers (Government)**: Each prefecture's animal welfare center regularly holds adoption events for animals in their care. Costs range from free to a few thousand yen (for vaccinations and microchips) — very affordable.

**2. Private Rescue Organizations and Shelters**: Shelters run by NPOs and volunteer organizations provide more careful matching between animals and families. Costs typically range from 20,000 to 30,000 yen (including medical and transportation expenses).

**3. Individual Volunteers (Foster Care Adoptions)**: On social media and pet adoption matching sites (such as Pet no Ouchi and Jimo Tee), individuals sometimes seek adopters for animals they are fostering.

Screening Process and What to Prepare

Most rescue organizations implement a **screening process** to confirm responsible living conditions. Main screening criteria:

- **Housing Type**: For rental properties, confirmation that pets are allowed (lease agreement or landlord's permission letter may be required) - **Family Structure and Lifestyle**: Whether you live alone, presence of children, work hours, travel frequency — ensuring the animal receives appropriate care - **Past Pet Care Experience**: Most organizations welcome first-time adopters, but will assess your experience level and willingness to learn - **Financial Capacity**: Confirmation that you have sufficient income and savings to cover veterinary expenses (several thousand to tens of thousands of yen annually)

The key to passing the screening is being **honest in your answers** and **clearly expressing your love and sense of responsibility toward animals**.

What to Prepare Before Bringing Your Pet Home

**Environmental Setup**: - Cage or bed (a crate of appropriate size where dogs feel secure) - Food and water bowls - Puppy pads and cat litter (for cats) - Leash and harness (for dogs) - Measures to prevent escape (confirm door and window locks)

**Medical Preparation**: - Decide on a veterinary clinic beforehand - Consider pet insurance (some plans cover rescue animals)

Helping Your Pet Adjust to Their New Environment

Many rescue animals carry trauma from shelter life or previous environments. The most important thing is to build trust gradually without rushing.

During the **first 1-2 weeks**, create a safe space inside a cage or playpen and avoid handling them too much or overwhelming them with attention. Observe their eating, bathroom, and sleep patterns carefully, and adjust to the animal's pace.

Conclusion — Life with a Rescue Animal is a Journey of "Walking Together"

Adopting rescue dogs and cats is not easy, but it is an experience that brings profound joy and daily awareness of the value of life. With proper preparation and a long-term commitment to responsibility, your rescue animal will become an irreplaceable family member.