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Meet&MatchÂ® Explained: How We Find the Right Home for Every Dog

Meet&Match® Explained: How We Find the Right Home for Every Dog

If you’ve ever considered adopting a dog, one of the biggest questions is often: “How do I know which dog is right for me?”

At Jerry Green Dog Rescue, we believe every dog deserves a safe, loving forever home where they can truly thrive. But welcoming a rescue dog into your life is much more than choosing a dog based on age, breed or appearance. The strongest bonds are built when a dog’s needs, personality, and lifestyle requirements are carefully considered alongside those of their adopter.

That’s why we developed Meet&Match® – our pioneering dog rehoming process designed to help dogs and people live happy lives together. Whether you’re looking to adopt a dog for the first time or have shared your life with dogs before, our approach focuses on creating lasting matches built on compatibility, understanding and trust.

Why Finding the Right Match Matters:

To us, every dog is unique and worth fighting for, so we don’t take a one-size fits all approach when it comes to finding the dogs in our care their forever homes.

Some dogs thrive in busy family homes, while others prefer a quieter environment. Some are looking for adventure and long walks, while others are happiest curled up on the sofa beside their favourite person.

When searching for dogs for adoption, it’s easy to focus on appearance, breed, age, or size. However, successful rescue dog adoption is often about finding a dog whose personality, needs, and lifestyle requirements align with your own.

By taking the time to understand both our dogs and potential adopters through Meet&Match®, we can help create strong relationships that benefit both dogs and their new families.

Browse Our Dogs for Adoption

Behind our Meet&Match® Process:

Meet&Match® was originally developed by Jerry Green Dog Rescue and was the brainchild of Victoria Taylor, a previous trustee and supporter of the charity.

Our welfare teams noticed that many dogs behaved differently when viewed in a traditional kennel environment. Dogs who were normally affectionate and relaxed could appear stressed, withdrawn, or overexcited when people walked through the kennels.

Working alongside researchers from the University of Lincoln, we explored this further and discovered that routine public access to kennels could significantly increase stress levels in dogs.

This research helped shape Meet&Match®, a process that allows dogs and adopters to meet in a calmer, more comfortable environment where genuine connections can develop.

Since launching in 2008, Meet&Match® has helped thousands of rescue dogs find loving homes and has influenced adoption practices at dog rescue charities across the UK.

Learn More About Meet&Match®

How Meet&Match® Works:

Our Meet&Match® dog rehoming process helps people find a rescue dog that suits their lifestyle, while improving the welfare of the dogs in our care.

When someone enquires about a dog or submits an adoption application, our team takes time to understand their experience, home environment, and what they’re looking for in a canine companion.

From there, we identify potential matches based on the needs of both the dog and adopter. If we think there’s a good fit, we’ll arrange introductions and support both parties as they get to know one another.

Every adoption journey is tailored to the individual dog. Rather than rushing the process, our priority is always helping rescue dogs find homes where they can truly thrive.

Our Adoption Process

Meet&Match® in Action: Scooby's Story

Scooby’s journey to finding his forever home with Dan perfectly demonstrates why finding the right match matters.

When Scooby arrived at Jerry Green Dog Rescue after spending four months in stray kennels, very little was known about his past. As our team got to know him, they discovered that although he was affectionate, playful, and loved human company, he was extremely anxious around other dogs.

The team took the time to understand what kind of home would help Scooby thrive. They knew that he would be happiest as the only pet in a quieter environment, with a family who could continue building his confidence.

Meanwhile, over 160 miles away in Cumbria, Dan was searching for a dog he could form a special bond with. When he came across Scooby’s profile, he felt he could offer exactly the kind of home Scooby needed.

At Jerry Green Dog Rescue, the welfare of our dogs will always come first. That’s why Dan and his family visited the centre several times through our Meet&Match® process, giving everyone the opportunity to get to know one another and ensuring it was the right fit.

With each visit, the bond between them grew stronger until it became clear they were the perfect match.

Today, Scooby is thriving in his forever home, enjoying adventures in the countryside, playing fetch in the garden, and even mastering new commands. With ongoing support from our team and Dan’s commitment to continuing his training, he has grown in confidence and settled beautifully into family life.

Scooby’s journey highlights what Meet&Match® is all about: taking the time to understand each dog’s individual needs and finding the home where they can truly flourish.

Read Scooby's Full Happy Tail

More than an Adoption Process:

Finding the right dog is only the beginning.

Once a dog moves into their new home, our post-adoption support continues. We check in with adopters during the early stages of settling in and remain available to offer guidance whenever it’s needed.

Because adopting a rescue dog isn’t just about the day they go home. It’s about helping dogs and owners build a happy future together.

When you adopt through Jerry Green Dog Rescue, you become part of the Jerry Green family for life.

Ready to Find your Perfect Match?

Whether you’re looking for a playful youngster, a gentle older companion, or a dog with a personality all of their own, we’re here to help.

Browse our dogs for adoption and discover how Meet&Match® could help you find the perfect rescue dog. Whether you’re looking to adopt a dog in Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, East Yorkshire or the surrounding areas, our team is here to help you begin your adoption journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the adoption process take?

Every dog and adopter is different, so timescales can vary. Our priority is finding the right match rather than rushing the process. We hope to be able to match suitable applicants with a dog as soon as possible.

Can I apply for more than one dog?

All our available dogs for adoption are currently on our Meet Our Dogs page. You can complete our application form or contact one of our centres directly, we’ll be happy to talk with you about the dogs we have available and answer any questions you may have on the adoption process.

What if I’ve never owned a dog before?

Many first-time owners successfully adopt rescue dogs. Our team will help guide you through the process and discuss which dogs may be suitable for your experience level.

Why wasn’t I matched with the dog I originally applied for?

Sometimes our welfare team identifies another dog whose needs and personality may be a better fit for your lifestyle. As Scooby’s story shows, these matches can often lead to wonderful outcomes.

Do you offer support after adoption?

Yes. We continue to offer guidance and support after adoption to help both you and your dog settle into life together.