kooptieren

Kooptieren is a German verb that denotes adopting an animal, usually from a shelter or rescue organization, and providing it with a permanent home. The term is informal and widely used in everyday language and in media. It is considered a blend or portmanteau of kaufen (to buy) and adoptieren (to adopt), highlighting that the animal is taken from a setting of need rather than purchased from a breeder or pet shop.

Usage and scope: Kooptieren is most commonly applied to dogs and cats but can refer to other pets as well. It emphasizes the act of care and commitment rather than the sale aspect of acquiring a pet. Because it is colloquial, some organizations and experts prefer the more formal terms adoptieren or ein Tier aus dem Tierheim aufnehmen to avoid any implication of a commercial transaction.

Process: Adopting a pet from a shelter typically involves an inquiry or application, a possible interview or home check, and an adoption agreement. There is usually an adoption fee, which may cover vaccination, microchip, spaying or neutering, and initial veterinary care. The adopter commits to ongoing care, responsible ownership, and regular welfare follow-up.

Etymology and nuance: While widely understood, kooptieren can carry different connotations depending on context. Some view it as a practical term that acknowledges the shelter system, while others see it as less precise than adoptieren. In formal writing, adopting or taking a shelter animal into one’s home is often preferred.

See also: Adoption, Tierheim, Haustier, Tierschutz.