Adoption Application 2025

New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue Trust - Adoption Application 2025

Please read the below details before you complete this application form.
Thank you for taking the time to apply to adopt a dog through New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue. We are a registered New Zealand Charity (no. CC11559)

We are not a“first in, first served” organisation. Our priority is always the wellbeing of the dogs, and we take the time and care needed to match each one with the right forever home.

We understand that applying to welcome a new family member into your home can be an emotional process and appreciate your patience and honesty. But please respect our decisions and treat our volunteers with courtesy at all times.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION, PLEASE NOTE:

Are you applying for a specific dog in our care?

If so, first make sure you have read their profile on our website and that you meet the adopter requirements, no exceptions. These requirements are set in consultation with each dog’s foster parent to ensure we find the best possible match for that dog. You will also need to be prepared to travel to meet the dog and their foster parents.

Before applying, please ensure that:
- You've read the adoption information on our website AND Adoption Agreement, as it outlines the obligations you will be bound by if your application is successful. We assume all Applicants have taken the time to consider this information.
- Complete the entire application and upload any required attachments (ie. landlord approval, and clear property photos) to avoid delays in processing your application and disappointment.
- When completing the application, please answer all questions as thoroughly as possible. The more detail you provide, the better we can assess if your home is a good match for the dog, increasing your chances of a successful application.
- If you have any queries, please review the website and our comprehensive FAQ.
- For more on the local Adoption Process (Canterbury) or the Adoption Process (Other Locations)
Your Details:

Please let us know as much detail as possible so we can find your family the best match of companion. Our application is comprehensive as we want to ensure we provide the best match of dog for your family and needs.
Full Name of the Main Applicant:*
First, middle and last name of the person who is applying to own the dog.
Gender

MaleFemaleOther
Your Date of Birth:*
Day-month-year
Your residency Status*

New Zealand CitizenPermanent ResidentWorking VisaTravel VisaOther
Your Email*
Please note: our primary contact method is via email.
Phone Number

Area CodePhone Number
Address*

Street Address

CitySuburb

Postal Code
Which District Council are you in the area for? (ie. "Waimakariri" or "Christchurch City Council"*
Please note: this is required for an adoption to be confirmed (via our council and yours)
Do you have a spouse?*

No.Yes I have a spouse - but we live separately.Yes I have a spouse - we live together.
Are you employed at present?*

Yes, I am an EmployeeYes, I am an Employer or Business Owner (work for myself)I'm retiredI'm a beneficiaryI'm a StudentI'm currently searching for work.
Occupation:
Do you have the ability to work from home?*

Not applicable to me.NoNot sure - I will need to seek approval from my EmployerTemporarily - while I integrate the dog only.Yes - On an ongoing and regular basis.
Which days do you WFH? (if applicable)*
For example: "Yes - Monday and Fridays.; or" type "none" if not applicable
Do you or your spouse plan to take the dog to work?*

YesNoBoth of us will, yes
If so, what kind of work environment would it be?
Please provide all details possible so we can ensure that any dog placed with you will be suitable for a workplace.
Application Details:

If applying for a particular dog - please review their profile first to ensure you meet their adopter requirements AND that they are available to adopt!
Are you submitting your adoption application with a particular dog in mind?*

YES - Please add their name below.NO - I just want to be added to the database of potential adopters.BOTH - Please add their name below.
What is the name of the dog you're applying for? (if you answered YES or BOTH).
Please ensure you meet the adopter requirements noted on their profile (on our website)
**** WE HAVE HAD MANY "EARLY APPLICATIONS FOR HONEY THAT CANNOT BE PROCESSED AT PRESENT ****

Please note: Applications are only accepted for dogs who are listed as "Available for Adoption on our website."

We don't accept "early applications" as we need to confirm their adopter requirements before considering any applicants.

