Registered Charity Number: 1209929
Frequently Asked Questions
Rescue
How do the dogs reach the FDOT shelters?
The dogs are rescued under a variety of circumstances. Some are struggling to get the care they need in government shelters and some are street dogs, Our staff in shelters hear about the dogs, or work with the public shelters, to find those animals most in need.
Why can't they stay in the government shelters?
The public dog shelters are varying in standards. Some struggle to fund and care for the dog's basic needs resulting in disease, injury and malnourishment. While many in Turkey want to help, the vast number of animals in need means that their care often suffers.
We have staff working alongside some shelters, to try and help.
How do you decide which dogs to take in?
Unfortunately we can only take those in most desperate need, whether they are severely malnourished, injured or too young to survive on their own. Due to funding we often have to leave dogs that could do with our help, which is heart-breaking for all.
I have seen a dog in need in Turkey, how can I help?
Sadly there is often very little you can do. There are many street dogs. If the dog is not obviously injured or sick then please just feed it what you can while you are there. In many towns the public looks out for street dogs and they are feed.
If the dog is injured and you are willing to fund the treatment, you could take it to the vet. However to dog will usually have to be put back on the streets afterwards.
For more detailed advice, or If the dog is in desperate need there is more information and links to organisations that may be able to help here.
When is a dog in one of your shelters ready to adopt?
When dogs come to us they are treated for any injuries or illnesses they have. They usually need help for malnourishment. Some many need to build up their confidence with other dogs and with humans. They will all need a full health check, vaccinations, and neutering if they are old enough. A list of all the diseases they are tested for is below.
When they have had all of this and have their health passport they are put up for adoption.
Please note puppies cannot leave the country until they are 6 months old.
What health checks and vaccinations do the dogs receive?
All the dogs have rabies vaccinations, are treated for worms and fleas and are check for:
heartworm
leishmania
anaplasma
rabies
ehrlichiosis
babesiosis
rickiosis
brucella
lyme disease
distemper
Parvo
Adoption
What checks do you do before I can adopt a dog?
We will talk to you about the potential challenges of adopting an ex-street dog and make sure you are willing to take on this challenge.
We will ask you to fill in a form and we will discuss your home situation: do you have a garden or means to exercise the dog. Who is at home and their ages? Will you be away from home a lot?
There will be a home check.
Often we can find a dog who will suit you, but sometimes we have to say 'no' to potential adopters, even if you're heart is in the right place the situation has to be right for the dog too.
Are dogs child and/or cat tested?
At Nidge there are regular visits from children, and we can look at child testing our other dogs if needed and they seem a good temperament..
Is there support once my dog is with me?
Yes, we follow up, offering support and guidance.
What if it does not work out?
Occasionally there are unforeseen circumstances. If you have a problem at any time after adoption we would like to know so we can help and arrange rehoming if needed.
Please note we do not offer a 'refund'.
Cost
Why does it cost so much to adopt a FDOT dog?
The cost of transport from Turkey to the UK is the cost we ask you to cover. We use an organisation that is approved to do this and there are no other options available.
Any other donations are very welcome, as a dog costs on average £800 in vets bills etc before being ready for adopting, and this is pay for by FDOT and the generosity of our donors.
If I wanted to adopt more than one dog, is there a reduction in cost?
Unfortunately the transport agency charges per dog, so there cannot be a reduction. Very occasionally we can arrange a 'Go Fund Me' appeal if we feel it is in the best interests of the dog and costs are more than normal.
Transport
Why can't the dogs be flown over?
Guidelines for getting animals from Turkey to the UK mean that road transport is our only option. We are aware that animals can be flown in from other countries and that some transport costs are less than from Turkey.
Can I pick up my dog from Turkey?
Due to strict guidelines the road transport agency we use is the only way we offer to get your dog home to you.
Where is my dog dropped off?
Your dog will be taken to your home or a location agreed with the transport agency.