Choose the adoption option and help a dog in need

PLEASE NOTE: On days where the temperature reaches 33 degrees Celsius and above, dog to dog meet and greets will be at the sole discretion of RSPCA staff. The dog’s welfare will be priority and will be assessed on a case by case basis. If the temperature is forecast by the Adelaide Bureau of Meteorology to be 36 degrees celsius and above, there will be no dog to dog meet and greets. Please ensure your vehicle has adequately working air conditioning to transport your new dog home. RSPCA will not release any animal to persons without a climate controlled vehicle. Please speak with RSPCA staff if you have any queries.

Dogs. They can be your exercise partner or your couch buddy. More than anything, they can become a loyal companion and a lifelong member of your family, bringing endless joy to your life. 

By adopting a dog or puppy from RSPCA, you’re giving an animal in need a second chance at life. And your new furry best friend will reward you with devotion, unconditional love and joy.

As an added benefit, all dogs and puppies available for adoption from RSPCA South Australia are desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and health checked. What’s more, all pooches adopted from us get their RSPCA Dog Training classes at a discounted price – helping you be a responsible pet owner right from day one.

Whether you’ve had a dog your whole life or are looking to bring one into your family for the first time, please weigh up the factors below carefully when making the decision to adopt.

Before adopting a dog, ask yourself:
  • Am I over 18?
  • Am I in a financial position to meet the ongoing costs associated with caring for a dog?
  • Do I have the environment to ensure a dog is safe and secure at all times?
  • Does my current lifestyle allow me quality time to exercise, play and spend time with a dog?
  • Am I committed to caring for a dog its whole life, which for some breeds can be 15 years or more?
  • Am I prepared to use only force-free training? (Find out more about why this is so important via our Lead by Example campaign page.)
Adopt a dog or puppy from RSPCA South Australia
What will you need for your dog?
  • Collar and ID tag
  • Dog lead and harness
  • Water and food bowls
  • Dog or puppy food 
  • Comfortable bedding
  • Dog basket, kennel or sheltered space outdoors
  • Balls or squeaky toys for physical stimulation and slow feeders or Kongs for mental stimulation
  • Food treats
  • Pooper scooper
  • Grooming and cleaning products
  • Regular flea, tick and worm control products

All of these items can be purchased at our shelters with sale proceeds helping animals in need.

Training classes are also a good idea – and don’t forget, when adopting from us, your dog or puppy will get their first RSPCA Dog Training class completely FREE.

Ready to adopt a dog or puppy?

Want the 101 on caring for your dog or puppy?