If a dog is on trial, under assessment, or otherwise not yet noted as "AVAILABLE TO ADOPT" we are unable to accept applications for them at this stage.
Why do you feel this particular dog is a match for your family?
.
Have you applied to New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue Prior?*

Yes.No.Not sure.
Within the past 3 months, have you applied to adopt any other animals at any other organisation or breeder?*
Your Spouse or Partner Details (if relevant):

Please let us know as much detail as possible so we can find your family the best match of companion. Our application is comprehensive as we want to ensure we provide the best match of dog for your family and needs.
Full Name of Spouse or Partner:
First, middle and last name
Gender of spouse (relevant only for certain dogs who may be fearful of a particular gender)

MaleFemaleOther
DOB of Spouse:
(ie. 65 years, 4 August 1958)
Occupation of Spouse
Please confirm working days, hours or roster details for your spouse (as best you can):
NOTE! do not put phrases such as "only nights". We ask for the days/times that are typical if you consider the past few weeks routine. This is so we can understand your general routine and ensure that a dog is matched accordingly.
Q. Why do you need to know about our working schedules?

A. Every rescue dog needs time to adapt to their new environment, family (human and animal), and routines.For this reason, we ask that you do not introduce your new dog to anyone outside your immediate household for at least the first month—including taking them to your workplace.

Your home and family are already significant changes to adjust to. Adding new people, places, and environments too soon can be overwhelming and unfair to the dog. You must also be able to commit to any training or routines provided—such as being home to establish a consistent toilet routine in the first month.

Please consider: have you planned for this adjustment period? Do you have the time and capacity to support your new dog through this transition?

This early period is crucial to setting them up for long-term success.

Property Ownership & Fencing:

Providing a secure environment is essential for the safety and well-being of our dogs. When dogs go on an adoption trial, they may experience anxiety and seek ways to escape.

To prevent this - it is crucial to consider your current fencing and whether it would be feasible for a small dog to escape, tunnel out or climb over a short fence. Please also take a moment to assess the condition of your fencing and ensure it is secure and suitable. Consider whether any repairs or reinforcements are needed.

For rural properties, consider any additional barriers necessary, allowing an enclosed area for supervised toileting. We will also ensure the backyard is safe for a small dog, so please remove any renovation parts or rubbish, poisonous plants or other items that could fall onto a dog and injure them.

Please do not include photos of your pets or people. We only require clear photos of the backyard area(s), any gates expected to contain the dog and your fencing to ensure it is solid and safe.
Home Details:*
Please note: if renting, flatting or boarding we require written consent from your landlord to ensure they're aware and consent to you adopting a dog at their property.
IF RENTING, FLATTING OR BOARDING: do you have landlord consent to adopt?

Upload Document(s)
NOTE: This is required for all applicants renting, boarding or residing in a Housing New Zealand Property. Please attach an email or a signed letter of consent from your landlord or tenancy manager (we have a template on our website if needed!) SUBMISSION SPECIFICATIONS: 2 uploads maximum, PDF, doc, docx, jpg, jpeg, or png Cancelof
How long have you lived at your current home?*
Do you have plans to move from this address within the next 12 months?*

YesNoUnsure
Which areas of your home or property are "off limits" to a dog?*
For example: "the garage and driveway" or "laundry, front yard, garage."
Do you have any pools, ponds or other body of water the dog could access?*

YesNo
Is your property fully-fenced?*

YesNoI will need to make some repairs or build before the home inspectionOther
Do you consent to a property inspection?*

YesNo
What is your plan for the dog if you head away on holiday and the dog CANNOT go with you? *
Please note: we have limited foster placements to utilise so cannot 'puppy-sit' adopted dogs. As we don't have a center we cannot offer boarding facilities. If planning any trips or holidays please consider where the dog would be in your absence.
Please attach clear photos of your backyard and fencing (ONLY). If you are rural, please attach the fenced in area the dog will toilet dog in. *** Please do NOT include photos of current pets or people! ****

Add photos
ATTACH clear pictures of your backyard, generally, fencing and any OUTDOOR areas the dog will have access to. DO NOT include people or the current pets. SUBMISSION SPECIFICATIONS: we accept 10 files. File types accepted are: Pdf, doc, docx, jpg, jpeg, png. Cancelof

