RSPCA - Have you ever considered fostering?

from Stevenage Sept 2022

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Have You Ever Considered Fostering?

Being a foster carer is exceptionally rewarding. The RSPCA are always on the look out for new foster carers who can provide a safe, caring and loving environment for the cats and dogs that are rescued each year. Fostering an animal can help them recover from neglect, abuse, illness or injury - taking the first steps towards finding a new, loving forever home. It’s very fulfilling to know that you played a key part in helping a rescued animal recover and to then start a new life with a new family. Fostering also gives those who are unable to take in an animal long term, due to commitments and circumstance, with an alternative.

Why do we need foster carers?

Our foster carers aim to help rehabilitate the animals in their care. This then increases their chances of finding a forever home. Naturally, we try to rehome our animals as quickly as possible, but if they are involved in a prosecution case we could have them in our care for long periods. Some animals need one-to-one care or perhaps don’t cope well in an animal centre environment. This is where our team of fantastic foster carers comes in. When an animal is fostered space in our centres then become free, so that we can rescue more animals in desperate need.

What does the role involve?

You would be required to provide the care the animal needs; feeding, exercising, cleaning, socialising, giving medication and grooming. Essentially, there are two main avenues within fostering at the RSPCA: 1) Foster carers for animals ready to be rehomed. 2) Foster carers for case animals whilst the legal proceedings take place. Some of the animals that we take in have are not used to the care and affection that they deserved. Living with a foster family helps to provide them with that one-toone care, allowing them to build up their confidence and get used to a normal lifestyle. You may even be asked to foster an animal that is convalescing following illness or injury while they prepare for the adoption process.

Providing stable futures

Pardon the pun, but did you know that you could also foster a horse or a pony? You can foster a horse or a pony as a companion for your own horse. Or if you don’t currently own one and you are able, you can foster two horses as company for each other. If you fit the criteria for an equine foster carer why not find out more and apply online.

How can I get involved?

If you are interested in the role of a foster carer, use our volunteer search on our national website to find opportunities near you. If there is nothing listed in your area, then it’s always worth checking with your nearest RSPCA branch or animal centre. We are always delighted to hear about people’s positive fostering experiences. So please do get in touch if you have a story you’d like to share.