Joy of fostering a dog in need
Charity’s urgent appeal for volunteer carers
THE UK’s leading dog welfare charity, is issuing an urgent appeal for volunteer foster carers to provide a temporary home for dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes who have nowhere else to turn. Dogs Trust is facing a record number of enquiries from people wanting to hand over their dog and is facing a crisis as its kennel space is stretched.
Sarah Hobbs, co-ordinator of the Home from Home fostering scheme at its rehoming centre in Kenilworth, Warks, says: ‘Fostering is a great opportunity for dog lovers who are currently unable to have a dog of their own.
‘We cover the essential costs and you’ll be playing the most important role, giving stability, love and care to a dog in need as you prepare them for life in their forever home.’ One dog currently being cared for by a volunteer fosterer is 15-year-old Norwegian Elkhound Casper. Elaine Rawlinson (right), 65, a retired social worker, says: ‘Being a foster carer is an absolute joy. It is the best feeling to know that you’ve given a dog stability and love while they’re waiting for their forever family to come along. I adore Casper, but when the time is right and I have to say goodbye, I know I will have helped him on his way to his new life and that’s a wonderful feeling.’ Sarah adds: ‘We have dogs who are ready to be fostered for anything from a few days to several months. We can be really flexible and make sure foster carers can always take a break when needed.’ To apply, please go to dogstrust.org.uk/foster or call 020 7837 0006.