Household and Family Member Details:

Understanding your household and those in your family will help us pair a dog with you that will integrate well with existing family members and easily transition into your work or life routines. The more information we have, the easier it is for us to determine if a dog is likely to be a great match for your family!
Have you discussed adopting a dog with all of the others in your household?*

YesNo
Does anyone suffer from pet-related allergies in your home?*

YesNo
Do you live with any other adults (18+)? (ie. flat mates, parents, boarders, or adult kids, )*

YesNoOther
Do you live with any children under 10 years old?*

YesNo
Do you have any children visiting your home frequently? (ie. your kids, step kids, grandkids any other regular visitors under 10 years old)*

YesNo
Details:

Details of pets:

Please let us know the below details so we can ensure we match a dog with your family that will easily integrate with existing pets.
Have you owned a dog prior?*

YesNoOther
If yes - which breeds of dogs have you owned in the past 5 years?
Please only include dogs you've owned (not cared for periodically). For example: Yes - Griffons, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers." or "Yes - Rotties, Golden Retrievers and Labs."
Do you have any dogs currently?*

Yes (please complete the details below!)No.No - but I do regularly have other dogs in my home (ie. pet-sitting).

CURRENT DOGS: please include as much detail about your current dogs as you can, this helps us to ensure an adopted dog will be a great match and not upset your current pets.

	Name	Breed	Gender	Age	Are they de-sexed?	Personality traits:
1
2
3
5

Diet: What do your current dogs eat? or what would you feed the rescue dog? (if no current dogs at home)
Please confirm brand and diet details (ie. kibble, raw meat)
Would you insure any new dog?
Note: we always recommend pet insurance for any animals, rescue dogs included!
Sleep: Where do your current dogs sleep?
Please confirm where your current dogs sleep, for example: "in our bed.. in our lounge... where-ever they'd like to."
Exercise: How often do you exercise or walk your dogs?
Please confirm details.
How many dogs are you licensed to keep at your property?*
Please contact your local Council if unsure.
How often will the adopted dog be left alone (without humans) in your home per day?*
Please do not enter "never" or other phrases. consider and be as honest as possible so we can consider which dogs will best match your home (ie. those with separation anxiety may not be suitable for someone away for 4 hours. This mismatch which could compromise their adoption being successful which is stressful for the dog and for you!)
What are your plans for the dog when not home?*
For example: "crated in the lounge" OR "confined to the dining/lounge area but able to roam." OR "garage, crated."
Are you able (financially) and willing to engage professional dog trainer to work with you and a rescue dog, to resolve any integration or behavior issues?

Yes - I'd like a local (CHCH) recommendation.Yes - But I already work with a professional Trainer/Behaviorist I could consult.Depends on costs - not sure.No.
Do you have any other animals living with you?*

Yes (please add details below)No.
OTHER PETS: please provide as much detail as possible about the other animals at your home (ie. name (if applicable), species, gender, where they're housed, age and if they've lived with dogs prior).
We want to ensure that both the new dog and your animals are safe! We need to know what animals are at your home to ensure the dog is suitable around them.
Please confirm the NAME of your regular vet clinic(s) or the last one used for previous pets:*
Please type the name of your vet clinic "ie. Chihuahua Avenue Vet Partners, CHCH"
Do you give consent for us to contact your vet clinic for a reference?*

YesNo
Have you ever needed to surrender a pet to a rescue, or re-home them?*

Yes (confirm details below)No
If yes - please provide details here:
Please provide details of the pet and circumstances - we appreciate your honesty and transparency.

What kind of companion are you searching for?

