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Frequently asked questions, clearly answered.
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Wie läuft eine Adoption ab?
Am Anfang steht Ihre Anfrage zu einer bestimmten Fellnase. Anschließend bitten wir Sie um eine Self-disclosure, damit wir Ihre Lebenssituation, Ihre Erfahrung und Ihre Erwartungen besser kennenlernen können.
Wenn die Voraussetzungen grundsätzlich passen, folgt ein persönliches Gespräch und eine Pre-check. Danach stimmen wir gemeinsam ab, ob das Tier zu Ihnen passt und wie der Einzug vorbereitet wird.
Die Adoption erfolgt erst, wenn alle wichtigen questions geklärt sind und die Adoption im Interesse des Tieres verantwortungsvoll möglich ist.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Kann ich eine Fellnase vorab kennenlernen?
Ja, sofern sich die Fellnase bereits auf einer Foster home in Germany befindet. Ein Kennenlernen ist nach vorheriger Absprache möglich und bietet Gelegenheit, das Tier in seinem Alltag zu erleben und offene questions zu besprechen.
Befindet sich die Fellnase noch in Romania, ist ein persönliches Kennenlernen vor der Adoption in der Regel nicht möglich. In diesem Fall stellen wir Ihnen alle verfügbaren Informationen, Fotos und Videos zur Verfügung und sprechen offen über bekannte Eigenschaften und Bedürfnisse.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What is a self-disclosure, and why is it important?
The self-assessment questionnaire contains questions about your living situation, your daily routine, your experience with animals, children and any animals you already have, as well as your availability.
It helps us realistically assess your wishes and options and find an animal together that suits your living situation. The information does not replace a personal conversation, but provides a good basis for the further placement process.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What requirements should I meet to adopt?
You should be of legal age and be able to offer the animal a safe, suitable and permanent home. Sufficient time, patience, a sense of responsibility and a willingness to accommodate the animal’s individual needs are important.
Your living situation, working hours, children, existing pets, holidays and possible care arrangements will also be taken into consideration. If you live in rented accommodation, the landlord’s consent may be required.
What matters is not a perfect track record, but an honest assessment of whether the particular animal is a good fit for you and your everyday life.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How long does the placement process take?
The duration varies from case to case and depends, among other things, on the animal, your living situation, the information you provide, the personal interview, the pre-adoption check and scheduling.
We want to achieve a suitable long-term placement and therefore take the necessary time. A quick decision is not always the most responsible decision for people and animals.
Please understand if questions arise or if another animal is a better fit for your situation.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I reserve a furry friend?
It is possible to submit a non-binding expression of interest. However, a binding reservation only exists once it has been expressly confirmed by the association following personal clarification.
Until then, further inquiries may be considered. A reservation may also be subject to conditions, deadlines, or steps in the placement process that are still pending.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What happens during the pre-check?
During the pre-adoption home visit, we get to know you and your home personally. We talk about your daily routine, living situation, safety aspects, existing pets, care options and your expectations regarding the adoption.
The home visit is not an unannounced test, but a joint conversation. You can ask any questions you may have and discuss important information about care and settling in.
The results are then assessed together so that the decision can be made with the animal’s long-term best interests in mind.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I adopt a cat too?
Yes. In addition to dogs, we also rehome cats, provided that the animal and the respective living situation are a good match.
For cats, we pay particular attention to a safe home, suitable places to retreat, window and balcony safety, and whether keeping the cat alone or with another cat is appropriate.
The specific requirements depend on the age, character, state of health, and needs of the respective cat.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What should I prepare before moving in?
Prepare a quiet, safe retreat and a daily routine that is as relaxed as possible. For dogs, this includes a well-fitting harness, collar, leashes, and a secure way of transporting them.
For cats, food and water bowls, a litter box, scratching posts, places to lie down, and safe retreats should be provided. Windows, balconies, doors, and any possible escape routes must be securely safeguarded.
Allow sufficient time for the adjustment period and discuss care, veterinary arrangements, food, and the first steps after moving in with the organization beforehand.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What are Mediterranean diseases, and what should I be aware of?
