Deciding to surrender your French Bulldog is a difficult but sometimes necessary step for devoted owners facing challenging life circumstances. French Bulldog Rescue Network (FBRN) understands that life can present unexpected hurdles, and their mission is to provide a safe haven for these beloved dogs when owners can no longer provide the care they need. This guide outlines the process of surrendering your French Bulldog to FBRN, ensuring a smooth transition for both you and your pet.
Understanding the Surrender Process
French Bulldogs arrive at FBRN through various channels, including commercial kennels, import brokers, public shelters, and private rescue groups. However, the majority are owner surrenders. FBRN’s primary goal is to assist you without judgment, regardless of your reasons for needing to rehome your Frenchie.
When you are ready to proceed with the surrender, the first step is to contact an FBRN volunteer in your region. It’s natural to feel hesitant or embarrassed, but FBRN emphasizes that there is no need for these emotions. They are there to support your decision and answer any questions you may have, helping you make an informed choice. FBRN will only take custody of your French Bulldog when you are fully prepared.
To facilitate the process, FBRN will need specific information about your dog, including:
- The reason for surrender.
- Whether the dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and heartworm preventative.
- If the dog has been spayed or neutered.
- If the dog has a history of biting.
- Any existing health problems and current treatments.
Once your Frenchie is accepted into the FBRN program, they may require a few days to identify the most suitable foster home and arrange transportation. If your situation is critical, please communicate this clearly to the volunteers. Depending on circumstances, you might meet a volunteer for the surrender, or they may come to your home.
You will be asked to sign an owner surrender form, which legally transfers ownership and all associated rights and obligations to FBRN. It is highly recommended to provide any available documentation and items for your dog, such as:
- Veterinary records.
- Rabies tag and certificate.
- Microchip information.
- A favorite toy or bone.
- Bed and crate.
- Collar and leash.
- Current medications, including heartworm and flea preventative.
- AKC paperwork and registration.
Post-Surrender Evaluation and Care
After entering FBRN custody, your French Bulldog will undergo a minimum seven-day evaluation period in a foster home. During this time, FBRN may contact you for additional information. Following the evaluation, the dog will either be made available for adoption or begin receiving necessary long-term veterinary care, training, or rehabilitation to prepare them for a new home.
Reclaiming Your French Bulldog
FBRN understands that circumstances can change. If you decide you wish to have your French Bulldog back, this is possible provided the dog has not yet been listed on the “Available” page or adopted. This decision rests at the discretion of the FBRN Board of Directors. To reclaim your dog, you will be required to cover FBRN’s out-of-pocket expenses, which include veterinary bills and any other costs incurred during the foster care period, such as kenneling or training. Additionally, there must be no compelling reason why the dog should not be returned to you.
“Compelling reasons” are those that were evident at the time of surrender, such as extensive animal bites, severe malnourishment indicated by a prominent ribcage and backbone, long-neglected health or behavioral issues, or pronounced fear of people. FBRN’s ultimate objective is to secure the best possible future for French Bulldogs in need.
Financial Contributions
Caring for rescued dogs involves significant costs. While FBRN accepts all French Bulldogs regardless of their associated expenses, they kindly request a completely voluntary contribution from surrendering owners, in any amount they can afford. Adoption fees alone do not cover the full extent of their operational costs. Therefore, if you must surrender your Frenchie, any donation you can provide will greatly assist in their continued care and rehabilitation.