Please let us know as much detail as possible about the companion you are envisioning joining your family - This helps us to help you! if we know your needs and expectations, we can more easily match you with a dog. We appreciate your honesty, transparency and time doing so.
Which statement is most true for you? (pick 1-3 if needed).*

I/we need an energetic dog, fit to participate in outdoor activities.I /we need a quiet, calm and easygoing dog. Not too energetic or active.I/we need a good family dog, able to join in busy family life and be around kids.Our main reason is we need a dog that can be a great companion for my existing dog(s).I/we want a dog for training (agility or obedience).I/we don't mind if the dog isn't social.I/we could commit to a special needs dog.I/we need one able to to come to my/our workplace regularly.I/we want a dog as a gift for our child, family member or friend.Other

How active are you and your family (ie. outdoor activities etc)*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not overly active, 5 is Very active

If you answered 3,4 or 5, what outdoor activities do you anticipate a dog attending?
Please provide details so we can consider whether we have a suitable companion.

How social are you and your family?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Never or minimal, 5 is Very social - we love people!

If you answered 3,4 or 5, what kinds of social activities are these?
Please provide details so we can consider whether we have a social companion suitable to join (ie. How often you visit others and go out? or do you often entertain in your home?)

How "strict" would you say you are in terms of rules and boundaries with dogs or your other animals?

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very - it's important to me

Reasons for your selection:
Please provide details - What rules are there in the household for your dog/pet(s)? (ie. are they allowed in all areas of your home? on furniture?)

How difficult do you find it to be enforcing the dogs' rules and boundaries? (please be honest!)

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all very comfortable. My pets know the rules and boundaries., 5 is Very hard for me - I am too soft! I love them too much and end up cuddling or giving them food.

How comfortable are you adopting a dog that needs continuing assistance with toilet-training? (ie. dogs re-learning or puppies)

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all - they MUST be 100% fully toilet-trained., 5 is Very comfortable - I can do that if needed.

How confident are you with dogs who suffer behavioural issues (ie. separation anxiety, reactive or nippy, requiring socialisation etc)?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very

Reasons for your selection:
What experience do you have with dog training, psychology, obedience, or behavioural issues? (which led to the above scores).

How confident are you training a rescue dog needing to learn general obedience commands (sit, stay, down etc)?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, havent got experience with attending any training or didnt find it useful, 5 is Very comfortable and experienced doing so.

Please list recent experience training a dog if any (ie. teaching them general commands, agility, obedience, or experience as a foster parent): *
Please provide details - we love to know about your experience and skill ranges and it will help us to match a dog to you and your experience level (if relevant)
Have you cared for any special needs dogs (or pets) prior? Please provide details:
Please confirm the details: species of animal and the special needs they had. For example: "Yes - a dog with epilepsy, needed regular medication and monitoring etc."
Which qualities are most important to you in finding the right doggy companion?*
Please note: we consider aspects like the dogs personality, temperament and energy level and whether those match you/r family first. Not the appearance, coat, color or even gender of the dog. It's crucial you consider and let us know honestly what qualities you need in a new pet.

How important is it that the dog is cat-friendly?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very

How important is it that the dog is social with other dogs?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very

How important is it that the dog is people-friendly?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very

How important is it that the dog is social with children?*

	1	2	3	4	5

1 is Not at all, 5 is Very

Are you only interested in a particular gender?*

Females onlyMales onlyNo - as long as the dog is match for me
Are you willing to adopt a bonded pair? (Note: this is ONLY applicable to bonded pairs. We never adopt out two separate dogs at once)*

No - just oneYesI'm open to it depending on the dog(s)
Are you willing to adopt a senior dog? (ie. over 7 years old - keeping in mind toy breeds can live 18-20 years)*

NoYesI'm open to it depending on the dog
Are you willing to adopt a dog that needs any of the following ... tick any that would be a YES:*

Ongoing behavioral training/assistance (from you OR a trainer)Ongoing medications (ie. pain relief, arthritis/joint or heart meds)Ongoing physio (ie. orthopedic support)Specialist vet diet food (ie. due to allergies or illness)Chronic conditions (ie. heart, pancreas, luxating patellas, epilepsy)A blind, deaf or other special needs dog.

