🐾 Thinking of opening your heart and home to a rescue dog? 🐶 We've had lots of lovely folks asking about our adoption procedures recently, so here's a breakdown of how it all works!

The Shelter to Sofa Story! 🏡 At Sava's Safe Haven, we're dedicated to bringing rescue dogs from the shelter to the comfort of your sofa. Discover our thoughtful adoption process, designed to support both you and your new best friend every step of the way.

➡️ Step 1: Finding Your Paw-fect Match! You might spot a specific dog that melts your heart, or you might contact us looking for a particular type of furry friend. Our first step is all about making the right connection! We'll have a chat via Messenger or a phone call to understand what you're looking for and get a feel for your family dynamics.

📸 Step 2: Getting to Know Them. We'll send you photos, videos, and all the info you need to get to know the dog better before you make a decision.

📝 Step 3: The Application. Once you've chosen a dog, we'll ask you to complete an adoption application form.

📞 Step 4: Initial Chat. After receiving your application, we'll arrange a phone call to chat further and go through your application in detail.

🏡 Step 5: Home Check. Next, we'll arrange a home check (your chosen dog is officially reserved at this stage!). We'll review the home check report and photos.

🚚 Step 6: Transport Arrangements. If everything looks good, we'll book a spot for your new family member on our monthly transport run to the UK.

📖 Step 7: Adoption Pack & Contract. We'll send you our comprehensive "Adoption Pack" full of helpful advice, and the Adoption Contract will be emailed for you to sign and return electronically.

✅ Step 8: Final Checks. Before your dog's journey, we'll be in touch to make sure you have everything ready for their arrival.

💬 Step 9: Transport Group Chat. About 10 days before they leave the shelter, we'll set up a group chat with all the adopters on that transport run. Here, you'll get details on adoption and transport fees, advice on food and health, and more!

❤️ Step 10: Vet Checks. Rest assured, all our dogs have a thorough health check, including blood tests, before travelling. You'll receive a signed vet report.

🗓️ Step 11: The Journey! Travel day is usually a Monday, and they arrive on UK soil on Thursday via the Eurotunnel. We've used the same wonderful, caring transport company for years, with two drivers who alternate driving and caring for the dogs, ensuring their comfort with food, water, and clean bedding in air-conditioned vans with individual crates.

🏡 Step 12: Home Delivery! Deliveries happen on Thursday and Friday, right to your doorstep! Once the van is in the UK, transport will provide estimated arrival times for each dog.

📸 Step 13: Updates Throughout. We'll keep you updated with photos of your dog leaving the shelter and progress reports throughout their journey in the transport group chat, including any updates on ETA's due to traffic etc.

🤝 Step 14: Ongoing Support. A dedicated team member will be available for support throughout the entire process until every dog is safely delivered.

🐾 Step 15: Post-Adoption Support. Our commitment doesn't end when your dog arrives! We provide full rescue backup, offering help and advice with any issues. If specialist help is needed, we have behaviourists on board to assist.

Ready to start your adoption journey? Get in touch today! ❤️