RSPCA Find a Pet: Adopt a Rescue Dog Near You

How RSPCA Find a Pet works

RSPCA Find a Pet lets you search for dogs currently in RSPCA care across England and Wales, filtering by type and location.

You browse full profiles, including temperament and any special needs, then apply for the dogs that match your home and lifestyle.

Once approved, the RSPCA team supports you before and after adoption so your new dog settles in well.

A real difference, one home at a time

Last year, the RSPCA helped 70 animals a day find new homes across England and Wales. It’s a reminder of how many dogs and other pets are still waiting for the right family.

Every adoption through a registered charity also frees up space and resources for the next animal that needs help.

Adopting step by step

1. Search by type and location

Use the RSPCA’s own site to filter for dogs near you, by age, size and breed.

2. Read the full profile

Each dog’s profile explains temperament, history (where known) and what kind of home suits them best.

3. Apply and get matched

The RSPCA team reviews your application and helps confirm the right match for both you and the dog.

4. Home check and meet-and-greet

Expect a home check or interview, then a chance to meet your potential new dog in person.

5. Take your dog home

Once approved, you bring your dog home with guidance on food, routine and the settling-in period.

Not in England or Wales?

If you’re outside RSPCA’s coverage area, these UK-wide and regional charities also rehome dogs:

• Dogs Trust: rehoming centres across the whole of the UK.
• Scottish SPCA: covers Scotland.
• USPCA: covers Northern Ireland.
• Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and Blue Cross: additional options in and around London and other regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does RSPCA Find a Pet work?

You search by pet type and location on the RSPCA’s own website, browse profiles of dogs in RSPCA care, and apply for the ones that match your home and lifestyle.

Does the RSPCA only operate in England and Wales?

Yes, the RSPCA covers England and Wales. If you’re in Scotland or Northern Ireland, the Scottish SPCA and USPCA run equivalent rehoming services, and UK-wide charities like Dogs Trust and Blue Cross also rehome across the country.

Can I foster instead of adopting through the RSPCA?

Yes. The RSPCA’s fostering programme covers essential costs and gives dogs a safe space while they wait for a permanent home.

What other UK charities can I check if I don’t find a match?

Dogs Trust, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Blue Cross and Woodgreen Pets Charity all run their own rehoming programmes across different parts of the UK.

Is there support after I adopt a dog?

Yes, RSPCA rehoming teams offer advice before and after adoption to help you and your new dog settle in.

Ready to meet your next dog?

RSPCA Find a Pet is free to use and lists real dogs currently waiting for a home. Take a look and see who’s waiting near you.