Mediterranean diseases are various infections that can occur in southern regions. Depending on the disease, they may remain unnoticed for a long time or only cause symptoms later.
Which tests, check-ups or treatments are appropriate depends on the animal’s origin, medical history and state of health. Please discuss the findings and an individual check-up plan with a veterinary practice.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
When should my furry friend see the vet?
In cases of difficulty breathing, severe pain, seizures, injuries, suspected poisoning, persistent vomiting or marked lethargy, immediate veterinary assistance is required.
Even without an acute emergency, an initial examination should be carried out promptly after moving in. This allows the vaccination status, parasite prevention, teeth, weight and other preventive measures to be discussed.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Why are vaccinations important?
Vaccinations can protect against serious and contagious diseases. Which vaccinations are advisable depends, among other things, on age, origin, vaccination status, health condition, and lifestyle.
The veterinary practice will create an appropriate vaccination schedule and inform you about booster vaccinations and any possible special considerations.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Which health records will I receive?
Existing vaccination, test, diagnostic and treatment records will be shared transparently as part of the placement process.
Please bring the documents with you to the first appointment at the veterinary practice and keep them in a safe place. If any information is missing or you have unanswered questions, please contact us.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What can I do about diarrhea after moving in?
Mild diarrhea can be caused by stress, a change in food, or the new environment. Monitor the general condition, drinking behavior, and duration of the symptoms, and avoid administering medication without veterinary advice.
In the event of blood, severe or persistent diarrhea, vomiting, fever, signs of dehydration, or in puppies and weakened animals, contact the veterinary practice immediately.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How can I tell if an animal is in pain?
Pain can manifest itself through reluctance to move, changes in posture, panting, restlessness, withdrawal, sensitivity to touch, loss of appetite or unusual behaviour.
As animals often hide pain, changes should be taken seriously and assessed by a veterinarian. In an emergency, please act immediately.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Does my furry friend need health insurance?
Health or surgical insurance is voluntary. It can help cushion high treatment costs, but it does not replace a reserve for deductibles or non-covered services.
Carefully compare waiting periods, exclusions, reimbursement limits, deductibles, and conditions for pre-existing conditions.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How often should a dog be dewormed?
Routine deworming at fixed intervals is not suitable for every dog. The approach depends on age, lifestyle, contact with other animals, travel, and individual risk.
Discuss with your veterinary practice whether regular examinations or treatment are advisable. Medication should not be given without professional recommendation.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What belongs in a pet first-aid kit?
Useful items include bandages, sterile gauze pads, disinfectant for animals, tick tweezers, disposable gloves, a flashlight, and the contact details of the veterinary practice.
Individual medications should only be kept in the home medicine cabinet on the advice of a veterinarian. Human painkillers or other medications must never be administered independently.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How do I transport my furry friend safely?
For safe transport, the animal needs a suitable, well-secured carrier or a tested safety harness. For dogs, a collar and leash as well as up-to-date contact details should also be available.
Plan a calm journey, secure doors and windows, and avoid unnecessary stops. Double securing is particularly important for animals that are anxious.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How long can a dog stay in a car?
A dog must never be left unattended in a vehicle. Even at seemingly pleasant temperatures, a car can heat up dangerously or become very cold within a short time.
During longer journeys, regular breaks, water, fresh air and monitoring the dog's well-being are required.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Does my dog need a travel crate?
A suitable and securely fastened transport crate provides protection and prevents the dog from moving freely around the vehicle while driving. It must be large enough, well ventilated, and the dog should be familiarized with it.
Agenatively, a tested safety harness can be used. A seat belt must not be attached to the collar.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What belongs in the transport and travel bag?
Pack water, food, bowls, a lead, collar or harness, poop bags, towels, medication and the most important documents.
It is also helpful to bring a familiar blanket, a spare fuse and the telephone number of the association and the veterinary practice. For cats, a secure carrier is essential.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can a dog travel on the train?
