Every basenji deserves a good home. When a basenji needs rehoming, whether through owner surrender, abandonment, or a placement that didn't work out, the BCOA works with established rescue organizations to get the dog into the right new family.
Primary partner
BRAT is the largest network of basenji rescue volunteers in North America, with regional coordinators across the United States and Canada. They handle intake, foster care, transport, and adoption matching. Most basenjis needing a new home in the US end up working with BRAT at some point.
BRAT is an independent 501(c)(3) organization, separately incorporated from the BCOA. They have their own volunteers, foster homes, and adoption process.
Mismatches are one of the most common reasons a basenji ends up needing a new home. Families sometimes did not fully understand the time and effort a basenji requires, or a life change has made the placement no longer workable. Whatever the reason, the goal is to find the dog the right next home. The first step is almost always to contact BRAT; they will work with you on the next steps.
If you bought your basenji from a responsible breeder, contact the breeder first. Most responsible breeders include a take-back clause in their contracts and want to know if their dog needs help. The breeder is often the fastest path to a good outcome.
If you have come across a basenji or a basenji-mix who appears to be a stray, please:
An adult or senior basenji can be a wonderful companion, often already housetrained, past the chew-everything stage, and ready to bond with a new family. BRAT publishes available dogs on their site and runs an application-based adoption process. They will work with you to find a basenji whose temperament and needs match your household.
The Is a basenji right for me? page is a useful read whether you are buying a puppy or adopting an adult. The breed's quirks apply either way.