Becoming a Foster Carer

All of the animals in our care are looked after by our volunteers in their own homes because we do not have a centre where you can visit or view the animals in our care. The branch is always in need of suitable foster carers to allow us to provide temporary loving homes to strays, unwanted and case animals.

In order to be considered to become a foster carer a volunteer must fulfil the following requirements:

  • Be away from home less than 4 hours per day (dogs & kittens)
  • Have a secure back garden (dogs & rabbits)
  • Be prepared to have members of the public visit the animal in their care
  • Take the animal to the vets where necessary
  • Not to have children under the age of 5 (dogs, cats & kittens)
  • Own your property or have written consent from your landlord to allow pets in your home

Our foster care co-ordinator will visit you at home to carry out a home check before confirming your acceptance. You will be required to complete a foster care agreement that details your contact information and care preferences. This document also allows us to insure you.

All equipment necessary for the care of the animal will be provided and this includes but is not limited to;

  • bedding, feeding bowls, flea & worming treatments, collar, identity tag, toys

All veterinary treatment is paid for by the RSPCA.

The branch does pay £1.25 per day towards the cost of food for dogs & £1 per day for cats. Mileage incurred during any required travel for the animal is paid at 25 pence per mile.

Signing the foster care agreement is not the end of your contact with the respective teams. When you begin work as a foster care volunteer you will have regular contact with the Foster Care Co Ordinator who provides 24 hour telephone support. A volunteer will bring the animal to your home and take time to help you settle it in if required. The team is available to answer any questions and give help and guidance wherever needed. You will not be left on your own to manage any problems that may arise.

If for any reason the animal in question needs to leave your house we aim to arrange this within 24 hours and mostly can resolve this in less time.

You are under no obligation to foster an animal (of your chosen species) we may suggest you care for. All animals are individually assessed and animals placed in the most suitable foster environment and we will call to discuss any potential cases with you beforehand.