Are YOU that special person who can foster for the RSPCA?
Can you open your home to a cat or dog struggling to cope with kennel life?
What is fostering?
Fostering means temporarily boarding and caring for one of our cats or dogs at your home. The length of time can vary depending on the specific needs of the animals and the reason it will benefit from a home environment. Some of the animals in our care struggle to adjust to kennel life and would thrive more in a home. This means fosterers can play a vital part in the rehabilitation process.
Can I still foster if I have children and/or pets?
Yes, it just depends on the individual foster animal’s needs. Some cats and dogs need a quiet home to come out of their shell. Some cats and dogs may be reactive to children or other animals. Some dogs gain confidence from other dogs and prefer a companion. Some dogs have a high prey drive and wouldn’t be suited to living in a home with small animals. It really all depends, but rest assured we monitor the behaviours of our animals and match them up to the perfect fosterers and would call upon you when we have a perfect match.
Do I need any skills or experience?
No, while any previous experience is great, as long as you can provide for their needs, have time to spend with them and a loving home, we can teach you the rest.
You must be over 18 and you need to have access to an enclosed, secure outdoor area for dogs (e.g. a walled yard or fenced garden), or a quiet indoor area for nervous cats.
Ideally you will be able to drive, have access to a vehicle and live within an hour’s drive of the Branch animal centre in Ribbleton. This is because you would be required when necessary to bring the animal to the centre for vet check-ups and viewings with their prospective adopters.
Will it cost me anything?
Not a penny. Everything is provided for by our branch. This includes; all food, treats, enrichment, vet bills, medication, toys, beds and anything else that animal requires while in your care.
Will I receive any training?
Yes, our Fostering Coordinator and Animal Care Assistants will support you throughout your fostering journey with any advice you may need.
Our team can help you with any equipment you’re unfamiliar with and train you in any techniques that are consistent with RSPCA policies and guidelines.
You will also be shown how to complete a small amount of paperwork. The purpose of the paperwork is to report on the animal’s daily activities and behaviours. The information we gain about the animal in the home helps us to find a perfect match when looking for its forever family.
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You wouldn’t be expected to make any decisions regarding an animal’s treatment, but your observations are invaluable.
Can I adopt the animal?
Yes. This can happen where a foster parent falls in love and forms a strong bond. We communicate regularly with the fosterer when the animal will be going up for adoption so they can make their intentions known.
How do I sign up?
Email fostering@rspca-preston.org.uk and express your interest in fostering cats and/or dogs. You will be sent an application form and then booked in for a home visit. Our fostering coordinator will set you up and let you know when we have a cat or dog that we think your home would be perfect for, and then they will discuss their needs with you to make sure you’re comfortable.
Testimonials
Dog fosterer
“For me being a Fosterer allows me to help numerous dogs. Seeing the positive changes that happen is amazing. The dogs that I’ve fostered either needed home space to recover from medical procedures or just haven’t settled in kennels. Having the opportunity to provide a safe home is wonderful. I have 2 dogs of my own, who welcome the new arrivals, helping them to settle in.
The staff at RSPCA are brilliant, very helpful and supportive. They do a fantastic job there.”
- Paul
Cat fosterer
“We have been fostering cats for a few years now, 19 cats so far, including 2 litters of 5 kittens each! Each cat has its own needs. They are often fearful and unhappy, but respond so well to a patient, loving home environment.
It is a pleasure and a privilege to see them build their confidence and trust in humans, taking those steps to be ready to settle into a forever home. We are always sorry to see them go, but so glad to have played a part in their lives when they needed it most.”
- Ann-Marie
Cat fosterer
“Fostering cats with RSPCA Preston has been one of the most rewarding things we’ve ever done. Each one brings their own little personality—some are shy, some are cheeky, and some act like they’ve lived here forever after five minutes. Our home feels warmer and fuller with them around.
It’s amazing watching them blossom and giving them all the love they deserve whilst they wait to be adopted. It’s always a bit heartbreaking to say goodbye, but it’s also the best feeling knowing they’re heading off to a forever home where they’ll be loved just as much. We adore having them, even if they occasionally steal the bed—and our hearts.”
- Kirsty
Dog fosterer
“After giving it much thought I decided to do fostering as it seemed the perfect solution to meet both my needs and the needs of dogs that really need a loving new start in life that they richly deserve. What I enjoy from it goes beyond the wonderful company the dogs give.
I can say how much pleasure and rewarding joy I get helping in my small way to turn a dog’s life round, preparing them for their new forever home, teaching them how to enjoy life in a safe, secure and loving home, helping them to socialise and learn new tricks.”
- Tony
Animal fosterer
“Being a fosterer for the RSPCA is incredibly rewarding. I love knowing that I’m giving animals a safe and loving temporary home while they wait for their forever families.
It’s a joy to see their personalities blossom. I do it because every animal deserves a second chance, and fostering is one way I can make a real difference.”
- Gemma
