Rehoming a Yorkie After Divorce or Family Changes
When a relationship ends or a family changes, the dog often becomes one of the hardest decisions. You may be moving into a smaller place, working longer hours, or simply unable to give your Yorkie the stability and attention they need right now. SA Yorkie Rescue understands — and there is no judgement here.
Complete the surrender form with your situation. If there is a deadline — a move-out date, a court order, or a custody decision — include it so the team can prioritise accordingly.
You are dealing with enough already
Divorce and family breakdown are some of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. Adding a decision about the family dog on top of everything else — lawyers, moving, finances, children — can feel overwhelming. You may be grieving the relationship, the home, the future you thought you had. You may be exhausted from fighting. You may simply not have the capacity to give your Yorkie what they need right now.
None of this makes you a bad person or a bad owner. It makes you someone going through an incredibly difficult time who is still trying to do the right thing for their dog. That deserves respect, not judgement.
Common divorce and family change situations
What NOT to do
- Do not use the dog as leverage in divorce negotiations. The dog's welfare should not become a bargaining chip. If neither party can genuinely provide a stable home, the kindest path is a safe rehoming — not a tug-of-war.
- Do not post on social media about the situation. Divorce and family breakdown posts attract unsolicited advice, judgement, and sometimes the wrong kind of attention. Keep the rehoming process private.
- Do not give the dog to a friend or relative unless they are fully committed for the dog's lifetime. Temporary arrangements that collapse after a few months are harder on the dog than a clean transition through a rescue.
- Do not wait until the last minute. If you know a move or change is coming, reach out early. SAYR can plan a calm transition.
How SAYR helps
Tell SAYR about the situation — what has changed, who currently has the dog, and what the timeline looks like. You do not need to share private details beyond what helps the team plan.
Your situation is handled with absolute discretion. The team reviews urgency and the dog's needs and plans accordingly.
Your Yorkie goes to a calm, stable foster home — never a kennel. The foster family provides consistency while adoption matching takes place.
Your Yorkie is matched to a screened adopter whose situation is stable and suited to the dog's needs.
Why SAYR is the right choice during a family transition
Frequently asked questions
What if my ex-partner does not agree to rehoming?
This is legally complex. If you share ownership, both parties should ideally consent. If the situation is urgent or involves safety concerns, contact SAYR to discuss — the team can advise on the practical next steps.
Will SAYR get involved in a custody dispute?
No. SAYR is a rescue organisation, not a legal service. The team can help with rehoming if that becomes the agreed path but cannot mediate or intervene in disputes between owners.
Can I place the dog temporarily while I sort out my situation?
SAYR's focus is on permanent rehoming. Temporary foster care is occasionally possible but depends on capacity. Be upfront about whether your situation is temporary or permanent — it helps the team give you honest advice.
Will my children be able to say goodbye?
This is between you and your family. SAYR does not dictate how you handle goodbyes but can advise on what makes the transition easiest for the dog.
You are making a responsible, loving decision under incredibly difficult circumstances
Complete the surrender form. The team will handle your case with the discretion and compassion it deserves.