Frequently asked questions
Everything about adopting a dog or cat from abroad with Tierfreunde Schweiz – briefly and clearly answered.
How does an adoption with Tierfreunde Schweiz work?
You fill in the adoption application online or on paper. We check your details carefully. If it is a match, we get back to you within 7 days and we get to know each other – at your home or by video. You then receive the adoption contract. The animal travels to Switzerland about 4–6 weeks after you say yes, and we hand it over to you in person.
Where do your animals come from?
Our dogs and cats come from abroad. They were rescued from difficult situations and are cared for locally by our partner organisation and prepared for the journey by vets.
How does an animal from abroad come to Switzerland?
Every animal has a microchip and a pet passport, is vaccinated against rabies, and an antibody blood test in an approved laboratory confirms the vaccine protection. This is followed by the flight, the check by the border veterinarian and the drive to your home. We take care of import, customs and the flight.
How long does it take until the animal is with me?
Usually about 4–6 weeks after you say yes.
How much does an adoption cost?
The adoption fee is CHF 200–650 depending on the animal. There is no advance payment: the fee is only due once you have met your animal in person and decided to take it in. It contributes to the costs of rescue, veterinary care and transport.
Do you do a home visit?
Yes – or we get to know each other by video (WhatsApp or Zoom); both are possible. That way we can see together whether the animal suits you and your everyday life.
How quickly will I hear from you?
If your application is a match, we get back to you within 7 days. We make every effort to reply to everyone. If you have not heard from us within 7 days, we were unfortunately unable to consider your application this time.
Can I get to know the animal beforehand?
As the animals are still abroad, we are happy to send you videos once we receive your adoption enquiry and tell you everything we know about the animal. You will find more videos on our Instagram page.
Are the animals healthy?
Every animal is fully vaccinated, dewormed, spayed or neutered and microchipped. Before adoption it undergoes a veterinary examination, including a complete blood count, blood biochemistry, an ehrlichiosis test for dogs and full dental hygiene. What we know about health and character is in the animal’s profile. We pass on all the information we have – however, we cannot give a guarantee for an animal’s health.
What is a sponsorship?
With CHF 50 per month you accompany an animal of your choice until it is adopted. You regularly receive videos with your name and the exact date and can help find the right family. The sponsorship ends at the latest when the animal has found a home.
How do I become a member, and what does it cost?
You can apply online. The annual fee is CHF 80 for individual members, CHF 100 for couples and families, CHF 50 for young people and people in training (up to 25), from CHF 120 for patron members and from CHF 250 for companies and organisations.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. Donations to Tierfreunde Schweiz are tax-deductible.
Where is the association active?
Tierfreunde Schweiz is a non-profit association based in Meilen in the canton of Zurich. We rehome animals throughout Switzerland.
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