Adoption Process & Fees
The adoption process
Adopting a rescue animal is an important commitment, and our process is designed to ensure the best possible match for both the animal and the adopter.
Below is an overview of the SAWS adoption process. Exact steps or timelines may vary depending on the animal and individual circumstances.
What to expect
The SAWS adoption process typically includes:
- filling out our adoption application
- an application review and follow-up questions
- a conversation with a SAWS representative
- coordination with the foster family
- adoption approval and paperwork
- adoption fee payment and pickup/transport planning
Our team will guide you through each step and answer questions along the way.
Adoption fees
The adoption fee applies to the adoption itself and helps cover a portion of the care the animal receives while in SAWS foster care.
The adoption fee contributes to:
- an initial veterinary visit
- first tick and flea treatment
- dewormer
- food while the animal is in our care
Mandatory identification & registration (all adoptions)
All animals adopted through SAWS are microchipped, as required by law.
Animals are registered and ownership is transferred in accordance with the legal requirements of the adopter’s place of residence at the time of adoption.
This may include registration in the Italian database for adopters residing in Italy, or registration and transfer according to the requirements of another country for adopters who will relocate or reside elsewhere.
Microchipping and registration costs are the responsibility of the adopter.
Additional veterinary and medical costs
In addition to the base adoption fee, some animals may require additional veterinary care depending on their age, health, and adoption circumstances.
These costs are not included in the adoption fee and may include:
- additional vaccinations beyond the initial treatments and any required travel preparation
- spay or neuter procedures
- additional veterinary visits or medical treatment, including diagnostics or follow-up care when needed
Any required procedures and associated costs will be discussed clearly with the adopter during the adoption process, before adoption is finalized.
International travel preparation (outside Italy)
If an animal is adopted to a home outside of Italy, additional veterinary procedures and documentation are required to comply with Italian and international travel regulations.
These requirements are not included in the base adoption fee and may include:
- rabies vaccination (mandatory for international travel)
- EU pet passport
- health certificate, when required by the destination country
- travel preparation, including an up-to-date combined tick/flea treatment and dewormer administered within the required timeframe prior to travel
SAWS assists adopters with travel preparation and ownership transfer through our Pet Italian Registration appointments arranged by SAWS, ensuring all documentation is completed correctly and in accordance with regulations.
All required procedures, timelines, and estimated costs will be explained clearly during the adoption process before adoption is finalized.
International travel requirements and costs vary depending on destination and timing.
Transportation responsibility & SAWS assistance
Transportation of the adopted animal is the sole responsibility of the adopter. SAWS does not organize, initiate, or pay for transportation.
That said, adopters are not left on their own. When possible, SAWS may assist by providing guidance, coordination, and trusted contacts to help ensure transportation is completed safely, legally, and in the best interest of the animal.
This assistance may include:
- guidance on airline or travel requirements
- coordination for animals traveling in-cabin or as cargo, when applicable
- assistance in identifying a possible flight companion (“flight parent”) if a suitable contact is available
- Any assistance provided by SAWS is supportive only and depends on availability and circumstances. SAWS cannot be directed or obligated to arrange transportation in a specific way.
SAWS reserves the right to decline involvement in any transportation arrangement that does not meet legal requirements or SAWS animal welfare standards.
Transparency & communication
SAWS is committed to transparency throughout the adoption process. Our team will explain all expected costs, required procedures, and next steps so adopters can make informed decisions and prepare responsibly for bringing their new pet home.
All fees help ensure the animal receives appropriate care and is prepared for a healthy transition into their forever home.
Payment information
Adoption fee payment details will be provided after adoption approval.
Our team will explain accepted payment methods and timing as part of the final adoption steps.
Please note:
- adoption fees are not donations
- adoption fees are not tax-deductible
- adoption fees are separate from general donations to SAWS
If you would like to support SAWS beyond your adoption fee, you are always welcome to visit our Donate page.
Adoption fee payment information
All adoption-related fees are listed and collected in EUR (€).
Adopters are responsible for ensuring that the full amount is received by SAWS in EUR, including any applicable transfer or transaction fees.
Please note the following:
- Adoption fees must be paid in full; partial payments or split payments are not accepted
- Any bank or platform fees (including PayPal fees, typically €5–10) are the responsibility of the adopter
- Payments sent in a different currency (such as USD) must be adjusted so the full EUR amount is received by SAWS
In most cases, the base adoption fee is paid first. Additional costs (such as vaccinations, medical treatment, or travel preparation) are invoiced and paid separately as they arise.
Payment timing and methods will be discussed during the adoption process and may vary depending on the animal and individual circumstances.
SAWS will confirm payment details and accepted payment methods directly with the adopter to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Questions?
If you have questions about the adoption process or fees, please contact us through our Contact page or reach out by email at info@pawsofsaws.org. We’re happy to help and guide you through the process.