Future Planning:

It may seem like a significant expectation, but it’s crucial that our dogs find a home for life. We understand that unexpected situations can arise, but small dogs often live 18–20 years, and we want to ensure that Adopters are prepared for this long-term commitment. This includes having a plan in place to ensure the dog is well cared for throughout their life. Our dogs need reliable and committed owners who can also provide for their physical, mental and financial needs. We want to find their best possible match from the start, so they never need to return to the rescue. This is why we take such care in placing them in homes where they can thrive forever!.
Do you suffer any health or medical conditions that may require you to enter hospital for a period of time, or otherwise impact your ability to care for a dog?*

Yes (please consider who would look after the dog in any absence)No
If you became unwell, entered care, passed away, or were otherwise unable to look after the dog any longer, what would be your rehoming plan for them?*
Please avoid providing a vague response like "my family would probably do it." This has been a common reason Adopters have had to rely on our rescue in the past. We ask that you carefully consider this question and consult with your family to create a concrete plan for your dog's care in case unforeseen circumstances arise.
If you were admitted to hospital or otherwise unable to look after the dog TEMPORARILY, what is your plan for them?*
lease avoid providing a vague response like "my family would probably do it." This has been a common reason Adopters have had to rely on our rescue in the past. We ask that you carefully consider this question and consult with your family to create a concrete plan for your dog's care in case unforeseen circumstances arise.
Have you discussed the above with your nominated person?.*

No - I don't know who I could nominate.Not yet - I will speak with my nominated person and confirm.Yes - My nominated person consents AND considers this when making future plans.Yes - It is already noted legally in my Will.
Who will be responsible for the financial costs of maintenance and health upkeep for the dog?*
Dogs can be a significant financial commitment. Consider costs for: vet visits and bloods, routine dental care and dental cleaning under sedation, or emergency medical care, quality flea and worming treatments, quality food, vaccinations, annual registration etc. It can amount to thousands per year.
Have you researched common breed health issues?*

YesA little bit, not really.No
Are you confident you can meet the ongoing costs associated with a dog (ie. dental procedures, yearly Council registration, vaccinations, worm and flea, quality pet food and any other veterinary treatment or needs)*

Yes - I have planned for thisNot sure - I need some time to consider thisNot sure - I don't know if its financially feasible right now.
If selected, are you able/willing to purchase (or otherwise source) the basics? (ie. a crate, bowls, harness, leash etc?)*

Yes - I have planned for this. I have those available or will purchase prior.No - I need time to consider thisNot sure - I don't know if its financially feasible right now.
If successful, are you willing to commit to the dog emotionally and financially from the date of trial?*

Yes. I understand once we begin the trial they are my financial responsibility.No. I don't know if its financially feasible right now.
If successful, are you able to provide the full adoption fee prior to the date of trial (all fees are by deposit to the trust account prior to collection of the dog)*

Yes - I have planned for thisNo - I need time to consider this
Are there any other additional details that may assist with your application, or us getting to know you as a prospective doggy-parent?
For example: any relevant hobbies or whether you have any special training or skills (ie.vet, trainer etc) that may give us more insight about your family and what you'd offer a dog or need as a companion.
If selected, are you able and willing to attend a meet and greet with the foster family and dog in Canterbury? (no exceptions sorry).*

Not applicable as I’m within CanterburytYes - I understand. I can travel if selected for the meet/greet.No - I didn't realise this (unfortunately, we cannot proceed or consider your application to adopt. Please consult a local organisation).
I have read and understood the terms of adoption with New Zealand Chihuahua Resuce and I agree to be bound by them (or any subsequent terms), Manual and policies issued by the Trust. I also acknowledge and confirm that all information provided within this application is truthful.*

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New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue Trust - Adoption Application 2025

Thank you for taking the time to apply to adopt a dog through New Zealand Chihuahua Rescue. We are a registered New Zealand Charity (no. CC11559)

BEFORE YOU BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION, PLEASE NOTE:

Before applying, please ensure that:

If you have any queries, please review the website and our comprehensive FAQ.

For more on the local Adoption Process (Canterbury) or the Adoption Process (Other Locations)

Your Details:

Application Details:

Your Spouse or Partner Details (if relevant):

Household and Family Member Details:

Details of pets:

What kind of companion are you searching for?

Future Planning: