Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Cyprus dogs have higher adoption fees?

Cyprus adoption fees cover all international costs, including veterinary care, blood tests, paperwork, flights, and professional transport to the UK.

Can I choose my dog’s flight or collection point?

No. Flight routes, schedules, and collection points are arranged by flight agents and professional couriers and are usually confirmed about one week before travel. Unfortunately, we are unable to influence these details.

Will I know what time my dog arrives?

You’ll receive regular updates via our Facebook Messenger groups and dedicated flight chats. However, exact arrival times can change quickly due to factors outside our control, so flexibility is essential.

Are adoption deposits refundable?

Adoption deposits are only refundable if a home check is failed, unless the adopter has purposely misled us by providing drastically incorrect information or falsified photos.

Deposits help cover veterinary care, transport planning, and administrative costs, and allow us to safely reserve a dog during the adoption process.

Can I change my mind after paying a deposit or balance?

If you change your mind after paying a deposit, the deposit is non-refundable, unless a home check is failed (see our deposit policy above). This is because the dog will have been reserved for you and removed from active rehoming. Once you have passed a home check and paid the balance to complete the adoption, the balance is also non-refundable.

Why do returned dogs still require an adoption fee?

Returned dogs still require an adoption fee because their care continues while they are in rescue.

This includes:

Veterinary checks and any treatment needed

Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and food

Foster care and transport

Ongoing support from our rescue team

Adoption fees help us continue rescuing, rehabilitating, and supporting dogs both in the UK and in Cyprus.

Do you offer payment plans?

Adoption fees are paid in two stages:

A deposit to reserve the dog

The remaining balance due before travel or collection

Unfortunately, we’re unable to offer extended payment plans beyond this.

What happens if my dog’s travel is delayed?

Occasionally, travel can be delayed due to factors outside our control. If this happens, we will keep you fully updated and ensure your dog remains safe and well cared for until the next available travel option.

What if I can’t make the collection time?

Collection times are set by professional couriers and may change at short notice. If you’re unable to attend:

A trusted friend or family member may collect on your behalf (with prior agreement), or

Alternative arrangements may be explored, though these cannot be guaranteed, therefore it is very important adopters are able to be flexible.

Do you rehome to families with young children?

Yes, we do rehome to families with children aged 3 and over. However, the minimum age requirement can vary depending on the individual dog, their temperament, history, and the family’s experience with dogs. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Is there a maximum age to adopt?

We use a sliding scale when assessing adopter age, taking into account the age of the dog and personal circumstances.

The maximum age to adopt a puppy is 70. Older dogs may be rehomed to older adopters depending on individual circumstances.

Can I adopt if I live in a flat or rented property?

Yes, provided it is appropriate for the individual dog. We do require flats to have direct access to a secure outdoor area, and where relevant, we will request landlord permission, along with information about exercise, daily routine, and long term plans. Each application is considered on a case by case basis.

Do you have a minimum fence height? 

Yes, we generally require fences and gates to be at least 5ft high. This can vary slightly depending on the individual dog. If your fencing is under 5ft, you may be asked to increase the height, for example by adding trellis or additional wire mesh.

Do you test dogs with cats or children?

Where possible, we share information based on observations and foster feedback. However, many of our dogs have not lived in a home environment before, and behaviour can change as they settle. We are always honest about what we do and don’t know.

What support do you offer after adoption?

We provide post-adoption support for all dogs, including settling-in advice, training guidance, and behavioural support. Adopters may also be asked to work with local, positive-reinforcement trainers or behaviourists where needed. 

Can I rehome by dog if I can no longer keep them?

If you can no longer keep your adopted dog, you must notify Lost Paws and discuss returning them to our care. Dogs must not be rehomed privately, including to friends or family, without our approval and under no circumstances can they be sold. Rehoming through a reputable rescue may be considered with prior agreement.