Small pets FAQs
Thinking about adopting a small animal? You probably have a few questions! We’ve got you covered with our FAQs below.
The adoption process
How do I adopt a small pet from Woodgreen?
How do I adopt a small pet from Woodgreen?
Once you have selected a small pet species and completed an application form, we’ll then be in touch within five days to discuss the next steps with you.
If you already have an enclosure, we may need to ask you to make some adjustments. Most housing sold online and in pet shops isn’t large enough to meet the needs of small pets or allow them to express natural behaviours. But don’t worry, we’ll help you make any necessary adjustments wherever possible. If you don’t already have an enclosure, please wait to speak to our team before purchasing one.
Woodgreen’s pets receive a huge amount of interest. This is fantastic because it helps us find them the best possible home, but it also means we may not be able to match you with a pet in our care straight away.
Choosing the right small pet
Choosing the right small pet
Choosing the right small pet
Watching our video on what to think about when getting a small pet is a good place to start.
If you have more questions, we’d be happy to help. Contact our team on 0300 303 9333 and we can talk through what you’re looking for in a pet. This will help you narrow down the species and take the next steps.
Can I rehome a single small pet? For example, one rabbit or guinea pig.
Can I rehome a single small pet? For example, one rabbit or guinea pig.
Many of our small pets are social species (hamsters excluded). It’s important for their wellbeing that they are able to live with companions.
You are also welcome to take advantage of our mixing service, which involves our team arranging introductions between the pets at our centre.
If this would be your first small pet, we would be looking to rehome you a pair or group of the same species (other than hamsters). This ensures that their companionship needs are met in their new home.
If you currently have a single pet (other than a hamster), we are able to rehome one or more pets of the same species (where appropriate) to keep your existing pet company.
I'm looking for a friend for my small pet, can you help?
I'm looking for a friend for my small pet, can you help?
Yes, we can help you find a companion for your existing small pet.
Companionship of the same species is so important for the wellbeing of many small animals. We have a range of helpful information in the advice section of our website about the process of introducing your pet to a new friend.
We also offer a mixing service where your small pet can come and stay at our centre. This involves them being mixed with another pet in neutral territory under the watchful eye of an experienced member of the team. The service is available for rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice and gerbils. We are more than happy to offer advice on mixing degus, chinchillas and domestic fowl in your own environment too.
Costs and care
How much does it cost to adopt a small pet?
How much does it cost to adopt a small pet?
It depends on the type of pet. We’ve laid out the costs for each animal below:
Rabbits
£44 per rabbit (£22 per additional rabbit)
This includes:
- Neutering
- Their vaccinations
- Microchipping, so they can be easily identified
- Four weeks’ free Petplan insurance.
Guinea pigs
£27.50 (£14.00 per additional guinea pig)
Includes neutering (if needed)
Rats
£16.50 each (£8.00 per additional rat)
Includes neutering (if needed)
Hamsters
£11 each
Mice
£11 each (£5.50 per additional mouse)
Includes neutering (if needed)
Once you’ve rehomed a pet, we’ll carry on supporting you with their behaviour for the rest of their life. We also provide lots of advice about caring for your other pets.
Are all of your small pets neutered and vaccinated?
Are all of your small pets neutered and vaccinated?
All of Woodgreen’s rabbits are neutered and vaccinated. For other species, it will depend on their individual needs. But if necessary, we will also neuter rats, male guinea pigs and male mice.
Can I buy accommodation for small pets from you?
Can I buy accommodation for small pets from you?
Unfortunately, we are not able to supply accommodation for small pet species.
It’s extremely important that even our smallest of animals are provided with plenty of space to enable them to engage in natural behaviours.
The links below will give you more information about providing high welfare accommodation for these species, including tips on how to build your own:
Giving up your small pet
I'm thinking of giving up my small pet – can you help?
I'm thinking of giving up my small pet – can you help?
If you’re finding it difficult to look after your small pet, we’re here for you.
We could help you keep them rather than find them a new owner. For example, if you need help with their behaviour or health, our teams are on hand to give you the advice and support you need. We also have plenty of information and advice on our website.
If you’ve already decided to give up your pet for rehoming, the first thing to do is tell us about them.