Find a dog to adopt
Browse online to see the dogs currently available for adoption. Consider the following when you are deciding to adopt:
- time commitment for training, attention and exercise
- financial implications (food, vet, training)
- housing and fencing requirements.
Meet the dog
Meet your chosen dog at Domestic Animal Services in Symonston:
- weekdays from 10 am to 3 pm
- Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm
- closed Sundays and public holidays.
You are welcome to bring a friend or family member to meet the dog. If you already have a dog at home, you can also bring that dog to make sure they get along.
Make sure you bring photo identification such as a driver’s licence. Appointments are not required.
Finalise the adoption
Complete the adoption paperwork and pay the associated fees before you take your dog home:
- Adoption fee – $102.45
- Registration fee – $62 (concession $23.35)
- Microchipping fee – $46.80 if the dog was not microchipped when impounded, or $25.85 to update the details on an existing microchip.
Please note only card payments are accepted (excluding American Express and Diners Club).
Sexually entire dogs must be desexed. You will need to arrange desexing and pay your vet.
Fees are GST inclusive and current as of 1 July 2024. See fees and charges.
Take your dog home
Entering a new environment can be overwhelming for many rescue dogs. Being prepared can help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Tips for welcoming your dog
Tips for welcoming your dog
- When you first arrive home, immediately take your dog to their toilet area. Spend a good amount of time here and praise them when they toilet where you want them to. Even if they’re already house trained, rewarding them will reinforce this good behaviour early on.
- Let your dog wander and investigate their new home.
- Give your dog space and don’t force interaction. Follow their lead and let them come to you.
- Be patient and praise often. Reinforce good behaviour by praising or treating your dog when they do something good.
- Wean your dog off their current food by mixing in new food slowly.
- Keep a calm environment by avoiding loud noises or inviting guests over in the adjustment period.
- Start your new routine as soon as possible. This includes mealtimes, walk times, playtime and toilet breaks. Dogs adapt quickly to routine and having a plan from the start will help.
- Practice leaving your dog for short periods of time and gradually increase the time away to reduce separation anxiety. Use enrichments to keep them occupied while you’re gone.
- Avoid visiting a dog park or off-leash area in the first few weeks while your dog bonds with you and settles into a new routine.
- After the first three weeks your dog’s true personality will start to show. They may become more confident, settled and understanding of their environment. Behavioural issues may also start during this time. Reward good behaviour and ignore or redirect unwanted behaviour to help your dog understand what you want.
Interstate adoptions and enquiries
If you are unable to visit Domestic Animal Services in person, please complete the expression of interest to adopt from interstate. Please note dogs cannot be placed on hold for adoption.