In principle, a dog can travel by train. Check the current rules, ticket requirements and regulations of the respective transport company in advance.
If possible, get your dog accustomed to the carrier, noises and short journeys beforehand, and allow sufficient time for transfers.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What costs are involved in the adoption?
In addition to the adoption fee, you should budget for ongoing costs such as food, equipment, preventive care, veterinary treatment, insurance, transport and care.
There may also be one-off expenses for harnesses, leads, a transport crate, a sleeping area or safety measures. It is important to have financial reserves for emergencies.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What does the protection fee cover?
The adoption fee contributes to the costs of caring for, providing medical attention to, housing, preparing, and rehoming the animal.
It is neither a donation nor a purchase price. The exact amount and conditions are explained transparently during the adoption process.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How much are the ongoing costs?
Ongoing costs depend on the animal’s size, age, health and needs. These include food, preventive care, veterinary treatment, medication, insurance, care and equipment.
Please also allow for unexpected treatment costs and set aside a reserve for them.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can the protection fee be paid in installments?
Payment in installments is not automatically possible. If you require an individual solution, please speak to us openly before completing the placement.
An agreement must be made transparently and expressly with the association in advance. There is no entitlement to payment in installments.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Are veterinary costs covered after the adoption?
Upon handover of the animal, adopting persons generally assume ongoing responsibility for its care, preventive measures, and veterinary treatment.
Special arrangements concerning known illnesses or treatments already agreed upon are set out in the adoption and protection agreement.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I make a donation in addition to the adoption fee?
Yes. The adoption fee and an additional donation are separate transactions. With a donation, you can also support animals or areas of the association for which no adoption fee is currently charged.
To make a donation, please use the designated payment methods and, if specifying a purpose, state the intended purpose correctly.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What is a foster home?
A foster home temporarily takes in an animal and cares for it until it is permanently placed. During this time, the animal lives in a home environment and can get used to everyday life with people, other animals and new situations.
Foster homes also help us to better understand the animal’s character, needs and behaviour. These experiences are particularly important when looking for a permanently suitable home.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What requirements must I meet to become a foster carer?
As a foster home, you should be of legal age, have sufficient time for the animal, and be able to provide it with a safe and suitable home. Patience, a sense of responsibility, and the willingness to adapt to the individual needs of the foster animal are also important.
Your living situation should be suitable for taking in the respective animal. If you live in a rented property, the landlord’s consent may be required. Any animals already living in the household, children, working hours, spatial conditions, and possible holiday plans will also be taken into consideration.
Prior experience handling dogs or cats is helpful, but is not always strictly necessary. What matters is that the particular foster animal is a good match for your experience and personal circumstances.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Is there a contract for the foster home?
Yes. Before the animal is taken in, a foster care agreement is concluded. This agreement governs the rights and obligations of the association and the foster home.
The foster care agreement covers, among other things, the care of the animal, cost arrangements, veterinary visits, insurance matters, safety requirements, cooperation during the adoption process, and procedures in emergencies.
During the foster care period, the foster animal may not be given to other persons, institutions, or organizations without the association’s prior consent.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Who decides which animal I take in as a foster home?
The foster animal is selected together with you. In doing so, we take into account your living situation, your experience, your working hours, any children or animals already in the household, as well as your personal circumstances and wishes.
At the same time, we assess which animal is a good fit for your life situation and which special needs must be taken into consideration.
An animal will not be assigned to you without prior consultation. The placement will only take place if both you and the association are convinced that the foster home is suitable for the respective animal.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What responsibilities does a foster home take on?
The foster home welcomes the animal into its daily life, cares for it and looks after it, and helps it get used to living in a domestic environment.
For dogs, this may include, among other things, encouraging house training, loose-leash walking, periods of rest, being left alone, and contact with people and other animals.
For cats, it may be important, among other things, to get them accustomed to the home environment, use of the litter box, contact with people and other animals, and observing their behavior and needs.
