How an animal group builds a profile adopters trust
Mission, adoption policy, photos and a needs list: what a would-be adopter or donor looks for before getting in touch with you.
Anyone thinking of adopting, fostering or donating first wants to understand who you are and how you work. A clear profile answers those questions before they ask, and makes the first message much easier.
How do we write our group's mission?
Two to four sentences: who you are, where you work, which animals you care for and what you've achieved so far. Specifics like "since 2018 we've found homes for more than three hundred cats in Thessaloniki" count for more than big words.
What goes in an adoption policy?
Your adoption policy tells applicants what to expect. When they read it first they arrive prepared, and you get more serious applications.
The adoption steps
Application, meeting, a home visit if you ask for one, and handover day.
What you ask of adopters
For example feeding, neutering if not done yet, a safe balcony for cats.
What you provide
Vaccinations, neutering, a health booklet and support after adoption.
Any costs
If you ask for a contribution, say so clearly from the start.
A short, honest adoption policy cuts the applications that don't fit and brings steadier homes for your animals.
How do we list an animal for adoption on Gatsou?
Once your group's page is live, open the Pets page in the partner portal and press "Add a pet". Each listing appears straight away to people looking to adopt near you.
Name and kind
The name you already use and what kind of animal it is: dog, cat or another.
A few basics
Sex, size and an approximate date of birth. An estimate is fine.
Their story
Personality, how they are with children and other pets, and what home would suit them.
Good photos
Up to six photos in natural light, with the animal's face clearly visible.
Which photos help an animal group?
Animals in calm, happy moments, not only rescue images
Your volunteers at work, so people see the humans behind the group
Your shelter space or foster homes, respecting privacy
Animals that found homes, with their new families' permission
Why show our list of needs?
Many people want to help but can't adopt. A list of specific needs, like kitten food, litter or winter blankets, gives them a simple way to contribute. You add needs from the Needs page of the partner portal.
Should we show how many animals we house?
It helps. Capacity tells fosters and volunteers how they can help and how much pressure you're under. Update it when it changes so the picture is always real.
Frequently asked
Is an adoption policy required?
You need either a mission or an adoption policy to go live. We suggest having both, because they answer different questions.
How often should we update our profile?
Whenever something important changes, like your capacity or needs. An up-to-date profile shows the group is active.
Can people from other cities find us?
Yes. Your profile is public on Gatsou, and your location helps you appear to people searching near you.
What if we don't have good photos?
Start with one clear photo in natural light. A phone is enough, and you can add more over time.
Run a pet business or animal group?
List it on Gatsou for free, get found by pet owners near you, and manage everything from one portal.
