Give pets a fresh start

Want to be a rescue animal foster carer? Here’s what you need to know

Animal welfare agencies often need volunteers to provide extra care for the thousands of surrendered, neglected and abandoned animals they care for every year. Foster pet parenting is one way you can help.

FOSTER PARENTING Foster care involves temporarily bringing an animal into your home to prepare them for permanent adoption. It can range from a very short period to a few months and is very rewarding, but does come with challenges.

PATIENCE IS A MUST Some animals are shy or afraid, may require extra socialisation or training, or may just need help to transition to family life before adoption. You need to be patient and offer them positive reinforcement.

To be a foster pet parent, you need to apply with an animal shelter or rescue group to check the suitability of your home and family environment. Foster cats, kittens and very young puppies must stay indoors at all times while adult dogs need a fullywe fenced secure backyard with shelter. You will be matched with an animal to suit your experience and knowledge.

SUPPORT ACT

A good shelter or rescue group will give you ongoing support and information, and sometimes food and medication. If you already have a pet, you would need to make sure they get along, and your pets would need to be vaccinated and desexed. Who knows, you might even become a ‘foster failure’ and adopt!

The most important criteria is that you want to love and nurture these pets and have the time to dedicate to their care

foster pets can even become furever family members!