The foster home regularly informs the association about the animal’s physical and personal development. Current photos, information, and, if applicable, short videos are also required for finding the animal a new home.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Who covers the costs of food, veterinary care, and equipment?
Coverage of the costs will be discussed before the animal is taken in and recorded in the foster care agreement.
Necessary veterinary costs will generally only be covered after prior consultation with the association. An exception applies in acute emergencies requiring immediate veterinary treatment. In this case, the association must be informed without delay.
The regulations regarding food, medication, transport costs, dog tax, cat litter and necessary equipment may vary depending on the individual case.
If reimbursement of costs has been agreed, all invoices and receipts must be retained. Additional purchases or treatments may only be made with the association’s prior approval.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Who is liable if the foster animal causes damage?
Liability and insurance coverage are reviewed before the animal is taken in and regulated in the foster care agreement.
If the foster animal causes damage, injures a person or another animal, or is involved in an accident, the association must be informed immediately.
No acknowledgements of liability may be made to affected persons, and no independent agreements on compensation may be concluded.
The foster home is obliged to comply with all agreed safety measures. In the event of intentional or grossly negligent conduct, the foster home’s personal liability cannot be excluded.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How long does an animal stay in a foster home?
The duration of foster care cannot be predicted with certainty. Some animals find a suitable home after only a short time, while others remain in their foster home for several weeks or months.
A foster home should generally be prepared to care for the animal until it is permanently rehomed.
If your personal circumstances unexpectedly change, the association should be informed as early as possible. A suitable solution will then be sought together. However, immediate alternative accommodation cannot be guaranteed in every case.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How do introductory meetings with interested parties work?
Meeting the animal is only possible after the interested parties have been reviewed in advance and an appointment has been arranged together.
The foster home is not required to receive unannounced visitors. Appointments are organized in such a way that the burden on the animal and the foster home is kept to a minimum.
Depending on the animal and the situation, the meeting may take place at the foster home, during a walk together, or at another suitable location.
The association makes the final decision regarding placement in close coordination with the foster home. The animal must not be handed over to interested parties without the association’s express approval.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
May the foster home visit a veterinary practice independently?
Planned veterinary visits must always be coordinated with the association in advance.
The association will inform the foster home which veterinary practice may be visited and which examinations or treatments are authorised.
In the event of an acute medical emergency, veterinary assistance may and must be sought immediately. The association must be informed as soon as possible in this case.
All findings, invoices and treatment records must be kept and made available to the association. Treatments that have not been coordinated and are not medically urgently necessary may not be reimbursed.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What safety measures must be observed?
Many foster animals are initially unsettled in a new environment and may escape unexpectedly. Therefore, the safety measures agreed upon with the association must be observed at all times.
For dogs, double security with a safety harness, collar, and two leashes may be required. Doors, garden gates, windows, and vehicles must be secured reliably. Off-leash access is permitted only with the association’s express consent.
For cats, windows, balconies, doors, and potential escape routes in particular must be secured reliably. Outdoor access is permitted only if this has been expressly agreed upon with the association.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
May the foster pet be taken on vacation or cared for in another way?
Holiday trips, stays abroad and temporary care by other people must be agreed with the association in advance.
The animal may not be given independently to family members, friends, boarding kennels or other foster homes.
Any holiday plans already known should be communicated to the association before taking in a foster animal.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can a foster home adopt the foster animal itself?
In principle, a foster home may express interest in adopting. However, this does not automatically give rise to a claim to take over the animal.
The association will assess together with the foster home whether a permanent placement is in the animal’s best interests.
In this case as well, the regular placement process, the protection agreement and the agreed protection fee apply.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What should you do in case of problems or an emergency?
In the event of difficulties, health concerns or uncertainties, the club’s designated contact person must be contacted at an early stage.
In acute medical emergencies, veterinary assistance must be sought immediately. The club must be informed as soon as possible.
Depending on the situation, the club can provide support through an experienced contact person, a veterinary assessment or professional training and/or behavioural advice.
The animal must never be passed on independently or accommodated in an animal shelter, boarding facility or other accommodation without prior consultation.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How can I support the association?
