More dogs rehomed in Adeje as rescue centre expands and upgrades facilities
Adeje’s Pet Rescue Centre has reported a strong rise in adoptions this year, following a series of improvements to its facilities and operations. The municipal centre, known as the Centro Integral de Acogida de Animales Domésticos de Adeje (CIAAD), has already registered 25 dog adoptions in 2025, reflecting what Adeje Town Hall describes as “significant progress” in both animal care and community engagement.
The increase follows a dedicated adoption campaign launched once the upgrades were completed, alongside the professionalisation of the centre’s team and a growing public interest driven by social media and the website. In comparison, the centre oversaw 26 adoptions in 2024 and 38 in 2023.
Although the figure of 25 adoptions so far this year is similar to those recorded in recent years, Adeje Town Hall stresses that the real progress lies in the quality of the centre’s work rather than the volume of animals rehomed. With the expanded team and upgraded facilities now fully in place, the council expects the final total for 2025 to surpass last year’s figures.
At present, the centre houses 22 dogs, including six breeds or crossbreeds classified as potentially dangerous. Councillor for Animal Welfare, José Antonio López Delgado, said that the council’s mission extends beyond rehoming animals, adding that their goal is also “to raise awareness of the responsibility involved in their care.”
The adoption process includes an initial assessment to ensure that each dog is matched with a suitable home. Members of the public can visit the Adeje Pet Rescue Centre from Monday to Friday between 9 am and 2 pm, or arrange an appointment outside these hours. After selecting an animal, potential adopters must complete an application and questionnaire at the centre or at the municipal Health Department to determine compatibility.
Once an application is approved, adopters must pay the corresponding fees and sign the adoption contract. Fees for potentially dangerous dogs are subsidised to help offset licensing costs and encourage their adoption. When everything is finalised, the adopter is given a date and time to collect their new pet. All adopted animals must then be registered in the Town Hall’s Companion Animal Register, including the details of their new home.
The Adeje Pet Rescue Centre, which serves as the official municipal shelter for abandoned animals, has 23 kennels, three of them doubles, with a maximum capacity for 26 dogs. However, for welfare reasons, the Town Hall voluntarily limits the number to 23. Dogs are grouped according to size and specific needs, and the facility includes administrative offices and a veterinary care room. During their stay, animals receive proper nutrition, daily walks, professional veterinary treatment, environmental enrichment and basic training.
In spring 2025, further improvements were introduced, such as anti-stress panels, new beds, upgraded hygiene areas and the addition of a second exercise and socialisation yard. Since the service was transferred to the Municipal Services Company of Adeje (EMSA) in September 2024, the centre’s team has expanded to include three operatives and a coordinator, strengthening its care and management capacity. Staff have also completed specialised training in animal welfare, canine behaviour and responsible handling. The centre is additionally supported by seven active volunteers who assist with daily tasks.
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