All our dogs and cats are housed with dedicated foster carers on the Southern Downs. They are living in a home environment, so we get to know their personalities and requirements, how they respond to other animals and to children, and what sort of home would suit them best.

We operate on the principle that pet ownership is a privilege, not a right. 

This is why property inspection is an integral part of the ARK adoption process.  We want to ensure that the property is suitable for the animal being re-homed, that any animals already living on the property are in good condition, that fencing is safe and secure, and that there is appropriate shelter for the animal.  

We are fundamentally opposed to dogs being on a chain – even a running chain. 

It may seem that the adoption criteria are stringent, but we are acting in the best interests of the animal.  We want our dogs and cats to have loving homes where they will never again be subjected to any form of ill-treatment.

All pets deserve a home, but not all homes deserve a pet.

The adoption process for dogs

  1. Check our website or Facebook page to find a dog you are interested in adopting, taking into account your home environment, lifestyle, and family.
  2. If you have any questions, contact us and an ARK volunteer will get back to you.
  3. Submit an adoption application.
  4. We will assess your application and contact you when we have done so.
  5. If all requirements are met, we will arrange a “meet and greet” with the dog of your choice and your existing dogs (if any).
  6. One of our volunteers will visit your property at a mutually convenient time to double-check the suitability of your home, including the adequacy of fencing.
  7. Once the adoption fee is paid and the final paperwork done, the adoption is complete.

The adoption process for cats

  1. Check our website or Facebook page to find a cat you are interested in adopting, taking into account your home environment, lifestyle and family.
  2. If you have any questions, contact us and an ARK volunteer will get back to you.
  3. Submit your name, address and telephone number and the name of the cat you are interested in.
  4. A member of our cat adoption team will phone you for a chat.
  5. If your application is approved, we will ask you to complete the final paperwork and pay the adoption fee, following which the adoption is complete.

Please complete the form below.

Alternatively, download a copy of the adoption application here and then email the completed form, along with your photos, to info@southerndownsark.com.au