Dorset Dog Rescue

Our Dog Foster Scheme aims to place dogs into suitable short-term homes until permanent ones can be found. The time a dog spends in a foster home can vary from a couple of weeks to a few months, and we ask Foster Carers to report on how the dog adjusts to life in their home, and it’s behaviour in a household environment. This
information can be very helpful to us in finding the right permanent home for the dog.

Who we are looking for?

Fostering is a wonderful way to experience the joy and companionship of caring for a dog. However, it can take each dog a while to settle into new home, and at times it can be frustrating for both dog and carer, so Foster carers need to be patient and, above all, compassionate people.
We are always looking for Foster Carers who:
– have experience of caring for dogs
– are at home during the day, or are able take a dog to work with them every day
– have the patience to deal with a dog’s odd quirks or nervous habits
– will be confident enough to handle dogs that may be stressed or scared
– have the compassion to help nurse a sick or injured dog back to health
– will report back accurately on the dog’s behaviour, likes and dislikes.
We need all kinds of people, so if you meet these criteria and could provide a dog with a temporary, secure home then we would love to hear from you.

How long would I be expected to foster a dog for?

That will depend entirely on you and your foster animal. Some dogs will have a home already and are just waiting for an operation before they can go to their new owners.  Others will be more difficult dogs to rehome and will need long-term fostering while we find them the right home. However, you can be sure that whatever the outcome your foster dog will have benefited in one way or another by being with you, for however short a time.

We do discuss each dog with you before we introduce you. If you feel the animal is not right for you, all you have to do is say so. We are so understanding and saying no to one dog would not stop us offering you others in the future.

There won’t be any cost to you. Dorset Dog Rescue will provide all food, bedding, toys, treats, equipment and veterinary care and while the role is voluntary, you will be reimbursed for any other reasonable expenses incurred while fostering one of our dogs.

What if I already have a pet?

If you are applying to foster a dog, owning a dog won’t  exclude you from becoming a Foster Carer but it will limit your choice of suitable dogs. We will only ever offer you a dog that is considered good with other dogs.

What support will I get while I’m fostering?

Dorset Dog Rescue's has the fantastic backup of vets and veterinary nurses from Tom Mowlems Practice and Vets 4 Pets in Poole and will be there to support you with any medical problems. If your dog shows any signs of behaviour problems while in
your care, we will be there to help and advise. If however, for any reason you feel unable to cope with your foster dog, we will take the dog back immediately.

How easy is it to become a fosterer?

It is very easy. Once we have your application form, if you meet our criteria we will interview you to discuss everything in more depth. They will then need to do a home visit, to check that your home is safe and secure, and ask you to sign a general agreement which lays out your responsibilities as a Foster Carer – and equally importantly, our responsibilities to you. Then you’re ready to start fostering.

Can I foster as I have children?

Yes of course we match each individual dog to the individual home. Some dogs thrive with children where as some prefer the quiet life.