You can help via the donations page, by bank transfer, or through other payment methods offered there. Every contribution helps provide care for animals and place them responsibly.
When making a bank transfer, please use the current bank details and specify the intended purpose.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I make a donation for a specific purpose?
Yes, provided that the intended purpose is compatible with the association’s charitable activities. Please state the purpose clearly in the purpose of use field or contact us beforehand.
A donation earmarked for a specific purpose will be used in accordance with the applicable requirements.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I make regular donations?
Yes. Regular donations provide the association with reliable support for food, veterinary care, transport, accommodation and rehoming.
You can arrange your preferred payment method and amount via the options provided.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Will I receive a donation receipt?
Whether and how a donation receipt is issued depends on the payment method and whether the complete contact details have been provided. Please enter your details correctly and keep proof of payment.
You can find the latest information on the donations page.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I donate food or material goods?
Donations of goods can be a valuable form of support. Please inquire in advance about current needs, suitable items and the preferred handover arrangements.
This helps us avoid unsuitable or unneeded donations and ensures that the support is used effectively.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What are donations used for?
Donations support, among other things, food, veterinary treatments, medication, transportation, accommodation, safety equipment, and the care of the animals.
They also help with rehoming, raising awareness, and the organisation of the association. The funds are used according to need and the purpose of the donation.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Who is Ein Herz für Fellnasen in Not e. V.?
Ein Herz für Fellnasen in Not e. V. is a non-profit animal welfare organization. We are committed to helping animals in need and support their care, protection, responsible rehoming, and public education.
Our goal is to find a suitable, permanent home for every animal and to support people in responsible pet ownership.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How can I become a supporting member?
You can support the association regularly by becoming a supporting member. Information on the contribution, application, and process can be found on the “Become a supporting member” page.
Membership fees help make it possible to plan the association’s activities financially.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I volunteer to help?
Yes. Depending on your needs, support may be provided, for example, with mediation, transportation, care, events, public relations, or organizational tasks.
Write to us about the interests, skills, and time you can offer.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
In which countries does the organization operate?
We help animals in need in Germany and Romania. The specific support depends on the animals, partners and organisational possibilities involved.
Our work includes care, preparation, transport, foster homes, placement and follow-up care.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
How can I contact the association?
You can reach us via the contact form or the email address provided on the website. Please describe your request as specifically as possible and, for animal inquiries, provide the animal’s name or link.
In medical emergencies, please contact a veterinary practice or the emergency veterinary service first.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What is a protection contract?
The protection agreement regulates responsible care as well as the rights and obligations of the association and the adopting person after placement.
It contains provisions on care, safety, transfer, return and contacting the association. Please read it in full before signing.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Can I return an adopted animal?
If keeping the animal is permanently not possible, please contact the association early and honestly. Together, we will look for a safe solution that complies with animal welfare standards.
The animal must not be passed on, abandoned, or placed elsewhere without prior agreement. Any return is governed by the protection agreement and the individual circumstances.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What does non-profit status mean?
Charitable status means that the association pursues exclusively and directly the charitable purposes set out in its statutes. The funds must be used accordingly for these purposes.
Donations and membership fees are therefore used for the association’s work and animal welfare within the framework of the statutory provisions.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
Who is allowed to sign a protection agreement?
The adoption agreement must be signed by the adult and responsible female owner or the adult and responsible male owner.
All persons permanently living in the household should be involved in advance, and responsibilities should be clearly defined.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
What do I need to consider when moving?
Inform the organisation of any planned move as early as possible. A new address may affect safety, keeping conditions, care and accessibility.
Share the new contact details and clarify whether the new living situation is suitable for the animal. The obligations under the protection agreement remain in force.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026
May I rehome an adopted animal?
The animal may not be given to other people, placed in foster care, an animal boarding facility or another establishment without prior authorisation. Please contact the association beforehand and describe the situation.
Together, we will assess which solution is in the animal’s best interests. This also applies to temporary care.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 05.08.2026