by Brenda Nelson

Created on: July 15, 2009   Last Updated: July 16, 2009

When people are forced to give up a pet for one reason or another, there are several options and alternatives. Some of these are better than others, and some are illegal in most areas. Just to be clear, surrendering a pet means taking it to an animal shelter and signing over ownership of the pet to them.

1. Euthanasia

While some might see this as a horrific option it may be the fairest in the case of an older animal or one that has severe health problems. Not many people are willing to accept an animal with a health problem, however this is a common reason why people get rid of a pet. Not everyone is honest about a pet's condition, often passing off a cat who is failing to use the litter box onto an unsuspecting new owner who may not be so understanding. Granted, these cats should really go to a veterinarian to rule out medical causes, it is merely an example used here to illustrate that passing a problem on to another person is unfair to the pet and may result in harm being done to them.

Like it or not, euthanasia is an alternative to surrendering a pet.

2. Return to Breeder

When people purchase a purebred animal from a reputable breeder they usually sign a contract stating if at any time they are unable to care for the pet, it must be returned to the breeder. This is always a good option a person should consider, and is just one reason why people should buy from reputable breeders. The breeder may either keep the dog or rehome it to a qualified person on their waiting list.

3. Take it to a Breed Rescue

This is not the same as surrendering a pet to an animal shelter. Breed rescues specialize in purebred animals of specific breeds and usually have waiting lists of people looking for pets of that breed. If the breed rescue is contacted first they may even offer a referral, putting people who need to get rid of a pet in touch with those wanting one.

4. Talk to a Veterinarian

Typically veterinarians know who is looking for what, and if the situation is not urgent, they may put the word out that an owner has a pet they must get rid of. As with contacting breed rescues, the veterinarian may refer people to contact each other.

5. Selling a Pet

Selling a pet is not aways wise and in some cases, almost impossible. Many pets can easily be attained free or for a low adoption fee. Especially with mature pets, people would rather adopt from a shelter than purchase from a stranger. The exception might be if a person was refused to adopt from a shelter, in

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