Fostering a dog is one of the most impactful ways you can help a rescue dog find the happy ending they deserve. Not only does it give a dog in need a huge head-start in their journey to a forever home, it is also hugely rewarding for you!
We’re always on the look out for new fosters to add to our UK network, especially if you have experience with rescue dogs and/or you live in a rural area. If you think you could provide a dog who needs it most with the security of a loving home, no matter how temporary, we would be delighted to hear from you. Fill in our Foster Form to get started, or read on to find out more about why dogs need fostering, and what fostering a rescue dog entails.
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There are a number of reasons a Wild at Heart Foundation dog might need a foster home. Despite common misconceptions, it’s very rare that the problem has been caused by the dog alone; more often it’s due to a change in circumstances in the home that make it hard for the adopter to keep their pet.
In these instances, we always ask our adopters to return their dog to Wild at Heart Foundation’s care. We see it as a crucial part of our duty of care to take any of our dogs back under our wing. It’s important in these instances that we find them a safe and happy place to live while we secure them a new permanent home: and that’s where fostering comes in!
The most common reasons a WAHF dog may need a foster home are:
How does Wild at Heart Foundation support their fosters?
We’re always delighted when someone is generous to consider welcoming a dog into their home on a temporary basis, and we do our best to make the experience as easy and enjoyable for both dog and human as we can!
Our fosters receive:
How long does fostering last?
The length of a dog’s stay in your care can vary hugely depending on the circumstances – fostering may only last for a matter of days or weeks, or can be a longer term commitment. We always take each foster’s circumstances into account before matching them with a dog, and will of course work within your personal timeframes.
However long you’re able to open your home to a dog who needs it most, fostering really does mean the difference between a stressful and confusing upheaval, and a gentle, compassionate transition into a new way of life.