Best reasons to adopt a rescue pet from star of The Dog House

To make the first few days as easy as possible, we chat with Lizzie Charnock, pet advisor at Woodgreen Pets Charity and star of Channel 4’s The Dog House. The show recently aired weekly on Thursday evenings and is available to watch on All 4, and provides insight into the adoption process.

Below, Lizzie shares all you need to know about rehoming a pet.

Q: How can you help new owners and rescue pets find their perfect match?

A: The best way to help our animals find their forever home is to ensure they are a compatible match for their new family. It works a little like a dating service. Our experienced team get to know the families that contact us, gathering details about their routine and home. We also conduct a thorough assessment of each of the pets in our care to determine their needs, which allows us to match them with a suitable owner.

Dedicated carers at Woodgreen help match thousands of cats, dogs and small pets with their perfect owners every year (Image: Woodgreen Pets Charity)

For example, some puppies require an active household to continue their training, making them great pets for young couples and families. A senior cat, however, requires a quieter home where it can easily rest, and so is a brilliant choice for older individuals.

Q: What pets at Woodgreen need a new home?

A: We care for pets from all walks and stages of life, from cats to dogs, rabbits, rodents and chickens. There can be up to 500 animals in our care at any point, but each one has an individual personality and flair and plenty to offer its new family.

Q: What are your top tips for anyone considering rehousing a pet?

A: The best advice I can give is to be patient, remain calm and stay positive. It may take time for your new pet to fully settle at home, but offering plenty of praise, love and support is the key to helping them relax.

A few of the animals we care for are strays, others have experienced neglect or abuse, and some are handed in by owners that can no longer care for them due to lifestyle changes or financial difficulties. It’s important to consider your pet’s background as this may alter their requirements.

Deciding to adopt a rescue pet can be a big decision, which is why Woodgreen will be with you every step of the way to offer support and guidance (Image: Woodgreen Pets Charity)

There’s no need for concern, however, as we’ll be with you every step of the way to provide guidance and detailed assessments of their behaviour and medical needs. Most pets at Woodgreen are neutered, up to date with vaccinations, micro-chipped and have four weeks’ free insurance to make the introduction period as simple as possible.

Q: Can I adopt a rescue animal if I have children?

A: Absolutely. We rehome pets to families with children and other animals, individuals that work full time and people living in a variety of properties. The only requirement to apply to rehome a pet is that you must be over 18.

Lizzie Charnock is a pet advisor at Woodgreen Pets Charity and star of Channel 4’s series The Dog House (Image: Woodgreen Pets Charity)

Q: How can I apply to rehome a pet?

A: If you’re interested in rehoming a pet you can register on our website. You’ll need to complete a questionnaire about your home and lifestyle to help us find your perfect match. Our team will then be in touch.

You can also apply to take part in Channel 4’s The Dog House. The show’s production team are always eager to speak to people interested in adopting a rescue dog. To join, you can register on our website when applying to rehome a dog or by visiting channel4.com/takepart.

Deciding to help an animal in need is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and I know for many families out there it will be one of the greatest journeys they could ever embark on.

 To find out if adopting a rescue animal is right for you or to apply to rehome a pet, visit woodgreen.org.uk.