Dog and Puppy Fostering Volunteers
Why Foster Dogs and Puppies?
If you can’t commit long-term, fostering is the perfect way to make a real difference.
Every dog you foster receives a fresh start in a loving environment—and the more you foster, the more dogs you help on their journey to a forever home.
Training materials and support are provided through our SPCA centre team. We are here to make the journey as smooth as possible.
We’ll provide you with all the equipment, including food, bedding, toys, and medical supplies.
What You’ll Need
• Time: Foster duration will vary depending on the dog or puppy, but we will match your timeframes to ensure a good foster fit. Typical fostering can be around 4 - 8 weeks.
• Space: A safe and secure space away from other animals which could be a spare room, bathroom or laundry. A fully fenced section is required for adult dogs.
• Consent: Approval from your landlord (if you rent) and the agreement of all occupants of your property.
• Transport: Reliable transport for vet visits or emergencies.
• Availability: Flexible to attend weekday vet appointments, give puppy lunches and be home part of the day for socialisation- particularly for puppies.
• Care: A warm heart, the ability to set boundaries and patience.
• Experience: A history and comfort in handling and training dogs is ideal as many have never experienced a real home before. We will support you every step of the way!
What’s Involved
- Apply online and complete both the questionnaire and the Health & Safety quiz to get started.
- Once your application is vetted and approved, the centre will contact you, providing advice, training materials and detailed guides to support you throughout your fostering journey.
- When they have an appropriate dog or puppy the centre will contact you to discuss. If it’s the right match you will need to come in to pick up your new foster and all the necessary supplies. You ‘ll also learn about their specific needs and care routines.
- When you bring your foster dog home gently introduce them to their new foster home, give lots of positive praise and feedback whilst also setting boundaries; your patience and kindness will help them adjust smoothly to their new environment.
- Throughout the fostering period, keep in regular contact with the centre, document your dog's progress with photos and notes, and attend both veterinary and centre check-ups to ensure their wellbeing.
- Bring your foster dog back to the centre at an agreed time so they can begin the next chapter of their lives.
Come and join our fostering community and make a real difference in the lives of animals in need!