FAQs
Animal Adoption Terms
Please read the text below before you apply to adopt an animal from ISPCA Waterford.
- All dogs that are adopted from ISPCA Waterford will be neutered, microchipped, they will have their 1st vaccination, 2nd vaccination, kennel cough vaccination and worm & flea treatment will be up to date, unless there is a medical reason that prevents this.
- A rehoming fee of €150 applies to all dogs adopted from ISPCA Waterford.
- In the event that a pup is rehomed while it is too young to be neutered, it will be the new owner's responsibility to make arrangements to have the pup neutered in a veterinary practice of their choosing prior to first heat. ISPCA Waterford will pay for the cost of the neuter subject to a donation being made when the dog is rehomed.
- It will be the responsibility of the new owner to update the dog's microchip details and purchase a dog license.
- The dog must have an environment where they are free from discomfort, i.e. shelter and resting area that is appropriate for all weather possibilities.
- ISPCA Waterford will not rehome a dog where they will be secured by the use of a chain/shock collar/prong collar or any similar devices or where these devices are used as training methods.
- ISPCA Waterford does not rehome dogs for breeding or guarding purposes.
- It is the new owner's responsibility to ensure the dog always has access to fresh water and a balanced healthy diet to maintain full health and vigor and make certain the dog has an appropriate amount of exercise that suits its species/energy levels/requirements.
- It is the new owner's responsibility to ensure access to veterinary care to ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment of any ailments or injuries.
- The 5 freedoms of animal welfare guidelines are used as a minimum requirement when animals are adopted from ISPCA Waterford.
- ISPCA Waterford's Board decision is final in all cases of adoptions/rehoming.
- It is the new owner's responsibility to make their own arrangements for the collection of a newly rehomed dog.
- ISPCA Waterford reserves the right to revisit rehomed animals and if they are unhappy with the living conditions or health of the animal can reclaim it.
- If for any reason after a person who adopts a dog finds they are unable to keep it, they must return the dog to ISPCA Waterford and understand it is their responsibility to contact ISPCA Waterford Office and transport the dog back to the ISPCA Waterford shelter.
Microchipping
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic device, which is the size of a grain of rice. The microchip is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. A microchip works through radio wave frequency.
How Is the Microchip Implanted?
Using a specially designed implanting device the microchip is injected through a sterile needle under the dog’s skin.
Where Is the Microchip Implanted?
In dogs, the microchip is implanted under the skin, between the shoulder blades.
Does It Hurt?
No anaesthetic is required and the procedure should cause no more discomfort than a standard vaccination.
How Does the Microchip Stay in Place?
Once the microchip has been inserted, the dog’s body tissue surrounding the microchip attaches itself, preventing movement of the chip.
Could My Dog Be Allergic to The Microchip?
The microchip is inert and biocompatible. There is virtually no chance of the body developing an allergy or trying to reject the microchip after being implanted.
How Does the Microchip Work?
The computer memory in the microchip contains a unique 15 digit number – no two dogs will ever get the same number. Apart from the number the chip contains no other information. A radio signal transmitted from a scanner is used to read this number through the skin of your pet.
Who Has a Scanner?
These can be found at most veterinary practices, Local Authorities and animal welfare groups. Local Authorities and animal welfare groups use scanners to check stray dogs to see if they have been microchipped.
How Are the Owners Traced?
If a dog is found to have a microchip, the Local Authority or vet contacts a national database to find the owner’s details. The owner then can be contacted and reunited with their dog.
Where Can I Get My Dog Microchipped?
Most veterinary practices in Ireland can microchip your dog.
How Much Does It Usually Cost?
You can expect to pay €20 to have your dog microchipped at most veterinary practices.
How Long Does a Microchip Last?
Once injected under the skin of your dog, the microchip becomes encased by a thin layer of protein which anchors it in place for the rest of the life of your pet. It does not pass through or out of the body. The microchip itself has no power supply to replace or moving parts to wear down.
At What Age Can a Dog Be Microchipped?
Dogs of any age can be injected with a microchip. However you should consult your vet and ask their advice.