Adopting a stray in Greece: every step of the process
How to legally adopt a stray in Greece: where to adopt from, which documents you need, what the first vet check-up covers, and how they'll settle in.
7/9/2026
· Gatsou Team
· adoption
Greece has thousands of strays waiting for a home — and adopting one is among the most meaningful things an animal lover can do. The process is simpler than it sounds, as long as you know the steps.
Where can I adopt a stray from?
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Municipal shelters and city adoption programs
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Animal welfare societies and rescue organizations — their animals are usually already vaccinated and neutered
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Independent rescuers who foster animals temporarily
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Adoption listings on Gatsou — animals from shelters and guardians across Greece, with filters for species, age and location
What does the adoption process look like?
1
Contact and meet
Talk to the shelter or rescuer and arrange to meet the animal. Don't be discouraged if they're wary at the first meeting — that's normal.
2
Application and interview
Most rescue groups ask for an adoption application and a short conversation about living conditions. Some do a home visit — it's a sign of diligence, not distrust.
3
Adoption agreement
You'll sign an agreement that protects the animal and sets out the new guardian's responsibilities.
4
Microchip transfer
The animal is registered in the National Pet Registry under your details — this is the step that officially makes you their guardian. It's done by a vet.
How much does adoption cost?
Adoption itself is usually free — some organizations ask for a small contribution toward the neutering and vaccination costs they've already covered. What you should budget for is the ongoing costs: food, annual vaccinations, antiparasitics and unexpected vet bills. A pet is a 10-15+ year commitment — think it through realistically before, not after.
The first vet check-up
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General clinical exam and weight check
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Leishmaniasis and ehrlichiosis tests for dogs — both endemic in Greece
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Vaccination, or completing any missing shots
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Internal and external deworming
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Scheduling neutering, if not already done
How will a stray adjust to home life?
With patience and consistency. Remember the 3-3-3 rule: roughly 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn your routine, 3 months to truly feel at home. Give them a quiet space of their own, keep a steady feeding and walking schedule, and let them set the pace of contact — don't push for cuddles in the first days.
Adult strays often adjust more easily than prospective guardians fear — and they bond deeply with the person who gave them a home. Don't let age put you off: an adult animal has a formed personality, which means you know exactly who you're adopting.
Frequently asked
Is adopting a stray free?
Usually yes. Some rescue groups ask for an optional or small contribution toward neutering and vaccination costs they've already covered. Nobody should ask you to "pay a price" for a stray animal.
What is a microchip transfer and how does it work?
It's the change of guardian details in the National Pet Registry so the animal is officially registered to you. A vet does it using your ID details — it's mandatory, and it protects you legally too.
How long does it take a stray to settle in?
On average the 3-3-3 rule holds: three days to decompress, three weeks to learn the routine, three months to feel at home. Animals with a difficult past may need longer — consistency is the key.
Can I adopt if I live in an apartment?
Absolutely — as long as the animal's size and energy match your space and lifestyle. Rescue groups will help you find the right fit: many dogs and nearly all cats live perfectly happily in apartments.
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