* CONTRACTS *
and Forms for
ALL BREEDRESCUE PROGRAMS
RELEASE FORM
Also known as the surrender form, this document is completed by the person turning the dog over to your rescue program. It is designed to protect you in case the owner changes his/her mind, and offers reasonable leverage should the owner decide later that he/she wants the dog back.
HOW TO USE THE FORM
Have the person surrendering the dog fill out the form at the time the animal is being surrendered. Everything on this form is important, but DO NOT accept the dog if the person has not signed the release! It is better to walk away than take the dog and be sued later for theft, or worse.
Central Ohio Samoyed Rescue and the CAER Foundation often tape record the surrender for own protection. In such cases, the recording process is done in the open, with full knowledge of the person surrendering the dog.
- The owner/person surrendering the dog will generally downplay the real reason for giving up a pet. Ask questions and listen carefully.
- Pay particular attention to the answers regarding aggression. If marked, ask for clarification.
- Often the vet information is not available. Remind the person surrendering the dog that unless you can verify everything with a vet, you will have to charge a surrender fee to offset the extra costs to your program.
- Make sure you obtain information regarding the type of food the dog has been eating, and the feeding schedule.
- REMIND THE OWNER/PERSON SURRENDERING THE DOG THAT ALL RIGHTS TO THE DOG ARE BEING WAIVED.
This is one of the hardest parts when it comes to rescue. Sadness, anger, people who don't care. Get the form signed, and get out. Don't try to debate with irrational people. This is not the time for confrontation.
Release Form (click to download your copy)